Q&A for How to Become a Stronger Cheerleader Base

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  • Question
    Can I incorporate a core or ab exercise while doing walking lunges?
    Laila Ajani
    Fitness Trainer
    Laila Ajani is a Fitness Trainer and founder of Push Personal Fitness, a personal training organization based in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 13 years as a trainer and exercise specialist, Laila has expertise in competitive athletics (gymnastics, powerlifting, and tennis), personal training, distance running, and Olympic lifting. Laila is certified by the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA), and USA Powerlifting (USAPL), and she is a Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES).
    Fitness Trainer
    Expert Answer
    By tilting your torso slightly forward, you can increase the engagement of your core. This is because, similar to a plank exercise, the more parallel your body is to the ground, the more your abs have to work. To optimize the benefits for both legs and abs during lunges, it's essential to consciously engage and tighten your abdominal muscles without rounding your back. Incorporating these adjustments will ensure a more comprehensive and effective workout.
  • Question
    What if I have no one to practice with?
    Community Answer
    Try doing basic moves by yourself. If you are in a house area, make sure there are no objects or furniture in the way.
  • Question
    I have done cheerleading before but never as a base. My best friend is the flyer for our stunt group. Since I've never been a base before I keep dropping her, and I get blamed. What should I do?
    Community Answer
    Ask the coach, they will tell you how to properly base. When stunting, don't arch your back. Doing this could cause injury. Squat if your base is shorter than you. It's not always the base or back's fault, sometimes it's the flyer's!
  • Question
    Will lifting weights make me appear bulky or very muscular?
    Community Answer
    No, lifting weights won't make you bulky. Muscles are leaner and smaller than fat, and getting stronger may make you appear more fit.
  • Question
    What if I'm a flyer, and have never based, and the coach tells me to be a base?
    Community Answer
    You should let your coach know that you have never based before, and if you feel comfortable, give it a try! If you are uncomfortable though, just tell your coach and she will help you figure something out.
  • Question
    It is my first year as a cheerleader. I have been told I am a base, but I use my back when lifting the flyer up. Do you have any tips?
    Community Answer
    First check your leg strength. If your legs are a little weak, work on them until they get stronger. If they are strong now, practice keeping your back straight and bend at the knees. It may take a little while to get used to it, but it will reduce injuries in the long run.
  • Question
    How can I work on flying when I don't have a base?
    Emily
    Community Answer
    You can practice flying with a lot of things. There are specific stands you can buy online to work on balance, or you could use a simple soup can.
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