Let’s talk about… Tumbles

Why are they important?


I had the opportunity to chat with Aoife @thechildrensphysio recently and we stumbled on the topic of tumbles. I knew they were fun, great for develop coordination and strength but it never occurred to me how important they are!

Aoife highlighted that when a child can tumble properly the likelihood of severe injury from a fall is greatly reduced. Children will automatically tumble or roll out of the fall by tucking their head into their chin to avoid injury to the head, neck and spine. Most sports or day to day activities include an element of risk of falling. Contact sports where you could be pushed, climbing a ladder, jumping from a wall, horse riding, car crash. Think about what you and your child get up to daily. Could either or you tumble out of a fall?

Tips & Tricks
• Use a mat or soft surface
• Tuck a beanbag or small cuddly toy under the chin and hold throughout.
• Start from standing, keeping the legs straight, touch the toes.
• Slowly lean forward until they fall over placing the back of the head on the mat
• They will land on their back
• Encourage them to reach forward and to stand up on to their feet (this is the hardest part and requires lots of core strength!)

This skill takes persistence, bravery and strength and will rarely be achieved easily. Persist as one day it could save them from a serious injury!


                                          Or come along to Ninja Fitness classes and we’ll help them achieve this important skill.

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‘Do the one thing you think you cannot do. Fail at It. Try again. Do better the second time. The only people who never tumble are those who never mount the high wire.’ – Oprah