Handstand (Pole-Assisted Handstand)

Level: Intermediate

Description

A handstand performed with support from the pole for balance. Useful as a progression toward handsprings, Aysas, and freestanding handstands.

Muscles Used

• Shoulders
• Triceps
• Core
• Wrist stabilisers

Typical Use

• Conditioning
• Transitions into inversions
• Choreo moments (especially in floor or wall-work style)

Common Mistakes

• Not engaging shoulders
• Arching back excessively
• Kicking too hard into the handstand

Safety Notes

Practice with mats; work on wrist warm-up before repeated attempts.

Variations

• L-shape handstand
• One-leg handstand
• Handstand to chopper

Anecdotes / Trivia

Pole-assisted handstands are easier for many dancers than traditional gymnastic handstands due to extra points of balance.