Cheer Stunts for Beginners: Positions and Safety Basics
A cheer stunt is a lift in which a group of athletes raise a flyer into the air and hold or move the position. Beginners learn stunts as a team with a trained coach, starting at low heights, one skill at a time. This guide explains the main positions, how a beginner group is built, and the safety habits every team should follow.
The positions in a stunt group
Most stunt groups have the same core roles:
- Flyer: the athlete who is lifted. Flyers need body control, balance and trust in their group.
- Bases: usually two or more athletes who lift and hold the flyer. A main base supports the flyer’s foot, and a side base helps with lift and balance.
- Backspot: the athlete behind the group who supports the lift and helps the flyer land safely.
If you hear a term you do not know, our cheerleading glossary explains common stunt words in plain English. For the official rules and skill progressions used in competitive cheer, see the USASF, and for general background on the sport, see this overview of cheerleading.
How beginners learn stunts
- Start low. Beginners practice basic lifts at shoulder level or below, with spotters ready, before any extension overhead.
- Learn the timing. A good stunt depends on everyone moving at the same moment. Counts and verbal cues help the whole group lift together.
- Practice dismounts and landings. Learning to come down safely matters as much as going up.
- Move up only when ready. Your coach decides when a group can try a higher or more difficult skill.
Safety basics every team should follow
- Practice with a trained coach present at all times.
- Use a padded surface and keep the area clear of obstacles and other groups.
- Always have spotters ready for new or difficult skills.
- Do not stunt when injured or very tired, and tell the coach about any pain.
- Remove jewelry and tie back long hair so nothing catches during a lift.
What to wear for stunt practice
Stunting works best in fitted, stretchy practice wear that stays in place and does not catch on hands or hair. A close fit also helps bases grip and keeps the flyer comfortable. Teams that want matching practice wear can see our custom cheer practice wear, made in your team colors.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main positions in a cheer stunt?
A stunt group usually has a flyer, who is lifted, plus bases who lift and hold her or him, and a backspot who supports from behind and helps the flyer land safely.
What is the best first stunt for a beginner?
Most coaches start with a simple prep or shoulder-level lift at a low height, with spotters ready, before moving to a full extension.
Do beginners need mats for stunting?
Practicing on a padded surface with a coach present is the safest approach, and coaches decide when a group is ready to progress.
What should beginners wear to stunt practice?
Fitted, stretchy practice wear that stays in place, with no loose strings or jewelry, and clean athletic shoes.
