INSTRUCTOR'S TIP on BREAKFALLING

A sure sign a beginner needs help is when they "chicken out" of a forward roll half way through. If this happens to you, you will then fall painfully onto the flat of your back. (This is where having decent mats really helps you, boys and girls.)

Many beginning students have difficulty building the courage to launch their legs high in the air for these rolls. You arent alone. Also, you just haven't built up your muscle groups yet.

You can help your training partner by gently and carefully lifting their legs in the air for them the first few times.

Take the weight and lift them over, then lower them in a smooth arc, which is aimed straight in the direction of their roll. They should help you in this way, too.

STOP AND CHECK
Once your body has rolled and landed, stay down on the mat and check your position very carefully:

Your legs should be pointing in the direction of your fall, not 90 degrees to the side.

Your head should be raised off the mat, with your chin close to your chest.

On the side where your hip is on the ground, your straight arm and bent knee and ankle should be extended.

On the upper side of your body, your free hand should rest on the belly and the knee should be bent with the foot firmly on the floor.

If any part of your body is not exactly placed as I describe, please correct it before you even consider getting up.

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