Human flag

Last updated
Human flag on a diagonal ladder Human Flag von Sven Kohl (Calisthenic Movement), 2013.jpg
Human flag on a diagonal ladder
Overhand grip human flag on a pole Human Flag by Romans Janovics in Daugavpils, Latvia.jpg
Overhand grip human flag on a pole
Human flag using a tree Human Flag on a Tree.jpeg
Human flag using a tree

The human flag (known as an iron X in pole dancing) [1] is a feat of strength where the body is parallel to the ground supported by a vertical bar. A straight line is formed using the arms and body. The trick requires the performer to have extensive upper body strength.

Contents

Technique

The bottom arm is usually turned to grip the pole and is straight to "push" the body up. The top arm faces forward and grips on the pole. This arm "pulls" the body to maintain a parallel position to the ground. Easier variations include hooking one arm over the pole or by having the legs straddled, tucked or raised.

Learning the hold is generally done by starting with the legs parallel to the pole and then slowly lowering them to the ground. Tucking or straddling the legs alleviates pressure on the abdomen, also making the move much easier to hold.

Variations

Harder variations include:

World record

The Guiness world record for longest human flag held stands at 1 minute and 5.71 seconds by Wang Zhonghua. [2]

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References

  1. Muscat, Simone (30 April 2021). "Anatomy of an Iron X & Human Flag". The Pole Physio. Retrieved 6 September 2022.
  2. https://www.guinnessworldrecords.de/world-records/longest-duration-to-maintain-a-human-flag