Catching as a Backspot

When Catching the fliers in cradles, the backspot is a very important part of the catch, especially for baskets and high pyramids. They are responsible for the flier's head and neck. Here are a couple of tips for the backspot catching the cradle:

1. Eye on flier - Always keep an eye on where she goes.

2. Shoot arms through - If there is NO room for your arms, always shoot your arms through. You have to catch the flier no matter what, because your have the most important responsibility of the catch which is the head and neck.

3. Keep thumbs tucked - If your thumbs are sticking out then there is a chance that they could get caught in someone's clothing and be strained.

4. Focus on armpits - Especially when the flier's twisting, you must keep an eye on the fliers armpits and focus where you need to place your arms for the catch.

5. Squeeze for the catch - Squeeze your elbows/forearms into the flier just in case she deceides to not catch herself.

6. Don't punch the flier - Don't cross your arms over as to wrap her (unless necessary). Your arms are in perfect position for punching her in the face.

7. Keep your arms up - Always be prepared with your arms up and ready to catch.

"Hitch to something a little different "

Here is a Great way to change up your pyramids, instead of hitching to a shoulder sit, shoulder stand, and/or elevator, try placing something like a chair in the mix and hitch to that. It will change up some of your simpliest pyramids and give them a little twist.

NOTE: You can also try other stunts to hitch to. For example Scorpions, side stretches, side T's, OR even the fliers in a diamond head. These easy adjustments can make the simpliest pyramids look new and unique.

Outside Stretch open Table top

Start with an elevator in the middle and 2 "1/2 table tops" on both sides. Place a flier in hands(or elevator) slightly behind each 1/2 table top, and have each attach their inside arm with the middle flier in the elevator.

On count have the base(s) dip and extend the fliers up so that they can place their inside foot on the lower back of the middle layer flier in the 1/2 table top. When ready have the bases dip, pop, and guide the fliers straight up.

Each top flier will ride up, lift up with her shoulders, stay tight, and place the outside foot slightly on the middle layers back. When ready have each pull their outsides stretches for the finish.