As simple as a handstand looks, it is actually quite complex and it is super easy to make mistakes without realizing. Let’s look at a few common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Common mistake #1: Hands too wide

For a classic straight handstand, the hands should be positioned directly under the shoulders and arms squeezing toward each other. The placement is a lot closer than you think. When the hands are wider, you end up recruiting more lats and triceps, which can make it seem easier at first, but doesn’t lend itself to a longer hold and does not represent a technical straight handstand. Placing your hands wide IS however helpful for some contortion handstands. P.S. the handstand emoji’s technique is a good example of hand position!

Common mistake #2: Shoulders closed

If you hold your arms straight overhead, your shoulders are open. You may not be able to hold this position if your lats are too tight. As you bring your hands forward in front of you, your shoulders close. In a handstand, closing shoulders causes the torso to angle away from the shoulders rather than stack on top. That also leads to unwanted spinal extension (backbend). Again, closed shoulders can make the balance feel easier, but you won’t have the line you’re looking for and it requires more muscle, meaning you will fatigue faster. 

Common mistake #3: Arching into your handstand

Entries to handstands are generally pretty messy out there in the world, but one especially common error is letting the back bend as you kick up. Instead, engage your lower abs and focus on maintaining that strength so you are either slightly hollow or neutral throughout your entry. Balance-correcting from an arched position is best avoided since it requires a large movement. Plus, uncontrolled motions around the low back can definitely cause pain. 

If you’re looking for deeper explanations and visual guides to help you understand the key details that make a good straight handstand, I really recommend checking out my How NOT to Handstand ebook. This ebook includes more than 20 videos with drills and demonstrations to help you achieve a technically correct straight handstand. Side-by-side photos of correct and incorrect technique help you understand what to look for when assessing your own handstand (also helpful if you’re trying to find out if someone will be a good coach for you for this skill). Check it out!