Bender Tunnel Training
04.08Static Progression

Head Up to Head Down Front Flip

Transition from neutral head-up to neutral head-down flight through a controlled front flip without unintended drive or altitude change.

Prerequisite: Stable Head-Down Position on or off the net.

Desired outcome: Transition from neutral head-up to neutral head-down flight through a controlled front flip without unintended drive or altitude change.

Reference material: IBA Flight Tutorials #49 through #56.

Key points:

  • Begin near the center in neutral head-up flight.
  • Tuck the upper body between the knees and allow the lower body to rise into the airflow.
  • Use a visual reference as head-down approaches.
  • Open deliberately and stop in a strong neutral head-down position.

Manual source: Static Progression Coach Manual, Lesson Plan #27.

Coaching and safety: Set the heading, level, stopping reference, and bail before flight. Keep the maneuver away from the doorway and continue smoothly through completion without pausing vertically.