Pre-requisites

The Head-to-Sit Front Flip transition is considered your “bailing” maneuver throughout your head-down flying progression. You will be briefed on this skill at the same time that you are briefed and prepared for your initial head-down training. Other than what is required as pre-requisites for learning head-down, there are no additional skills required.

Objectives

The primary objective is to be able to safely and successfully demonstrate that you can transition from a neutral head-down position to a neutral sit-flying position with no forward or backward movement.

Preparation

You will learn this skill as part of learning how to fly head down. Initially, due to the slightly lower wind speeds you will be using and the fact that you will be on the net, you will actually perform more of a head-to-back front flip. Then, as you begin to fly your neutral head-down position off the net, it will become more of a true head-to-sit front flip. You will be set up in a neutral head-down position either on or off the net to perform this skill.

Technique and Drills

Basic

Keep these key elements in mind when learning this skill:

• You will begin in the center of the tunnel, either on or off the net. This transition is considered your “bailing” maneuver from head-down flight and will be learned at the beginning of your head-down progression
• You will initiate this maneuver by first tucking your head, down, forward toward your chest
• This will begin a forward rotation passing through your back
• As the rotation begins, you will need to reduce the surface area at your legs to allow them to drop
• As the rotation nears the end, open your legs to a neutral sit-flying position to help you to stop
• Keep your arms wide for stability throughout the transition
• Once you finish the rotation, your arms and upper body will end in a neutral sit-fly position

Post-flight questions / suggestions

• How did your performance match the initial objectives?
• Were you able to complete a full transition from head-down to sit-fly without stopping on your back?
• Were you able to complete the maneuver without any forward or backward drive and while maintaining the same longitudinal heading?
• What techniques did you feel comfortable with and what can you improve on during the next session?

This skill is one that you will learn as part of learning the head down progression, each flight rotation will provide you ample opportunity to master this transition. Once you are flying off the net, head down, aim to be consistent performing this transition without any change in altitude and try to perfect this move as you progress on to more advanced skills.