Specifc conditioning for tumbling/acrobatics?

[Randeep Walia]

From my Capoeira days I knew a couple of guys that had awesome floreio (acrobatic) ability. Their flips had a quality of grace and lightness to them that was very impressive. Through conversations with them I found that both had been pole vaulters in their academic career!

 

Could just be a coincidence, but I wanted to ask the group here if you are aware of special conditioning for tumbling that should be done outside of practice that can help an aspiring acrobat with their flips.

[Daniel Burnham]

pretty sure the movement series will cover this stuff.  Until then you will want to develop power and flexibility in the legs.  

 

Drills and skills has a list of common floor conditioning exercises

http://www.drillsandskills.com/skills/cond/lower

 

These should not be approached lightly.  You should find non-dynamic work pretty easy and start with very low volume.  It is a mistake to think that the adult body is as pliable as a child's.  I have seen several people come into a gym and try to start tumbling and hurt themselves.  Even ex gymnasts should approach tumbling and the related exercises with caution.

[Randeep Walia]

Funny, I'm actually going to San Francisco and have been e-mailing the guy that does this website to see if I should train with him. You are right about the caution: I have injured myself many times in tumbling (so far all pretty minor stuff), and definitely want to do the right sort of preparation to prevent the next one from occuring.

 

Last time I talked to you it didn't sound like you were that into tumbling. Has that changed for you?

[Daniel Burnham]

Tumbling isn't something I terribly enjoy. But since my shoulder injury I have been training it almost everyday. I've also been learning how to coach it from the coaches in my gym.