Backwards Breakfall (Kids Version)

The backwards breakfall is a crucial technique that helps children learn how to safely fall backwards without getting hurt. This technique is essential for protecting the head, spine, and arms during a fall.

Steps:

1. Start Position:
• Begin by sitting on the mat with your legs straight out in front of you, slightly apart. Sit up straight with your back tall. Make sure you’re on a soft surface or mat to protect your body during practice.
• Cross your arms across your chest, keeping them relaxed.
2. Prepare to Fall:
• Keep both legs straight out in front of you, with your feet slightly apart. Maintain your arms crossed over your chest, preparing to fall backwards.
3. Tuck and Roll:
• As you begin to fall backwards, tuck your chin tightly towards your chest to protect your head and neck. Allow your body to roll backwards onto your lower back, keeping your body relaxed and controlled.
4. Absorb the Impact:
• As your body makes contact with the mat, quickly extend both arms out to your sides at a 45-degree angle, palms facing down. Keep your elbows slightly bent to absorb the impact. Simultaneously, slap the mat with both palms and forearms to dissipate the force of the fall.
• Your legs should stay slightly apart, with your knees bent as your feet come off the ground. This helps to cushion the fall and prevent your legs from swinging up uncontrollably.
5. Head Protection:
• Your chin should remain tucked throughout the fall, and your head should not make contact with the mat. The goal is to let your back and arms absorb the impact, keeping your head safe.
6. Recover Position:
• After absorbing the impact, use your arms to help you sit back up into the starting position, ready to practice again.

Key Points to Remember:

• Control: Focus on a smooth, controlled motion as you fall. The goal is to protect your body and head.
• Tuck and Protect: Always tuck your chin and keep your head off the mat. Your arm and leg position are key to absorbing the impact.
• Soft Landing: Use your arms and legs to absorb the fall, keeping your body safe and relaxed.

Practice and Safety:

• Practice slowly at first, concentrating on getting the form correct.
• Always practice on a soft surface or mat to protect your body during the fall.
• Remember, safety and control are the most important aspects of learning this technique.

By mastering the backwards breakfall, children will develop the confidence and skills to protect themselves from falls in a safe and controlled manner. This technique is an essential part of building a strong foundation in martial arts.