how to do a backbend?

1- First of all, you need to stretch everything! Your arms, legs, and most importantly, your back.

2- Lay on the ground, put your arms by your ears, and go up into a bridge position. Hold that for 15 seconds and do that a couple of times.

3- To get over the fear of going backwards, you need to find a wall. This wall should have nothing near, or on it. Stand a little more then a foot away from the wall with your feet spread apart shoulder width. Then go back and work your way down the wall with your hands and climb yourself back up.

4- Now you are ready for the real thing. Stand up an put your feet shoulder length apart. Now bring your hands up above your head, the same width of your shoulders. Bend your knees. Lean back and work your way to the ground. Remember to follow your hands! And arch your back. Now make sure to keep your arms straight and come all the way down to the ground. Now you are in the bridge position again! If you think this is to scary, put some pillows under you incase you fall. Also you need to remember if it doesn't work out the first time, keep trying!

Also remember you should always have someone there to supervise. I also suggest you try this at a gymnasium with professional supervision.

Good luck!

Also, watch this video, it might help.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkiJv__6ZlE