How To: Do a proper cartwheel

Cartwheels are so much fun! Who doesn't love to twirl around? If you don't know how to do one of these fun moves, check out this video! Step by step, this tutorial will teach you how to relive your childhood or release your inner gymnast.
You Will Need
• Soft surface
• Upper-body strength

Step 1: Find a safe area
Choose a large area with a soft surface, such as an area with a mat, a padded carpet, or soft grass to practice your cartwheel.
Don't attempt a cartwheel if you do not have the upper-body strength to support yourself as you go over.

Step 2: Extend your arms
Extend your arms straight above your head.

Step 3: Position your feet
Point your leading foot in the direction you will move and point your back foot slightly outward for balance. Bend your leading knee in a slight lunge.
Lead with the hand and leg that are the strongest. For instance, if you are right-handed, lead with your right hand and right leg.

Step 4: Focus on your first landing
Focus your sight on the ground where you will place your hands.

Step 5: Start your turn
Reach outward and down with your leading arm, kicking your back leg up. Put a powerful thrust behind the turn.

Step 6: Lock your elbows
Lock your elbows when as land on your hands or else you will likely fall.

Step 7: Follow through
Bring your second hand quickly to the ground while simultaneously swinging your back leg up and over your body.

Step 8: Practice good posture
Keep your back straight, your toes pointed, and your legs straight and spread apart as you move through the cartwheel.
Visualize that you are in a narrow hallway as you move through the cartwheel, striving to keep you hands and feet on a single plane.

Step 9: Do a handstand
Do a brief handstand and then continue the rotation until both feet are back on the ground. Keep practicing until you get it right.

Did you know? The term "gymnastics" comes from a Greek word meaning "to exercise naked."