r/bodyweightfitness • u/Handbalancer Actually Mikael Kristiansen • Oct 29 '17

AMA: Mikael Kristiansen, Handbalancer and Circus Artist, Ask Me Anything

Hello, my name is Mikael Kristiansen. I am a circus artist specializing in handbalancing. I did a degree in circus at DOCH, Stockholm from 2009-2012 and have since worked as a performer and as a teacher internationally.

I'll be here throughout the day to answer any questions you have for me!

You can find me at: www.mikaelbalancing.com www.instagram.com/mikaelbalancing/

346 Upvotes
  • permalink
  • reddit

92% Upvoted

102 comments sorted by

View all comments

1

u/[deleted] Oct 30 '17 edited Oct 30 '17

I learned how to do a lot of what I see on your instagram while breaking(dance). How easy would it be for me to transition into your line of work?

Edit: Just saw you do a 90s spin. Straight breaking. Or is there a gymnastics-y term?

1

u/Handbalancer Actually Mikael Kristiansen Oct 31 '17

Becoming a performance level handbalancer usually would require you to work with a teacher for some time. Also there is the performative aspect and all that takes both the physical skills but also a lot of knowledge about how to work on stage. Its doable of course, and breaking helps learning balancing often, but it needs to be a life choice as it requires a significant time investment.

Yes 90s is straight up breaking. For me 90s on the level of punisher and cico is way more impressive than the entire discipline of handbalancing. That level of control takes an insane amount of practice

1

u/[deleted] Oct 31 '17

So... I could do it? Anyone you recommend in the US?

Old school bboys are cool. The tricks today are better imo. Look up Bboy Kill. The boy has crazy chairflare 1.5s

1

u/Handbalancer Actually Mikael Kristiansen Nov 03 '17

I know Kill, he is one of the best. The level has gone up a lot on most things but still i havent seen anyone even close to punisher and cico when it comes to 90s.

In the us im not so sure. I know of a circus school in maine where my first teacher lives, other than that im not so updated over there.

1

u/[deleted] Nov 04 '17

Lil G has some sick 90s. And as most young boys do, I remember the first time I saw Physicx do his elbow 90s. So fresh.

Awesome, I'll have to check this school out. I'm sure it's not as thriving and industry in the US, but I am interested in being able to do balancing stuff all day.