Top 10 Cheerleading Moves Every Beginner Should Master

Cheerleading is more than just chanting on the sidelines; it’s a sport that combines athleticism, rhythm, and team spirit. Whether you're a newbie to the cheer squad or just curious about what it takes to become a cheerleader, mastering the basics is essential. We’re going to break down the top 10 cheerleading moves every beginner should learn and perfect. And if you’re in the market for cheerleading gear, look no further than Lifestyles Sports at 1901 Wantagh Ave in Wantagh, NY. We’ve got everything you need, from the best cheer shoes to stylish bows and essential cheer bags. Let’s dive into the moves!

1. High V and Low V
The High V and Low V are foundational arm positions in cheerleading. To execute a High V, raise your arms straight up in a "V" shape, with your fists facing forward. For a Low V, lower your arms into a similar "V" shape but below your waist. These positions are used frequently in routines and are essential for building more complex moves. Mastering these will give you a strong start in your cheer journey.

2. Clap and Clean
The Clap and Clean are basic but important moves that serve as the foundation for many cheers and stunts. The Clap is exactly what it sounds like—a sharp clap in front of your chest. The Clean is when you bring your arms down to your sides, keeping them straight and tight against your body. These moves help create sharp, clean transitions in routines.

3. Toe Touch
The Toe Touch is one of the most iconic jumps in cheerleading. To perform it, start with your feet together, then jump up, spreading your legs out to the sides while reaching your arms toward your toes. The key to a good Toe Touch is flexibility and strength, so be sure to stretch regularly.

4. T-Lift
The T-Lift is another foundational move where you hold your arms out straight to your sides, forming a "T" shape. This position is often used in cheers and can lead into other moves or stunts. It’sa great way to work on arm strength and precision.

5. Pike Jump
The Pike Jump is a challenging move that requires strength and flexibility. Start by standing with your feet together, then jump up and lift your legs straight out in front of you while reaching for your toes. This jump is often used in advanced routines, so mastering it early on will give you a leg up (literally!) in your cheer career.

6. Cheerleading Stunt: The Prep
The Prep is a basic stunt that involves a flyer standing on the hands of two bases, supported by a back spot. This move is often the starting point for more advanced stunts, so it’s crucial to get comfortable with it.

7. Herky Jump
The Herky Jump is another popular cheerleading jump, where one leg is bent behind you and the other is kicked straight out in front. It’s a great move to show off flexibility and strength. Like the Toe Touch, the Herky is a staple in many routines.

8. Liberty
The Liberty is a one-legged stunt where the flyer stands on one leg, with the other leg bent at the knee and the foot tucked into the supporting leg’s knee. The flyer holds her arms up in a High V position. This move requires balance, strength, and teamwork.

9. The Basket Toss
The Basket Toss is an advanced stunt where the flyer is tossed into the air by the bases and catches serious height before landing back in the group’s arms. It’s an impressive move that always wows the crowd, but it requires trust and timing among the team.

10. The Split
Last but not least, the Split is a move every cheerleader should master. It’s a classic flexibility move that can be incorporated into many routines. Whether you’re doing a front split or a jump split, this move is a crowd-pleaser and showcases your flexibility.

Conclusion
Cheerleading is an exciting and demanding sport that requires dedication, practice, and the right gear. At Lifestyles Sports, located at 1901 Wantagh Ave in Wantagh, NY, we specialize in cheer shoes, bags, bows, and everything else you need to succeed on the mat.

Ensure you’re moving with precision by wearing the right cheer shoes. Our best-selling Nfinity and Nike cheer shoes provide the perfect balance of support and flexibility, so you can nail these moves every time. Keep all your gear organized in a cheer bag from Lifestyles Sports. We carry a variety of styles that are perfect for toting your shoes, water bottles, and other cheer essentials to practice.Don’t forget to accessorize! Lifestyles Sports has a great selection of bows and other cheer accessories to complete your look on the mat.

Visit us in-store to find the perfect cheer gear and get ready to cheer your heart out this season!