The flying scorpion is considered one of the most thrilling and challenging skills in cheerleading. As an advanced tumbling move, mastering the flying scorpion requires cheerleaders to combine strength, body control, and aerial awareness. When performed correctly, the flying scorpion showcases a cheerleader’s elite abilities. This comprehensive guide will provide cheerleaders with the steps needed to perfect the technique and execution of the flying scorpion.
Learning to efficiently perform the flying scorpion involves understanding key prerequisites. By building up requisite strength, flexibility, and aerial skills, cheerleaders can set themselves up for success when attempting this skill. Though difficult, the journey to flawlessly execute the flying scorpion is an exciting endeavor for competitive cheerleaders looking to expand their tumbling repertoire.
Prerequisites for Learning the Flying Scorpion
Before a cheerleader attempts the flying scorpion, they must establish a strong foundation of physical conditioning and all-around skills. Mastering the flying scorpion requires total body awareness and control. The prerequisites for learning this skill include:
- Strength Training: A cheerleader must develop the requisite upper and lower body strength through weight training. Powerful leg muscles are needed to generate sufficient lift off the ground. Core strength provides stability and control in the air. Back and shoulder strength enables the cheerleader to confidently whip their body around while airborne. Progressively overloading the muscles with challenging resistance training is key.
- Flexibility: Practicing tumbling requires high levels of flexibility to properly position the body. Targeted static and dynamic stretching will increase range of motion for executing the tight tuck and rotations of the flying scorpion. Particular focus should be placed on hip, back, and shoulder flexibility. Maintaining pliable muscles and connective tissues through regular stretching is a must.
- Aerial Awareness: Spatial orientation and awareness are essential for aerial tumbling. Flying scorpion attempts should only commence once a cheerleader feels comfortable with jump height and air position. Drills for improving aerial awareness include trampoline exercises, diving rolls, and repeated vertical jumps. Developing kinesthetic intelligence in the air will allow the cheerleader to control their body throughout the flying scorpion.
Step-by-Step Flying Scorpion Technique
Once a cheerleader has developed the required abilities through focused training, they can begin working on the technique for a proper flying scorpion execution. The step-by-step process includes:
- The Approach: The set-up and approach are key components that set the tone for the entire skill. The cheerleader should start from a standing position and take a few steps back to build momentum. As they initiate the final two preparatory steps, the arms swing back powerfully to generate force for the jump.
- Jumping Position: The jump should be executed by explosively springing from the balls of the feet, fully extending the body vertically. The arms continue to swing overhead as the back leg kicks up for added height. At the peak of the jump, the cheerleader’s body should form a tight arch in a straight line.
- Executing the Flip: At the height of the jump, the cheerleader initiates the flip by aggressively whipping their chest inward and bringing their knees to their torso. The rotation comes from snapping the head and shoulders down as the back curves over with the knees tucked tightly. The cheerleader continues rotating their body rapidly through the wrapped, tucked position.
- Sticking the Landing: As the cheerleader spots the ground, they prepare for landing by extending their body to unfold from the tuck. The timing here is critical – they must straighten their legs and upper body just before contact with the ground. The landing starts with the feet together, then dropping down to one knee to absorb impact and “stick” the landing.
Proper technique and sequencing through each phase allows the cheerleader to maximize height on the jump while maintaining control throughout the flip and landing.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
When first attempting the flying scorpion, there are some common mistakes cheerleaders may make. Being aware of these errors and their solutions will help refine technique:
- Insufficient Height on Jump: If the cheerleader does not generate enough lift off the ground, they will not have sufficient air time to complete the flip rotation. To fix this, focus on improving explosive leg strength and consciously reaching maximum jump height.
- Improper Body Positioning: Incorrect positioning of the arms, torso, and legs during the jump and flip can throw off timing and control. Keep the body in a tight arch throughout the jump, with arms overhead. Engage the core muscles to maintain a neutral spine when tucking into the flip.
- Landing Errors: Cheerleaders may land too upright, off-balance, or flat-footed, which can cause injury and falls. Concentrate on sticking the landing on the balls of the feet in a lunge position to absorb impact. Keep the chest lifted and head up throughout the landing.
- Training Drills and Conditioning: To continue mastering the flying scorpion, cheerleaders should incorporate specific drills and targeted conditioning. Helpful methods include:
- Targeted Strength Training: Include resistance exercises for increasing leg and core power – squats, lunges, planks, etc. Use weightlifting for upper body strength to support the flip.
- Tumble Track Repetitions: Practice approach steps and jump height by doing runway drills. Focus just on the first two phases before putting all the steps together.
- Spotting and Safety: Always have experienced spotters when tumbling. Spotters can provide feedback and make save assists if needed on early flying scorpion attempts.
When You’re Ready to Fly
After developing the required physical abilities and rehearsing the technical aspects, a cheerleader will eventually feel ready to attempt the full flying scorpion. Here are some final tips:
- Getting Comfortable with Height: Practice building height on jump drills to get comfortable with the elevation required for the flip. Use raised mats if needed to recreate the feeling.
- Working with Experienced Spotters: An experienced spotter can provide confidence and safety for first attempts. Spotters can cue the cheerleader and provide save assists.
- Mentality and Confidence Building: The mental approach is key. Visualize a successful flying scorpion before attempts. Focus on one cue at a time and block out fear. Trust your preparation.
With proper progression, the flying scorpion will transition from intimidating to exhilarating!
Conclusion
Mastering the flying scorpion is a major accomplishment for any competitive cheerleader. The skill requires tremendous strength, body control, aerial awareness, and mental focus. While difficult, the journey to flawlessly execute the flying scorpion is an exciting challenge and testament to a cheerleader’s abilities. With proper preparation, step-by-step technique, and targeted troubleshooting, developing this elite skill is within reach. The thrill of finally conquering the flying scorpion makes the hard work and dedication well worth it. This advanced move undoubtedly cements a cheerleader’s status as a tumbling dynamo!