How To Do Cheerleading Jumps

Cheerleading is a sport that originated in the United States and it still remains a predominantly American activity. Cheerleading is, basically, an organized routine that ranges from one to three minutes and encompasses elements of tumbling, dance, jumps and cheers. This activity is intended to cheer for sports teams, at various games and matches or compete at cheerleading competitions. When used in other sports, cheerleaders encourage audience participation in the game. In case you are wondering how to do cheerleading jumps, read the article for some helpful tips on the same.

Doing Cheerleading Jumps

Basic Preparation

You must be aware that all the cheerleading jumps begin in a similar way. A set of steps known as preparation (prep) are to be performed before you start with the specific types of cheerleading jumps. The prep steps are visually appealing. They also add the element of power and height to a jump.
Bring your feet together and stand with your arms above your head in a high ‘V’ position.
Bend slightly at the knees and sweep your arms down to make them cross at your forearms.
Now, you are in the right position to spring up into the jump and perform whichever pose you have selected.

Toe Touch Steps

Bring your legs outward to your arms for performing toe touch. Make sure that you are not doing vice-versa.
If you stretch before, you will be able to straddle better.
While keeping your back straight and chest up, point your toes. This will make the jump appear higher.
Make sure not to bend your legs and your arms. You have to maneuver your arms to reach your toes as much as you can. It will be better if you do this jump on grass or a mat.

Pike Steps

For doing a pike, bring your legs out in front of you, towards you arms, which should also be in front of you.
Bring your legs up, towards your head. Make sure you are not doing vice versa.
Point your toes and take care not to bend your legs.

Herkie Steps

Bring one leg upwards and bend the other back as far as you can.
Keep your hands in a high V position.
Keep your toes pointed and your leg tight.

Safety Tips

Before attempting any new jumps, make sure that you are being supervised by a professional. You may not know the right procedure and end up hurting yourself.
It is a better option to try your new jumps in a swimming pool, to get a fair idea about the same, without the effect of gravity or the hard ground.
Never land on the ground with a straight knee. There is a chance that you may sprain or twist your leg.
Do not use a trampoline or other bouncing device for a higher jump. This can be a dangerous thing to do, more so, when you are not experienced in proper landing from higher elevations.

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