Cheerleading Flyer Stunts

The cheerleading flyer is the most aerial position on a team. It requires exceptional core strength for stability in the air, as well as flexibility to float and pose. Flyers must also have good balance and a lot of trust in their bases to stay safe. This is a high risk stunt and requires a great deal of time to master.

Oftentimes, when a flyer falls they blame themselves or the bases. However, it is very common that it is because their hips are not aligned with their torso. This can be corrected with a few simple drills on the ground. Have the flyer practice standing in a back spot position. The back spot holds the flyers ankles or bases wrists to prevent any movement and to help with the lifting of the flyer. Make sure the flyer and base teams elbows are ‘locked’ in this position so there is no pressure on the joints.

Once the flier is able to hold these positions on their own, have them move to a side position. This will help with the rotation of their body in the air. Finally, have them work on a heel stretch. This will help the flyer develop more control and look sharper in the air.

In addition, it is crucial that the flier jumps into a stunt with their feet at the same height. This will prevent the flyer from putting all of their weight into their back foot and potentially injuring themselves.