Think Global, Act Local

When we first learn handstands, we often come across these soundbites:

“Push tall”, “Suck in your abs”, “Point your toes”.
But…
It’s not JUST your shoulders.
It’s not JUST your core.
It’s not JUST pointing your feet.

Balance requires your entire body to sync at the right time to perform efficiently and smoothly. We forget to control the rest when we only focus on one body part. Much like musical instruments in a band, they all need to play their part individually and when played together at the right tempo, outcomes in harmony.

Holistic Synchronization

Balance, in the context of handstands, demands a holistic approach. It's not merely about engaging one muscle group or aligning a specific body part; it's about orchestrating the symphony of your entire body. Each component, much like instruments in a band, has its unique role to play. From the hands to the shoulders to the toes, every part contributes to the overall balance. The key lies in synchronizing these elements in perfect timing to achieve a seamless and efficient handstand.

The Danger of Tunnel Vision

When we hyper-focus on isolated cues like "Push tall" or "Suck in your abs," there's a risk of tunnel vision. The danger lies in neglecting the coordination and control of other body parts. Much like a band losing its rhythm when one musician falls out of tempo, a handstand loses its balance when one element is overemphasized. It's essential to broaden our perspective and recognize that the beauty of a handstand emerges from the synergy of the entire body. Balance is hardly achieved with an overemphasis on one part, but rather it requires a more overall approach.