Contortion

Contortion is an acrobatic discipline that showcases extreme flexibility, with the body folded, bent, and arched into positions far beyond the usual range of motion. Contortionists work deep backbends, splits, and front folds, often while balancing on the hands, on canes, or on a partner.

It requires years of gradual, careful training, combining flexibility with the strength and control needed to move into and hold each shape safely. Contortion can be slow and hypnotic or acrobatic and surprising, and is often combined with hand balancing, aerial work, or dance.