Instructions to Do a Backflip

The backflip is one of the most common gymnastic tricks, but it still continues to be impressive. If you want to be able to show off to friends -- or even just experience the thrill of spinning around 360 degrees in the air -- with practice, you can learn how to do a successful backflip. Because of how complex this is for beginners, expect to spend awhile practicing.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and your arms high in the air.

    • 2

      Swing your arms back and go into a crouch position. Despite your instinct, be sure to keep looking straight ahead.

    • 3

      Throw your arms up and using their momentum, jump up. It is important that you jump straight in the air and not backwards.

    • 4

      Lean backwards, as you reach the pinnacle of your jump.

    • 5

      Keep your focus ahead and pull your knees up. This shift in weight will continue to push your body backwards.

    • 6

      Pull your arms back down and tuck your knees under your hands. Your momentum will continue to rotate your body all the way around.

    • 7

      Extend your knees for the landing, as your body starts to return to a perpendicular position.

    • 8

      Land flat on your feet and allow your knees to bend to absorb the force of the landing.