Cheerleading is an energetic way to build school spirit and cheer on your favorite teams. Stunts, including pyramids, are one part of an effective cheerleading squad because they build interest and awe the crowds. It is essential that all cheerleaders know how to safely build a pyramid so no one is injured while executing the stunt. Learning the parts of the pyramid is the first step in building safe and attractive pyramids to accompany performances and cheers.
Base
The base of your cheerleading pyramid is the most important because it will hold all of the other squad members, which, when done effectively, makes the pyramid stable and less likely to collapse. The base of the pyramid should include your heaviest and largest squad members because they are more likely to be able to carry the amount of weight necessary to create a strong and steady stunt. These squad members most often position themselves on their hands and knees with their backs straight. Their shoulders should be touching to help strengthen the base.
Second Row
A pyramid is usually built with three layers, and the second row will help stabilize the stunt and hold up the top row. The most common way to build a cheerleading pyramid requires the second row to get on their hands and knees on the backs of the base, with one less person than the base has. These squad members place their right hand and right knee on one person's back and their left hand and left knee on the back of the next person lined up in the base so the pyramid has a sloped appearance on the sides.
Flyer
The flyer is the squad member that makes up the top of the pyramid. This is usually the lightest and smallest member of the cheerleading squad. This person most commonly kneels on the back of the middle person in the second row. The flyer can also stand on the back of the person in the middle of the second row with her arms in a high "V" formation.
Spotter
Spotters are required to pay close attention to the safety of the cheerleaders performing the stunt. Usually the spotters are responsible for catching the flyer since many pyramid stunts end with the flyer doing a jump into the air and landing in the arms of the spotters. Spotters also stand next to and behind the pyramid to help stabilize it in the event that one squad member loses her balance or wobbles. This helps prevent the entire pyramid from collapsing, which can lead to serious injury.
References
- "Coaching Cheerleading Successfully"; Linda Rae Chappell; 2005
- "The Ultimate Guide to Cheerleading: For Cheerleaders and Coaches"; Leslie Wilson; 2003
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