How to Get a Roundoff Back Tuck Higher

Dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts often incorporate round-off back tucks into their routines. When performed correctly, this tumbling combination can be quite aesthetically appealing. However, this combination can be dangerous. Injuries such as sprains, fractures and concussions can result if you do not have enough height on the jump.

Instructions

    • 1

      Practice your take-off. Most of the height for a round-off back tuck comes from the transition after the round-off. Isolate this transition by practicing your round-offs followed by a vertical jump. Land your round-off with your knees bent. Immediately jump into the air, bringing your arms directly over your head and straightening your legs in the air.

    • 2

      Practice the tucking motion. One error that beginners often make is bringing their knees to their chests too soon, stopping the vertical momentum of the flip. To practice the proper timing, perform the previous exercise, but at the height of your jump, bring your knees quickly into the tuck position.

    • 3

      Strengthen your abdominals. Lie on your back with your legs straight and your arms stretched over your head. As you exhale, bring your body quickly to a tucked position, balanced on your buttocks. Exhale as your return to the starting position. Repeat 12 times. Strong abdominals will help you achieve a tight tucked position and to arrive quickly in the tucked position.