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'''Stunts''' are defined as building performances displaying a person's skill or dexterity. Stunting in ] has been previously referred to as building pyramids. Stunts range from basic two-legged stunts to one-legged extended stunts and high flying basket tosses. There are numerous variations of each basic stunt. They can be hard, but not for me!
In the competitive athletic sport of ], stunts are defined as building performances that display a team's skill or dexterity. Stunts range from basic two-legged stunts, one-legged extended stunts, and high-flying basket tosses. Stunts are classified into seven levels of increasing difficulty. There are two recognized styles of stunting: coed and all-girl. Cheerleading teams are restricted to specific stunt rules based on the guidelines of certain associations, organizations, and their designated level. Therefore, some stunts may be permitted in certain divisions but illegal in others due to different stunt rules and regulations.


The level of difficulty an organization allows depends on where the team stunts and practices as well as the type of organization they are a part of (school, club, college, etc.). While high school cheerleading can have teams with high-caliber stunts, collegiate cheerleading tends to focus on the pyramid aspect of stunting. Having two flyers on top of two bases is very common in college cheerleading. In most situations, club cheer, also known as all-star, performs a classic type of stunting. All-star ] is governed by ] and the International All Star Federation which divides teams into different levels from one through seven, which then determines the difficulty of the stunts being performed.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rules And Divisions |url=https://nca.varsity.com/Competitions/Rules-And-Divisions |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180331040157/https://nca.varsity.com/Competitions/Rules-And-Divisions |archive-date=March 31, 2018 |access-date=2018-04-01 |website=nca.varsity.com}}</ref>
A stunt group usually involves up to four bases holding or tossing another cheerleader in the air. In general, there are a variety of stunts that take up to 4 bases and some that only require one or two!!
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Pyramids are multiple groups of stunts connected aerially by the flyers. This connection may be made in a variety of ways, from a simple linking of hands to having a multi-level pyramid, with the flyers already in the air acting as primary bases for another flyer or flyers on top of them.


== Athletes involved == == Athletes involved ==
A "group stunt" will typically involve a flyer, two bases (one main and one side), and a back spot. Group stunts occasionally include a front spot. These can be all-girl or co-ed. A "partner stunt" will involve two athletes – a flyer and a main base. These tend to be co-ed, but all-girl versions do occur. A third athlete, a spotter, will be involved depending upon the skill level of the stunt executed and the rules and regulations for that skill.<ref>{{cite web|title=Partner Stunts|url=http://aacca.org/media/resources/2014-15%20College%20Rules%20-%20Final.pdf|website=2014-15 AACCA College Safety Rules|publisher=AACCA|accessdate=27 September 2015|archive-date=September 28, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150928023337/http://aacca.org/media/resources/2014-15%20College%20Rules%20-%20Final.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
; Bases : Cheerleaders that stay on the ground providing the primary support for the flyer during a stunt. Bases should always look up at the flyer, keep a flat back (good posture), and make sure the flyer never hits the ground. Bases can be male or female. The bases are usually 2 females or 1 male. There is a main base and a secondary base. Depending on what leg the flyer flies on, the main base will be on the side. Bases mainly use support from their legs while performing a stunt.
; Flyer : Person that is up in a stunt in the air. This is the person that is commonly the main focus of the stunt. Flyer's muscles are to stay tight throughout the entire stunt. The flyer is usually female, but can be male. Facial expressions are key for gaining crowd support and points at competition for flyers.'''This person goes up in the air.''' The flyers are usually small, light and acrobatic.


=== Flyer ===
; Back Spot : The person at the back of the stunt, helping the flyer into the stunt. They are responsible for staying in contact, and watching for any hazards throughout the stunt. The spotter has the responsibility of always catching the flyer if she is going to fall. This stunter is always taller than the bases, and always has a tight grip, pulling upwards, around the flyers ankles, holding them in the bases hands.
The flyer, also known as "top girl", is the athlete who is lifted into the air during a stunt or pyramid. Since many of the {{Pslink|body positions}} a flyer can perform require a high level of flexibility, this is a desired trait for the role. Flyers are also typically the shortest and smallest members of a team, but any member can act as a flyer depending on their abilities and the needs of the team. The flyer's main job is to squeeze their muscles together in order for their bases to be able to perform stunts from below them. The flyer can make or break the stunt since they have control over what is put up in the air.<ref name="USAF-glossary" /><ref name="Macca.org" />


=== Bases ===
; Front Spot: The person at the front of a stunt that helps lift the flier. Acceptable places for front spots hands to be are on the wrists of the bases, or the ankles or bottom of the foot of the flyer. Not all stunts have front spots. They are mainly for stunts that are new to the flyer, or to help with supporting an unbalanced stunt.
])]]
Bases are the athletes that hold the flyer or "top girl" in the air during the stunt. Bases are very strong and are usually assigned together based on height to create an even platform for the flyer to perform an action. The bases are responsible for understanding grips on the flyer's shoes so that the stunt can flow smoothly. It is crucial that bases stay in the same position when they toss so they are able to catch the flyer safely in a cradle position, tik toc, or kickfull.<ref name="Linear and angular kinetics">{{cite book|chapter=Linear and angular kinetics |date=2002-04-12 |chapter-url=https://dx.doi.org/10.4324/9780203476161-10 |title=Introduction to Sports Biomechanics |pages=95–136 |publisher=Routledge |doi=10.4324/9780203476161-10 |isbn=978-0-203-47616-1 |access-date=8 March 2024}}</ref> Different levels of stunting come with different styles of grips for the bases.<ref name="USAF-glossary"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090310163454/http://usasf.net/safety/cheerglossary/|date=March 10, 2009}}. ].</ref><ref name="Macca.org">{{cite web |url=http://www.aacca.org/content.aspx?item=Safety/09-10-High-School-Cheerleading-Rules.xml |title=High School Cheerleading Rules |website=Aacca |access-date=August 9, 2009 |archive-date=September 2, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090902220124/http://www.aacca.org/content.aspx?item=Safety/09-10-High-School-Cheerleading-Rules.xml |url-status=live }}</ref>


; Additional Spotter : This person does not actually touch the stunt unless something goes wrong. The free standing spot can stand behind, in front, or beside the stunt. Arms are up in the air and eyes stay on the stunt at all times even though the stunt is not touched. In the event the flyer goes off path, and is out of reach of it's stunt group, the additional spotter then moves in catching the flyer in these such situations. * '''Main base''': This base is the left side of the stunt and helps with the stability of the flyer's foot. In a one-leg extension stunt, the main base will lift the toe and heel of the foot to increase stability. This also prevents the flyer from tilting forward or backward and will be almost directly under the stunt. The main base's grips tend to be simpler and easier to adjust. With the responsibility of keeping the flyer stable, the main base must also be the first to react if the stunt seems to be falter in order to keep it up in the air.
* '''Secondary base''': This position can also be referred to as "side base". The secondary base helps lift the flyer up into the air and support their foot. The secondary base mainly controls the rotation of the foot. They hold the ball of the foot where the flyer's weight should be positioned. Their grips include throwing and catching, but occasionally they will have a more complicated stance depending on the stunt.<ref name="Macca.org" />


=== Spotters ===
])]]
Spotters are additional athletes whose primary responsibility is to watch the stunt and assist the flyer in the case of a fall or accident. Their main goal is to protect the flyer's head and neck from injury.<ref name="USAF-glossary" /> Spotter involvement can range from constantly holding the stunt, such as a back spot, to standing at the back of a cheerleading routine should an incident occur.


* '''Back spot''': The back spot is also called a "third" and gets their name by standing behind the stunt. They are not essential, but some stunts may require the assistance of a back spot, and in typical stunt groups, they are included. They normally organize a stunt by calling out its name and the necessary counts to ensure group synchronization. Back spots can help save a stunt if it appears to be falling and serve almost as a kickstand for the flyer. Additionally, the back spot will actively stabilize the stunt, supporting or lifting the flyer's ankles, calves, thighs, or buttocks.<ref name="Varsity Brands, Inc.">{{cite web |title=Skills, and Drills – Stunting Basics |url=http://www.varsity.com/event/1266/skills-drills-stunt-basics |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140227201903/http://www.varsity.com/event/1266/skills-drills-stunt-basics |archive-date=February 27, 2014 |access-date=23 February 2014 |publisher=Varsity.com}}</ref> Due to the back spot's responsibilities, they are generally the tallest members of the stunt group.
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; ''']''' : In single base stunting, the base holds both the flyer's feet with one hand in an extended overhead position or in multi-base stunting, two bases hold flyer's feet together at full extension level. The Cupie is almost identical to the Full Extension except that the flyers feet are together.


* '''Front Spot''': Similar to the helping role of a back spot, the front spot will support and stabilize the stunt from the front. They are fairly rare, as most stunts are designed to be performed without one, but are sometimes added due to weaker bases, complexity of a stunt, or an uneven number of athletes.<ref name="USAF-glossary" /><ref name="Macca.org" />
; ''']''' : A stunt in which flyer stands with each foot in the hands of a base at shoulder level. The two bases, facing each other, hold the feet of the upright flyer at collar-bone level, about shoulder-width apart. The backspot holds the calves or ankles of the flyer. A front spot is optional and may be used to secure the stunt by the shins of the flyer. An Extension Prep can serve as a stunt in itself, or as the transition point between other, more complicated, stunts. It is also called a Prep and a Half in some regions.
* '''Additional Spot''': Additional spots are typically used as a safety precaution, such as when a group is trying new or difficult stunts. Generally, they will only help the stunt if it shows serious signs of falling.


== Rules/safety ==
; '''Extension''' : "Second level" of an "elevator". Flyer stands with each foot in the hands of a base withs arms are in an extended overhead position. The Extension is similar in form to the Extension Prep except that the bases arms are now fully extended upright and locked. The backspot can either hold the ankles of the flyer. This is also called a high in some regions.
]
The safety rules for the ] of ] are in place to protect the ]s from avoidable injury and encompass all aspects of any given routine. They are meant to ensure that athletes are trained correctly in each aspect of the sport.<ref name="cheersafe.org">{{Cite web|url=https://www.cheersafe.org/|title=Cheerleading Safety News & Resources – CheerSafe|website=CheerSafe: Cheerleading safety resources for coaches, athletes, parents, administrators and media|language=en-US|access-date=2018-03-30|archive-date=March 15, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315020129/https://www.cheersafe.org/|url-status=live}}</ref> As cheerleading has evolved, a basic set of safety expectations has formed to mitigate the risk of catastrophic injury. For example, spotters are often used to protect cheerleaders as they learn new stunts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cheerleading Safety |url=https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=cheerleading-safety-1-3009 |access-date=4 April 2022 |website=Stanford Children's Health |archive-date=December 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211215172927/https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=cheerleading-safety-1-3009 |url-status=live }}</ref> Teams are expected to be under the supervision of a trained coach and are encouraged to only perform high-level stunts and tosses when mats are available. High school, ], and all-star competitive cheerleading follow different rules, in reflection of the varying levels at which the cheerleaders perform.<ref name="Rules And Divisions">{{Cite web|url=https://nca.varsity.com/Competitions/Rules-And-Divisions|title=Rules And Divisions|website=nca.varsity.com|access-date=2018-03-30|archive-date=March 31, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180331040157/https://nca.varsity.com/Competitions/Rules-And-Divisions|url-status=live}}</ref>


Stunting rules and regulations for middle and high school cheerleaders are usually created and enforced by that particular state's athletics governing organization, with many following the American Association for Cheerleading Coaches and Advisors (AACCA) guidelines or the National Federation for High School Athletics (NFHS) handbook.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nfhs.com/c-229-spirit.aspx|title=National Federation of State High School Associations – Spirit|access-date=February 2, 2020|archive-date=January 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200119124836/http://www.nfhs.com/c-229-spirit.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cheerrules.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/2018-19-School-Rules.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200202200920/http://www.cheerrules.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/2018-19-School-Rules.pdf |archive-date=February 2, 2020 |title=2018-19 AACCA School Cheer Safety Rules}}</ref> They may include general safety rules about what types of surfaces the participants may perform stunts on (for example, some states do not allow stunts on hard surfaces like a track or basketball court) as well as more specific rules about which stunts, pyramids, and tosses are permitted.
; ''']''' : Two bases hold the flyer's legs at the knee area. They then slowly walk apart until the flyer is in a mid-air split. Also called a Royal Sit in some regions.


Rules for collegiate squads in the United States are usually similar across the board and are created by ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.usacheer.org/safety/rules/college-cheerleading-rules |title=College Cheerleading Rules – USA Cheer |website=www.usacheer.org |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200202200921/https://www.usacheer.org/safety/rules/college-cheerleading-rules |archive-date=2020-02-02}}</ref> The standard to which these rules and regulations are enforced depends on whether each university classifies cheerleading as an official school sport, club, or some other type of activity. Due to their greater experience and skill set, college cheerleading teams are often able to carry out stunts from a higher skill level without compromising safety.<ref name="Rules And Divisions" /> College squads are allowed to do more difficult stunts, such as building pyramids to two and a half people high, while lower levels may only build up to two people high. This is because it is far more dangerous to stack three people on top of each other than it is two, due to the increased distance from the ground and higher likelihood of catastrophic injuries. While the sheer amount of athletic ability required may make it seem more like a sport, no college cheerleading team is formally recognized by the NCAA as a sport; therefore, the rules are not set by the NCAA, but instead by Varsity.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.varsity.com/uca/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/20_uca_championships_college_rules.pdf|title=2019 – 2020 College Cheer Team Rules and Regulations |access-date=March 4, 2021|archive-date=July 20, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720085740/https://www.varsity.com/uca/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/20_uca_championships_college_rules.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
== One Legged Stunts ==


== Types of stunts ==
; '''Liberty''' : One or more bases holds up the flyer by the foot and the flyer balances weight on one that straight leg. The flyer's other leg is bent with the foot positioned at about the knee level of the flyer nestling it alongside the standing leg's knee. The name of this stunt is often shortened to 'Lib'.


=== Basic two-leg stunts ===
; '''Scorpion''' : This is a liberty variation facing the side. One or more bases holds up the flyer by the foot and the flyer balances weight on one that straight leg. The flyer then grabs the loose foot and bends that leg upward behind the body until the toes are close to the back of the head, a position resembling a scorpion's tail. The foot is secured in place by the opposite hand.
]
])]]
])]]
* '''Thigh Stand''': The bases either kneel on one leg or are in a lunge position with their front knees bent so that the flyer may stand on their thighs. This stunt is normally for the lowest of levels and younger athletes.<ref name="rules.us as members.net">{{cite web |url=http://rules.usasfmembers.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/USASF_Cheer_Rules_Overview_19-20.pdf?__hstc=138832364.42cbcfe2c194a1a74f5d519f57538b64.1580668694560.1580668694560.1580668694560.1&__hssc=138832364.2.1580668694561&__hsfp=645916085 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200202184729/https://rules.usasfmembers.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/USASF_Cheer_Rules_Overview_19-20.pdf?__hstc=138832364.42cbcfe2c194a1a74f5d519f57538b64.1580668694560.1580668694560.1580668694560.1%26__hssc=138832364.2.1580668694561%26__hsfp=645916085 |archive-date=February 2, 2020 |title=USASF Cheer Rules 2019–2020 |date=28 August 2019}}</ref> A thigh stand is one of the most basic stunts.
* '''Load''' (also known as '''Sponge''', '''Smoosh''', '''Squish''', '''Crunch'''): A loading position where the flyer holds their weight through straight arms on the bases' shoulders, and the bases are holding the flyer's feet at their torso level. A group stunt usually jumps into this load position before dipping to move into another stunt position. It is a 'mount' or a way of entering into a stunt.<ref name="rules.us as members.net" /> This is a fundamental position for cheerleading stunts.
* '''Modified Prep:''' Similar to a prep, the bases start with their hands cupped, then pop up to a stunt at waist level.
While these are just the basic type of stunting, they are also the fundamentals of more advanced variations of stunts.


*'''Prep''': A stunt in which the flyer stands on two bases' hands and is held up at chest or chin height. This skill is a foundational skill for stunting and may also be referred to as a "half" or an "a-frame". This stunt is learned early on since it is the most basic form of stunting with a stunt group. If one were to try out, this stunt is expected to be solid before being placed on a team.<ref name="rules.us as members.net" />
; '''Scale''' : This is a liberty variation facing the side. One or more bases extend one of the flyer's feet. The flyers other leg is held by the flyers hand to the side and the leg is fully extended. Called a Skate or Skater in some regions.
* '''Extension''': In an extension, the flyer stands with each foot in the hands of a base, similar to a prep. Instead of being held at chin level, the bases extend their arms above their head and block out their shoulders so it creates a solid platform for the flyer. The flyer must hold their weight so that it is easy for the bases to hold them above their heads.<ref name="USAF-glossary" /><ref name="Macca.org" />


** ''' Cupie or Awesome''': The Cupie is a variation of an extension where the flyer is held above the bases' heads with their feet held close together. If it is performed as a partner stunt, the flyer's feet are together in one fully extended hand of a single base. In a partner stunt, the difference between a Cupie and an Awesome has to do with what the main base is doing with their free hand. If the free hand is on the hip then it is a Cupie, if the free hand is in a high V then it is awesome.<ref name="USASF Glossary">{{cite web|title=2007-08 USASF Glossary |url=http://www.usasf.net/Documents/Rules/07-08/USASFGlossary0708.pdf |accessdate=2007-08-06 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928045854/http://www.usasf.net/Documents/Rules/07-08/USASFGlossary0708.pdf |archivedate=2007-09-28 |url-status=dead }}</ref><!-- ACCORDING TO USASF, A CUPIE AND AN AWESOME ARE THE SAME STUNT, DO NOT CHANGE WITHOUT A MORE AUTHORITATIVE SOURCE --><ref name="USAF-glossary" />
; '''Torch''' : The stunt group faces a side (not forward) and the flyer performs a Liberty, with her body turned outward.


* '''Teddy Sit or Split-lift''': The flyer is in a seated straddle with the two bases holding one hand on the flyer's thigh and one on their ankle/foot. The back spot holds up their buttocks or waist with their hands. The flyer must center their weight while in this stunt. {{clarify|date=November 2013}} This stunt is sometimes called a straddle sit. It is typically performed in NFL cheer or in lower levels.<ref name="rules.us as members.net" />
; '''Heel Stretch''' : Variation of a liberty. It is a stunt in which the base/bases holds one foot of the flyer while she holds the other foot in an elevated stretch position with her same hand.
* '''Shoulder Stand''': The flyer stands on the base's shoulders.<ref name="rules.us as members.net" />
* '''Shoulder Sit''': The flyer sits on the base's shoulders and wraps their feet around the base's waist. This stunt is an effective way to get the crowd engaged.<ref name="rules.us as members.net" />


=== One-Leg Stunts ===
; '''Bow and Arrow''' :Variation of a liberty. This is a stunt very similar to the heel stretch. Base/bases hold one of the flyers feet and she holds the other. Flyer hold left foot with right hand or vice versa. The flyer grabs her instep and holds leg very close to her face. Then taking the unused arm and crossing in front and pointing. This stunt requires a lot of flyer flexibility and timing coordination.
])]]
* '''Liberty''': The Liberty, or Lib, is the most basic one-leg stunt. Both bases<ref name="americancheerleader.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.americancheerleader.com/|title=American Cheerleader Magazine|access-date=March 17, 2021|archive-date=March 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210314193843/https://www.americancheerleader.com/|url-status=dead}}</ref> have a grip on one of the flyer's feet, with the main base typically holding the heel and toe and the secondary base holding the middle of the foot. This stunt can be held at prep or extended level.


=== Single Base Stunts ===
; '''Arabesque''' : Variation of a liberty facing the side. It is a stunt in which the base/bases holds one foot of the flyer while she extends the other leg behind her, making a 90 degree angle with her standing leg, extending her leg as close to horizontal as possible while keeping her torso vertical as well. Flyer must not drop her chest, to prevent falling.
* '''Single Base Stunts:''' These stunts differ from regular group stunting because rather than having three or four bases, the flyer has a single base. There are a large variety of single base stunts, however, they follow many of the same rules as standard group stunting.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Federation |first=U. S. All Star |title=All Star Cheer & Dance Rules {{!}} USASF |url=https://www.usasf.net/rules |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=www.usasf.net |language=en |archive-date=August 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804155812/https://www.usasf.net/rules |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Stunting Definitions {{!}} Cheshire Junior Football & Cheshire Junior Cheerleading |url=https://www.leagueathletics.com/Page.asp?n=89832&org=CJFONLINE#:~:text=A%20stunt%20group%20usually%20involves%20up%20to%20four,male)%20and%20his%20partner%20(the%20flyer,%20usually%20female). |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=www.leagueathletics.com |archive-date=August 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804172752/https://www.leagueathletics.com/Page.asp?n=89832&org=CJFONLINE#:~:text=A%20stunt%20group%20usually%20involves%20up%20to%20four,male)%20and%20his%20partner%20(the%20flyer,%20usually%20female). |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== Coed Style Tosses ===
; '''Needle''' : Variation of liberty facing the side. The main difference in a regular scale and a needle is the flyers position in the air. Where in a normal scale the chest is either parallel or higher then the hip on the supporting leg, a needle scale the chest is down beside the main support leg. Also, the leg that was supported by hands in a regular scale is now "free" and is pointing to near as north or "12 oclock" as flexibility allows the flyer to obtain. The flyer also maintains balance by holding onto the bases hands and her own ankle. Sometimes called a spike. It is called a scale in gymnastics.
* '''Coed Style Toss''': A coed style toss is one way that a single base can get their flyer into the air. An effective coed style toss requires precise timing from both the flyer and the base. To do the toss, the base first grabs the flyer around the waist and the flyer leans back against the base holding their forearms. Then, both the flyer and the base squat down. At a predetermined time (usually signified by a count) the flyer and base explode upward from their squatted position. While pushing through their legs, the base also extends their arms. At the height of the toss, both the flyer and the base release and flick their hands in opposing directions, boosting the height of the toss. The flyer is then caught at shoulder height or at extension (when the arms are extended above the head) by the base.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Skills and Drills – Coed Toss Drill |url=https://www.varsity.com/news/skills-drills-coed-stunts/ |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=Varsity.com |language=en-US |archive-date=August 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804172743/https://www.varsity.com/news/skills-drills-coed-stunts/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Federation |first=U. S. All Star |title=All Star Cheer & Dance Rules {{!}} USASF |url=https://www.usasf.net/rules |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=www.usasf.net |language=en |archive-date=August 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804155812/https://www.usasf.net/rules |url-status=live }}</ref>
* '''Ball Up Coed Toss:''' In this stunt variation, the base performs the same actions as a regular coed style toss to extension. The difference between the two is reflected in the flyer's movements. In this stunt, the flyer starts the same as a coed style toss and remains the same until the release at the top. At the point of the release, the flyer pulls their knees to their chest assuming a tucked position. Then, when the flyer is at the height of the toss, they extend their legs to be caught in an extension by the base.<ref>{{cite web |title=Master These Partner Stunt Ball Up Variations | website=] | date=August 22, 2019 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eruG-v7fmVg |access-date=2023-08-04 |language=en |archive-date=August 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804172741/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eruG-v7fmVg&gl=US&hl=en |url-status=live }}</ref>
* '''Toss Liberty:''' A toss liberty (also known as a toss lib) is a single base stunt that begins with a regular coed style toss but rather than catching both feet, the base catches a single foot (right foot if standard lib, left foot if opposite lib). The flyer then bends the leg not caught by the base so that their foot is next to their knee.<ref>{{cite web|title=Toss target, liberty instructional video – cheerleading partner stunts | website=] | date=May 4, 2021 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9Llfx16cAs |access-date=2023-08-05 |language=en |archive-date=August 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805233144/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9Llfx16cAs |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://cheerunion.org/cheerleadingglossary/ |access-date=2023-08-05 |title=Glossary of Terms |website=International Cheer Union |archive-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622065947/https://cheerunion.org/cheerleadingglossary/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* '''Single Base Rewind:''' The single base rewind is another variation of the coed style toss. Unlike the previous coed style tosses, this stunt involves a free flipping rotation.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Federation |first=U. S. All Star |title=All Star Cheer & Dance Rules {{!}} USASF |url=https://www.usasf.net/rules |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=www.usasf.net |language=en |archive-date=August 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804155812/https://www.usasf.net/rules |url-status=live }}</ref> The base starts in a squatted position with their hands on the back and fingers reaching around the waist. The flyer starts in an upright position with their arms out at their sides. The flyer then initiates the stunt by swinging their arms upward and setting for their ]. Simultaneously, the base lifts the flyer up and back so that the flyer's hips are above the base's elbows. Once the flyer's back is above the base's head, the base explodes through their legs and launches the flyer straight upwards before releasing and flicking through their thumbs at the top.<ref>{{cite web|title=How To Partner Stunt Rewind {{!}} Partner Stunt Tutorial | website=] | date=May 22, 2019 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82wP9E0IjFQ&list=PLo4FopmsXov760BmusnJ0ZpPqRzj8FA1K&index=5 |access-date=2023-08-05 |language=en |archive-date=August 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805233144/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82wP9E0IjFQ&list=PLo4FopmsXov760BmusnJ0ZpPqRzj8FA1K&index=5 |url-status=live }}</ref> At the point of release, the flyer pulls their knees to their chest to finish the rotation before straightening out once again to be caught in an extension by the base.<ref>{{cite web|title=Rewind instructional video – cheerleading partner stunts | website=] | date=May 2, 2021 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMfgE-yElWQ |access-date=2023-08-05 |language=en |archive-date=August 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805233147/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMfgE-yElWQ |url-status=live }}</ref>
* '''Single Base Full Up Toss:''' In a single base full up toss, the base is going to toss the flyer from ground level to extension. During that toss, the flyer is going to perform a 360-degree twist (aka full).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Federation |first=U. S. All Star |title=All Star Cheer & Dance Rules {{!}} USASF |url=https://www.usasf.net/rules |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=www.usasf.net |language=en |archive-date=August 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804155812/https://www.usasf.net/rules |url-status=live }}</ref> Both the base and the flyer essentially perform a standard coed style toss, with the exception being the flick. At the point of the flick, the flyer pushes evenly off the base's forearms and pulls upward with their right hip causing a twist over the left shoulder before settling into the base's hands at extension. The base pushes forward through their right hand and pulls back with their left helping the flyer complete the twist.<ref>{{cite web|title=Full up – partner stunt tutorial | website=] | date=April 20, 2019 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvsim1aEuR0 |access-date=2023-08-05 |language=en |archive-date=August 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805233149/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvsim1aEuR0 |url-status=live }}</ref> Once the flyer reaches the height of the toss, the base grabs the feet and helps finish the rest of the rotation so that the flyer ends facing the front.<ref>{{cite web|title=Spinning Skills {{!}} Partner Stunt Tutorial | website=] | date=April 16, 2019 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jon68Mqk_Qw&list=PLo4FopmsXov760BmusnJ0ZpPqRzj8FA1K&index=3 |access-date=2023-08-05 |language=en |archive-date=August 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805233146/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jon68Mqk_Qw&list=PLo4FopmsXov760BmusnJ0ZpPqRzj8FA1K&index=3 |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== Transition Stunts ===
;'''Chinstrap''': Variation of scorpion. The flyer tucks her leg in between her chest and chin and holds it there while her hands are hitting a high V. Also called a chinchin in some regions.
]
'''Transition Stunts:''' Any stunt where the flyer changes to a novel position differing from the starting stunt.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Federation |first=U. S. All Star |title=All Star Cheer & Dance Rules {{!}} USASF |url=https://www.usasf.net/rules |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=www.usasf.net |language=en |archive-date=August 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804155812/https://www.usasf.net/rules |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Leffel |first=Caitlin |title=Cheerleading : from tryouts to championships |publisher=Paw Prints 2008-03-01 |year=2007 |isbn=978-1-4352-2816-0 |edition=1st |location=San Francisco Bay Area |pages=136 |language=en}}</ref>


* '''Inversion''': This is a transition stunt where the flyer's hands are on the bases' shoulders and the flyer's shoulders are below their waist, while the feet should be above their head.<ref name="Glossary of Terms">{{Cite web |title=Glossary of Terms |url=https://cheerunion.org/cheerleadingglossary/ |access-date=11 May 2022 |website=International Cheer Union |archive-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622065947/https://cheerunion.org/cheerleadingglossary/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
== Transitions and dismounts ==
]
; ''']''' : A basket toss is an advanced stunt in which the bases propel the flyer upwards (10-30+ feet) from the loading position. It is a toss by a maximum of two bases a back spot and sometimes a front spot, of a top straight up in the air so the flyer can perform a trick (toe touch, ball-out, twist, tuck, kick double, pike, etc.) and then land back in a cradle position.


* '''Rewind''' (backwards free flipping from ground level): A rewind is a cheerleading stunt where the flyer begins on the ground in a standing position. They are then thrown into the air where they perform a backwards flip and land on their feet. The bases, or coed partner, assist the flyer by throwing them high enough to flip, and they also help initiate their rotation. The flyer must flip quickly and then let themselves out of the flip in time to land on their feet. They can land on one or two feet in an extended or prep level stunt.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://pin.it/34cVyBG|title=Xinloinaygiodidairaha Camlansuc GIF – Xinloinaygiodidairaha Camlansuc CLS – Discover & Share GIFs &#124; Cartoon memes, Memes, Funny pictures}}</ref>
; ''']''' : Dismount from a stunt in which the base/bases toss the flyer straight up from a stationary stunt then catch the flyer in a seated pike position.


*'''Free flipping'''
; ''']''' : A way to return the flyer to the floor or complete a stunt.
*'''Side-somi to stunt'''
*'''Ground level handstand released to hand in hand'''


=== Release ===
; ''']''' : Two bases will each hold a different foot of a flyer at their waist level. The flyer is squatted down so the flyer is not taller than the bases. This is how the flyer loads in to the stunt, before jumping and pushing off the bases shoulders, and the bases drive their arms upwards and extend the flyer. Also called a Sponge in some regions.
])]]
*'''Switch Up''': A switch up is a stunt where a flyer begins the stunt on one foot, gets tossed into the air on that beginning foot, and lands on the other foot. This requires the bases to throw the initial foot and then catch the other one in an extended position, landing in a liberty or heel stretch. The flyer is the one who does the switching, they lift their foot out of the bases' hands and replaces their other foot in the same spot to be caught by the bases. It may also be referred to as a tic-up.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fierceboard.com/threads/switch-up-and-tic-toc.12207/|title=All-Star – Switch up and Tic Toc ?|date=January 18, 2011|access-date=March 17, 2021|archive-date=June 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230615185532/https://fierceboard.com/threads/switch-up-and-tic-toc.12207/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* '''Tic Toc''': In this stunt, the flyer begins in a Liberty stunt standing on one leg, and is gently released so they can switch to standing on the other leg. This can be performed in a group stunt with two bases and a back spot, or as a partner stunt with just one base underneath. The action looks visually like a quick switch of legs, and the flyer appears to effortlessly hop from one foot to another. This stunt can be performed starting from any body position, not just a liberty. They can switch from heel stretch to heel stretch, scale to scale, heel stretch to liberty; the possibilities are endless.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://cheerleadinginfocenter.typepad.com/stunts/tick-tock-advanced-stunt.html|title=Tick Tock – Advanced Stunt|access-date=February 25, 2021|archive-date=October 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023080653/https://cheerleadinginfocenter.typepad.com/stunts/tick-tock-advanced-stunt.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
* '''Low to High''' (Full twisting Tic Toc to extended 1 leg stunt): This stunt begins on a single leg pressed to the top, then lowered into a prep still on the initial single leg. After reaching the prep, the bases throw and release the flyer's foot and catch the other one in an extended position. The flyer holds their body position on their first foot throughout the first extended position and into the prep. Then, the flyer will switch their foot and replace it at the top landing in another body position.<ref name="americancheerleader.com" />
*'''Ball up'''
*'''Straddle up'''
*'''Helicopter Release''': This is a stunt where the flyer gets tossed into the air while doing a 360-degree horizontal rotation with their back parallel to the ground. This release should look similar to the blades of a helicopter.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 September 2019 |title=2019-20 USA Cheer College Safety Rules |url=http://www.usacheer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/2019-20-USA-Cheer-College-Cheerleading-Rules.pdf |access-date=4 May 2022 |website=USA Cheer |archive-date=March 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220305133012/http://www.usacheer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/2019-20-USA-Cheer-College-Cheerleading-Rules.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
*'''Twisting Release''': This is a full 360-twist where the flyer is thrown above their stunt group and completes the twist before being caught in the straight cradle position.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to Do a Twist in Cheerleading |url=https://healthyliving.azcentral.com/twist-cheerleading-4850.html |access-date=2022-04-27 |website=Healthy Living |language=en |archive-date=May 18, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220518203841/https://healthyliving.azcentral.com/twist-cheerleading-4850.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
*'''Twisting transition''': Includes 1/4 twisting transition, up to 2 and a 1/4 twist.


== Body positions ==
; '''Reload''' : When a stunt is extended in the air, and then goes back down into a load-in position placing both feet in the bases hands, if previously in a one-footed stunt, and being pushed back upwards into another stunt. Also known as a retake in some regions.
Although a Liberty is the basic one-leg stunt, flyers will often perform body positions that showcase their flexibility. Some of these positions are quite difficult and may help increase a team's score at a competition. All body positions can be done at the prep (chin) or extension (above head) level.


* '''Scorpion''': The flyer grabs their foot and bends that leg upward behind the body until the toes are close to the back of the head, in a position resembling a scorpion's tail. The foot is secured in place by the opposite hand.<ref name="Ninemire">{{cite web |last1=Ninemire |first1=Valerie |title=A Full Glossary of Cheerleading Terms |url=https://www.liveabout.com/cheerleading-terms-glossary-4082742 |website=LiveAbout |publisher=Dotdash Meredith}}</ref>
; '''Full-down''' : The flyer is in a one or two-legged stunt (prep level or extension), and when it is time to cradle, just twist over your left shoulder. It's as simple as that!!!!
* '''Needle or Spike''': A more advanced variation of the scorpion where the flyer's leg is perfectly straight when held behind their back.
* '''Scale''': The flyer's leg is held by their hand to the side and the leg is fully extended. The position is similar to the Scorpion, but one of the flyer's hands holds their ankle or calf (instead of their toes) and the other arm is free.
* '''Heel Stretch''': The flyer holds the heel or middle of their foot with one arm and extends that leg in front of them, pulling their foot as close to eye level as possible. The other arm may do a range of motions, such as a "high v".<ref name="Ninemire"/>
* '''Bow and Arrow''': Variation of a heel stretch. The flyer grabs their foot with the opposite hand and pulls their leg straight up beside their head. They then pull their free arm and upper torso through the hole the leg and arm made, holding it straight.
* '''Arabesque''': The flyer extends and points their leg out behind them and attempt to turn their hip socket out so when the leg is out straight, the side of the leg is facing the audience.<ref name="Ninemire"/>
* '''No-Hands, Chin Chin, or Cry Baby''': The flyer takes their foot, bends it under their chin, then lets it sit there without any hands.


<gallery mode="packed" heights="150px">
; '''Half-up''' : The bases cross arms on the bottom. As flyer steps in she steps in crossed at the knees as the bases extend to extension prep or extension they uncross arms. Making it look like the flyer is twisting in the air.
ScorpionStunt.jpg|''Scorpion'' (])
ScaleCheer.jpg|''Scale'' (Team Paramount)
Cheer2.jpg|''Heel Stretch'' (])
CheerArabesque.jpg|''Arabesque'' (Team Storm)
</gallery>


== Dismount ==
; ''']''' : Two bases will each hold a different foot of a flyer and bring it up to a full extension. The flyer only stays up for two counts and returns back into a squish position. Also known as 'fake-outs' or 'flashes'.


=== Common dismounts ===
; '''Tick-Tock''' : When a flyer switches the foot being stood on in mid air after being popped by bases.
]
]
* '''Step down'''
* '''Straight Cradle''': This is a dismount from a stunt where the flyer is being caught at the end of a stunt in a straight ride position.<ref name="Glossary of Terms" />
* '''Full Down''': This is a dismount that is more advanced than a regular straight cradle. The flyer will be tossed out of the bases hands and complete a 360-degree turn. After finishing the turn, they will be caught in a cradle position.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Performing a Full Twist Cradle – FloCheer |url=https://www.flocheer.com/articles/5046162-performing-a-full-twist-cradle |access-date=2022-05-11 |website=www.flocheer.com |date=November 22, 2016 |language=en |archive-date=June 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230615185531/https://www.flocheer.com/articles/5046162-performing-a-full-twist-cradle |url-status=live }}</ref>
* '''Twisting Dismount'''
* '''Free Flipping'''


=== Basket tosses ===
; ''']''' : Variation on a pop cradle. It is a dismount from a stunt in which the base/bases toss the flyer straight up from a stationary stunt, the flyer does a 360 degree turn in the air, and then the bases catch her in a cradle position. Called a Single Down, Single, or Full Down in some Regions.
The basket toss is not a difficult skill, but it is one that can involve significant risk if not performed properly.<ref name="Varsity Brands, Inc." /> The name "basket toss" comes from the interlocking grip the bases form with their hands in order to launch the flyer. The flyer is thrown from a load-in position, at which their interlocked hands rest at the belly button, and may perform skills or tricks during the toss before being caught in a cradle position. The positions listed below are some of the more common skills performed during a basket toss. However, there are many variations. Teams are always working to create new and innovative basket skills. Basket tosses are enforced to only be thrown while ] are on a soft surface to ensure safety.<ref name="Linear and angular kinetics" />


* '''Straight Ride Basket''' (Level 2+): The flyer is thrown from a load-in position. Then, they fully extend their arms by their ears, using their shoulders to set up and hold their body in a straight position. After doing this, the flyer will land in a cradle position. This is the most basic position for all basket tosses and is usually used by intermediate teams (Level 2) or as a warm-up for stunts groups.
; ''']''' : A transition that connects two stunts when a flyer cradles out of the first stunt, and the bases dip and pop the flyer back into a load position. A similar stunt is a barrel role. Sometimes called a 'cradle pop'.
* '''Pike Basket''' (Level 3+): At the peak of the toss, the flyer will bend at the hips in order to bring their chest to their knees, whilst keeping straight legs, folding their body into a piqued position. Subsequently, on the way down, the flyer will then arch their back (unfold) and land in a cradle position.
* '''Toe-Touch Basket''' (Level 3+): At the peak of the toss, the flyer will lift their legs into a straddle or toe-touch position. On the way down, they will snap their legs back together and may arch their back to add to the visual.
* '''Kick-Full''' (Level 4+)/'''Kick-Double''' (Level 5-6+)
** '''Kick-Full:''' Starting from either the base's right side or the back of the mat, depending on preference, the flyer will be launched up into the air and reach the front of the stage before reaching the peak of height. The bases follow this movement to then be able to catch the flyer in a cradle position. Once the flyer has reached the top of the basket, they will bring their left arm down and kick up their right leg simultaneously, before bringing the right leg and arm down to form a cradle position whilst completing a full twist. The flyer will then land in a cradle position facing the front.
** '''Kick-Double:''' The same steps are required. However, after bringing the leg and arm down into the cradle position at the top of the basket, two twists are required before landing in the bases' arms.
* '''Back Tuck Basket''': This is a flipping basket toss where the flyer will perform a single hip-over-head rotation in the tuck position. This skill is typically performed as a back tuck, but a front flipping basket variation exists.
** '''The X-Out Basket''': This is a variation of the back tuck basket. At the last second of the back tuck, the flyer opens their arms and legs wide to make an "X" shape with their body. After hitting the "X" part, the flyer rotates their body back to a normal cradle position ready to be caught by the bases.


<gallery mode="packed" heights="150px">
''']''': You do a show-n-go then one base keeps the fliers foot in a prep level and the other base supports the fliers leg that goes in a full knee lock and bounces then they go back up to a prep and twists down!
Baldwin Wallace Homecoming (29855543017).jpg|''Straight Ride Basket'' (])
Vienna 2013-04-14 Vienna City Marathon 0 Cheerleader's Show a.jpg|''Toe-Touch Basket'' (Austria)
Heiagjeng, Karin Beate Nosterud.jpg|''Kick-Full'' with one twist or ''Kick-Double'' with two twists. (Team VIQUEENS)
Bond University Cheerleading (13373885384).jpg|''The X-Out Basket'' (])
</gallery>


== Pyramids ==
;''']''' : A variation on the double take in which the flyer does a full turn in the air in between stunts while staying in contact with the bases. Also called a Full up is some regions.
A pyramid consists of two or more stunt groups connected by the top persons holding hands, feet, waist, or legs.<ref name="rules.us as members.net" /> There are many varieties of pyramids, ranging from simple waist-level skills performed by younger teams, to multi-person high pyramids performed by elite college teams. Typically, a pyramid section will use all athletes on a team as it takes many people to lift, spot, and catch a pyramid. Pyramid sequences are often fast-paced, and may involve a variety of heights, mounts, transitions, release moves, and dismounts.
]


== 2 ½ High Stunts == === Two High Pyramid ===
This is the standard type of pyramid and the most commonly performed. Each flyer is supported by a base, or bases, who are standing on the performing surface.<ref name="rules.us as members.net" /> The flyers may connect with each other through many different grips, such as holding hands or one flyer holding another flyer's extended foot or leg. One flyer may even act as a bracer for another flyer while she performs a flipping or twisting release skill.
2 ½ people high is defined as 2.5 body-lengths, not the number of people stacked. An example of 2.5 high is one person held at extended level, and another held at waist level. The various 2 ½ high stunts include but are not limited to:
leap frog
*The A-Frame
*Swedish Fall
*2-2-1
*2-1-1
*Table Top
*Wolf Wall
*High Split
*High Chair (also high hands, lib, cupie, etc.)


=== Two and a Half High Pyramid ===
==References==
This type of pyramid involves a third layer of people not supported by anyone standing on the ground. The bases will hold the middle level of flyers, usually in a shoulder level stunt, as seen in the standard two-person high pyramid. These flyers will then hold additional flyers, usually at the waist level.<ref name="rules.us as members.net" /> Due to the height of this type of pyramid, this stunt is usually only performed by very experienced college or club squads as the potential for injury is very high. The Swedish Fall, the Wolf Wall, and the L Stand are all popular variations of the two and a half high pyramid.

<gallery mode="packed" heights="200px">
Texas–Permian Basin vs. Texas A&M–Commerce men's basketball 2018 14.jpg|''Two High Pyramid'' (])
Flick-Gator Cheerleaders.jpg|''Two and a Half High Pyramid'' (])
2023-02-24 Basketball, Männer, European Qualifiers, Deutschland - Schweden 1DX 7544 by Stepro.jpg|''Tabletop Pyramid'' (Europe)
</gallery>

== See also ==
*]
*]

==External links==
{{Commons category|Cheerleading stunts}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}} {{Reflist}}


] {{DEFAULTSORT:Cheerleading stunts}}
]
]
]

Latest revision as of 13:45, 15 December 2024

Cheerleading stunts can have different levels of complexity. (Cornell University)

In the competitive athletic sport of cheerleading, stunts are defined as building performances that display a team's skill or dexterity. Stunts range from basic two-legged stunts, one-legged extended stunts, and high-flying basket tosses. Stunts are classified into seven levels of increasing difficulty. There are two recognized styles of stunting: coed and all-girl. Cheerleading teams are restricted to specific stunt rules based on the guidelines of certain associations, organizations, and their designated level. Therefore, some stunts may be permitted in certain divisions but illegal in others due to different stunt rules and regulations.

The level of difficulty an organization allows depends on where the team stunts and practices as well as the type of organization they are a part of (school, club, college, etc.). While high school cheerleading can have teams with high-caliber stunts, collegiate cheerleading tends to focus on the pyramid aspect of stunting. Having two flyers on top of two bases is very common in college cheerleading. In most situations, club cheer, also known as all-star, performs a classic type of stunting. All-star cheer is governed by the United States All Star Federation and the International All Star Federation which divides teams into different levels from one through seven, which then determines the difficulty of the stunts being performed.

This is a dynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help by adding missing items with reliable sources.

Athletes involved

A "group stunt" will typically involve a flyer, two bases (one main and one side), and a back spot. Group stunts occasionally include a front spot. These can be all-girl or co-ed. A "partner stunt" will involve two athletes – a flyer and a main base. These tend to be co-ed, but all-girl versions do occur. A third athlete, a spotter, will be involved depending upon the skill level of the stunt executed and the rules and regulations for that skill.

Flyer

The flyer, also known as "top girl", is the athlete who is lifted into the air during a stunt or pyramid. Since many of the body positions a flyer can perform require a high level of flexibility, this is a desired trait for the role. Flyers are also typically the shortest and smallest members of a team, but any member can act as a flyer depending on their abilities and the needs of the team. The flyer's main job is to squeeze their muscles together in order for their bases to be able to perform stunts from below them. The flyer can make or break the stunt since they have control over what is put up in the air.

Bases

Flyer at the top with Bases at the bottom for an Extension stunt. (Ponte Vedra High School)

Bases are the athletes that hold the flyer or "top girl" in the air during the stunt. Bases are very strong and are usually assigned together based on height to create an even platform for the flyer to perform an action. The bases are responsible for understanding grips on the flyer's shoes so that the stunt can flow smoothly. It is crucial that bases stay in the same position when they toss so they are able to catch the flyer safely in a cradle position, tik toc, or kickfull. Different levels of stunting come with different styles of grips for the bases.

  • Main base: This base is the left side of the stunt and helps with the stability of the flyer's foot. In a one-leg extension stunt, the main base will lift the toe and heel of the foot to increase stability. This also prevents the flyer from tilting forward or backward and will be almost directly under the stunt. The main base's grips tend to be simpler and easier to adjust. With the responsibility of keeping the flyer stable, the main base must also be the first to react if the stunt seems to be falter in order to keep it up in the air.
  • Secondary base: This position can also be referred to as "side base". The secondary base helps lift the flyer up into the air and support their foot. The secondary base mainly controls the rotation of the foot. They hold the ball of the foot where the flyer's weight should be positioned. Their grips include throwing and catching, but occasionally they will have a more complicated stance depending on the stunt.

Spotters

Back spot for a Prep (Charlotte High School)

Spotters are additional athletes whose primary responsibility is to watch the stunt and assist the flyer in the case of a fall or accident. Their main goal is to protect the flyer's head and neck from injury. Spotter involvement can range from constantly holding the stunt, such as a back spot, to standing at the back of a cheerleading routine should an incident occur.

  • Back spot: The back spot is also called a "third" and gets their name by standing behind the stunt. They are not essential, but some stunts may require the assistance of a back spot, and in typical stunt groups, they are included. They normally organize a stunt by calling out its name and the necessary counts to ensure group synchronization. Back spots can help save a stunt if it appears to be falling and serve almost as a kickstand for the flyer. Additionally, the back spot will actively stabilize the stunt, supporting or lifting the flyer's ankles, calves, thighs, or buttocks. Due to the back spot's responsibilities, they are generally the tallest members of the stunt group.
  • Front Spot: Similar to the helping role of a back spot, the front spot will support and stabilize the stunt from the front. They are fairly rare, as most stunts are designed to be performed without one, but are sometimes added due to weaker bases, complexity of a stunt, or an uneven number of athletes.
  • Additional Spot: Additional spots are typically used as a safety precaution, such as when a group is trying new or difficult stunts. Generally, they will only help the stunt if it shows serious signs of falling.

Rules/safety

The more difficult the stunt, the more everyone must be aware and prepared. (Team Hungary)

The safety rules for the sport of cheerleading are in place to protect the athletes from avoidable injury and encompass all aspects of any given routine. They are meant to ensure that athletes are trained correctly in each aspect of the sport. As cheerleading has evolved, a basic set of safety expectations has formed to mitigate the risk of catastrophic injury. For example, spotters are often used to protect cheerleaders as they learn new stunts. Teams are expected to be under the supervision of a trained coach and are encouraged to only perform high-level stunts and tosses when mats are available. High school, college, and all-star competitive cheerleading follow different rules, in reflection of the varying levels at which the cheerleaders perform.

Stunting rules and regulations for middle and high school cheerleaders are usually created and enforced by that particular state's athletics governing organization, with many following the American Association for Cheerleading Coaches and Advisors (AACCA) guidelines or the National Federation for High School Athletics (NFHS) handbook. They may include general safety rules about what types of surfaces the participants may perform stunts on (for example, some states do not allow stunts on hard surfaces like a track or basketball court) as well as more specific rules about which stunts, pyramids, and tosses are permitted.

Rules for collegiate squads in the United States are usually similar across the board and are created by USA Cheer. The standard to which these rules and regulations are enforced depends on whether each university classifies cheerleading as an official school sport, club, or some other type of activity. Due to their greater experience and skill set, college cheerleading teams are often able to carry out stunts from a higher skill level without compromising safety. College squads are allowed to do more difficult stunts, such as building pyramids to two and a half people high, while lower levels may only build up to two people high. This is because it is far more dangerous to stack three people on top of each other than it is two, due to the increased distance from the ground and higher likelihood of catastrophic injuries. While the sheer amount of athletic ability required may make it seem more like a sport, no college cheerleading team is formally recognized by the NCAA as a sport; therefore, the rules are not set by the NCAA, but instead by Varsity.

Types of stunts

Basic two-leg stunts

Thigh Stand (Cheerlicious)
Cupie/Awesome (United States Military Academy)
Split-lift (New England Patriots)
  • Thigh Stand: The bases either kneel on one leg or are in a lunge position with their front knees bent so that the flyer may stand on their thighs. This stunt is normally for the lowest of levels and younger athletes. A thigh stand is one of the most basic stunts.
  • Load (also known as Sponge, Smoosh, Squish, Crunch): A loading position where the flyer holds their weight through straight arms on the bases' shoulders, and the bases are holding the flyer's feet at their torso level. A group stunt usually jumps into this load position before dipping to move into another stunt position. It is a 'mount' or a way of entering into a stunt. This is a fundamental position for cheerleading stunts.
  • Modified Prep: Similar to a prep, the bases start with their hands cupped, then pop up to a stunt at waist level.

While these are just the basic type of stunting, they are also the fundamentals of more advanced variations of stunts.

  • Prep: A stunt in which the flyer stands on two bases' hands and is held up at chest or chin height. This skill is a foundational skill for stunting and may also be referred to as a "half" or an "a-frame". This stunt is learned early on since it is the most basic form of stunting with a stunt group. If one were to try out, this stunt is expected to be solid before being placed on a team.
  • Extension: In an extension, the flyer stands with each foot in the hands of a base, similar to a prep. Instead of being held at chin level, the bases extend their arms above their head and block out their shoulders so it creates a solid platform for the flyer. The flyer must hold their weight so that it is easy for the bases to hold them above their heads.
    • Cupie or Awesome: The Cupie is a variation of an extension where the flyer is held above the bases' heads with their feet held close together. If it is performed as a partner stunt, the flyer's feet are together in one fully extended hand of a single base. In a partner stunt, the difference between a Cupie and an Awesome has to do with what the main base is doing with their free hand. If the free hand is on the hip then it is a Cupie, if the free hand is in a high V then it is awesome.
  • Teddy Sit or Split-lift: The flyer is in a seated straddle with the two bases holding one hand on the flyer's thigh and one on their ankle/foot. The back spot holds up their buttocks or waist with their hands. The flyer must center their weight while in this stunt. This stunt is sometimes called a straddle sit. It is typically performed in NFL cheer or in lower levels.
  • Shoulder Stand: The flyer stands on the base's shoulders.
  • Shoulder Sit: The flyer sits on the base's shoulders and wraps their feet around the base's waist. This stunt is an effective way to get the crowd engaged.

One-Leg Stunts

Liberty (Ponte Vedra High School)
  • Liberty: The Liberty, or Lib, is the most basic one-leg stunt. Both bases have a grip on one of the flyer's feet, with the main base typically holding the heel and toe and the secondary base holding the middle of the foot. This stunt can be held at prep or extended level.

Single Base Stunts

  • Single Base Stunts: These stunts differ from regular group stunting because rather than having three or four bases, the flyer has a single base. There are a large variety of single base stunts, however, they follow many of the same rules as standard group stunting.

Coed Style Tosses

  • Coed Style Toss: A coed style toss is one way that a single base can get their flyer into the air. An effective coed style toss requires precise timing from both the flyer and the base. To do the toss, the base first grabs the flyer around the waist and the flyer leans back against the base holding their forearms. Then, both the flyer and the base squat down. At a predetermined time (usually signified by a count) the flyer and base explode upward from their squatted position. While pushing through their legs, the base also extends their arms. At the height of the toss, both the flyer and the base release and flick their hands in opposing directions, boosting the height of the toss. The flyer is then caught at shoulder height or at extension (when the arms are extended above the head) by the base.
  • Ball Up Coed Toss: In this stunt variation, the base performs the same actions as a regular coed style toss to extension. The difference between the two is reflected in the flyer's movements. In this stunt, the flyer starts the same as a coed style toss and remains the same until the release at the top. At the point of the release, the flyer pulls their knees to their chest assuming a tucked position. Then, when the flyer is at the height of the toss, they extend their legs to be caught in an extension by the base.
  • Toss Liberty: A toss liberty (also known as a toss lib) is a single base stunt that begins with a regular coed style toss but rather than catching both feet, the base catches a single foot (right foot if standard lib, left foot if opposite lib). The flyer then bends the leg not caught by the base so that their foot is next to their knee.
  • Single Base Rewind: The single base rewind is another variation of the coed style toss. Unlike the previous coed style tosses, this stunt involves a free flipping rotation. The base starts in a squatted position with their hands on the back and fingers reaching around the waist. The flyer starts in an upright position with their arms out at their sides. The flyer then initiates the stunt by swinging their arms upward and setting for their back tuck. Simultaneously, the base lifts the flyer up and back so that the flyer's hips are above the base's elbows. Once the flyer's back is above the base's head, the base explodes through their legs and launches the flyer straight upwards before releasing and flicking through their thumbs at the top. At the point of release, the flyer pulls their knees to their chest to finish the rotation before straightening out once again to be caught in an extension by the base.
  • Single Base Full Up Toss: In a single base full up toss, the base is going to toss the flyer from ground level to extension. During that toss, the flyer is going to perform a 360-degree twist (aka full). Both the base and the flyer essentially perform a standard coed style toss, with the exception being the flick. At the point of the flick, the flyer pushes evenly off the base's forearms and pulls upward with their right hip causing a twist over the left shoulder before settling into the base's hands at extension. The base pushes forward through their right hand and pulls back with their left helping the flyer complete the twist. Once the flyer reaches the height of the toss, the base grabs the feet and helps finish the rest of the rotation so that the flyer ends facing the front.

Transition Stunts

Flyers doing a Transition. (Team BLACKBACKZ)

Transition Stunts: Any stunt where the flyer changes to a novel position differing from the starting stunt.

  • Inversion: This is a transition stunt where the flyer's hands are on the bases' shoulders and the flyer's shoulders are below their waist, while the feet should be above their head.
  • Rewind (backwards free flipping from ground level): A rewind is a cheerleading stunt where the flyer begins on the ground in a standing position. They are then thrown into the air where they perform a backwards flip and land on their feet. The bases, or coed partner, assist the flyer by throwing them high enough to flip, and they also help initiate their rotation. The flyer must flip quickly and then let themselves out of the flip in time to land on their feet. They can land on one or two feet in an extended or prep level stunt.
  • Free flipping
  • Side-somi to stunt
  • Ground level handstand released to hand in hand

Release

Proper grip by bases before and after a Release is important. (Baldwin Wallace University)
  • Switch Up: A switch up is a stunt where a flyer begins the stunt on one foot, gets tossed into the air on that beginning foot, and lands on the other foot. This requires the bases to throw the initial foot and then catch the other one in an extended position, landing in a liberty or heel stretch. The flyer is the one who does the switching, they lift their foot out of the bases' hands and replaces their other foot in the same spot to be caught by the bases. It may also be referred to as a tic-up.
  • Tic Toc: In this stunt, the flyer begins in a Liberty stunt standing on one leg, and is gently released so they can switch to standing on the other leg. This can be performed in a group stunt with two bases and a back spot, or as a partner stunt with just one base underneath. The action looks visually like a quick switch of legs, and the flyer appears to effortlessly hop from one foot to another. This stunt can be performed starting from any body position, not just a liberty. They can switch from heel stretch to heel stretch, scale to scale, heel stretch to liberty; the possibilities are endless.
  • Low to High (Full twisting Tic Toc to extended 1 leg stunt): This stunt begins on a single leg pressed to the top, then lowered into a prep still on the initial single leg. After reaching the prep, the bases throw and release the flyer's foot and catch the other one in an extended position. The flyer holds their body position on their first foot throughout the first extended position and into the prep. Then, the flyer will switch their foot and replace it at the top landing in another body position.
  • Ball up
  • Straddle up
  • Helicopter Release: This is a stunt where the flyer gets tossed into the air while doing a 360-degree horizontal rotation with their back parallel to the ground. This release should look similar to the blades of a helicopter.
  • Twisting Release: This is a full 360-twist where the flyer is thrown above their stunt group and completes the twist before being caught in the straight cradle position.
  • Twisting transition: Includes 1/4 twisting transition, up to 2 and a 1/4 twist.

Body positions

Although a Liberty is the basic one-leg stunt, flyers will often perform body positions that showcase their flexibility. Some of these positions are quite difficult and may help increase a team's score at a competition. All body positions can be done at the prep (chin) or extension (above head) level.

  • Scorpion: The flyer grabs their foot and bends that leg upward behind the body until the toes are close to the back of the head, in a position resembling a scorpion's tail. The foot is secured in place by the opposite hand.
  • Needle or Spike: A more advanced variation of the scorpion where the flyer's leg is perfectly straight when held behind their back.
  • Scale: The flyer's leg is held by their hand to the side and the leg is fully extended. The position is similar to the Scorpion, but one of the flyer's hands holds their ankle or calf (instead of their toes) and the other arm is free.
  • Heel Stretch: The flyer holds the heel or middle of their foot with one arm and extends that leg in front of them, pulling their foot as close to eye level as possible. The other arm may do a range of motions, such as a "high v".
  • Bow and Arrow: Variation of a heel stretch. The flyer grabs their foot with the opposite hand and pulls their leg straight up beside their head. They then pull their free arm and upper torso through the hole the leg and arm made, holding it straight.
  • Arabesque: The flyer extends and points their leg out behind them and attempt to turn their hip socket out so when the leg is out straight, the side of the leg is facing the audience.
  • No-Hands, Chin Chin, or Cry Baby: The flyer takes their foot, bends it under their chin, then lets it sit there without any hands.

Dismount

Common dismounts

Full Down dismount (Austria)
  • Step down
  • Straight Cradle: This is a dismount from a stunt where the flyer is being caught at the end of a stunt in a straight ride position.
  • Full Down: This is a dismount that is more advanced than a regular straight cradle. The flyer will be tossed out of the bases hands and complete a 360-degree turn. After finishing the turn, they will be caught in a cradle position.
  • Twisting Dismount
  • Free Flipping

Basket tosses

The basket toss is not a difficult skill, but it is one that can involve significant risk if not performed properly. The name "basket toss" comes from the interlocking grip the bases form with their hands in order to launch the flyer. The flyer is thrown from a load-in position, at which their interlocked hands rest at the belly button, and may perform skills or tricks during the toss before being caught in a cradle position. The positions listed below are some of the more common skills performed during a basket toss. However, there are many variations. Teams are always working to create new and innovative basket skills. Basket tosses are enforced to only be thrown while cheerleaders are on a soft surface to ensure safety.

  • Straight Ride Basket (Level 2+): The flyer is thrown from a load-in position. Then, they fully extend their arms by their ears, using their shoulders to set up and hold their body in a straight position. After doing this, the flyer will land in a cradle position. This is the most basic position for all basket tosses and is usually used by intermediate teams (Level 2) or as a warm-up for stunts groups.
  • Pike Basket (Level 3+): At the peak of the toss, the flyer will bend at the hips in order to bring their chest to their knees, whilst keeping straight legs, folding their body into a piqued position. Subsequently, on the way down, the flyer will then arch their back (unfold) and land in a cradle position.
  • Toe-Touch Basket (Level 3+): At the peak of the toss, the flyer will lift their legs into a straddle or toe-touch position. On the way down, they will snap their legs back together and may arch their back to add to the visual.
  • Kick-Full (Level 4+)/Kick-Double (Level 5-6+)
    • Kick-Full: Starting from either the base's right side or the back of the mat, depending on preference, the flyer will be launched up into the air and reach the front of the stage before reaching the peak of height. The bases follow this movement to then be able to catch the flyer in a cradle position. Once the flyer has reached the top of the basket, they will bring their left arm down and kick up their right leg simultaneously, before bringing the right leg and arm down to form a cradle position whilst completing a full twist. The flyer will then land in a cradle position facing the front.
    • Kick-Double: The same steps are required. However, after bringing the leg and arm down into the cradle position at the top of the basket, two twists are required before landing in the bases' arms.
  • Back Tuck Basket: This is a flipping basket toss where the flyer will perform a single hip-over-head rotation in the tuck position. This skill is typically performed as a back tuck, but a front flipping basket variation exists.
    • The X-Out Basket: This is a variation of the back tuck basket. At the last second of the back tuck, the flyer opens their arms and legs wide to make an "X" shape with their body. After hitting the "X" part, the flyer rotates their body back to a normal cradle position ready to be caught by the bases.

Pyramids

A pyramid consists of two or more stunt groups connected by the top persons holding hands, feet, waist, or legs. There are many varieties of pyramids, ranging from simple waist-level skills performed by younger teams, to multi-person high pyramids performed by elite college teams. Typically, a pyramid section will use all athletes on a team as it takes many people to lift, spot, and catch a pyramid. Pyramid sequences are often fast-paced, and may involve a variety of heights, mounts, transitions, release moves, and dismounts.

Two High Pyramid

This is the standard type of pyramid and the most commonly performed. Each flyer is supported by a base, or bases, who are standing on the performing surface. The flyers may connect with each other through many different grips, such as holding hands or one flyer holding another flyer's extended foot or leg. One flyer may even act as a bracer for another flyer while she performs a flipping or twisting release skill.

Two and a Half High Pyramid

This type of pyramid involves a third layer of people not supported by anyone standing on the ground. The bases will hold the middle level of flyers, usually in a shoulder level stunt, as seen in the standard two-person high pyramid. These flyers will then hold additional flyers, usually at the waist level. Due to the height of this type of pyramid, this stunt is usually only performed by very experienced college or club squads as the potential for injury is very high. The Swedish Fall, the Wolf Wall, and the L Stand are all popular variations of the two and a half high pyramid.

See also

External links

References

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