Common Cheerleading Jumps

There are certain jumps that you will see from squad to squad, state to
state, and even country to country. While different coaches may have
different names for these jumps, they are all executed the same way.

Spread Eagle
This is probably one of the most basic jumps you'll learn. This is often the
first jump that cheerleaders learn, or that younger squads use. Arms are
in a high V and legs go out, but knees face forward and not toward the
sky.

Toe Touch
Probably one of the most common jumps, the toe touch is fairly easy to
perform. Arms are in a "T" position and legs are in a V, with knees
pointing toward the sky or even backward a bit. Your hands will not touch
your toes, despite the name.

Tuck
This jump is seen sometimes in competitions. Legs are in front and the
knees are tucked into the chest. Hands are to the sides in a "T".

Right or Left Hurdler

The Hurdler is a really nice looking jump that creates the appearance of
a stunt. One leg will be in toe touch position, with knee pointing toward
the sky, while the other leg is bent and the knee pointing down.

Pike
Anyone who has ever been to a gymnastics class is familiar with the term
"pike". This simply means that your feet are pointed straight out parallel
with the ground with the toes pointed. Arms are straight in front, reaching
toward toes. Hands are in a fist.

Pike-Out
This jump is a bit difficult to perform. The jumper does a pike, but then
quickly moves the legs into a toe touch position before landing.

Herkie
This cheerleading jump can be performed as a left of right Herkie. This
jump is named after the founder of the National Cheerleading Association,
Lawrence Herkimer. One leg is in toe touch formation and the other bent
with the knee facing downward. Arms do the opposite of what the legs
are doing in a "T". So, if the right leg is bent, the right arm is straight and
vice versa.
How to Jump
In order to improve jumps or master them, try to do exercises that
strengthen calf muscles. Here are the basics in preparing to perform any
of the above jumps.

1. Starting Position: Position your feet together and your arms by your
sides.
2. Second Position: Clasp your hands, and then raise them into a high
V in preparation for the jump.
3. Third Position: Bend at the knees, and at the same time swing the
arms down and cross them in front of the knees at the wrist.
4. Fourth Position: This is where you jump. The power comes from
your legs. The above steps are performed in rapid succession.
5. Final Position: After the jump, land with your knees slightly bent
and arms to your sides.
6. After the Jump: Return to a standing position. Your arms can
remain at your sides or be clasped in front of you.