How to Do a Cheerleading Layout

A cheerleading layout is a tumbling pass that can involve any variation of round-off or back handsprings before it. A layout is a step harder than a back tuck, so you'll need plenty of practice to be good at it. Here's how to do a round-off back handspring layout.

Instructions

  1. The Cheerleader (Tumbler)

    • 1

      Master the round-off back handspring back tuck before even attempting to do the layout.

    • 2

      Do a round-off back handspring back tuck.

    • 3

      Finish your rotation from the back handspring by stretching your body and squeezing your abdominal muscles while pointing your toes.

    • 4

      Pull your body up so that it's in line with your arms before your rotation is finished. Be careful not to arch your body or throw your head back while lining your body up with your arms.

    The Spotter

    • 5

      Help the tumbler by lifting her back as she starts the layout.

    • 6

      Notice when he starts to rotate and put your other hand on his leg to provide assistance with completing the pass. If the tumbler is learning a layout, he may under rotate so pay close attention to the landing part of his pass.

    • 7

      Assist the tumbler as she is landing by lifting her weight so that she does not land too hard. A hard landing can cause knee injuries. When a new tumbler is learning a layout, she's not always confident that she can finish a rotation and will often pike down (bend at the hips). Spotters should lookout for this and ready to help.