Is a Cartwheel Considered Tumbling: A Guide for Beginners

Gymnastics, cheerleading, and other athletic activities often feature a diverse range of movements to showcase strength, flexibility, and control. One such move that frequently appears in these disciplines is the cartwheel. In this article, we will explore whether a cartwheel is indeed considered a tumbling element and discuss its significance in various athletic contexts.

What is Tumbling?

Tumbling refers to a series of acrobatic movements performed on a flat surface, such as a sprung floor in a gymnasium or a gym floor. These movements typically involve somersaults, flips, and other challenging maneuvers performed in a sequence. Tumbling is a critical aspect of various disciplines, including gymnastics, cheerleading, and acrobatics.

Is a Cartwheel Considered Tumbling?

Yes, a cartwheel is considered a tumbling element, especially in beginner cheerleading and gymnastics.

Cartwheels are foundational movements that serve as a stepping stone to more advanced tumbling skills. They are often the first acrobatic maneuver that many athletes learn in their training. A cartwheel involves a series of handstands placed end-to-end, allowing the athlete to move from one handstand to the other without balancing on the feet.

Types of Tumbling Movements

Back Handspring

A back handspring is a high-level tumbling skill that involves a back somersault with the feet leading, followed by a handspring to recover on the feet. This move is much more complex and requires a higher degree of strength and coordination than a cartwheel.

Front Handspring

A front handspring is a similar but inverted version of the back handspring. It involves a front somersault with feet leading, followed by a handspring to land on the feet. Like the back handspring, this is an advanced tumbling skill.

Round-offs

A round-off is a transitional movement where the athlete transitions from a running approach to a backward handspring or back handspring. This move is commonly used as a transition between a run and a more complex move, such as a back handspring or cartwheel.

The Importance of Cartwheels in Gymnastics and Cheerleading

Cartwheels are not only valuable as standalone skills but also serve as precursors to more advanced tumbling elements. In beginner cheerleading and gymnastics classes, coaches often start with cartwheels to build the necessary strength, flexibility, and balance. As athletes progress, they can incorporate cartwheels into more complex routines, such as pyramid formations in cheerleading or routines on the beam in gymnastics.

How to Perform a Cartwheel Correctly

Here are some key points to keep in mind when performing a cartwheel:

Start with a run to build momentum. Approach with your arms slightly bent and tucked-in. Plant one hand on a stable surface, followed by the second hand immediately after. Extend one leg forward and the other backward. Continue the motion by planting the second foot, followed by the first foot. Finish with both feet on the ground.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a cartwheel is indeed considered a tumbling element and is a crucial part of foundational training in gymnastics and cheerleading. While cartwheels may seem simple compared to more advanced elements like back handsprings, they are essential for building strength, flexibility, and confidence in athletes. Understanding the nuances of tumbling, including the importance of cartwheels, can help aspiring athletes perform better and reach their full potential.