Exercise – Straddle to Straddle Scorpion Hip Roll

Finding our edges and practicing new shapes is one of the best ways to improve our handbalancing game. The Straddle to Straddle Scorpion Hip Roll is a good way for us to challenge how we’re using the hips and spine in balance. When performing this movement, it is easiest to start off in the straddle scorpion position with your feet on the wall. The deeper the scorpion position, the more challenging this movement becomes. Pull your legs through the straddle range of motion until you hip a closed hip straddle position. This will be in free balance so if you are not consistently balancing you will pass through the straddle to a two footed landing. Take your time though the transition period from arched to hollow.

Use your creativity once you have this exercise down well to advance progression. You can also try one of the following challenges:

• Keep a exercise band between the feet to actively extend the hips
• Slow your transitions down between straddle and straddle scorpion
• Perform a handstand flow with additional shapes such as the tuck, split, or stag