Tag Archives: Cheerleading Drills

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Fear to Flair: A Guide to Conquering Scary Cheerleading Stunts

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From Fear to Flair A Guide to Conquering Scary Cheerleading Stunts
25
Apr
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published April 25, 2024

As a cheer coach, I’ve seen firsthand the mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with tackling the most challenging stunts in cheerleading. From towering pyramids to dizzying flips, mastering these elements is as much about conquering fear as it is about physical skill. Let’s dive into how you can guide your athletes through their fears and turn daunting tricks into show-stopping routines.

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Understanding the Fear

In cheer, performing as the top flyer in 2 1/2 high pyramids or executing complex flipping and twisting baskets can strike fear even in the most experienced cheerleaders. One common scare, the back handspring up, hinges on the flyer’s trust in their bases to catch and support them—a psychological hurdle as much as a physical one.

Conquering the Mental Block

1. Master the Technique: The first step in overcoming fear is to ensure that the technique is flawless. As a coach, I stress the importance of drills and conditioning exercises that enhance muscle memory and build a strong technical foundation. When athletes feel confident in their abilities, the fear starts to fade.

2. Incremental Progression: I often start my athletes on lower-risk versions of a stunt and gradually increase the difficulty as their confidence and competence grow. This step-by-step approach helps reduce overwhelm and allows cheerleaders to feel in control throughout the learning process.

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3. Visualize Success: Visualization is a powerful tool in sports psychology. I encourage my team to spend time visualizing their routines, focusing particularly on the segments that make them most nervous. By mentally rehearsing successful executions, they can approach their stunts with more confidence.

4. Build Trust Within the Team: Cheer is all about teamwork. I focus on building a strong sense of trust and camaraderie among the athletes. Regular team-building activities and clear, supportive communication help create a safe and supportive environment where athletes are less afraid to take risks.

5. Repetition is Key: Nothing builds confidence like repetition. The more an athlete practices a stunt, the more familiar and less intimidating it becomes. It’s important for cheerleaders to repeatedly practice their stunts until they feel almost second nature.

Sharing Real Experiences

In my experience, I’ve seen athletes who initially hesitated at the thought of flying high or flipping backward. Through dedication and a focus on technique, they’ve not only mastered their stunts but have also learned to enjoy the thrill that comes with executing them perfectly. Like one of my top flyers often says, “If I did everything right, how bad could it be? Once the technique clicked, it was all about repeating it until it felt like second nature.”

cheerleading stunts

Embracing the Challenge

To my fellow coaches and cheerleaders, remember that mastering scary stunts is a journey. Each small victory builds the path to greater achievements. Celebrate every step forward, no matter how small, and keep pushing the boundaries of what your team can achieve. You’re constantly setting the bar higher, not just in the stunts you perform but also in the resilience and courage you develop. So lace up, cheer loud, and let your confidence soar as high as your stunts

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Mastering Your Basket Toss Technique

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IPP YouHitZero Mastering Your Basket Toss Technique
09
Apr
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published April 9, 2024

A question from an athlete in the r/cheerleading subreddit caught my eye, and I thought it presented a perfect opportunity to discuss this.

OP is facing challenges with their basket tosses, specifically dealing with the added power from their bases, which is affecting their form and landings. Let’s break this down and turn those tosses from daunting to dynamic!

How to do a basket toss in Cheer

Understanding the Dynamics of a Powerful Basket Toss

First off, a powerful basket toss isn’t just about height. It’s about control, timing, and technique. When your bases are strong, and they “chuck” you up with all they’ve got, it’s crucial to match that power with the right technique.

cheer basket toss techniques

The Lift Off: Sync and Stability

Your initial position and how you leave the bases’ hands play a massive role. Ensure your feet are firmly together, and your body is tight. The power comes from your legs just as much as from your bases. Push off with your legs to aid that upward momentum. This doesn’t just help you go higher; it gives you more control.

The Ride: Finding Your Peak

Riding your basket refers to how you position yourself in the air. The goal? A controlled, tight, and peak position. Here’s where timing comes into play. You want to stand up quickly, yes, but smoothly. Too fast, and you might unsettle your balance. Too slow, and you won’t utilize the full power of the toss. Find that sweet spot where you extend fully at the right moment, maximizing your height and control.

The Tuck and Twist: Precision in the Air

For those intricate basket tosses involving a tuck, twist, or any other element, your core is your best friend. Engaging your core throughout the toss will keep you stable and allow you to execute your skills with precision. Remember, it’s not just about the height; it’s about what you do with it.

The Descent: Controlled and Confident

Coming down can be the most intimidating part, especially with the added power. Your instincts might tell you to rush into your landing position, but resist that. Start preparing for your landing as you start descending, but keep your body tight and controlled. Bend your knees upon landing to absorb the shock, and trust your bases to catch you securely.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Feet slipping out? Focus on your foot placement at the start. Keep them pressed firmly together, and as you’re tossed, think about pointing your toes upward slightly. This small adjustment can prevent slipping.
  • Landing in a pike? This usually means you’re rushing your stand-up phase. Focus on extending fully at the top before preparing for the descent.
  • Overwhelmed by the power? Practice with your bases to find the right timing. It might also help to do strength training, focusing on your core and legs, to better handle and use the power to your advantage.

Final Thoughts

Like any skill in cheerleading, mastering the basket toss takes practice, patience, and trust in your team. Each toss is a team effort – from the bases and backspot to the flyer. Communication is key. Talk to your bases about what you’re feeling and work together to make those adjustments.

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The Throw: The Physics of Cheerleading Lifts and Practical Training Techniques

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The Throw The Physics of Cheerleading Lifts and Practical Training Techniques tips
17
Nov
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published November 17, 2023

The captivating moment when a cheerleader is launched into the air during a stunt is the result of a precise application of physics principles between the base and the flyer. Understanding the mechanics behind this can vastly improve technique, safety, and performance. This article dives deep into the physics of the cheerleading throw and offers practical methods for coaches to enhance the training of their athletes.

The Fundamentals of Physics in Cheer Throws

Before delving into the training methods, it’s crucial to comprehend the basic physics at play. The throw involves concepts of force, energy, momentum, and angular momentum. Here, we’ll break down these principles and explain how they work in unison to execute a flawless lift.

physics of cheerleading

Optimizing Force and Energy Transfer

The success of a throw hinges on the efficient transfer of energy from the base to the flyer. We will discuss how bases can optimize their application of force to maximize the height and stability of the throw, focusing on the timing, angle, and the explosive power needed.

The Technique Behind Momentum

Momentum is the product of mass and velocity and is conserved in the closed system of a base and flyer. Coaches can use drills to teach bases how to effectively transfer linear momentum to the flyer, ensuring a vertical lift that makes for an impressive stunt.

The spectacle of a cheerleader soaring gracefully through the air is a testament to the strength, timing, and precision cultivated through rigorous training. Strength and conditioning, drill repetition, and the correct application of force are the pillars of an effective cheer throw. This article will expand on these components to provide a comprehensive guide for cheerleading coaches aiming to refine the explosive power and synchronicity of their squad’s lifts.

Building a Foundation with Strength and Conditioning

The prowess of a cheerleading base begins with a robust foundation of physical strength, particularly in the legs and core. This is crucial for two reasons: it provides the power needed for a strong lift-off and ensures the stability required to support and control the throw. Here are key exercises to incorporate into a cheerleader’s regimen:

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  • Squats and Deadlifts: These compound movements are excellent for building leg strength. They mimic the lifting action of a cheer throw, engaging the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles.
  • Plyometrics: Exercises like box jumps and jump squats train fast-twitch muscle fibers, essential for the explosive power needed in a lift-off.
  • Core Workouts: Planks, Russian twists, and hanging leg raises build the core stability that bases need to maintain balance and control during a throw.

Perfecting the Art through Drill Repetition

Drill repetition is about creating muscle memory so that each movement becomes second nature, allowing for flawless execution during the high pressure of performances. Repetitive practice drills that focus on timing and coordination are vital:

  • Simulated Throws: Practice the motion of throws without the flyer to perfect the base’s technique and build endurance.
  • Timing Drills: Use metronomes or music to cue bases on when to initiate and release the throw, training them to act in unison.
  • Coordination Exercises: Group exercises where bases lift objects in sync can improve the collective coordination needed for synchronized throws.
angular momentum cheerleading

The Science of Force Application

Teaching bases how to uniformly and directionally apply force can make the difference between a mediocre and a spectacular stunt. The uniform application of force ensures the flyer’s safety and the stunt’s success. Here are strategies to enhance this skill:

improve cheer technique
  • Directional Drills: Use targeted exercises to train bases on applying force in a consistent direction, which is often vertical for maximum height.
  • Resistance Training: Implement resistance bands or light weights to simulate the resistance a base feels when lifting a flyer.
  • Consistent Practice with Flyers: There’s no substitute for the real thing. Regular practice with flyers allows bases to adjust their force application in real-time, attuning to the flyer’s weight and movement dynamics.

Integrating Training into Routine Workouts

Incorporating these elements into a routine workout can lead to significant improvements:

  • Circuit Training: Create a circuit that includes leg and core strength exercises, plyometrics, and drill repetitions for a comprehensive workout.
  • Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the intensity and complexity of exercises to continuously challenge the athletes and promote strength gains.
  • Recovery and Mobility: Incorporate adequate rest and mobility work to prevent injury and ensure that athletes can perform movements with full range of motion.

Safety First: Ensuring a Secure Practice Environment

No discussion of cheerleading technique would be complete without a strong emphasis on safety. This section will cover the essential safety measures coaches must enforce, from proper spotting to ensuring that all stunts are practiced with mats and in a suitable environment.

Cheerleading throws are a complex blend of artistry and physics. By applying these principles in a structured training regimen, coaches can elevate their athletes’ performance and safety. This article serves as a guide to the scientific and practical aspects of cheerleading throws, providing coaches with the knowledge and tools to refine their team’s stunts to perfection.

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Mastering Toss Hands

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14
Aug
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 14, 2023

Male cheerleaders around the world may face unique challenges, particularly when it comes to performing toss hands. If you are in your early years of cheerleading and struggling with getting the right height on your toss, but seem to have no problem with shoulder sits, you are not alone.

Understand the Role of Strength Training

Lift More Weights: Building strength is key. Focus on the big 3 lifts – deadlifts, squats, and cleans.

  • Deadlifts and Squats: These exercises target the muscles needed for tosses and can significantly enhance your power.
  • Cleans: This is useful for developing explosive strength, but it requires proper technique to be effective.

While coaches often emphasize technique over strength, having more strength to tap into will never be detrimental. It can, in fact, provide an edge in your performance.

cheer lifting weights deadlifts

Deadlifts

Deadlifts are great for building overall strength, targeting muscles in your legs, back, and core. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Starting Position:

  • Stand with feet hip-width apart.
  • Place the barbell over the middle of your feet.
  • Bend at the hips and knees to lower your body to the bar.
  • Grip the bar with both hands, either overhand or mixed grip.
  • Keep your back flat, chest up, and shoulders slightly in front of the bar.

2. Lifting Phase:

  • Engage your core and push through your heels.
  • Extend your hips and knees simultaneously to lift the bar.
  • Keep the bar close to your body, traveling in a straight line.
  • Fully extend your hips at the top, standing tall.

3. Lowering Phase:

  • Reverse the movement, pushing hips back first.
  • Lower the bar by bending the hips and knees.
  • Return to the starting position with control.

4. Key Tips:

  • Maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement.
  • Focus on engaging your glutes and hamstrings.
  • Avoid rounding your back.

Squats

Squats are a cornerstone exercise for building leg and core strength. Follow these steps:

1. Starting Position:

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
  • Hold a barbell across your upper back or place hands on hips for bodyweight squats.
  • Keep your chest up, shoulders back, and eyes forward.

2. Descending Phase:

  • Begin by pushing your hips back.
  • Bend your knees while keeping them in line with your feet.
  • Lower your body until thighs are at least parallel to the ground.
  • Keep your chest up and back straight throughout the movement.

3. Ascending Phase:

  • Push through your heels to stand back up.
  • Extend hips and knees simultaneously.
  • Return to the starting position, maintaining good posture.

4. Key Tips:

  • Keep your knees from caving in or going past your toes.
  • Engage your core throughout the movement.
  • Focus on controlled, smooth motions.

5. Variations:

  • Goblet Squat with a dumbbell or kettlebell.
  • Front Squat with the barbell in front of your shoulders.
cheerleading weightlifting squats

Both Deadlifts and Squats are powerful exercises that require attention to form and technique. It may be wise to consult with a fitness professional or coach to ensure proper execution, especially if you are new to these movements.

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Cleans:

The Clean is a complex and powerful exercise often used by athletes to develop explosive strength. It can be particularly beneficial for cheerleaders who need to enhance their toss ability. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to performing the Clean exercise:

1. Starting Position:

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
  • Grip the barbell with a hook grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width.
  • Position the bar over the mid-foot.
  • Lower yourself by bending at the knees and hips, keeping the chest up.
  • Engage your core and ensure that your back is straight.

2. First Pull:

  • Begin by driving through your heels to lift the bar off the floor.
  • Maintain a flat back and keep the bar close to your body.
  • Extend your legs while keeping your shoulders over the bar.

3. Second Pull (Explosive Phase):

  • As the bar reaches knee height, explosively extend your hips and knees.
  • Shrug your shoulders and pull the bar upward with your arms.
  • Think of “jumping” the bar upwards rather than just lifting it.

4. Catch Phase:

  • Quickly drop under the bar by pulling yourself into a squat position.
  • Rotate your elbows forward to catch the bar on your front shoulders.
  • The bar should rest on your fingertips or the heel of your hand, not the palm.
  • Your thighs should be at least parallel to the ground in the catch position.

5. Recovery Phase:

  • Stand up by pushing through your heels, fully extending your hips and knees.
  • Maintain a straight back and keep the bar in front of your shoulders.

6. Return:

  • Safely lower the barbell back to the starting position or drop it to the floor if using bumper plates.

7. Key Tips:

  • Focus on powerful hip extension rather than pulling with the arms.
  • Keep the bar close to your body throughout the movement.
  • Ensure a smooth transition from the pull to the catch.
  • Practice with lighter weights or a PVC pipe to master the technique before adding weight

Safety Considerations

Given the complexity of the Clean, it may be beneficial to break down the movement into its constituent parts and practice them individually. Working with a certified coach or trainer who understands the biomechanics of the exercise can also help you develop proper form and technique.

Cleans are an advanced lifting technique that requires coordination, timing, and power. They can be a valuable addition to a cheerleader’s training program, helping develop the explosive strength needed for various cheer maneuvers.

Repetition and Understanding Your Flyer

The Reddit user also highlighted the importance of repetition and knowing your flyer’s timing.

  • Repetition: Practicing your toss hands again and again will eventually lead to mastery. Don’t shy away from dedicating time to consistent practice.
  • Understanding Your Flyer: Building synergy with your flyer can make a world of difference. If you understand each other’s timing and movements, you’ll find that executing toss hands becomes much more fluid.

If you’re grappling with toss hands, the combination of targeted weight lifting, repetitive practice, and cultivating a strong understanding with your flyer could be the solution you need.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but these tried and tested methods have proven to be effective for many. With dedication and focus, you too can overcome this challenge and take your skills to new heights.

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Enhancing Spatial Awareness for Improved Tumbling in Cheerleading

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
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01
Aug
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 1, 2023

Cheerleading is a demanding sport that requires a high degree of physical strength, agility, and precision. Among these crucial skills, spatial awareness stands out as a significant contributor to a cheerleader’s performance, particularly in tumbling. If you’re a cheerleader finding yourself getting lost mid-full, you’re not alone. We’re here to discuss strategies that can help you refine your spatial awareness and get back on track with your tumbling.

Spatial awareness is a sense of one’s physical position in relation to the surroundings. In cheerleading, it is essential for executing complex tumbling sequences, like standing fulls or full whips, without losing orientation. However, developing and maintaining this sense can be challenging.

Revisit Basics

When struggling with spatial awareness during complex sequences, it can be beneficial to revisit the basics. Try practicing simpler moves and gradually increasing the difficulty. This can help your body regain the sense of spatial orientation and build a solid foundation.

Mental Visualization

Visualize your routines. Before executing a move, imagine each step vividly in your mind. Picture yourself in the air, your rotation, and your landing. This mental rehearsal can help improve your spatial awareness and execution of the skills.

Eye-Focus Training

Try to consciously keep your eyes open during your routines. It’s common for cheerleaders to close their eyes involuntarily during tumbling, which can disrupt spatial orientation. Practice drills where you focus on a particular point during the maneuver can help you stay oriented.

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Use Spotting Techniques

Spotting techniques involve focusing on a particular point in your surroundings to maintain balance and orientation. These can be incredibly helpful during full rotations and can prevent you from getting lost mid-move.

Invest in Coaching and Feedback

If you’re still struggling, consider seeking advice from your coach or even investing in additional professional guidance. They can provide personalized feedback, identify problem areas, and suggest targeted exercises to improve your spatial awareness.

Try Proprioceptive Exercises

Proprioceptive exercises that focus on balance and body movement can help improve your spatial awareness. These can include activities like yoga, Pilates, or even specific balance-focused exercises on a stability ball or BOSU.

Refining your spatial awareness as a cheerleader can feel like an uphill battle, but with the right strategies and dedication, you can regain your confidence and excel in your tumbling. Remember, it’s essential to be patient with yourself during this process. Improvements might not be noticeable overnight, but consistent effort will yield results

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7 Effective Strategies to Get Your Cheer Team’s Attention: Managing Short Attention Spans

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
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01
Aug
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 1, 2023

One of the key challenges for any cheerleading coach is maintaining the focus of their young athletes. With so much talent and energy in one place, it’s not uncommon to find short attention spans and distractions taking over practice. But fear not! We have some effective strategies that can help you create a more structured environment and ensure your cheerleading team stays on point.

  • Establish Clear Expectations

Before the cheerleaders set foot on the mat, ensure they know what’s expected of them. From the moment they arrive at practice until they leave, outline the rules and enforce them consistently. Make it clear that practice time is for focusing, learning, and improving, and not for chatting or goofing around.

  • Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise your cheerleaders when they pay attention and perform well. This reinforcement boosts morale and encourages them to continue behaving in the desired way. Give shout-outs to those who show excellent focus, rewarding positive behavior, and others will strive to earn the same recognition.

  • Incorporate Interactive Teaching Methods

Sometimes, traditional teaching methods may not hold the attention of young, energetic cheerleaders. Try to incorporate games, challenges, or interactive drills that will engage them. The more fun they’re having, the more focused they’ll be.

  • Introduce Breaks

Attention spans can wane over time, particularly during long practices. Introduce short, regular breaks where the team can rest, hydrate, and socialize. This helps to recharge their batteries and allows them to refocus once the break is over.

Strategies-to-Get-Your-Cheer-Team's-Attention--Managing-Short-Attention-Spans
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  • Use Visual and Auditory Signals

Visual and auditory cues can be very effective in gaining and maintaining attention. Using a whistle, clapping your hands, or employing a visual signal like raising a hand can be a great way to grab the team’s attention instantly.

Managing-Short-Attention-Spans

  • Set Goals and Monitor Progress

Setting goals gives the cheerleaders something to aim for and focus on. It could be mastering a new routine, improving stunts, or enhancing teamwork. Regularly check-in on these goals, track progress, and celebrate achievements. This helps maintain focus as cheerleaders will be more invested in their own development.

  • Be a Role Model

Lastly, the most effective way to get your cheerleaders to pay attention is to lead by example. Show enthusiasm, dedication, and focus, and your team will be more likely to mirror these traits.

Managing a team of talented cheerleaders with short attention spans is a challenge, but with a combination of clear expectations, positive reinforcement, engaging teaching methods, breaks, visual signals, goal setting, and exemplary behavior, you can create a more structured and focused practice environment. Remember, every cheerleader is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Stay patient, flexible, and keep experimenting until you find the right mix that works for your team. Happy coaching!

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The Essential Guide to Cheerleading Tumbling Progression

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
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29
Jun
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 29, 2023

Tumbling is an integral part of cheerleading. It enhances the visual appeal of routines and showcases the athletic prowess of the cheerleaders. However, learning tumbling skills is a gradual process that requires consistency, patience, and above all, a clear understanding of progression levels. In this article, we will walk through the tumbling progression guide, breaking down each level to help cheer coaches better structure their athletes’ training.

  • Level 1.0: The Foundation
    The first level focuses on basic gymnastic skills that lay the groundwork for more advanced moves. At this level, athletes will learn forward and backward rolls, handstands, and cartwheels, as well as handstand snap-downs, bridge downs, and opposite cartwheels. Each of these moves builds core strength, flexibility, and body awareness, critical attributes for future progress.
  • Level 1.5: Building Momentum
    At Level 1.5, the focus is on slightly more complex skills that build on the foundations set in Level 1.0. Here, athletes start learning moves like 2-step round-offs, power hurdle round-offs, backward roll press ups, and front and back walkovers. The Valdez, a graceful move performed from a seated position, also makes its debut at this level.
    • Cheerleading-Tumbling-front-walkover
    • Level 2.0: Introducing the Back Handspring

      The back handspring – a cheerleading staple – is introduced at Level 2.0. Also added to the repertoire are round-off back handsprings, front handsprings, front walkover-round-offs, and back extension rolls. These moves require and help develop upper body strength, better control, and enhanced spatial awareness.

    Backhandspring Tumbling
    Backhandspring Tumbling
    • Level 2.5: Mastery of the Back Handspring

    Level 2.5 emphasizes the mastery and integration of the back handspring. The goal is to perform multiple back handsprings and seamlessly transition from a front walkover to a round-off back handspring. This level encourages fluidity in motion and lays the foundation for complex tumbling sequences.

    Cheerleading-Tumbling--walkover
    • Level 3.0: Daring Heights

      By Level 3.0, cheerleaders should be comfortable performing solo and sequence back handsprings. They’re now ready for high-flying moves like round-off back handspring tucks, standing tucks, and aerials. The cheerleader will also start working on coin tosses, punch fronts, and toe touch back handsprings, further expanding their tumbling skill set.

    • Level 4.0: Layouts & Advanced Skills
      Level 4.0 focuses on layouts and more advanced skills. Athletes start to incorporate skills like the round-off back handspring layout, cartwheel tuck, T-jump tuck, and whip throughs into their repertoire. They will also work on punch front step-outs, front handspring front punches, and Onodis.
    • Level 5.0: Full Twisting and Arabians

      • With a strong foundation in place, Level 5.0 cheerleaders are ready for full twists and Arabians. They’ll also learn whip tucks, toe touch tucks, and standing fulls. At this level, athletes also start practicing fulls with kicks, further enhancing their flexibility and control.

  • Level 6.0: Elite Tumbling
    Level 6.0 is the final and most advanced stage in this tumbling progression. Athletes at this level are expected to execute difficult skills like back handspring fulls, whip punch double twists, and Arabian step outs to double twists. They also continue practicing fulls with kicks. Mastery at this level reflects the pinnacle of tumbling proficiency.

    • Conclusion

    The process of learning and mastering tumbling in cheerleading is a journey that requires patience, practice, and persistent effort. By understanding and following this tumbling progression guide, cheer coaches can ensure their athletes develop the necessary skills in a safe and systematic manner. Remember, each level forms the foundation for the next – it’s important to master each skill before moving on to more advanced moves. Happy tumbling!

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    Mastering Cheer Stunting 101: A Comprehensive Guide for New Cheer Coaches

    Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
    Mastering Cheer Stunting 101: A Comprehensive Guide for New Cheer Coaches
    28
    Jun
    Steve Blog Circle

    Byline Steve Pawlyk

    Steve Blog Circle

    Byline Steve Pawlyk

    By Steve Pawlyk

    Published June 28, 2023

    Every cheerleading performance is a mesmerizing blend of rhythm, athleticism, and sheer enthusiasm, with stunting taking center stage. Stunting, the act of lifting a team member during a performance, is not just about the high-flying spectacle; it requires precision, strength, and an intricate understanding of cheerleading guidelines. For any new cheer coach looking to ensure their team’s stunting routines are not only breathtaking but also adhere to American cheerleading rules and regulations, this guide offers a step-by-step breakdown.

    Understanding the Key Roles in Cheer Stunting

    Each stunt in cheerleading is made possible by the combined effort of the flyer, the bases, the backspot, and, sometimes, the front spot. All roles are bound by the safety guidelines set forth by the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators (AACCA) and the U.S. All Star Federation (USASF).

    1. Flyer: Flyers need a solid sense of balance, flexibility, and confidence. They must follow safety guidelines, such as not reaching out to the crowd or performing any dangerous dismounts without proper support.
    2. Bases: Bases must be strong enough to lift and catch the flyer. They should always watch the flyer and not the crowd or competition, as stipulated by AACCA safety guidelines.
    3. Backspot: The backspot’s responsibility extends to ensuring the stunt’s timing, protecting the flyer’s head and neck, and maintaining constant awareness of the stunt group’s stability.
    4. Front Spot: This optional role can add an extra layer of safety, aiding in lifting the flyer, and providing additional stability to the stunt.
    Mastering Cheer Stunting 101

    Stunt Conditioning Drills: Building Strength and Stability

    The next step is conditioning your cheerleaders for stunting. Strength, flexibility, and balance exercises should be part of your team’s regular workout regimen, in line with the conditioning guidelines of the USASF.

    1. Core Strength Exercises: The core is fundamental for all stunting roles. Exercises such as planks, sit-ups, and Russian twists can help build core strength.
    2. Leg and Arm Strength Workouts: Squats, lunges, and push-ups can help bases and spotters develop the power they need to support flyers.
    3. Balance Drills: Balance exercises, such as yoga poses or balance beam exercises, are important for flyers to maintain their poise while aloft.
    4. Flexibility Training: Stretching routines, straddle stretches, and split routines help flyers achieve the flexibility they need to perform various stunts.
    Cheerleading Stunts

    Stunt Progressions: Learning to Stunt Safely

    Safety is paramount in cheerleading, and stunt progressions allow your squad to build confidence and skills while adhering to the AACCA’s risk management guidelines. Here are a few progression steps:

    1. Thigh Stand: This beginner-friendly stunt helps team members understand the basics of balance and coordination.
    2. Prep or Half Elevator: Here, the flyer stands on the bases’ hands at chest level. This stunt introduces height and requires more strength from bases.
    3. Full Elevator or Extension: This full-height stunt is a test of your team’s stunting abilities and should only be performed once the other levels are mastered.

    It is essential to incorporate these progressions into your training regimen, making sure to adhere to the USASF Level Rules and Age Grids.

    When teaching stunts, remember that every cheerleader’s safety is your priority. Use appropriate safety mats and spotting until your squad is fully comfortable with their stunts. As a cheer coach, your primary goal should be to foster an environment where your cheerleaders can safely learn, grow, and shine under your guidance.

    The art of stunting is one of the many elements that make cheerleading performances compelling and breathtaking. By incorporating the right drills, exercises, and safety practices into your coaching, and always adhering to the cheerleading rules and regulations, you can ensure your squad delivers not just a great performance, but a safe one. Keep the spirit high, the music inspiring, and let the joy of cheerleading resonate with every stunt your team executes.

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