{
  "id": 17312343,
  "title": "Alaya F’s advanced handstand is not for everyone: What you should know before trying it",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/31/alaya-fs-advanced-handstand-is-not-for-everyone-what-you-should-know",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-31T00:30:03.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Indian Express",
    "slug": "the-indian-express",
    "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/fitness/alaya-f-handstand-blocks-is-it-safe-10907837/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Alaya F recently shared a video on Instagram showcasing her handstand on handstand blocks, a challenging balancing drill typically used in acrobatics, circus arts, and gymnastics. In the caption, she expressed excitement about feeling unstoppable. However, should people attempt this exercise in their fitness routine? An orthopaedic expert provides insight into the considerations involved.\n\nDr Pushkar Chawla, Director of Orthopaedics at ShardaCare-Healthcity, advises that while the exercise may appear simple on social media, it is crucial to evaluate individual fitness levels, mobility, past injuries, and the purpose of the movement before attempting it. The expert emphasizes that anyone considering the handstand on handstand blocks should assess their current physical condition and consult with a healthcare professional if necessary.\n\nWhen introducing the handstand on handstand blocks, the expert highlights the importance of having a solid foundation in basic handstands on the floor or low parallettes. Elevated blocks provide less stability and require more precision and control. Practicing with a trained spotter, or using protective crash mats, is essential to minimize the risk of injury in case of a loss of balance.\n\nProper conditioning of the shoulders, wrists, and core is also emphasized. Before attempting the elevated handstand, it is crucial to thoroughly test the equipment on a flat, non-slip surface to prevent the blocks from tipping over. Safety is paramount, and mastering safe bailout techniques, such as pirouetting or descending safely onto nearby platforms, is critical to avoid serious injury.\n\nIn addition to the physical considerations, the expert stresses the importance of listening to one's body. Sharp pain, dizziness, unusual breathlessness, or significant discomfort are warning signs that the exercise should be stopped immediately. People recovering from injuries, with joint or back problems, or those who have been physically inactive for an extended period should exercise extreme caution and seek professional guidance before attempting advanced movements.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": "Mimicking advanced acrobatic drills seen on social media without proper conditioning or stability increases the risk of serious injury for those lacking a solid foundation in basic movements.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}