I really need help with C-jumps!! Any tips? I've learned them before but I've never really been good at jumps. A C-jump is in my dance and I'm competing this year as a group and really want to have good technique.

The part I struggle with the most Throwing my legs up. My coaches tell me to think about trying to touch my forehead with my feet. I can do that in a firebird and things like that but for some reason not a C-jump.

Any help is really appreciated. Thanks!

I would start by doing a lot of bridges to warm up your back and increase its flexibility. Do a few of them and hold them for a few seconds. You can also rock your weight back and forth between your hands and your feet while in the bridge.

Next make sure you're getting a deep plie and a good prep. When you jump, think about all your extremities moving in toward your core back (kind of like the opposite of a tuck jump). Have someone watch you and give you feedback, or try to record yourself practicing so you can see your form and correct any mistakes. Tip: Don't try to look at yourself in the mirror while doing this jump. You'll never be able to do it "full out" which includes releasing the head.

One of my teachers once told me to think about releasing my abs and not holding my core so tightly when doing a C-jump. That way, you can concentrate on pushing your hips forward, and then tightening your abs to land. A deep plié will help a lot in giving you time to push your hips forward and reach back so you can attain the full arch