Cheerleading Competition Levels Explained
All-star cheerleading teams compete in numbered levels (1 through 7) that cap how difficult a team’s tumbling, stunts and baskets are allowed to be, under rules set by USASF (the US All Star Federation). Level is separate from age division — a team is placed by both.
Levels 1 Through 7 at a Glance
| Level | Tumbling | Stunts | Baskets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rolls, cartwheels, walkovers (no flips) | Flyers at prep/shoulder height | Not permitted |
| 2 | Standing/running back handspring | Two-legged extended stunts | Straight ride only |
| 3 | Series of back handsprings, tucks, aerials | One-legged extended stunts | One skill |
| 4 | Standing tucks, layouts, punch fronts | One-legged extended with a twist | Two skills |
| 5 | Full-twisting running or standing tumbling | 1½ twist extended | Up to three skills |
| 6 | Double fulls, standing fulls | Double-ups, 2¼ twist dismounts | Three skills including kick doubles |
| 7 | Back handspring to double, most advanced skills | Free flipping between stunt groups | Double fulls, kick triples |
A hybrid “4.2” also exists in current rules, combining Level 4 stunts with Level 2 tumbling.
Age Divisions
Alongside level, teams are grouped by age division: Tiny, Mini, Youth, Junior, Senior, International and Open, plus newer Flex divisions (Youth Flex and Junior Flex) introduced to give gyms more roster flexibility across a range of levels. International divisions require a minimum of 16 athletes per team. Exact age cutoffs are set annually by USASF’s age grid and can shift year to year — your gym will confirm which division your athlete’s birth year falls into for the current season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level should a beginner start at?
Most athletes start at Level 1 regardless of age, since it requires no flipping tumbling or advanced stunts, then move up as skills are mastered.
Is level based on age or skill?
Skill. Age division is a separate classification. A team’s full placement combines both, for example a Junior Level 3 team.
What is a Flex division?
A newer division format (Youth Flex, Junior Flex) that allows a wider span of levels within one age group, giving gyms more flexibility when building rosters.
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