Front Straddle Roll


First of all this is one of the hardest forward style rolls, especially if the student is not flexible.
To start have students stand at the end of the mat in a straddle position (legs apart). Place the hands on the mat between the legs. Tuck the chin to the chest and roll forward. Remain straddled and keep the hands between the legs. On the uprise keep the head down towards the mat and push hard with the hands and arms back to a straddle stand.
Click here to view animated Front Straddle Roll

Cues:
Stand in a straddle position
Place hands on the mat between the legs.
Tuck the chin to the chest.
Roll staying in a straddle position.
Push hard with the hands keeping head down.
Finish like you started in a straddle position.

Problem Areas:
Not keeping the head down.
Not rolling fast enough.
Hands not pushing you away from the mat.

Tips:
Keep the head down as if two rolls were going to be done.
Place the hands so that the fingertips are facing each other.
Practice on an Incline or wedge mat.
Practice pushing up from a a straddle sitting position.

Spotting:
Kneel in front of the student. When the student is in process of the upward part of the roll place your hand on the back of the head or shoulders and have them push hard with the hands and arms. This makes the student do most of the work rather than you doing it for them and shows the importance of keeping their head down.

Some Variations:
Front squat roll to straddle
Front straddle roll to squat


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