It's not that difficult or dangerous. 12V to the coil, fuel to carbs via fuel pump, and ground the engine to the battery. Touch a 12V jumper to the small starter solenoid connection to start it.

I used to start Type 1 engines on the ground by hooking up 12V and fuel, and using the ring gear like a kick starter. Just put your foot on it and give it a good shove.

To stop the engine, disconnect the 12V lead to the coil.

I once ran a Buick 455 on an tripod engine stand for a minute or two. I did use an engine hoist to help support and stabilize it, (400+ lb engine on a tripod stand? Yikes!), but it wasn't a problem.

The only thing that would make your engine "jump" around is the torque due to the angular acceleration of the whirly bits, and that you can control with the throttle.