How to Get a Flyer Above You When Lifting

Advanced coed cheerleading squads often perform impressive single-base stunts. In these stunts, a base (the person who does the lifting) supports the weight of the flyer (the person who is suspended in mid-air) in his hands. There are several different ways of loading into a single-base stunt, with the toss load being the most common. Getting into this position requires practice and a good sense of timing. When working on this load, use one count for each of the steps.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stand behind the flyer, with your dominant foot slightly ahead of the other foot. The majority of people have stronger right legs and will place their right foot slightly in front of the left. Bend your knees slightly. Hold the flyer's waist, just above the hips. Keep your elbows close to your body throughout the toss sequence so that you can use all of your upper body strength.

    • 2

      Maintain your position while the flyer lifts slightly onto her toes.

    • 3

      Have the flyer deeply bend her knees in preparation for a jump. Bend your knees so that you can follow the flyer's movements, but do not force her downwards. Keep your hands on the flyer's waist.

    • 4

      Toss the flyer upwards as she jumps. Hold your elbows close to your body until you extend your arms over your head. When you toss the flyer, the goal is for her to jump straight up, not backwards and over your head. You will move slightly forward to position yourself under her.

    • 5

      Follow the flyer's movements with your eyes so that you can reach for the bottom of her feet. The flyer will land on your hands, either at shoulder level or with your arms extended, depending on the stunt. Keep your upper body tight and absorb the impact of the flyer's landing by bending your knees softly.