Shoulder taps involve a weight shift, followed by a quick push ( Shoulder elevation ). The first step is to shift the weight over the base hand and elevate the shoulder enough to lift the support hand slightly off the ground. This should be similar to a Handstand walk , but without moving in any direction.
After being able to comfortably shift weight and lift each hand several times in a row, then the full shoulder tap should be attempted. When doing the shoulder tap, attempt to keep both sides of the Upper trapezius engaged. Both the shoulder of the base hand and the lifting hand should be elevated and engaged. If Shoulder elevation and Upper trapezius activation is lost on the lifting arm side, balance will be much more difficult and inconsistent.