Cheerleading is a sport designed to energize and rally large crowds, and the activity offers an energizing full-body workout as well. Cheerleading combines cardio, stretching and flexibility components with dance moves, jumps and acrobatics to create rousing routines. Whether you're new to a squad or a seasoned cheerleader, knowing some basic jump descriptions can help you perfect some staple cheerleading moves with grace.
Pike Jump
The pike jump is a basic cheerleading move that involves jumping and bringing your straight legs up and out in front of you. To begin a pike jump, stand with your feet together and your arms straight up in the air above your head. Prepare for the jump by bending your knees and bringing your straightened arms down and crossed in front of your body. Spring into the air, bringing your arms around behind you and out in front of you as you bring your straight legs out in the air, as if you are sitting with your legs in front of you mid-air. Your arms should be out and parallel to your legs and your head and chest should face down, toward your legs. Release the position and land by bending your knees slightly and bringing your arms back up above your head.
Toe Touch
The toe touch is an elegant cheerleading jump that requires good flexibility. To perform a toe touch, stand with your feet together and raise your arms up straight above your head. Circle your arms to come down across your chest as you bend your knees to jump. Jump up and stretch your legs out to the sides, toes pointing up toward the ceiling. Bring your arms out straight to create a "T" shape in the air. As you descend from the jump, bring your legs back together and bend your knees slightly to cushion your landing. Bring your arms down to your sides as you land.
Tuck Jump
The tuck jump is a beginning-level jump that involves bending your knees and tucking your legs up toward your chest. To perform a tuck jump, stand with your arms up straight above your head and circle your arms down and across your body as you bend your knees. Spring up into the air as your bring your hands back above your head and bend your knees to tuck your legs up toward your chest. Point your toes as you tuck your legs. Bring your arms back down to your sides, and land with your knees slightly bent to absorb the shock.
Spread Eagle
The spread eagle is a popular cheerleading jump among all levels of performers. To do the spread eagle, stand with your legs together and hands out straight above your head in a V shape. Bring your straight arms down and crossed in front of your chest as you bend your knees to launch. Jump up into the air and spread your straightened legs out, keeping your knees and toes facing forward. Your arms should come up above your head as you reach the spread eagle position. Return to a standing position, bringing your arms down by your sides and bending your knees to cushion your landing.
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