|
Having good jumps is a great way to
make any routine obviously better. Here are some tips to keep in mind
that can make the project of improving your jumps more manageable.
-
Have a strong approach.
People all have a different preference when it comes to how to begin
the jump. An effective approach, in my opinion, is to begin with
arms in a sharp high-v, swing down through the front, and then lift
with your shoulders to help get nice height. The approach is
important because it is the first part of your jump. A clean,
effective approach can make a big difference in the way your jump
looks.
-
Increase the height of your
jump. Building leg strength and working on synchronizing your
arms and legs is a great way to ensure the best height. Keep in mind
however, that improving your height is a gradual effort, and that
good technique is more important than high legs. That is to say,
keep your legs straight and your toes pointed, even if it means your
legs are a bit lower.
-
Improve your flexibility.
Where as the height of your jump has to do with how high your torso
is off the ground, your flexibility determines how high your legs
are. Based on you skill level, they could be below level, level or
hyper extended. The more hyper extended they are, the better your
jump looks. Again, the most important thing to consider is
technique. If your feet are up by your ears, but your knees are bent
and your chest is down, it’s still not going to be a good jump.
-
Finish with a solid landing.
The goal is to land with your feet and knees together. You want to
snap your legs down and keep your knees slightly bent (only on the
landing).
This element
finishes the jump and makes it look more polished and effortless.
This is important because after all, the hard part about cheerleading
is making it look easy.
Regardless of how good or bad you think
your jumps are, they can always be better or worse. The key is simply
to jump. Nothing will make you a better jumper like practice. Watch
yourself in the mirror or video record yourself so you can see where
you need improvement. No matter what level of a jumper you are, you
can noticeably improve in 7 days, so what are you waiting for? Jump
high, get up off your feet!
 |
Subscribe to this comment's feed
