Cheerleaders are known for their jumps. Without them
cheers and chants would be dull and unexciting. To be the very best
cheerleader you can be, you must concentrate on your jumps until you
have mastered the basic skill: height, spread, form, and landing.
Jumps are very important in cheerleading, but they are only one part of
what makes cheerleading the respected sport it has become. You must
also practice motions, voice technique, gymnastics, partner stunts, and
appearance, which includes a confident smile. When you are jumping
remember these 3 things:
1. Always stretch first! Make sure your whole body is warmed up before you start your jumps. Your jumps will look better and you will avoid muscle injury.
2. A jump has a beginning, a middle, and an end! Always begin your jumps with a 'prep' or approach. Coordinate arms and legs to give your jumps height.
Remember to keep your back straight, legs straight,
and toes pointed. Land on the balls of you feet and
rebound after every jump.
3. Use jumps at appropriate times! A) when players are introduced, B) before and after cheers and chants, C) after gymnastics or stunts, and D) when an exciting play has just occurred. NEVER use jumps in negative situations, for example when a player from the other team is injured or
fouled out of the game.