Inverted Balances

Learning Outcomes

Inverted static balance, body and space awareness.

Description Of Activity

Shoulder stand: Start in a crouched position with ngers touching the mat. Rock back so your bottom, then back, then shoulders touch the oor. Support your weight by bending your arms at the elbows and supporting your hips with your hands. Hold for 3 seconds and then slowly roll back into a crouched position. 

Tripod balance: Start in a crouched position, make a triangle with your hands and head, and walk one knee and then the other onto your elbows. Weight is on the crown of your head, not your forehead. Squeeze your ngers. Handstand: Stand with your back against a wall. Beginning in a squat position, place your hands at on the mat, keeping your arms straight. Walk up the wall then down, keeping a tight body. 

Kick ups: Face the wall, one foot in front of the other (frontback stance). Lean forward and place your hands down on the mat, shoulder width apart and ngers pointing forwards. Using your back leg as a lever, kick your leg upward so that the weight is supported by your arms. Come down safely by twisting your trunk slightly to bring feet down in a new place.

• wide base of support
• tight body
• control when engaging and disengaging
• support where needed

Variations

Inverted balance on equipment: Do a shoulder stand between two chairs. Make sure that the chairs are stable, and that support is available. COOL DOWN/ CLOSURE Review Skill/Activity, stretching, and questions.

Coaching Tips

What do you need to do to balance in an inverted position? What are some ways you can safely come out of a balance? Show me.

 

Equipment/Material Required

Wall, chairs, safety mats. Mats are scattered in a dened area, with children sharing each mat.