Cheerleading Glossary: 50+ Essential Terms Explained for Beginners

A is for...

Arm Motions

Arm motions are sharp, controlled movements of the arms that form the foundation of cheerleading routines. Common examples include High V, Low V, T, Broken T and Clean, all of which must be performed with precision and strong posture.

All Star Cheerleading

All Star cheerleading is a competitive form of cheerleading where athletes train and compete for a cheerleading club or gym rather than representing a school, college or university. Teams are organised by age and skill level, allowing athletes to compete against others with similar experience. An All Star routine typically includes stunts, tumbling, jumps, pyramids, dance and performance elements, all performed to music. The sport has grown significantly in the UK and around the world, with competitions ranging from local events to prestigious international championships such as The Summit and The Cheerleading Worlds. All Star cheerleading is known for its athleticism, teamwork, discipline and strong sense of community.

Arabesque

An arabesque is a flyer body position where one leg is held straight behind the body while the flyer balances on the other leg. It requires flexibility, balance and strong body control.

B is for...

Backspot

The backspot is the athlete positioned behind a stunt group who helps lift, stabilise and catch the flyer. While bases provide much of the lifting power, the backspot plays a critical role in maintaining balance and ensuring safety throughout the stunt. Backspots often support the flyer's ankles, calves or waist during stunt transitions and are usually responsible for communicating with the rest of the stunt group. Strong backspots need excellent awareness, timing and confidence, as they are often the first line of defence if a stunt becomes unstable. In many ways, the backspot acts as the safety anchor of the stunt group.

Base

A base is one of the athletes responsible for lifting, supporting and catching the flyer during stunts. Bases provide the strength and stability required for a stunt to be performed safely and successfully. Depending on the stunt, there may be one or more bases working together to support the flyer. Bases must have strong technique, excellent communication skills and the ability to react quickly during transitions and dismounts. Although strength is important, successful bases also rely on timing, teamwork and trust. The relationship between bases, backspots and flyers is fundamental to every successful stunt group.

Basket Toss

A basket toss is one of the most exciting skills in cheerleading and is often a highlight of competitive routines. During a basket toss, the bases and back-spot create a secure launching platform using their hands before throwing the flyer high into the air. While airborne, the flyer may perform skills such as twists, pikes, toe touches or layouts before being caught safely by the stunt group. Basket tosses require excellent timing, communication and trust between all athletes involved. Because of the height and difficulty involved, basket tosses are generally introduced progressively as athletes develop their strength, technique and confidence.

Bow and Arrow

A bow and arrow is a flyer body position where the flyer holds one leg high beside the body while keeping the standing leg strong and straight.

Bracer

A bracer is an athlete who supports or connects with another athlete during a pyramid or stunt sequence. Bracers help create structure, stability and visual impact.

C is for...

Cheer Shoes

Cheer shoes are specially designed athletic shoes created to meet the unique demands of cheerleading. Unlike traditional running shoes, cheer shoes are lightweight, flexible and built to support stunting, tumbling, jumping and dance movements. Good cheer shoes provide grip for stunt groups, cushioning for landings and stability during training and competition. The choice of shoe can often depend on the athlete's role within the team. Flyers typically prefer lightweight designs that make stunts feel easier, while bases often look for additional support and durability. Popular cheer shoe brands include Nfinity, Nike, Kaepa and Zephz, all of which are trusted by athletes at various levels of the sport.

Clean

A clean is a basic cheer position where the athlete stands tall with arms held tightly by their sides. It is often used at the start or end of movements to keep routines sharp.

Counts

Counts are used to keep cheerleading routines in time with the music and the rest of the team. Cheer routines are commonly choreographed in sets of eight counts.

Cradle

A cradle is one of the most common dismounts used in cheerleading and is designed to bring a flyer safely back to the ground after a stunt. During a cradle, the flyer falls into a seated position while the bases and backspot catch and support them. Although cradles can appear simple to spectators, they require excellent timing, communication and technique from the entire stunt group. Cradles are introduced early in cheerleading training because they teach athletes important safety principles and help build confidence when working at height.

D is for...

Dance Section

The dance section of a cheer routine allows athletes to showcase rhythm, performance and personality. It is often energetic, expressive and visually exciting.

Deduction

A deduction is a penalty taken from a team’s score when a mistake happens during a routine, such as a fall, timing issue or illegal skill.

Dismount

A dismount is the method used to bring a flyer safely down from a stunt. It can be simple, such as a cradle, or more advanced, such as a twist.

Double Down

A double down is an advanced dismount where the flyer performs two full twists before being caught safely by the bases.

E is for...

Extension

An extension is a stunt where the flyer is held above the bases' heads with their arms fully extended. Extensions are considered one of the most fundamental elevated stunt positions and form the basis of many advanced stunt sequences. Athletes must work together to maintain stability, balance and body control while performing the skill. Flyers often perform body positions such as liberties, heel stretches and arabesques from an extension. Because the flyer is lifted higher than in a prep, extensions create a more dramatic visual effect and are frequently used in competition routines.

Elite

Elite usually refers to higher-level cheerleading skills, athletes or teams that perform more difficult stunts, tumbling passes and transitions.

F is for...

Flyer

A flyer is the athlete who is lifted, tossed or supported in the air during cheerleading stunts and pyramids. While many people assume flyers are simply the lightest members of the team, successful flyers need a combination of balance, flexibility, body control, confidence and mental focus. Flyers perform skills such as liberties, heel stretches, scales and basket tosses while relying on their bases and backspot for support. Strong communication and trust between the flyer and the stunt group are essential for safe and successful performances.

Formation

A formation is the way athletes are positioned on the mat during a routine. Strong formations help create clean visuals and make routines easier to follow.

Full Out

A full out is when a team performs its entire routine with maximum effort, energy and difficulty, exactly as it would be performed in competition. Full outs are typically used during training sessions to prepare athletes physically and mentally for competition day. Performing a full out allows coaches to identify mistakes, improve stamina and build confidence under pressure. Because competitive routines can be physically demanding, athletes often perform only a limited number of full outs during practice. Successfully hitting a full out can be a major confidence boost before an event.

H is for...

High V

The High V is one of the most recognisable arm motions in cheerleading. In this position, both arms are raised diagonally upwards to create a strong V shape above the athlete's shoulders. Proper High V technique requires straight arms, tight fists, engaged shoulders and a lifted chest. Although it may look simple, judges often assess the precision and consistency of motions across the entire team. The High V is commonly used in chants, cheers, dance sections and competition routines because it creates a powerful and energetic visual effect.

Heel Stretch

A heel stretch is one of the most popular and recognisable body positions in cheerleading. In this skill, the flyer stands on one foot while lifting the other leg high into the air and holding the foot with one or both hands. A strong heel stretch demonstrates flexibility, balance, strength and body control. Heel stretches are commonly performed in liberties, extensions and pyramid sequences and are frequently used by teams to showcase flexibility and difficulty. While the skill may appear effortless when performed well, achieving a consistent heel stretch often requires months or even years of dedicated flexibility and technique training.

Hit Zero

To hit zero means a team has completed its routine without receiving any deductions from the judges. In competitive cheerleading, deductions can be given for falls, safety violations, timing mistakes or illegal skills. Hitting zero is often one of the primary goals for a team because it demonstrates excellent execution, preparation and consistency. Coaches frequently emphasise clean performances over risky skills because a routine with no deductions can often outperform a more difficult routine with mistakes. Athletes celebrate hitting zero as a significant achievement during the season.

I is for...

Inversion

An inversion is any stunt or tumbling skill where an athlete’s hips pass above their head. Common examples include handsprings, walkovers and certain advanced stunt transitions. Inversions require proper technique and are often restricted by level.

Inside Full

An inside full is a tumbling skill where an athlete performs a full twist rotating towards the inside shoulder. It is commonly seen in advanced tumbling passes.

International Open

International Open is a competitive cheerleading division that allows athletes from different age groups to compete together, often featuring some of the highest skill levels in the sport.

J is for...

Jump

Jumps are a fundamental element of cheerleading and are used to demonstrate power, flexibility, technique and athleticism. Common cheerleading jumps include toe touches, pikes and hurdlers. Successful jumps require explosive leg strength, strong arm motions and proper body positioning. Teams often perform jumps in synchronised sequences to create impressive visual effects and showcase teamwork. Although jumps may appear straightforward, developing height, flexibility and clean technique takes consistent practice. Judges evaluate factors such as execution, timing, body position and synchronisation when scoring jumps in competition.

Jump Sequence

A jump sequence is a combination of jumps performed consecutively. Teams use jump sequences to showcase synchronisation, stamina and technical ability.

Judge

A judge evaluates cheerleading routines during competitions. Judges score teams on elements such as stunts, tumbling, difficulty, execution, synchronisation and overall performance.

K is for...

Kick Double

A kick double is an advanced basket toss skill where the flyer performs a high kick before completing two twists in the air. It requires excellent body control and timing.

Kick Full

A kick full is a basket toss skill where the flyer performs a kick and then completes a full twist before being caught safely by the stunt group.

Knee Bend

A knee bend is an important technique used in stunts, jumps and tumbling to generate power while maintaining control and balance.

L is for...

Liberty

A liberty, often referred to simply as a 'Lib', is one of the most common stunt positions in cheerleading. In a liberty, the flyer stands on one foot while the other leg is bent at the knee. The flyer is supported by the stunt group and must maintain excellent balance and body control throughout the skill. Liberties can be performed at various heights, including prep level and full extension, and often serve as a foundation for more advanced body positions such as heel stretches and scorpions. A clean, stable liberty is considered an important milestone for many developing cheerleaders.

Level

Cheerleading levels determine which skills athletes are permitted to perform in competition. Levels generally range from beginner through to elite and help ensure athlete safety.

Low V

A Low V is a cheer motion where both arms are held diagonally downwards, creating a V shape below shoulder height. It is one of the fundamental cheer motions.

Layout

A layout is a tumbling skill where an athlete performs a backward flip while maintaining a straight body position throughout the rotation.

M is for...

Mat

The mat is the specialised performance surface used for cheerleading training and competitions. It provides grip and cushioning for stunts, tumbling and jumps.

Motions

Motions are the sharp, precise arm movements that help create the clean and powerful appearance associated with cheerleading. Common motions include High V, Low V, T, Broken T, Touchdown and Clean. Although they may appear simple, strong motions require technique, posture, muscle control and consistency across the entire team. Judges often pay close attention to motion placement and synchronisation because they contribute significantly to the overall visual effect of a routine. Well-executed motions help teams look polished, professional and coordinated.

Mount

A mount is the action of lifting a flyer into a stunt position. Mounts can be simple or highly creative, depending on the skill level of the team.

Music Mix

A music mix is the professionally edited soundtrack used during a cheerleading routine. It combines music, sound effects and voiceovers to enhance performance.

N is for...

Nationals

Nationals refers to a national-level cheerleading championship where teams compete against some of the strongest clubs and programmes in their country. Qualifying for a national championship is often a major achievement for athletes and coaches. National events bring together teams from a variety of divisions and skill levels, creating highly competitive environments where teams showcase the routines they have worked on throughout the season. Success at Nationals can lead to invitations or qualifications for larger international competitions and is often regarded as a significant milestone in a cheerleader's journey.

Non-Tumbling Division

A non-tumbling division is a competition category where teams perform routines without tumbling skills, allowing athletes to focus on stunts, jumps and choreography.

Nugget

In some cheer gyms, a nugget is an affectionate term used for very young athletes who are just beginning their cheerleading journey.

O is for...

Open Division

An Open Division is a competition category that allows athletes from a broader age range to compete together, often resulting in highly skilled and exciting routines.

Overstretch

An overstretch is a flexibility-focused body position performed by a flyer, usually involving an extended leg and high level of flexibility.

Opposition

Opposition refers to the coordinated use of opposite arms and legs to create balance and control during jumps, stunts and dance movements.

P is for...

Pike

A pike is a jump where both legs are lifted straight out in front of the athlete while the upper body reaches towards the toes.

Pom-Poms

Pom-poms are colourful accessories used to enhance visual impact and audience engagement during cheer performances.

Prep

A prep, sometimes called a shoulder-level stunt, is a position where the flyer is held at approximately shoulder height by the bases. Preps are often one of the first elevated stunts athletes learn because they help develop confidence, balance and stunt technique before progressing to higher skills. Many advanced stunt entries, transitions and body positions begin from a prep position. Because the flyer remains closer to the bases than in a full extension, preps provide a stable platform for learning and refining stunt fundamentals.

Pyramid

A pyramid is a connected series of stunts involving multiple stunt groups working together to create a larger structure. Pyramids are designed to showcase teamwork, creativity, synchronisation and technical ability. Depending on the team's level, pyramids may include transitions, releases, body positions and connected elements involving several flyers at once. Because pyramids involve multiple athletes working together simultaneously, communication and timing are critical. Well-executed pyramids are often one of the most memorable sections of a cheerleading routine and can significantly contribute to a team's overall score.

Point

The point is often the athlete positioned at the front and centre of a formation. This athlete frequently becomes the focal point of the routine.

Q is for...

Quarter Turn

A quarter turn is a rotational movement involving a 90-degree turn. It can be used in dance choreography, transitions and stunt entries.

Qualification Score

A qualification score is the score a team achieves to earn a place at a higher-level competition, championship or international event.

R is for...

Routine

A routine is the complete cheerleading performance, combining stunts, tumbling, jumps, dance and transitions into one choreographed sequence.

Round Off

A round off is a tumbling skill that resembles a cartwheel but finishes with both feet landing together and the athlete facing the opposite direction. It is one of the most important tumbling fundamentals because it generates power and momentum for additional skills such as back handsprings, tucks and layouts. Round offs help athletes develop body awareness, coordination and proper tumbling technique. Strong round offs are often considered the foundation of advanced tumbling passes and are practised extensively at all levels of cheerleading.

Rewind

A rewind is an advanced stunt entry where the flyer performs a backward rotation into a stunt position. It is commonly seen in higher-level cheerleading.

Ripples

Ripples are visual effects where athletes perform the same movement one after another rather than simultaneously, creating a wave-like appearance.

S is for...

Scale

A scale is a flyer body position where one leg is lifted high while the athlete balances on the supporting leg. Scales demonstrate flexibility, balance and body control.

Scorpion

A scorpion is a popular flyer body position that showcases flexibility, balance and control. In this skill, the flyer stands on one foot while pulling the other foot up behind the head using one or both hands. Scorpions are commonly performed in liberties, extensions and pyramid sequences. Because the position requires significant shoulder, back and leg flexibility, athletes often spend months developing the mobility needed to perform the skill correctly. A well-executed scorpion is highly visual and frequently earns strong reactions from spectators and judges alike.

Sideline Cheer

Sideline cheer involves supporting sports teams and engaging crowds during games and events. Unlike competitive cheerleading, the focus is on crowd involvement, chants and spirit.

Spotter

A spotter is an athlete or coach responsible for helping maintain safety during stunts and skill development. Spotters closely observe athletes and are prepared to assist if a stunt becomes unstable or if an athlete loses balance. In many training environments, spotters are required when learning new skills or progressing to more advanced stunts. Although spotters may not always receive the same attention as flyers or bases, they play a vital role in athlete safety and confidence. Effective spotters must remain alert, attentive and knowledgeable about proper technique.

Stunt

A stunt is a cheerleading skill where one or more athletes lift, support, toss or catch another athlete, known as the flyer. Stunts are one of the defining features of cheerleading and require strength, coordination, communication and trust. There are many different types of stunts, ranging from beginner-level preps to advanced extensions, liberties and release moves. Successful stunting depends on every member of the stunt group performing their role correctly and working together as a team. Stunts are judged on execution, difficulty, creativity and overall performance quality during competitions.

Stunt Group

A stunt group consists of the athletes involved in performing a stunt, typically including a flyer, bases and a backspot.

Synchronisation

Synchronisation refers to athletes performing movements at exactly the same time. Strong synchronisation creates cleaner visuals and is highly valued by competition judges.

Switch Up

A switch up is a stunt transition where the flyer changes feet while moving between stunt positions. It requires excellent timing from the entire stunt group.

T is for...

T-Motion

A T motion is a fundamental cheer arm position where both arms are extended straight out to the sides at shoulder height, creating the shape of the letter T.

Tick-Tock

A tick-tock is an advanced stunt transition where a flyer shifts from standing on one foot to standing on the other foot while remaining elevated.

Tension Roll

A tension roll is a pyramid skill where connected athletes rotate together while maintaining tension and control throughout the movement.

Toe Touch

The toe touch is one of the most recognisable jumps in cheerleading and is commonly performed in both training sessions and competition routines. Despite its name, athletes do not actually touch their toes. Instead, they jump explosively into the air, lift both legs into a wide straddle position and reach their arms towards their toes while keeping their chest upright. A strong toe touch demonstrates power, flexibility, technique and body control. Teams often perform toe touches simultaneously during jump sequences to create impressive visual effects and showcase synchronisation.

Top Girl

Top Girl is another term sometimes used to describe the flyer. The term is commonly heard in certain cheerleading programmes and coaching environments.

Toss

A toss is a cheerleading skill where a flyer is launched into the air by the stunt group before being caught safely. Tosses are among the most exciting and visually impressive elements of competitive cheerleading because they allow flyers to perform skills at significant height. The most common type of toss is the basket toss, where the bases and backspot create a launching platform using their hands. Depending on the team's skill level, a flyer may perform twists, layouts, pikes, toe touches or other advanced body positions while airborne.

Successful tosses require excellent timing, strength and communication from every member of the stunt group. The flyer must maintain a tight body position throughout the skill, while the bases and backspot work together to generate height and provide a secure catch. Because tosses involve athletes leaving contact with the stunt group, they are governed by strict safety rules and progression standards. When performed correctly, tosses add excitement, difficulty and crowd appeal to a routine, often becoming one of the highlights of a competition performance.

Transition

A transition is the movement between stunts, formations, dance sections or tumbling skills. Smooth transitions help maintain the flow of a routine.

Tumbling

Tumbling refers to the gymnastic-style skills performed on the floor during a cheerleading routine. Common tumbling skills include cartwheels, round offs, back handsprings, tucks, layouts and full twists. Tumbling adds excitement, athleticism and difficulty to a routine and often forms a significant part of a team's score in competition. Athletes usually progress through tumbling skills gradually, developing strength, technique and confidence at each stage. Strong tumbling can help a team stand out and is often one of the most impressive aspects of modern competitive cheerleading.

Tuck

A tuck is a backward somersault performed without the hands touching the floor. It is often one of the first flipping skills athletes learn in tumbling.

U is for...

Under Rotation

Under rotation occurs when an athlete does not complete the intended rotation during a tumbling or stunt skill. This can affect execution scores and safety.

Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA)

UCA is one of the world's best-known cheerleading organisations and hosts training camps and major competitions, including prestigious championship events.

University Cheerleading

University cheerleading refers to cheer programmes associated with colleges and universities. Many athletes continue competing after school through university teams.

Upward Motion

An upward motion is the lifting phase of a stunt where the flyer moves from the ground or prep level towards a higher stunt position.

V is for...

Visuals

Visuals describe the overall appearance of a routine, including formations, spacing, timing, levels and athlete placement. Strong visuals make routines more memorable and impressive.

Varsity

Varsity is one of the largest cheerleading event producers in the world and operates many major championships, including The Summit and The Cheerleading Worlds.

Voice Over

A voice over is a spoken audio segment incorporated into a routine's music mix. Teams often use voice overs to reinforce themes and create audience engagement.

W is for...

Walk-On

The walk-on is the moment a team enters the competition floor before beginning its routine. Although it lasts only a short time, the walk-on provides an opportunity for athletes to establish confidence, energy and presence. Teams often use the walk-on to showcase personality and demonstrate professionalism before the music begins. Judges and spectators form their first impressions during this stage, making it an important part of the overall performance experience. A confident walk-on can help set a positive tone for the entire routine.

Warm-Up

A warm-up is an essential part of every cheerleading training session and competition day. Warm-ups prepare the body for physical activity by increasing blood flow, improving mobility and activating key muscle groups. A typical cheerleading warm-up may include stretching, cardio exercises, jumps, stunt drills and tumbling preparation. Proper warm-ups help reduce the risk of injury while improving performance and flexibility. Athletes who warm up effectively are often better prepared to perform difficult skills safely and consistently throughout training and competition.

Whip

A whip is a tumbling skill that resembles a back handspring without hand contact. It is often used to generate momentum for advanced tumbling passes.

Worlds

The Cheerleading Worlds, often referred to simply as 'Worlds', is one of the most prestigious events in competitive cheerleading. Held annually in Orlando, Florida, the competition brings together elite teams from around the globe to compete at the highest level of the sport. Qualifying for Worlds is considered a major achievement and requires exceptional skill, dedication and performance throughout the season. For many athletes, coaches and clubs, competing at Worlds represents the pinnacle of their cheerleading journey and the opportunity to perform on the sport's biggest stage.

X is for...

X-Out

An X-Out is a tumbling skill, often performed from a layout, where the athlete briefly extends their arms and legs into an X shape before landing.

X-Factor

X-Factor is an informal term used to describe the special quality that makes a team, athlete or routine stand out from the competition.

Y is for...

Youth Division

The Youth Division is a competition category designed for younger athletes. Skill restrictions and age guidelines help ensure safe participation and development.

Youth Cheerleading

Youth cheerleading introduces children to the fundamentals of cheer, including motions, jumps, stunts, teamwork and performance skills.

Z is for...

Zero Deductions

A warm-up is an essential part of every cheerleading training session and competition day. Warm-ups prepare the body for physical activity by increasing blood flow, improving mobility and activating key muscle groups. A typical cheerleading warm-up may include stretching, cardio exercises, jumps, stunt drills and tumbling preparation. Proper warm-ups help reduce the risk of injury while improving performance and flexibility. Athletes who warm up effectively are often better prepared to perform difficult skills safely and consistently throughout training and competition.

Zenith

Zenith is a popular cheerleading shoe model from Zephz. Known for its lightweight design and excellent value, it is often chosen by beginner and intermediate cheerleaders.

Zone

Being "in the zone" refers to the mental state where an athlete is completely focused and performing at their best. Confidence, concentration and preparation all contribute to reaching this state.

Ready to Start Your Cheerleading Journey?

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