Handstand

Level
expert
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Primary Muscles

An advanced balance and strength skill where the body is held upside down supported only by the hands and arms.

Instructions

  1. Begin by practicing against a wall for safety and balance assistance.
  2. Place hands on the floor about shoulder-width apart, fingers spread wide for stability.
  3. Kick one leg up toward the wall while pushing off with the other leg and hands.
  4. Allow both legs to extend upward against the wall, getting your body into a vertical position.
  5. Keep your body tight with a slight arch, engaging your core and shoulders.
  6. Hold this position for as long as possible, breathing steadily.
  7. Slowly lower your feet back to the starting position.

Tips

  • Wall practice is essential for developing balance and confidence before free-standing attempts
  • Keep wrists and shoulders strong by practicing regularly
  • Maintain a slight body arch to improve balance and reduce shoulder strain
  • Tighten your core to stabilize your position
  • Progress to free-standing handstands only when wall holds feel solid and comfortable

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Hold
Gain strength 3 5 s
Build muscle 3 10 s
Build endurance 3 15 s

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

expert calisthenics
expert calisthenics