Perfecting the gymnastics basics is vital to high-level gymnastics.  The trained eye can tell the difference between a competitive gymnast and a beginner gymnast, just by looking at their cartwheel.  Tight muscles and pointed toes are the key to making any skill look graceful and easy.

There are a few basic skills that are the building blocks to more advanced skills.  Handstands, back handsprings, front handsprings, round offs, and kips, are the most important.

One of my coaches would always say, “The girl with the best handstand is the girl with the best gymnastics.”  This is because handstands are useful on all four events.  It encompasses both balance and strength.

In order to do a proper handstand, there are four things you need to think of.  You need to make sure your shoulders are pushed up against your ears.  Your body must be in one straight line.  Every muscle in your body should be tight and your weight should be transferred into your fingers.

Once you have perfected a handstand and the other gymnastics basics, more advanced skills will come naturally.