A tick tock is a stunt in which the flyer, standing on one leg, is popped a short distance into the air and switches to stand on the other leg, like the swing of a clock pendulum. It is an intermediate to advanced skill because it involves a brief release, so groups should only attempt it after they can hit clean, consistent liberties on both legs at the planned height, with strong, synchronized bases and a skilled back spot. Most groups learn it first at prep level, with extra spotters and a qualified coach, before trying it at extended level where the rules allow.
How a tick tock works
The stunt starts in a one leg position, usually a liberty, with the flyer’s weight fully on the standing foot. On the count, the bases dip together and pop the flyer upward. While briefly off the bases’ hands, the flyer switches legs, bringing the lifted leg down to become the new standing leg and pulling the former standing leg up into position. The bases catch the new foot, lock out, and the flyer shows the new position on the other side. The entire movement happens quickly, so timing and tightness are everything.
Prerequisites
| Requirement | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Consistent liberties on both legs | The flyer must balance equally well on either leg |
| Strong, synchronized bases | The pop must be even and the catch precise |
| A skilled back spot | Protects the flyer during the brief release |
| Flyer body tightness | A loose body makes the switch unpredictable |
| Reliable cradles and dismounts | The group must be able to bring the flyer down safely if anything goes wrong |
| Coach approval | Ensures the group is ready and the skill is legal for its level |
Tick tock step by step
- Set the one leg stunt. The flyer hits a tight liberty or other one leg position at prep level, with the bases locked and the back spot holding the ankle or supporting from behind.
- Prepare. The back spot or caller gives the counts. Everyone focuses on the same timing.
- Dip. Bases bend their knees together, keeping the flyer’s foot level.
- Pop. Bases drive up through their legs, giving the flyer a small, controlled pop straight up rather than forward.
- Switch. The flyer stays tight, quickly brings the lifted leg down to become the standing leg and lifts the other leg into position.
- Catch. Bases catch the new standing foot at the same level and lock out.
- Show. The flyer hits the position on the new leg with arms in the planned motion.
- Dismount. The group finishes with a controlled cradle or step down on the count.
Tips for each role
Flyers. Stay tight through the core and legs from start to finish. Keep your chest up and eyes forward. Think of the switch as a quick, controlled movement straight up and down rather than a jump sideways. Squeeze the new standing leg as soon as your foot lands.
Bases. Dip and drive together and push straight up so the flyer does not travel. Keep your hands ready at the same height to catch the new foot. Stay square and keep your feet planted.
Back spots. Call counts clearly and stay close. Your job during the pop is to protect the flyer’s upper body and help guide her back into the stunt or into a safe dismount if something goes wrong.
Learning progression
| Step | Level | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ground leg switch drills | Flyer practices quick switches with a tight body |
| 2 | Low switch with support | Switching from a low stunt with extra spotters |
| 3 | Prep level tick tock | First stunted version with the full group |
| 4 | Consistent prep level reps | Many clean repetitions before moving higher |
| 5 | Extended tick tock | Only where rules allow and skills are consistent |
Drills to build a tick tock
Ground switch drill. The flyer stands on one leg in a liberty position, hops a small distance straight up, switches legs and lands tight on the other foot. This teaches the timing and body control of the switch without height.
Balance holds. The flyer holds liberties on each leg for several counts, working toward equal confidence on both sides.
Bases pop drills. Bases practice the dip and small pop with the flyer at low levels, focusing on straight up movement and matching timing.
Counts rehearsal. The whole group walks through the counts on the ground, saying each phase out loud, until timing is automatic.
Tick tock variations
Once a basic tick tock is solid, groups sometimes add variations. A common option is switching from a liberty on one leg to a liberty on the other, but flyers may also switch into a different body position on the new leg, such as a heel stretch, arabesque or bow and arrow, if their flexibility and the rules allow. Some routines use a series of tick tocks, switching back and forth several times, which requires excellent endurance and consistency from the whole group. Each variation adds difficulty, so it should be introduced only after the basic version is reliable.
Using the tick tock in routines
In competition routines, tick tocks are often used in elite stunt sections because they show control, timing and group skill in a short window. Clean execution matters more than difficulty. Judges typically look for a tight flyer, a straight up pop, a smooth catch and a sharp finish on the new leg. On the sideline, simpler stunts are usually a better choice, since surfaces and space are less controlled. Coaches should place tick tocks where the group is fresh rather than late in a tiring routine.
Building confidence as a group
Confidence comes from repetition and trust. Start each practice with a few clean one leg stunts on both sides, then move to low switch drills before attempting the full skill. Celebrate small improvements, like a smoother pop or a quicker catch. If a repetition feels off, bring the flyer down, talk it through and reset rather than forcing another attempt.
Common tick tock mistakes
| Mistake | What happens | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Flyer bends or loosens | Uncontrolled switch and wobbly catch | Tightness drills and ground switches |
| Pop goes forward | Flyer travels away from the bases | Drive straight up from the legs |
| Mistimed pop | Uneven release and difficult catch | Clear counts and synchronized dips |
| Switching too early or late | Missed foot placement | Practice timing on the ground |
| Back spot out of position | Less protection during release | Stay close with eyes on the flyer |
| Rushing to extended level | Higher risk of falls | Master prep level first |
Rulebook note: tick tocks involve a release, and release moves are regulated by level and governing body. School programs in many states follow the NFHS Spirit Rules and all star programs follow USASF rules. Confirm the current rules for your level before adding a tick tock to a routine.
Health note
Health note: release stunts increase the risk of falls and injuries. Practice only on proper mats with a qualified coach, extra spotters when learning and a clear plan for bringing the flyer down safely. Any athlete who hits their head or shows signs of concussion should stop and be evaluated by a medical professional.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called a tick tock?
The quick leg switch looks like a clock pendulum swinging from one side to the other.
What is the hardest part of a tick tock?
Timing. The pop, switch and catch must happen together, which requires consistent counts and a tight flyer.
Can beginners do a tick tock?
No. It is an intermediate to advanced skill that should only follow consistent liberties on both legs and coach approval.
