How to Do a Successful Cradle in Cheerleading

A cheerleading cradle refers to the catch performed by the bases and back spotter in a stunt. Two or more bases raise and hold a flier, the flier does a pose or jump and falls back into the hands of the bases and back spotter. Performing a successful cradle is essential for the safety of the entire squad. The flier is raised at least 5 feet in the air and a fall can injure any team member in the vicinity.

Instructions

  1. Back Spotter

    • 1

      Yell a command to begin the cradle, such as "Cradle Ready!"

    • 2

      Grasp the flier's ankles, yell "Down!" and bend with the bases as they lower the flier slightly. Yell "Up!" and push on the flier's ankles as she is lifted into the air. Raise your arms fully to follow through the throwing motion.

    • 3

      Make fists and keep your arms extended. Push through the flier's arms to catch her beneath her armpits. Make the catch as high up as possible to cushion the flier. Keep your knees bent to avoid injury.

    Bases

    • 4

      Hold the flier's foot steady in the stunt. Bend your knees and lower the flier slightly when you hear the back spotter yell "Down!" Don't lower the flier's foot with your arms; allow your knees to do the work. Work in unison with the other base to keep the flier level at all times.

    • 5

      Lift and push the flier into the air when you hear the back spotter yell "Up!" Push up until your arms are fully raised and let go of the flier's foot.

    • 6

      Place one arm where the flier's back will land and one where the flier's thighs will land. Catch her firmly, bending your knees to absorb the weight.

    Flier

    • 7

      Lock your legs while raised in the air. Allow the bases to lower you slightly, then throw you in the air. Keep your legs locked, suck in through your stomach and tighten your abdominal muscles.

    • 8

      Pull your chest up and arch your back once you leave the base's hands.

    • 9

      Lower your arms to your sides as you fall. Arch your back and keep your legs parallel to the ground. Keep your muscles tight and your legs together during the descent. Allow the bases to catch you.