An elevator, often called a prep in many programs, is a foundational two base cheer stunt in which the flyer stands in the bases’ hands at about shoulder level, with a back spot holding and protecting from behind. To hit one, the group loads with the flyer’s hands on the bases’ shoulders, dips together on the count, drives up through the legs and locks the flyer out at shoulder height while she stands tall and tight. Learning a clean elevator on mats with a coach builds the timing, grips and trust needed for extensions and more advanced stunts.
Why the elevator matters
Almost every stunt progression passes through the elevator. It teaches the whole group how to load, dip, drive and catch together, and it gives flyers their first experience standing on two feet above the floor. Squads that master a clean, stable elevator usually progress faster and more safely to extensions, liberties, heel stretches and pyramids.
Terminology varies. Some programs use elevator and prep to mean the same stunt, while others use prep for a slightly different grip or finish. Follow your coach’s terms so everyone knows exactly what is being called.
Stunt group roles
| Role | Main job | Key focus |
|---|---|---|
| Flyer | Stands in the bases’ hands at shoulder level | Tight body, weight pulled up, locked legs, eyes forward |
| Main base | Holds one foot and controls much of the stunt | Strong legs, steady timing, hands under heel and toe |
| Side base | Holds the other foot and stabilizes | Matches the main base’s timing and height |
| Back spot | Holds the flyer’s ankles or waist, calls counts and protects the head and neck | Constant awareness and quick reactions |
| Front spot (optional) | Supports bases’ wrists and adds stability | Watching the flyer and reacting to wobbles |
How to do an elevator step by step
- Set up. Bases face each other about shoulder width apart, feet wide and knees slightly bent, hands at waist level forming a platform. The back spot stands behind the flyer.
- Load. The flyer places her hands on the bases’ shoulders and steps one foot into the bases’ hands. The back spot holds her waist.
- Dip. On the count, everyone bends the knees together. Timing the dip is essential, so the back spot or a captain calls it clearly.
- Drive. Bases and flyer push through the legs together. The flyer pushes off the floor and brings the second foot in, while bases lift her feet to chest level.
- Lock out. Bases continue to shoulder level, holding each foot with one hand under the heel and one under the ball of the foot. The flyer locks her legs and stands tall.
- Hold. The flyer squeezes her core and glutes, keeps her chest up and hits a motion such as a high V or hands on hips. The back spot moves to hold the ankles.
- Dismount. On the count, the group performs a cradle or a controlled step down, practiced as carefully as the stunt itself.
Tips for each role
Flyers. Stay tight from head to toe, especially through the core and legs. Pull your weight up rather than sinking into the bases’ hands. Keep your eyes forward on a fixed point, not down at the bases. Trust your group and do not bend your knees or lean when you feel a wobble; let the bases adjust under you.
Bases. Lift with your legs, not your back. Keep your elbows in and the flyer’s feet close to your body as you drive up. Stay square to each other and match timing with the other base so the flyer rises evenly. Keep your hands under the flyer’s feet, not gripping her ankles.
Back spots. Call the counts clearly and loudly. Keep your eyes on the flyer at all times and stay ready to catch her upper body if she falls. Your first responsibility is protecting the flyer’s head, neck and shoulders.
Communication and counts
Clear communication is what turns four individuals into a stunt group. Most squads use a consistent count, such as a set of eight, where each number matches a specific action: load, dip, drive, lock out and so on. The back spot or a designated caller says the counts out loud, and everyone moves on the same beat. Groups should also agree on simple calls such as down to bring the flyer down safely at any time. Practicing these calls on the ground before stunting helps the whole group react quickly and calmly when something feels off.
Common elevator mistakes
| Mistake | What happens | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Mistimed dip | The stunt goes up unevenly or loses power | Count clearly and practice the dip on the ground |
| Flyer bends knees | The stunt sinks and wobbles | Lock legs and squeeze through the thighs |
| Bases lift with arms only | Back strain and an unstable stunt | Drive through the legs |
| Flyer looks down | Weight shifts and balance is lost | Focus eyes forward on a fixed point |
| Bases too far apart | The flyer’s feet spread and the stunt tips | Stand about shoulder width apart and square |
| Rushed dismount | Hard or uncontrolled landings | Practice cradles and step downs slowly |
Drills to build a solid elevator
- Load drills: practice loading and dipping without lifting until timing is perfect.
- Chest level holds: stop at chest height and hold for counts before going to shoulder level.
- Tightness holds for flyers: practice body tightness on the ground in a standing position.
- Leg strength for bases: squats and lunges to support the drive.
- Dismount drills: repeat cradles and step downs until they are smooth and controlled.
What comes after the elevator
Once a group can hit a clean, stable elevator consistently, coaches typically introduce variations and progressions. Common next steps include prep level motions and hand positions, prep level liberties and heel stretches where the flyer stands on one leg, full ups into prep, and extensions where the bases lock their arms overhead. Each new skill should be added only when the elevator is solid, and many squads continue to drill elevators through the season because they are the base of so many other stunts.
Safety and rules
Always learn stunts on appropriate mats with a qualified coach present. Every stunt needs a designated back spot, and extra spotters are wise when a group is learning. Athletes should not stunt when exhausted, injured or distracted. Communication matters: if anyone feels unsafe, the group should bring the flyer down under control.
Rulebook note: stunt rules, including spotter requirements and which skills are allowed at each level or on certain surfaces, differ by governing body. School programs often follow the NFHS Spirit Rules, while all star programs follow USASF rules. Check the current rulebook for your squad before adding new stunts.
Health note
Health note: stunting carries a risk of falls, sprains and head and neck injuries. Warm up before stunting, condition for strength and balance, and stop if anyone feels pain. Any athlete who hits their head or shows signs of concussion should stop immediately and be evaluated by a medical professional before returning.
Frequently asked questions
Is an elevator the same as a prep?
In many programs, yes. Some coaches use the terms interchangeably, while others use them for slightly different grips or finishes. Follow your coach’s terminology.
How many people do you need for an elevator?
Typically four: a flyer, two bases and a back spot. A front spot can be added for extra stability and safety.
How long does it take to learn an elevator?
Many groups can learn a basic elevator in a few practices with good coaching, but making it consistently clean and stable takes regular practice over several weeks.
