Level Up Philosophy
Skill progressions are an essential component of cheerleading training and are critical to building safe, strong, and successful athletes at every level. Here's a more in-depth look at each level and the importance of skill progressions:
Beginner:
At the beginner level, athletes are just starting to learn the foundational skills of cheerleading. It's crucial to focus on proper technique and safety as they learn the basics of stunts, tumbling, and jumps. Skill progressions are vital at this level, as athletes need to build strength, flexibility, and confidence before progressing to more advanced skills. Coaches will focus on breaking down each skill into manageable steps, allowing athletes to master each one before moving on to the next. For example, learning the proper body position and balance for a prep before attempting a full extension.
Intermediate:
At the intermediate level, athletes have a solid foundation of basic skills and are ready to start progressing to more advanced techniques. It's essential to continue building on proper technique and safety as they learn more complex stunts, tumbling, and jumps. Skill progressions are critical at this level to ensure athletes are performing skills safely and correctly. Coaches will focus on building on the foundational skills learned in the beginner level, emphasizing proper body position and technique as athletes progress to more challenging skills. For example, working on drills for round-off back handsprings before attempting a standing back tuck.
Advanced: 
At the advanced level, athletes have a high level of skill proficiency and are capable of performing highly advanced stunts, tumbling, and jumps. However, it's crucial to continue focusing on proper technique and safety, as the risks of injury increase with more complex skills. Skill progressions are vital at this level to ensure athletes are not attempting skills beyond their capability and are working towards their goals safely and efficiently. Coaches will continue building on the foundational skills learned in the beginner and intermediate levels, emphasizing the importance of proper body position and technique.
In summary, skill progressions are crucial at every level of cheerleading, from beginner to advanced. They allow athletes to build strength, flexibility, and confidence while learning proper technique and safety. Coaches will focus on breaking down each skill into manageable steps, building on foundational skills as athletes progress to more advanced techniques. By focusing on skill progressions, coaches can help their athletes achieve their goals safely and successfully.
