A hurdler is a primary cheerleading jump and often a required skill during cheerleader tryouts. Cheerleaders perform hurdlers to show spirit and as part of a dance routine or cheer. There are two forms of the hurdler, a side hurdler and a front hurdler. The side hurdler resembles the herkie, another cheerleading jump, with the exception of knee placement. The front hurdler resembles a hurdle jump executed by track runners. Strength, technique, flexibility and height are important attributes in successfully completing a hurdler.
Side Hurdler
Step 1
Stand with your arms in a "V" position above your head, your hands clenched in fists and your legs together.
Step 2
Swing your arms in across your body and bring them up into a "T" position, where each arm is stretched out to its anatomical side and parallel to the ground, while simultaneously jumping into the air position of the side hurdler.
Step 3
Extend your right leg straight to the right side of your body and point your right foot. Extend your left leg to the left side of your body, while bending the lower portion of your left leg behind your body. Your left knee points out to the left.
Step 4
Land with your feet together, your knees slightly bent and your arms down by your sides.
Front Hurdler
Step 1
Stand with your arms in a touchdown position with your hands clenched in fists and legs together.
Step 2
Swing your arms straight down by your side and back up straight in front of your body, while simultaneously jumping into the air position of a front hurdler.
Step 3
Position your right leg straight in front of your body and point your right foot. Pull your left leg behind you, pointing your knee to the ground.
Step 4
Land with feet together, your knees slightly bent and your arms down by your sides.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep your chest up and head facing forward when attempting a hurdler. If you drop your chest, gravity pulls you down and affects the height of your jump. Practice your splits to increase the extension of your jump. Build your leg strength to increase the height of your hurdler.
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