Straddle Back (Aerial Straps)

A straddle back is a strength move in which the artist hangs upside down and lowers the legs outward into a horizontal straddle. The position displays control while the straps support the suspended body.

The shoulders, arms, back, abdominals, hip flexors, and inner thighs all contribute to the hold. The artist must keep tension while controlling the legs as they open into the straddle.

The body is inverted and suspended, so the artist cannot rely on the floor for balance. Opening the legs horizontally increases the demand on shoulder stability and hip compression.

It requires both, but the hanging inversion makes upper-body and core strength especially important. Flexibility helps create the wide horizontal straddle without losing body control.