Expert: Kiki Quach - 7/10/2007

Question
I am 14 years old, 5'4" and am 103 pounds. I want to be a flyer on my new competitive cheerleading squad. I was a flyer on my old squad in 8th grade but I've grown like 2" over the summer. Am I to heavy or to tall? Also what are some tips on hitting my heelstretch, scorpian scales, and how to make my cradles lighter for my bases?

Answer
Hey.
Well, I am a strong believer in anyone being able to fly. I'm actually a 5'2, 145 lbs flyer/base/spotter on my squad. We also had a girl who was about 5'10 fly and I was her base! As long as you have muscle and know how to stay tight, you can fly. Also remember, to become a better flyer, it's good to be a base as well. That's how I learnt the basics of flying!

For the heelstretches and scorpions, you'll need to work on splits. It's good to also work on back flexibility for the scorpion, so try to do back bends (bridges) and that helps with tumbling, too! When you do the splits, don't just try to lean forward when you're sitting into it. Lean back a bit, too.

For cradles, all you can really do is stay tight throughout your whole body and throughout the entire stunt. If you even become loose after they catch you, it's hard. Also, don't land as flat as a board. Make sure you pike when you cradle.

Hope this helped.

Love always, Kiki Quach