Learn to cartwheel with these exercises
Check out this ready to go training program – remember to begin by warm up and finish off with some fun and cool down. Focus on doing deliberate tricks.
| Time | Exercise | Reps |
| 3 min | From the start line, paddle forward and on every third stroke try to do the first part of a double pump – throwing your bow up. Paddle straight and focus on staying in line; don’t initiate the second part, just stay straight, keeping your body centred and not overdoing that first half. It is just a slight throw, maximum 10 cm up. Finish the line, then return at a relaxed pace. | 5x |
| 3 min | Push the bow down and focus on the second part of the double pump. Paddle straight and on every third stroke push the boat down with the outside of the blade. Don’t throw the bow up; try not to let the bow go too deep – the goal here is to build your coordination and keep your body centred. | 5x |
| 3 min | Paddling backward, try to do a reverse double pump (first bury your bow, then your tail). Look through your shoulder and try to bring your legs above your body to complete a 180°. | 5x |
| 3 min | Start paddling forward, do a half spin, and as you are returning to your initial direction, lean to the side and go for the second end of the cartwheel. If you want a challenge, see if you can do it cleanly. | 5x |
| 3 min | For when you have difficulty getting through on your bow: initiate by throwing your bow up on the opposite edge, then transfer to the side where you intend to go for the move. Let the bow sink and then do a double pump. | 5x |
| 3 min | Start with a double pump. Once your tail cuts in, rotate your shoulders towards the surface and push your bow under the water. Try to land 180° and look in the direction you came from. Rotate your body and finish with a forward sweep stroke, looking through your shoulder to complete another 180°, finishing the full 360° spin. | 5x |
| 5 min | Connect the last exercises to achieve a full cartwheel! | 10x |
Learn to Cartwheel exercise
Get your own copy of Freestyle Unlocked
Freestyle Unlocked is first book of the series. For this and more content buy your own copy of the book where you will find:
- Self-guided training tools that will teach you how to plan your sessions
- Insights on foundation skills
- Break down for preparation, initiation, execution and landing photos crossed with 3b concept of blade, body and the boat
- Most common mistakes and their solutions
- Top tips to take your trick to the next level!
You can buy the book at:
If you seek more how to videos see www.loveitliveit.co.uk/Unlocked/Freestyle
