How it’s done
Start facing each other with both hands joined and the base in a wide, bent-knee stance. The flyer places one foot on the base's thigh, then steps up with the other foot to stand on both thighs just above the knees. Both partners lean away with extended arms, keeping tension through the grip while the flyer straightens their legs and the base stays low. From this balance, they can release one hand each and open their free arms, or keep both hands joined while the flyer arches backwards and returns upright. To finish, the flyer bends their knees and hops down to the floor in front of the base.
Before you begin
A stable two-handed standing counterbalance and a controlled step-up onto the base's thighs.
Safety notes
Keep the flyer's feet supported on the thighs rather than directly on the kneecaps. Use a spotter for the step-up, hand releases and backbend, as a slipping foot or lost grip can send either partner backwards.
Circus arts involve a significant risk of injury. Always train under qualified supervision with appropriate safety equipment. Information on this site is for reference only and is not a substitute for professional instruction. See our Terms.
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How it progresses
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What should you train before this trick?
Share a drill or conditioning exercise that helps unlock Counter-balance face-to-face.
More tricks like this
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