Bender Tunnel Training
02.08Static Flying

Half Barrel Rolls

Transition between neutral belly and back positions while holding the original heading and altitude and avoiding unwanted drive toward the wall.

Prerequisite: Completed all individual belly- and back-flying skills.

Manual scope: The lesson covers both half and full barrel-roll transitions.

Desired outcome: Transition between neutral belly and back positions while holding the original heading and altitude and avoiding unwanted drive toward the wall.

Key points:

  • Initiate the roll with the lower body and knees before allowing the upper body to follow.
  • Extend the arms slightly forward to keep the upper body from dropping.
  • Keep the legs bent or neutral to limit forward, head-first drive.
  • Stop the rotation on heading in a defined neutral belly or back position.

Coaching and safety: Perform early transitions low over the net. The coach should remain on their feet, leave the spotting path open, and watch closely for head-low pitch and forward drive.