Have you ever seen a cheerleader in action? One cannot help but admire the execution of the different stunts done ever so flawlessly. Cheerleading has evolved from clapping and pom pom waving to the intricate, gymnastic routines we see today. There are cheerleading clinics that train cheerleaders how to execute their stunts properly and effectively. Among the cheerleading stunts perfected throughout the years are toe touches, pikes, hurdlers and herkies. Toe touch is the most popular stunt and the easiest to execute. It's done by making one clean jump with both legs spread in the air while the hands touch the toes. The least favourite is the "pike," because one virtually has to fold their body in half while in mid air. Stomach muscles have to be strong in order to jump high and perform the stunt. Tumbling is also a big part of cheerleading. It includes back tucks, back handspring, back walkovers, cartwheels, aerials and round offs. The easiest is the cartwheel, as almost all kids are required to this in physical education classes. Aside from the spectacular stunts performed, cheerleaders are also responsible for spotting and catching their teammates who do the potentially dangerous stunts. If teammates are not caught properly inuries that could have been easily avoided, may result in serious injuries. As a matter of fact, there was a reported fatality of a teen who landed facedown and consequently died on the way to the hospital. Cheerleading stunts should always be performed with the supervision of an expert. |
