On the One Hand Handstand

An Excerpt from
The True Art and Science of Hand Balancing

He who cannot walk can hardly run, and it is equally true that one who cannot do a correct two hands balance can hardly hope to master the balance on one hand. And by this term I do not mean mere ability to stand on the two hands; I mean the ability to stand in good position and to remain there by balancing correctly. So, before making a pass as the one-hander, check back on your two hands position.

If we are to try the one hand balance, much trouble will be saved by beginning with the hands just shoulder width apart, no more no less. We then take a solid balance, weight well forward, arms exactly perpendicular when viewed from any point, and gradually and smoothly bridge the left hand, lift the left shoulder and swing it very slightly forward as we angle the trunk and legs (keep them almost in a straight “attention” line) over to the right enough to center the weight on the one hand. As the left hand begins to get light on the floor, slow down the shift, or you will find yourself coasting right through balance center and tumbling down to the floor at the right side. Balancing is not piano moving, remember.

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