stretching for BTB weave?

**ukeyouee** · **stretching for BTB weave? -** 08-27-08, 08:51 PM

ok, I understand the basic motions and all. Here's the thing. I have always had very little flexibility in my lower back, and I think it's holding me up from making progress on this move. I physically am not capable of getting my hand around my opposite hip to spin the poi. Anyone have any good training tips/stretches/the number of someone who can build me bionic hips so that I can band like that?

I've been wroking this move for a couple of months and I am making NO progress...and I feel like it's halting the progress of my spinning in general.

TasteTheAlex · 08-27-08, 09:31 PM

I still have trouble with my behind the back moves, maybe for the same reason, every once and a while i can pull it off, ive found turning my body about 45 degrees from side to side helps with the lack of flexibility, as for streching, try link your hands behind your back then lift them as high as you can.

**ukeyouee** · 08-27-08, 09:38 PM

the only way to get my hand all the way around is a 90 degree turn...I actually do the stretch you're talking about, and it has helped a lot, but the issues is my lower back I think, right above my hip joints.

Dazed · 08-27-08, 09:57 PM

You don't need to be more flexible to get the BTB weave, unless you are a 2x4. Move your body more and get out of the way of the oncoming poi. I tried for months off and on to get it, then it just clicked in about two days - no stretching involved.

Can you do a 5 bt weave? If not, learn it, for some reason, that single move opened the door...good luck!

gP · 08-27-08, 10:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ukeyouee

ok, I understand the basic motions and all. Here's the thing. I have always had very little flexibility in my lower back, and I think it's holding me up from making progress on this move. I physically am not capable of getting my hand around my opposite hip to spin the poi. Anyone have any good training tips/stretches/the number of someone who can build me bionic hips so that I can band like that?

I've been wroking this move for a couple of months and I am making NO progress...and I feel like it's halting the progress of my spinning in general.

yeah im having trouble with my flow poi doing the BTB weave because im guessing the poi are heavier which they are so ill get it one day!

Osmosis9 · 08-28-08, 04:31 AM

I stretched each time I practiced for a few days before I learned the btb weave. It made it a little easier, but ultimately I gained more flexibility from actually practicing the btb weave and as your planes improve for that move it gets easier. Try doing some shoulder stretches for a few days to help get you started.

**ukeyouee** · 08-28-08, 03:25 PM

The thing is, I do stretch my shoulders...religiously. I had a couple of really serious shoulder injuries, and when I don't stretch that right one locks up.

Lemme see if I can explain this a bit better. When I'm turning to try to get the poi around my other side, I can feel the muscles in my lower back tightening...to the point where I can't make enough of a turn to get the poi around.

when I do the five beat, since it's in front of me, I can bend more from side to side at the waist (so my shoulder ends up pointing at the ground), rather than twisting and keeping my torso more vertical.

Did that clarify the question or make it more complex? I appreciate all the feedback, it's that you guys are reinforcing (thank you!) the stuff I already do, and I think I might need another little trick to make this happen.

**LilRaverBoi** · 08-28-08, 06:45 PM

Well, flexibility will surely help in learning BTB weaves. Here's the stretch that I use to help with BTB moves. This might be hard for you at first, but the more you do it, the better it will get. Put one arm behind your back with the upper side against your back. Reach as far to the opposite side as you can. You can use the other hand to pull gently on it.....hold. Eventually, you want to be able to wrap the hand around your side toward the front....but work on just reaching the other side first.

Hope that helps a little....be sure to do both arms (but I know you will....you're smart, like that) *HUGS* good luck, Sarah!

**ukeyouee** · 06:57 PM

bryan, you win...that's hitting the muscle that isn't stretching right. thanks love!

EDIT! If you do this sitting in a chair with you feet spread so you don't fall and twist slightly to the side, you can get the back of the opposite hip to stretch at the same time.

**LilRaverBoi** · 08-28-08, 07:19 PM

Awwww...SNAP! I win??? I'm glad I helped you. I wasn't sure if it was gonna help or just hurt. I figured I'd share what I use. This stretch is good to do anywhere....helps your flexibility and I think it feels great.