Exercise – Gumbi
If you’re looking to work towards the raiz or sideswipe, the Gumbi is a key progression! It’s a beginner-level transition that’s often used to connect into gainers or cork swings. This skill will require a bit of shoulder and back flexibility and familiarity with the cartwheel.
If you twist to the left, start in a ready stance and then lean to your right and put most of your weight on your right foot. Then pick up your left foot and “sweep” it behind you as you lean to your left quickly and reach towards the ground with your right hand backwards so that your fingers are facing towards you. Hop off of your right foot, keep your right hand planted the whole time, and allow it to pivot if needed. Keep your eyes on the floor, and arch your back as you reach backwards with your left hand so that both hands are on the ground and continue the momentum and land like a normal scoot: Land on your left leg first and keep your right leg behind you to be used for power. You may choose to land in an “eagle” position and swing, land in a “pop” stance and flip, alternate legs on takeoff and do a vanish, and much more. If you prefer twisting to the right, mirror these directions.
Mastering the Gumbi is key to unlocking many new tricking skills. Once you have this down, progress towards:
- Start or connect a combo with the Gumbi
- Continue through with a swing, pop, or vanish out of the Gumbi
- Work towards the raiz, sailor moon or touchdown raiz