Description:

A Candlestick to Press Handstand is a dynamic gymnastics exercise that requires complete mastery of a standard press handstand.  As with any element involving a press handstand, this is an exercise that requires superior upper body strength as well as flexibility.  You can reduce the amount of strength you exert by relying on flexibility – in particular compressing the body as much as possible during the ‘press up’ phase.  For best results, continue to develop flexibility in the pike and pancake positions.  Scale by performing straddled-L to handstand.

Process:

• begin in a candlestick position
• as your begin to roll up, straddle the legs and plant both hands on the floor
• keep pressure against the floor as you engage core and compress body as much as possible to lift hips up towards the ceiling
• slightly tilt shoulders forward until you find a point where you feel as though you may tip forward but can still maintain postural control
• as hips begin to rise, allow legs to travel along the side of the body as much as possible
• open up shoulder angle as you allow the feet to join together in a handstand