Coaches Back handspring hand placement on balance beam

[estamey21]

Short question: Which hand should be in front in a BHS on balance beam?

Longer question: There seems to be a lot of hand placement styles for beam back handsprings. What is the thought process behind choosing a specific hand placement?

 

[Gymnast10!]

I put my dominant hand in front.

I would think whatever hand placement feels most comfortable to the gymnast is what should be used in the BHS.

I almost have my BHS on high beam so hope this helps!

 

[Mthegymqueen]

I was told whatever leg you put in front for your bhs, putting your OPPOSITE hand in front is the easiest to make sure you hips stay squared.

 

[GymnastMomX2]

I was always taught opposite hand in front, and that’s also what my daughter and her teammates do.

 

[GymnastMomX2]

I put my dominant hand in front.

I always thought this was “wrong”, but I’m curious to see some coaches chime in. Obviously it’s working for you.

 

[Gymnast10!]

I was told whatever leg you put in front for your bhs, putting your OPPOSITE hand in front is the easiest to make sure you hips stay squared.

Hmmmm I guess that makes sense but it seems to work fine for me. So I think either works but non dominant is probably better. Doing what’s natural and comfortable is best!