A backflip mid-rotation
A Back Flip is a movement used in Freerunning and Tricking. The term "Backflip" can actually refer to several different types of flip, but always refers to a flip rotates backwards. Back flips have very little practical use in Parkour, but are commonly used Freerunners and Trickers.
Types of Backflip
- Back tuck The most common variation. Preformed by jumping up and tucking the knees in tight.
- Back pike Similar to the back tuck, but with straight legs. It is more difficult that the back tuck.
- Back layout One of the harder variations. The hips and knees are straight, and the back is arched.
- Back half A back layout with a 180 degree twist.
- Back full A back layout with a 360 degree twist.
- Gainer A backflip moving forwards.
- Double back A very difficult variation. Two consecutive backflips made in the same jump. Usually preformed jumping off of an object.
- Kick the Moon or Flashkick A backflip layout off of one leg, using the other for momentum (similar to an aerial).
Tips
- When taking off for a backflip make sure to jump upwards, not backwards. You need as much height as possible.
- Never throw your head back before your arms. This will kill your momentum and rob you of height. Throwing the head back is the most common reason for landing on one's head during a backflip.
- Backflips are more dangerous than front or sideflips as under-rotating can cause one to land on their head. Take care to practice on soft surfaces before trying it on cement or hard ground.
Videos
<gallery> File:Learn how to do a backflip tutorial- part 1 back flip gymnastics|Back tuck tutorial part 1 File:Learn How to do a Backflip Part 2- Gymnastics back flip tutorial|Back tuck tutorial part 2 File:How to do a backflip part 3- gymnastics back flip tutorial|Back tuck tutorial part 3