Handstands come after arms, chest and shoulders have developed at least a minimum of strength. Of course those who have developed more will find them easier. Start with the class standing in a circle, with weight on the right foot and the left extended a little way into the circle. At first each child should do a kick up by himself so that the teacher can determine those ready to work alone, and those who need help. Drop both hands to the floor and at the same time kick the right foot up in back. The left will follow at once. The right will land first, followed by the left. Return to the standing position. Care should be taken to see that the hands are placed on the floor before the kick starts and also that the landing foot is brought as close to the hands as possible. This will prevent flat falls and toe injuries. Bare feet are better for such work than any form of slipper. Eventually the class will be able to kick up high enough so that the teacher can catch the leading leg. The child should then bring both legs together overhead, point the toes and tighten the seat muscles. Be sure that the landing foot is brought close to the hands and that only one foot lands at a time.

The backbend is of extreme importance to any form of free gymnastics, and, as with all acrobatics, the sooner begun the better the results. Have the class lie supine with knees apart and bent. Place flat palms on either side of the head a few inches away from the ears, fingers pointing toward the shoulders. Arch the back upwards to make a bridge. Be sure the head drops backward so that the child looks at the floor rather than toward the ceiling. As flexibility improves, the feet will move closer to the hands and the bridge rise higher. Later this can be combined with the handstand to provide a walkover.