Counter-balance Pancake Stretch
How it’s done
Start facing the same direction, with the base behind the flyer in a wide squat and the flyer's hands pressing onto the base's thighs. The flyer lifts one leg, then brings the other foot off the floor and straightens both legs into a raised, wide straddle. The base holds the flyer's lower legs and leans back to counterbalance while keeping both feet planted and knees bent. The flyer keeps their arms straight and leans their chest forward between their legs into the pancake stretch. To finish, the base comes forward as the flyer lowers their legs towards the floor.
Before you begin
A stable low counterbalance and enough active straddle flexibility to lift and straighten both legs. The flyer should be comfortable supporting their weight through straight arms on the base's thighs.
Safety notes
Warm up the hips and hamstrings, and avoid pulling the legs beyond the flyer's comfortable range. Use a spotter during the leg lifts and lowering, as a slipping hand or loss of counterbalance can drop the flyer backwards or tip the base.
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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