This month we’re focusing on straddle and working towards a straddle press. Why don’t you give it a go too?

Step 1

Sit in a nice wide straddle. Toes pointed. Knees pressed into the ground. Back straight. Ask the gymnast to show you a ‘rainbow’ (sweeping from toe to toe over the top of the head); then ‘raindrops’, (patter hands on ground); and sunshine, (hands sparkling above head)

Step 2

From hands up in ‘sunshine’ bring hands down on either side of one thigh. Lift leg off the ground keeping knee straight and toes pointed. The movement should be in the hip, not by leaning backwards. Lift 5 times, rest, repeat and then repeat with the other leg.

Step 3

Bring hands up into ‘sunshine’ then place in front on the mat.  Hands flat on the floor with thumbs facing forwards. This time lift both legs. Try not to rock backwards. Movement should be in the hip. Keep knees straight and toes pointed.  Repeat 5 times, rest and go again.

Step 4

Hands back in the middle (flat with thumbs facing forward), lift bottom off the floor 5 times, rest and repeat.

Step 5

Straddle press: This time its bottom and feet off the ground at the same time! Hold for 5 and then rest.

Step 6

Stretch it out: Hands above head arms squeezing the ears and fold forward from the hips. Keep the back straight and arms squeezed towards ears. Then back up again, keeping ears squeezed and back flat.

Step 6

Thanks to Amelia for the demonstration and Milly for the photos