A gymnastics training apparatus includes a back support rotatably connected to a frame and adapted to support a gymnast during a back handspring. The apparatus includes a guide connected to the frame and adapted to be impacted by the back support as the back support rotates about the frame in engagement with the gymnast. The guide is dimensioned such that, when the back support impacts the guide, the rotational axis of the back support is shifted and the rotation of the back support is accelerated. This acceleration causes the back support to exert pressure against the gymnast and to assist the gymnast in creating a snapdown to safely and correctly practice a back handspring without the assistance of a coach.