Contortion poses are typically categorized into (compressing the front of the body) and backbending (extending the spine backward) . While many poses share roots with yoga, contortion-specific variations focus on extreme spinal flexion and specialized balance. Iconic Backbending Poses
: A foundational move requiring pulling the foot to the chin. How to become a Contortionist! | Contortion Tutorial contortionist-poses-names
: An extreme backbend—often done in a handstand or chest stand—where the top of the head touches the performer's buttocks. How to become a Contortionist
: A standard bridge (backbend) where the performer reaches back to grab their own ankles, requiring intense shoulder and spinal flexibility. : Performed from a kneeling position, the contortionist
: Performed from a kneeling position, the contortionist sits on their feet and bends backward until their head touches their tailbone. Frontbending & Splits Poses