In cheerleading, stunting is an exciting component that adds difficulty to your performances. Stunts can involve from two to five cheerleaders. They include skills where cheerleaders lift another cheerleader into the air and hold her and those where they toss her airborne, as well. Each role within a cheerleading stunt has its own responsibilities and safety guidelines
Back Base
There are two main roles in stunting. A base is the one on the bottom, and a top person is the one being lifted or tossed. Within the basing category there are two further divisions. Side or main bases primarily support the weight of the top person. Back bases, also known as back spots or spotters, do not support the top person's weight. Instead a back base stands behind the top person and acts as her assistant in the stunt.
Stunting Role
When stunting, a back base keeps her attention on the top person. She assists the top person with building the stunt, such as lifting her into the load-in position. She also steadies her when the stunt is up. Some stunts require the use of a back base. For example, any stunt that is over shoulder level must have a back base or a spotter. Extended stunts where the top person's foot is above the bases' heads, such as an extension, cupie or liberty, all require a back base.
Dismounting Role
In the dismounting portion of a stunt, the back base is responsible for catching the top person. Specifically, she is charged with the role of protecting the top person's head and neck from injury. A cradle is a dismount where the top person is popped into the air and then caught by her bases. Whether a cradle is done from shoulder level or from an extended stunt, it must have a back base. The back base, scoops her arms under the top person's armpits, catching and cushioning the top person's head and shoulders against her chest.
Tips for Back Bases
Keep your full attention on the top person at all times. If she loses her balance, slips and starts to fall, go where she is falling and be responsible for protecting her from hitting the ground. Do not see your role as a back base as secondary to the stunt. An aggressive back base can make or break a stunt. Use your legs to help lift the top person into the stunt. Hold the stunt together when it is in the air. Assert yourself and take charge of ensuring the top person's safety.
References
- American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators: 2011-12 School Cheerleading Rules
- Varsity: Skills and Drills -- Stunting Basics -- Stunt Dictionary
- Ms. Pineapple's Cheer Page: Glossary of Cheerleading Stunting Terms
- Varsity: Skills and Drills -- Stunting Basics -- Cradle Technique
- Varsity: Skills and Drills -- Stunting Basics -- Secrets to Smooth Stunting
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