How to teach the tick-tock on floor: 6 drills
You teach the tick-tock by first securing a back walkover and a split handstand, then teaching the gymnast to stop in the split position and kick back over to stand. This short floor series breaks that down. It is for coaches whose gymnasts already have a back walkover and want to build control through the handstand.
6 video steps · floor
Step 1 of 6, free: Tick Tock 1
The phases
- Start and backbend: go over backward from stand with the arms by the ears and shoulders open.
- Split handstand: arrive in a controlled split handstand instead of continuing through.
- Kick back: push off the floor with the top leg and the shoulders to swing back over.
- Return to stand: finish upright with the arms by the ears and a controlled finish.
Before you start
The gymnast should have a solid bridge, a controlled back walkover and a held split handstand.
Common mistakes
- Shoulders not open: the gymnast cannot reach the split handstand or push back.
- Bent arms in the handstand: the position collapses before the kick back.
- Small split: little leverage for the return.
- Pushing back with the hips first: the gymnast loses balance and stalls.
Coaching cues
- Shoulders open, reach long
- Stop in the split
- Kick and push back over
All 6 steps
Frequently asked questions
What is a tick-tock in gymnastics?
A tick-tock is a back walkover that stops in a split handstand, then reverses back to stand, like a pendulum. Some coaches also link it with a front walkover. It shows flexibility and handstand control.
Is a tick-tock harder than a back walkover?
Usually yes. The gymnast needs the back walkover plus enough strength, shoulder flexibility and control to stop in the split handstand and reverse. A secure back walkover comes first.
What is a Tick-Tock? Read the glossary entry