In the handstand, a much weaker base supports the body while simultaneously raising the body’s center of gravity a foot or more in a world turned upside down. Things don’t get more foreign. When standing, the hip is the focus of control and leverage. When in the handstand, the focus shifts to the shoulder. This shift not only helps develop “shoulders strong as hips” but also improves proprioception and core strength in ways that other protocols cannot.

"The gymnasts’ unrivaled capacity at hip and trunk flexion is in large part due to their constant training and practice of this exercise." —Greg Glassman