How to Complete a Cartwheel: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide
- House of GPA
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
A cartwheel is one of those timeless moves that looks graceful and fun—but mastering it takes a little practice, coordination, and confidence. Whether you’re learning for gymnastics, dance, cheerleading, or just because it looks awesome, you’ve come to the right place.
Here’s everything you need to know to complete a cartwheel, even if you’ve never done one before.
What Is a Cartwheel?
A cartwheel is a sideways, circular motion of the body where your hands touch the ground and your legs kick up and over, ending with your body facing the opposite direction from where you started. It mimics the motion of a wheel turning—hence the name.
Step-by-Step: How to Do a Cartwheel
Step 1: Warm Up First
Before trying any tumbling move, it’s important to loosen up your body.
Focus on:
Arm circles and shoulder rolls
Wrist and ankle rotations
Dynamic stretches like lunges and toe touches
Step 2: Find a Safe Space
Choose a soft surface like a gym mat or grassy area. Make sure there’s plenty of room around you to move sideways.
Step 3: Start in a Lunge Position
Stand tall with one foot in front (whichever leg feels natural to lead).
Bend your front knee slightly.
Keep your back leg straight and arms lifted overhead.
Tip: Point your front foot in the direction you want to go. This helps set your cartwheel up for success.
Step 4: Reach and Kick
Lean forward and reach toward the ground with both hands, turning your chest sideways.
As your hands touch the ground (one hand at a time), kick your back leg up toward the sky. Your second leg follows quickly after.
Hand Placement:
Place your first hand down with fingers pointing toward the side.
Place your second hand beside it, forming a "T" shape across your path.
Tip: Think "hand-hand-foot-foot"—that’s the rhythm of a cartwheel.
Step 5: Land in a Lunge
As your legs come down, land one foot at a time (the opposite leg first), returning to a standing position.
Your body should now be facing the opposite direction from where you started.
Goal: Maintain straight legs and pointed toes throughout for a cleaner, more controlled look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not kicking hard enough: This causes your legs to stay low, making the cartwheel feel awkward. Be confident with your kick.
Not committing: A half-hearted attempt usually leads to falling or collapsing. Trust your body and go for it.
Twisting the torso: Your body should move in a straight line, not twist through the cartwheel.
Looking at the ground too long: Spot your hands briefly, then shift your gaze forward to prepare for the landing.
Progressions for Beginners
If you’re nervous or not quite ready to go full-out, try these easier versions:
Wall-assisted cartwheels: Start near a wall and kick one leg up while the other stays lower.
Cartwheel over a line: Use a line or tape on the floor to stay in a straight path.
Incline mat cartwheels: Practicing on a slight downhill helps build momentum.
Bonus: Make It Look Effortless
Once you’ve nailed the basic cartwheel, here’s how to take it to the next level:
Point your toes and keep your arms by your ears
Land smoothly with control
Practice both sides to become ambidextrous (and impress everyone!)
Final Thoughts
Cartwheels are a fun and empowering skill that you can learn at any age. With practice, patience, and a bit of bravery, you'll be spinning across the floor in no time.
Remember—everyone starts somewhere. So don’t worry if your first few attempts look more like a tumble than a wheel. Every try builds muscle memory and confidence.
Ready to begin your journey in learning or improving your cartwheel? Click the link below!
Interested in other masterclasses such as handstands? Click the link below!
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