Backflips are one of the first things we learn to do when we want to show off our athletic ability. Compared to ground backflips, trampoline backflips are considered to be easier.
I disagree with that notion. We’ll discuss more later. But if you keep thinking and asking yourself, “why can’t I do a backflip on a trampoline” — trust me, it won’t get any easier.
The most likely reason why you’re failing to do a backflip is that you haven’t mastered the prerequisite techniques. You have to go through certain steps before you’re ready to do backflips on a shaky surface such as a trampoline.
How to Do Backflips on a Trampoline?
Here’s my foolproof step-by-step process to learn backflips on a trampoline. Below, you’ll find all the prerequisite techniques you need to learn before you can attempt backflips.
Step 1: Find a Partner
Trust me on this one. No matter how it hurts your ego, you need a mate to help you master the movements included in a backflip routine. They can spot you and help you keep your balance throughout the process.
It’s better if the partner can already do backflips on a trampoline. They can hold your hand and waist and guide you through the most important part of backflips, the rotation in the air.
But if they’re not good on trampolines, they can still help you. They can stand near you and come to your help if you mess up the technique, which you will.
Step 2: Warm Up by Jumping
Start the practice by jumping and warming up the body for what’s to come. Jump with freedom. Spread your hands, and move your legs as high as possible. Try to get a sense of balance and the surface underneath you.
You’ll need this confidence.
Step 3: Do a Few Backdrops
Now, after you’ve jumped for a few minutes, you’re ready for the next step. It’s time for a few backdrops.
Jump and land on your back. But don’t lie down, rather use the bounce to get back up on your feet. Keep doing it for a few minutes.
Step 4: Do Sideways Handspring
Can you do a handspring? If you can’t, learn it first.
So, jump sideways and use your hands and then feet to land. Keep doing it until your body gets used to the movement.
Step 5: Do Regular Back Handspring
Similar to the over-the-shoulder handspring, do the regular back handspring and land on your hands and feet. You’re working up to a backflip, and each of the movements is preparing your mind-muscle connection.
Step 6: Keep Repeating It and Try to Jump Higher Each Time
When you keep doing the back handspring, each time jump as high as you can. This way, you’re increasing the distance between your hands and the trampoline mat. You will be able to see your landing spot better.
Step 7: Stop Landing on Your Hands and Only on Your Feet
You’ll find yourself comfortable enough to take your support off of your hands and land on your feet only.
If you jump high enough, your momentum will eventually cause you to land on your feet.
Congrats! You’ve done the basic backflip.
Now, it’s all about getting better.
Why I Think Learning Backflips on Ground Before Trampolines Is Better
Here, the discussion of ground vs trampoline backflips becomes relevant. Some think that backflips on a trampoline are easier since you’re getting the advantage of jumping from the bouncy surface.
However, I think attempting backflips on a trampoline before mastering the movement on solid ground is only going to make things hard.
In a backflip, the most important part is getting the movement right. Learning how to jump high enough is relatively easier. But if you don’t get the movement right, it’ll mess up with body movement, and you could hurt yourself.
And also, if you get used to the automatic jump boost from the trampoline, learning to backflip on the ground will be hard.
Final Words
So, stop the thought “why can’t I do a backflip on a trampoline” and start taking action. The first thing to learn is to jump properly. And then comes the backdrops, handsprings. Once you’re good at doing those routines, backflips will be a piece of cake.
Last Updated on March 6, 2023
