How to teach the split jump: 20 drills, step by step
You teach a split jump by building a fast two-foot take-off, then training the legs to open into an even, square split in the air and close again before landing. This series covers those parts on floor. It is for coaches who want higher, wider split jumps in routines.
20 video steps · floor
Step 1 of 20, free: Split Jumps 1
The phases
- Take-off: jump fast from two feet with an upward arm swing.
- Split opening: open the legs quickly at the top with straight knees and pointed feet.
- Square hips and chest up: keep the hips facing forward and the upper body upright.
- Closing and landing: bring the legs together and land soft and controlled.
Before you start
The gymnast should have a working split on the floor on at least the main leg and a stable two-foot jump and landing.
Common mistakes
- Opening too late: the split shows only on the way down.
- Bent back knee: the line looks short and earns deductions.
- Leaning forward: the split looks smaller and the landing is heavy.
- Uneven split: one leg rises while the other drops.
Coaching cues
- Jump up first
- Open fast, close fast
- Chest proud, hips square
All 20 steps
- Split Jumps 1
- Split Jumps 2
- Split Jumps 3
- Split Jumps 4
- Split Jumps 5
- Split Jumps 6
- Split Jumps 7
- Split Jumps 8
- Split Jumps 9
- Split Jumps 10
- Split Jumps 11
- Split Jumps 12
- Split Jumps 13
- Split Jumps 14
- Split Jumps 15
- Split Jumps 16
- Split Jumps 17
- Split Jumps 18
- Split Jumps 19
- Split Jumps 20
Frequently asked questions
Why does my gymnast's split jump look smaller than her floor split?
Floor splits use passive flexibility. In the air the gymnast needs active flexibility and speed to open the legs. A slow take-off also leaves little time. Add active flexibility work and take-off drills.
What is the difference between a split jump and a split leap?
A split jump takes off from two feet. A split leap takes off from one foot, usually after a run or step, and travels forward. The split shape in the air is similar.