Basic Cheerleading Motions Made Simple

"We're going to begin in resting, move to a basic "T", and then a check mark." Cheerleading can sound like a foreign language and can take some time to master. If you're just starting out, begin studying basic arm motions. Cheerleaders use different words to describe their moves like a code that ensures that everyone moves in the same way at the same time. This helps to streamline practice, competitions, and games as well as helps prevent collisions and injuries.

The basic cheer clap is precise, loud, and done with purpose. This motion is the basis for almost all cheers and looks best when all cheerleaders do so in a crisp, exact manner. It can take some time for everyone on the squad to master this move, but it is a great place to start when working on communication and basic cheer moves.

The low touchdown move usually makes its way into the majority of cheers. It is a basic move that offers a crisp break at various points in the cheer or before or after a stunt. It is marked by stiff, straight arms and great posture.

The broken T cheer move usually appears in the majority of cheers and is a great way to show off just how in sync the squad is. This move is easy to add into cheers and looks clean and sharp when everyone hits it at the same time. It can also be used in routines as transition move.

The T position is a great basic move that is easy to master. Keep your arms aligned with your shoulder and straighten them. Imagine energy radiating through them and try not to let them droop. This move is a good one to practice in the mirror to ensure that your arms are in the correct spot.

The tabletop move makes for a great transition before a stunt and is a great opportunity to show off your smile and enthusiasm. Be sure to hold your arms tightly next to your body to hit this move perfectly.

The check mark position looks exactly like it sounds. Plant your feet firmly on the ground about shoulder width apart and create a check mark with your arms. Make sure your straight arm is slightly lifted above your shoulder and that your shoulders are relaxed. Keep your other arm close to your body to create a crisp move.

Many cheers use the blade move as a beginning position prior to clapping. Keep your arms tucked neatly by your sides and hold your hands together in front of your chest. Make sure that your hands aren't blocking your face at all during this position.

The touchdown position consists of lifting your arms straight over your head. Be sure that your shoulders don't shrug and are relaxed with good posture to make this move really pop.

Placing your hands on your hips is a great resting pose that looks organized and still maintains an energized posture. Keeping your arms stiff, having good posture, and a big smile is great way to rest in between cheers.

To make the perfect high V move, create a slight V with your arms raised and be sure to hold your arms completely straight. Try to keep your shoulders relaxed as it can be tempting to let them shrug.

The toe touch is a more advanced move but is a great addition to your list of cheer skills and stunts. Make sure when you hit this move that your arms stay in a T position with your legs moving behind your arms and land with your legs together. This stunt takes some time to learn but looks amazing when done together as a team. Be sure to practice with a professional coach or gymnast.

The spread eagle is a great beginner jump to practice. Keep your arms and legs straight and form a slight V with both as you jump, landing with your feet together.

Cheering is a fun, competitive sport that takes some time to master. Be patient with yourself and have fun learning routines and stunts with your squad. If you're looking for a more intensive way to practice, head to cheer camp for an immersive experience.