Intro to Toe Touches

Jumps are key! They're a cool visual that most cheerleaders use at least 2+ times in a single routine. There's many different types of jumps such as the herkie, hurdler, pike, etc. but the one this post is focusing on is the toe touch! If you are a newbie have no fear, the process of a toe touch is simple to grasp but progressing can be the challenging part.

Now a lot of cheerleaders or people are under the impression that 1. you jump like a starfish in the air and 2. your jumps are only good if your jumps are high. Both of these impressions are not true and can be overcome by following these steps when learning:

Step 1: Find an open space away from tables, chairs, etc. and make sure you're wear comfortable attire. (loose top, athletic shorts, and athletic shoes)

Step 2: Know the counts! All jumps are performed in what is called an 8-count. It takes one full 8-count to perform a jump or a series of jumps. Whatever the case it is usually all in one.
You start by saying "5-6-7-8" and you clap on 8. From here you count all the way to 8 again. "1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8" This isn't fast or slow paced it's a steady pace that allows you to keep counting by yourself as your perform the jump.

Step 3: The motions you need to know are a high V, straddle, T with blades, landing, clean, and clap

 

Pictures from Google Image Search

 

Step 4: Now it's time to do the jump here's a break down of the jump by it's counts!

 

5

6

7

8-CLAP!

1- Hit high V

2-Hold high V

3-Swing your arms into your X in front of your body. Your legs are in a squatted position together

4- Now it's time to bring your legs up as if you were in a straddle on the floor. Rotate your hips and toes your toes while holding your arms in a T with bladed fingers.

5-Land with your knees bent and your hands to your sides

6-Hold

7-Clean (stand up straight)

8-Clap or hold depending on preference

 

Now you can practice and move on to stretches below that will help make your jumps stronger and higher! Like I said it's not about having the highest jumps but they sure do like pretty!

 

In case you need a visual here's a great "how to" video just click here!

I hope this helps all of y'all!

Love,

A Cheerleader