SOUTH HADLEY - Hands, don't fail me now. Welcome to the Year of the Handstand, brought to you by USA Gymnastics.

People have been standing on their hands since way back in ancient Greece; Chinese acrobats have been handstanding for 2,500 years. In yoga they call it adho mukha vrksasana, or downward facing tree pose. At any rate, the heart is above the head and anyone watching is sure to say, "Ooooh."

A staple of modern-day gymnastics, the handstand is an integral part of every apparatus.

So imagine all the gymnasts - or gymnasts-in-training - from all across the country, throwing down palms and kicking up heels at the same time.

Saturday at 1 p.m. that scenario will be played out big-time. In an attempt to set a new world record, gymnastics schools and clubs are preparing to synchronize their watches and go for it.

The young athletes and their coaches can bring friends and family, too, so long as the invited guests can execute the skill. Some clubs will raise money for the Children's Miracle Network in the process, others will simply take part in the effort to set the record. Since 2001 USA Gymnastics has raised over $1 million for the charity.

All handstanders will be counted, with each report sent to USA Gymnastics by 2 p.m. Results will be posted at usagym.org.

Kathy Lempke, a parent of a gymnast from Thompson's Gymnastics Center in South Hadley, said that most team members are expected to arrive at the facility by 12:30 for warm-ups and/or instruction, with many of the kids bringing a friend.

Elizabeth Salva, coach of the girls competitive team at Hampshire Gymnastics School in Amherst, said that between team members, class kids and staff, at least 40 people will be involved. As for warming up, she said, "Oh, maybe a few arm circles."

Handstands, done properly, strengthen the spine, improve circulation and the endocrine system, and even forestall the effects of gravity on a sagging face.

So suck in those shoulders and feel your core. 12:59:55...56...57...58...59...FEET UP!