Stilt Lesson

How to use the stilts

Firstly - protect yourself

We recommend that you wear a bicycle type helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads and kneepads.

Do not use the stilts without the safety gear.

Beware of wet grass and/or slippery surfaces. Try not to step on leaves, rubbish etc. Be careful in wet areas and puddles. Follow the instructions for use.

Falling - Because it will happen

The first thing you need to know about the stilts is how to fall!

Forwards and on your knees is best that's what the metal bar is for.

The easiest way to get up if you fall over is to grab hold of someone or something to support you and pull yourself up. It is good to have someone nearby when you are learning.

If you want to, or need to get up without support, spread your legs so that you have one in front of you and one behind you. Bend your front leg as much as you can and stand up on it while still kneeling on your back leg. When you feel that you can't bend your front leg more, then make a small jump and stand up on your back leg.

This is the really tricky part and may take some practice. Try to balance as much as you can in this position so that you can make a second jump and stand up.

Starting to walk

Remember walking on the stilts is exercise and you should warm up and stretch your muscles first. Consider your level of fitness before trying tricks.

Not many people can stand on the stilts at first without help. However fit and agile you may be it is a good idea to have someone there to help you. We recommend starting off by sitting on a bench or some find it easier on a high seat. Get a friend to help pull you up.

Having someone there to support you is a great idea when you attempt to stand. Hold on to someone and walk around a bit until you get used to the sensation. Remember to rest, it can be tiring.

Walking further

You will soon feel confident enough to walk by yourself but ask someone to stay close by. Walk with your feet as straight forward as possible. If you lift your knees up as you walk do it carefully at first.

Remember to walk in a relaxed manner and take time to get used to the sensation. Having one hand on a friend's shoulder is a great way to learn.

Walking faster

Ease into running by walking faster and faster. Make sure you can keep your balance before running. By walking faster and faster you can ease gently into running. Remember to relax your legs and let the springs do the work. It will feel strange at first. By lifting your knees up and down you can step over uneven surfaces and be less likely to trip over.

Jumping

You will soon be running quite fast and taking longer strides. Remember you can cover a great distance with each step and you need to watch out for uneven surfaces and obstacles.

Jumping is a challenge and should only be attempted if your fitness level is suitable and you are confident on the stilts. Try jumping on one leg or change from one leg to the other.

To really jump you need to aim the power upwards instead of forwards. Try to stand in one place and jump on one leg then do small bounces on two legs. It is easier if you reach forward or upwards and hold on to something secure.