Boston Dynamics on May 5 (U.S. local time) posted a video on its YouTube channel showing Atlas performing a series of gymnastics positions.
In the 43-second short, Atlas moves into a handstand and then holds its body nearly horizontal while supporting itself only on its hands.
Around the 19-second mark, Atlas performs an “L-sit,” forming an L shape while balancing on its hands. It holds the position for about five seconds before flipping up to stand upright.
The company said the routine goes beyond simple balance or repeated motions, requiring precise, simultaneous control of the upper body, core and arm joints. It also reflects improved ability to hold steady positions, separate from previously shown aerial flips.
The demonstration drew favorable reactions ahead of full-scale training planned at U.S. production sites, with viewers noting the difficulty of the moves even for humans.
Comments on YouTube included: “The gymnastics moves are really cool,” “Getting ready for the next Olympics,” and “I really like that it’s almost silent.”
Boston Dynamics said the video shows Atlas can carry heavy objects, move them and work from irregular postures on a factory floor. Observers pointed to the robot’s ability to support its full body weight steadily on a very small contact area—both hands—as a sign it has reached an advanced technical stage.
Boston Dynamics said the routine used a reinforcement learning-based whole-body control system. The video also shows “001” engraved on the side of Atlas’ torso, identifying it as the first development model. The development model includes autonomous learning capability and flexibility designed to adapt to a wide range of work environments.
Hyundai Motor Group plans to deploy the Atlas development model first at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, or HMGMA, and conduct process-by-process verification.
A Hyundai Motor official said earlier videos focused on logistics tasks or flip-style movements, while the latest clip highlights precise control of the body in static positions. The official described it as a demonstration of high-difficulty work capability ahead of planned deployment at U.S. plants in 2028.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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