Alternatively, you can start in an upright standing position with your hands stretched straight over your head. Pike your body forward and bend your knees to move into a squatting position to start the roll.
Do not roll from side to side - roll straight forward along your spine. Otherwise, you may fall to one side or the other. Be sure to keep your chin tucked in and your back curved. If you straighten out, your roll won’t have as much momentum.
However, some gymnasts prefer to tuck in the legs during a forward roll. If it helps you gain momentum to keep your legs tucked, you can practice that way, too.
Before you attempt a handstand forward roll, be sure you’ve mastered both the handstand and the forward roll separately. You might want to work with a spotter to do the handstand forward roll, to ensure that you don’t get injured when you drop into the roll.
Use your hands to help propel your body off the ground to jump into your landing. When both feet are firmly planted on the ground, raise your body upright and end with your arms extended over your head.
