Jumps are a very important part in cheerleading. But you have to be very flexible and stretch and practice them a lot. Straight legs, pointed toes, straight arms, straight back, and attitude all need to be a part of jumps. Practicing kicks can help improve your flexibility, which will make your jumps more spectacular.

In a toe touch, your body is lifted off the ground and your legs are thrown apart in a straddle position, while your arms are in a T motion. Your legs should be straight, and in a split motion. To improve this, stretch in splits everyday. This is one of the most important and most common jumps in cheerleading.

This is a Herkie which is a variation of the side hurdler. While you are facing forward your legs are thrown apart with one leg straight and one leg bent. One arm should be places on your hip while the other arm should be straight up and in the punch position. Think of bent arm straight leg; straight arm bent leg. Stretch before attempting one of these.

The pike jump is performed to the side and your legs should hit a flat position in the air. Your body should be bent at the waist so your chest, head, and arms can parallel your legs. Concentrate on bringing your arms up to your chest not your chest down to your legs. Stretch before you attempt this jump.

This is the most basic jump, the tuck jump. This jump is preformed by bringing your knees up toward your chest. While your arms are in a high V. Your knees should be brought to your chest as if you’re trying to curl yourself up into a ball. Point your toes and smile. This may be easy but presentation is everything.

The side hurdler is a jump where your legs are thrown apart with one leg kicked straight and out to the side of your body. While your other leg is bent with your knee facing the side. Your arms should be in a T motion. Your leg should be flat showing the top of your thigh to the crowd. Definitely stretch before this one.

One of the biggest things in cheerleading is your attitude. Always smile, even though you messed up. Everyone does it so don’t sweat it. Always act happy and excited. Get the crowd pumped up and get your athletic teams excited to play the game. You are there to cheer them to victory and put a show on for the fans.

Crisp movements are the sign of a good cheerleader. Fans don’t want to see a sloppy cheerleader. Everything looks better when you stay with your counts and stay crisp. Even if you are tired, lock every muscle in your body and smile. Cheer with your heart and have fun. As a cheerleader you are there to set a standard for enthusiasm.

Maintain eye contact. It is a great way to communicate with your audience. You are saying you’re happy to cheer and you want to. Keep your head up as well. You don’t want to watch someone that stares at the ceiling during the cheer routine. Act excited and have fun.