How to Do a Full Twist Backflip

Aerial maneuvers are elements commonly used both in gymnastics floor routines as well as cheerleading routines. The full twist backflip is a variation on the standard backflip in which the performer rotates 360 degrees while they are performing the backflip. The full twist backflip often is used at the end of a chain of aerial maneuvers, such as multiple back hand springs closed off with a twisting backflip as the momentum of the chain helps to develop the momentum to complete the flip.

Instructions

    • 1

      Bounce off the ground, only allowing the balls of your feet to touch the ground not settling down to your heels, your body straight and your arms pointed in front of you. Your jump is identical to a standard backflip with no twist to this point.

    • 2

      Extend your arms straight above your head as your body rises and begins to rotate backward until you near the top of your jump.

    • 3

      Tuck in your arms, pulling both arms down to the shoulder on the side you wish the rotation to spin toward.

    • 4

      Extend both arms out as you complete the 360 degree rotational spin to stop the spinning motion.

    • 5

      Flex your legs as you land to absorb the energy of the jump.

    • 6

      Stand straight up, with your arms held straight up to complete a stuck landing for the twisting backflip.