Cartwheel to ¾ Handstand Dismount Drills

Gymnast performs cartwheels on floor, coach marks how close to vertical the handstand phase reaches. Must reach at least horizontal before cartwheel dismount progressions begin. A cartwheel that never reaches handstand will not produce a clean dismount.

Look for: Cartwheel ends in a handstand — the dismount is just deciding when to let go

From low beam end, gymnast cartwheels off, landing on a resi mat beside. No height, minimal consequence. Builds the spatial awareness for landing sideways after a cartwheel dismount without the intimidation of full height.

Look for: Cartwheel ends in a handstand — the dismount is just deciding when to let go

Coach stands beside, spots at gymnast's thighs through the handstand phase and controls the descent to landing. Gymnast must reach the ¾ handstand position before releasing. Spot reduces hand pressure as gymnast demonstrates consistent handstand height.

Look for: Cartwheel ends in a handstand — the dismount is just deciding when to let go

Place two X-marks on the floor at beam-width (10cm). Gymnast performs cartwheels placing both hands exactly on the X-marks. 10 reps per direction. Precision hand placement is the most critical beam cartwheel technical skill.

Freestanding or wall-supported handstand holds 3x20 seconds. The ¾ handstand dismount requires the gymnast to pass through and control a near-vertical handstand on a narrow surface — handstand endurance is beam dismount conditioning.

From a panel mat, gymnast drops to a sideways landing (like a cartwheel end position) and holds 2 seconds without stepping. 3x8. Develops the lateral ankle stability needed for cartwheel dismount landings — which are frequently lost sideways, not forward.

Athlete performs the full Cartwheel Dismount / Cartwheel to Side Handstand Dismount / Cartwheel to ¾ Handstand Dismount on their own — spot only as needed. Goal: consistent, confident, competition-ready execution with the cue: "Cartwheel ends in a handstand — the dismount is just deciding when to let go."

Look for: Cartwheel ends in a handstand — the dismount is just deciding when to let go