Handstand (Parallette)

A static hold on parallettes in a vertical inverted position, building shoulder stability and isometric strength.

Instructions

1. Place two parallettes on the ground positioned slightly wider than shoulder-width.
2. Assume a quadruped position with your hands on the parallettes, fingers pointing back toward your feet.
3. Kick up or press your body weight over your hands until you achieve a vertical handstand position.
4. Lock out your elbows and pack your shoulders with your arms fully extended.
5. Maintain a straight line from your hands through your torso to your feet.
6. Brace your core and keep your body rigid throughout the hold.
7. Hold this position for time, working to increase your duration with practice.
8. When finished, carefully lower your feet back to the ground.

Tips

• Parallettes provide more wrist-friendly positioning than balancing directly on hands.
• Focus on a spot on the floor to help maintain your balance during the hold.
• Build up gradually - start with short holds of 5-10 seconds and progress from there.
• This exercise requires significant shoulder stability - practice shoulder packing first.
• Keep your glutes and core engaged to prevent your hips from shifting out of vertical alignment.