Ipsilateral Cartwheel (CW) variations
Cartwheels
•
3m 16s
THE WHAT & HOW:
‘Ipsilateral Cartwheel Variations’ are a set of ground acrobatic explorations that expand the expressive range of the ipsilateral cartwheel by introducing different internal configurations and coordination demands while maintaining the same entry pattern throughout. The focus is not on changing how the cartwheel begins, but on broadening what can happen inside the cartwheel itself.
Resource contents:
0:05 - 'Stepping' ipsi-CW
0:55 - Elastic ipsi-CW
1:44 - 'AU CDO'
The main focus is developing coordination, adaptability, and dexterity within a fixed movement pattern, by learning to reorganise body shape and timing while already in motion. This builds a wider cartwheel vocabulary and improves the ability to maintain continuity while shifting configuration mid-pattern.
Across the variations, the cartwheel is used as a continuous movement field where different qualities are interjected - such as stepping transitions that require clear mid-pattern weight transfer and momentum carriage, elastic expressions that emphasise rebound and energy recycling through hand and foot contact, and shaped or compressed entries and exits that challenge the ability to reorganise the body without breaking flow.
Rather than creating separate skills, the aim is to develop a spectrum of cartwheel expression, where changes in shape, support, and timing are integrated into a single continuous structure. This progressively enhances the practitioner’s ability to shift coordination states while maintaining fluidity.
Execution should prioritise light and controlled contact with the floor, smooth weight transfer through the hands, and uninterrupted flow between configurations. The cartwheel should not be treated as a repetition with pauses, but as a continuous system of movement where energy is constantly redirected, absorbed, and re-expressed through different internal shapes.
___________________
For programming, guidance, & support for your physical practice:
The 'Video Resource Library' (VRL): https://www.movemorevrl.com/browse
FREE fundamental prehabilitation program: https://www.movemoremp.com
Online Support (1 to 1 coaching): https://movemoremp.com/onlinesupport
Elements (standardised programs): https://www.movemoremp.com/elements
[email protected]
Up Next in Cartwheels
-
The 'AU Cortado' (progressions & vari...
THE WHAT:
Whilst having roots in the game of Capoeira, the 'AU Cortado' is a essentially a "short" cartwheel with ancient origins unknown. The 'A' refers to the shape of the body when in a squat/standing position - the 'U' (although perhaps more exactly a 'V') refers to the shape of the inverted ... -
'AU Cortado' (AUC) circles & 'Role to...
THE WHAT:
As an ultimately dynamic movement travelling through inversion, with practice the 'AU cortado' (or, "short cartwheel") can be used to with efficiency for travel through space. It can also link seamlessly with other 'cartwheel' forms, such as the fundamental 'Travelling cartwheel' or 'St... -
The 'Swimmer' cartwheel (CW)
THE WHAT & HOW:
‘Swimmer Cartwheel’ is a ground acrobatic context centred on the use of the “swimmer hand” - a second hand placement in the cartwheel where the fingers face back in the direction of travel. This orientation is used to facilitate rotation of the hips between the frontal and sagitta...
