Topic: Skin the cat/german hang - problem with initial stage

[Oh Hun Kwon]

Hi,

I am trying to perform the 'skin the cat' exercise properly, in order to improve shoulder flexibility, strength, etc.

However, while I am okay with the hanging part, I have an issue trying to get my legs over my head (the initial stage) without the assistance of the hanging bar. When I do it, I jump and lock my legs quickly enough in order to prevent my legs from falling down - as a result, I end up swinging a lot.

I assume that I am too weak to pull my legs up? What can I do to improve my strength to freely lift my legs, and through the gap? Or should I just be patient until I can finally do it?

Thanks in advance.

[MedvisP]

You're lacking abdominal strength. You could do things like L-sits/hanging leg raises/etc until you can statically lift your legs and bring them through your arms. Be careful with the skin the cat by the way... if you don't do it properly you can cause some damage. Make sure you're ready for it before you jump in.

[Steve Low]

What medvisp said... plus Tuck into a ball to make it easier.