Have you been watching as much of the Olympics as I have?
Honestly it’s a bit tiring staying up until the early morning hours since they take place halfway around the world from where I am. But what can I say, they only come around every four years.
And its always a pleasure of mine to watch the best in the world do what they do.
There’s been exciting matches, close calls and comebacks all around. Plus new world records are broken everyday. (Did you see Jamaica’s Usain Bolt on the 100m dash?)
Great events in gymnastics and they aren’t done yet. One problem I have with professional gymnastics is the judging because it’s not perfect. Since it’s done by humans it doesn’t always seem fair. But that’s how it is.
It shouldn’t take away from the pleasure of watching the athletes.
One exercise I’ve been seeing a lot of in the Men’s Floor Routines is a straight arm straddle press from a crucifix position. Also known as a Maltese Press to a Wide Arm Handstand or a Swallow Press to a Japanese Handstand.
Considering this is a D skill it may be out of your range but that doesn’t mean you can’t try the wide handstand itself.
Place your hands wide on the ground, with the hands out and the thumbs pointing forward. Kick-up into position and attempt to hold.
Alternatively you can jump from a normal handstand into the wide handstand. With a little push on the hands slide them outward in position.
Just another variation you can have fun with. And thanks to the Olympics for reminding me of it.
Good Luck and Good Hand Balancing,
Logan Christopher
P.S. You need to master the regular handstand before you attempt any variations. Get step-by-step handstand instructions here.
