How to Ride Better During a Basket Toss

The basket toss is an impressive and advanced cheerleading stunt in which a stunt group tosses a cheerleader up into the air. The objective of this maneuver is to jump as high as you can and perform your chosen move when you are at the high point of the toss. Once you're in the air, you can move into many different positions, such as the splits. The "ride" that lasts from when you're tossed to when you land should be crisp and sharp, and it's important to perfect your basic ride before attempting more advanced basket tosses.

Things You'll Need

  • Four cheerleaders for the base
  • One cheerleader to be tossed
  • Spotters for practice
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Instructions

    • 1

      Practice a straight ride. Step into the base of your cheerleading partners and stand straight with your arms in the air. As they lift you in the air, bring your arms and legs together in front of you in the pike position, to help launch yourself into the toss. Keep your back straight.

    • 2

      Learn how it feels when you reach the top of the toss. Continue to practice until you can consistently "feel" the top of the toss.

    • 3

      Perform more advanced tricks in the basket toss as you progress with your skills. Don't get into position before you've reached the top of the toss. Waiting until the top of the toss ensures you will be able to complete the stunt before you land.

    • 4

      Complete the toss by landing safely in the base cheerleaders' arms. Be sure to allow yourself time to finish the stunt and relax your body. Holding yourself stiff makes it difficult for the base cheerleaders to catch you.