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Floor · Coaching GuideTeaching the Cartwheel, Step by Step
A clean teaching order for the cartwheel — from side-handstand shapes to a straight, strong cartwheel — with the drills and common fixes.
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The cartwheel is a foundation skill that shows up everywhere later. Teach it straight and strong from the start and you'll save years of corrections.
📷 Add a cartwheel photo/clip here
Teach it in this order
- Hand-hand-foot-foot rhythm over a line or low mat — slow and deliberate.
- Side handstand shape against a wall to feel the stacked, straight position.
- Cartwheel over a low obstacle (a folded mat) to encourage hips over shoulders.
- Straight-line cartwheel down a tape line, finishing in a lunge facing back.
Common fixes
- Bent arms / low hips: more side-handstand wall work.
- Curved path: cartwheel on a tape line, hands and feet landing on the line.
- No power: start from a lunge and reach long — don't rush.
Cue: “Hands and feet on the line, stretch tall.” Straightness now means round-offs that actually go somewhere later.
Coach's FAQ
What age can kids learn a cartwheel?
Many preschoolers start the rhythm and shapes; a straight, strong cartwheel usually comes together in the early rec years with consistent shape work.
Which side should they cartwheel on?
Let them try both and pick the side that feels natural — then drill that side for consistency.
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