Expert: Pamela Enders - 7/9/2010

Question
My daughter can do a standing back tuck and a round off back handspring tuck. They are beautiful, but she can't get her back layout. She pikes / bends every time. What exercises or drills can she do to get rid of the pike and have a pretty layout?
Thanks,
Kris

Answer
Hi Kris,

As a psychologist and a mental game coach, I cannot offer technical advice.  For that, I would suggest you contact one of the other experts.

From a mental game perspctive however, a technique I call Focused Interactive Learning might be helpful.  It goes like this:

1. Find a video of an Expert Cheerleader executing the skill you want to learn.
2. Find a quiet place and get relaxed and focused by exhaling slowly 3 to 5 times.
3. Say to yourself, "with each out-breath I will get more and more focused."
4. Now watch the video in this relaxed, focused state.
5. As you watch the video, notice every detail of the athlete you are observing - the way she looks, moves, posture...every detail!
6. Now imagine how that cheerleader feels as she executes the skill
7. Now imagine how you might feel if you were this athlete
8. Begin to feel it in your body (how the athlete moves, looks, etc.)
9. Now imagine that you are that athlete and really enjoy the experience.

By doing this, your girl will be literally training her brain and body to perform in the way she wants.  This technique, along with good technical coaching can enhance learning and performance.

For more mental game tips and info, check out my blog - http://www.confidentcheerleadingblog.com

I hope this was helpful.

Warm regards,

Pamela Enders (Dr. Pam)
The Mental Game of Cheerleading
http://www.confidentcheerleadingblog.com