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rules update

08-09 Age Grid in printable pdf format Click here
08-09 Cheer Rules in printable pdf format Click here
08-09 Cheer Glossary in printable pdf format Click Here

2009-2010 Cheer Rules Click Here

2009-2010 Age Grid Click Here

General Safety Rules and Routine Requirements
Level	Tumbling
1	General	Standing	Running	Stunts	Pyramids	Dismounts	Tosses
2	General	Standing	Running	Stunts	Pyramids	Dismounts	Tosses
3	General	Standing	Running	Stunts	Pyramids	Dismounts	Tosses
4	General	Standing	Running	Stunts	Pyramids	Dismounts	Tosses
5	General	Standing	Running	Stunts	Pyramids	Dismounts	Tosses
6	General	Standing	Running	Stunts	Pyramids	Dismounts	Tosses
Glossary

	LEGEND: RED, BOLD FONT ~ ADJUSTED RULES!!! Please read these carefully as anything highlighted in red is a deliberate change to the current rules that were decided upon at the USASF Rules Interpretation Meeting in August. Please contact Les Stella (Les.stella@gmail.com) or Justin Carrier (JCarrier@nationalspirit.com) for further explanation with regards to any of these topics. BLACK, BOLD FONT Anything bolded in black includes updates, changes, and clarifications to the 08-09 Rules in comparison to the 07-08 Rules. BLUE, BOLD FONT YELLOW HIGHLIGHT Anything bolded in blue includes newly discovered clarifications to the current rules in addition to a handful of minor typos that were overlooked when the 08-09 Rules were published. These rules haven't changed. However, they have been clarified and simplified for easier understanding.

	General Safety Rules and Routine Requirements
1.	All teams must be supervised during all official functions by a qualified director/coach.
2.	Coaches must require proficiency before skill progression. Coaches must consider the individual, group, and team skill levels with regard to proper performance level placement.
3.	All teams, gyms, coaches and directors should have an emergency response plan in the event of an injury.
4.	Athletes and coaches may not be under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, performance enhancing substances, or over-the-counter medications while participating in a practice or performance that would hinder the ability to supervise or execute a routine safely.
5.	Athletes must always practice and perform on an appropriate surface.
6.	Soft-soled shoes must be worn while competing. No dance shoes/boots, and/or gymnastics slippers (or similar) allowed. Shoes must have a solid sole.
7.	Jewelry of any kind including but not limited to ear, nose, tongue, belly button and facial rings, clear plastic jewelry, bracelets, necklaces and pins on uniforms are prohibited. Jewelry must be removed and may not be taped over. (Exception: medical ID tags/bracelets, and uniform rhinestones. Rhinestones are illegal when adhered to the skin as opposed to a uniform. Temporary tattoos are also allowed.)
8.	Any height increasing apparatus used to propel a competitor is prohibited. (Exception: spring floor)
9.	Flags, banners, signs, pom pons, megaphones, and pieces of cloth are the only props allowed. Props with poles or similar support apparatus may not be used in conjunction with any kind of stunt or tumbling. All props must be safely discarded out of harms way (e.g. throwing a hard sign across the mat from a stunt would be illegal). Any uniform piece purposefully removed from the body and used for visual effect will be considered a prop.
10.	Casts that are hard and unyielding or have rough edges must be appropriately covered with a padded material. Clarification: The appropriately padded material must be such that it protects both the athlete and fellow athletes from injury.
11.	On the level grid, all skills allowed for a particular level encompass all skills allowed in the preceding level.
12.	Required spotters for all levels must be your own team's members.
13.	Drops including but not limited to knee, seat, thigh, front, back, and split drops from a jump, stunt, or inverted position are prohibited unless the majority of the weight is first borne on the hands/feet, which breaks the impact of the drop. Shushinovas are allowed.
14.	Competition routines shall not exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
15.	Athletes must have at least one foot, hand or body part (other than hair) on the performing surface when the routine begins. Exception: Athletes may have their feet in the hands of base(s) if the base(s) hands are resting on the performing surface.

Level 1 Rules

Level 1 General Tumbling

All tumbling must originate from and land on the performing surface. (Exception: Tumbler may [without hip-over-head rotation] rebound from his/her feet into a stunt transition. Rebounding to a prone position in a stunt is allowed.)

Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.

Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.

Assisted, or connected tumbling is not allowed.

Dive rolls are not allowed.

Level 1 Standing/Running Tumbling

Skills must involve constant physical contact with the performing surface. (Exception: block cartwheels/round offs) Tumbling skills must involve hand support with both hands when passing through the inverted position.

Forward and backward rolls, front and back walkovers, and handstands are allowed.

Cartwheels and round offs are allowed.

Front and back handsprings are not allowed.

Level 1 Stunts

A spotter is required for all stunts at shoulder level and above (exception: shoulder sits and straddle sits). (Example: suspended splits, flat-bodied positions, extension preps, etc). Clarification: The center base in an extended v-sit may be considered a spotter as long as they are in a position to protect the head and shoulders of the top person.

Extended stunts are not allowed (see definition of extended stunts in glossary). A stunt may not be held at or pass through an extended position. Clarification: If it is obvious to the safety judge that the intent of the stunt group is to gain a competitive advantage by passing through an extended position, then it is a violation of this rule. Taking the top person above the head of the bases would be illegal.

Single leg stunts are only allowed below shoulder (prep) level. Clarification: If the primary bases squat, go to their knees or drop the overall height of the stunt and hold the top person at their shoulder level, this skill would be considered shoulder level and therefore illegal, regardless of the back spot's positioning.

Twisting stunts and transitions are allowed up to 1/4 twist by the top person.

During transitions, all bases need to remain in contact with the stunt. Transitional stunts may not involve changing bases.

Free flipping or assisted flipping stunts and transitions are not allowed.

No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (example: shoulder sits walking under prep).

Pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts, where the top person falls away from the original bases, must use at least three stationary catchers, at least two of which are not original bases. Physical contact must be maintained with all of the original base(s).

Single based split catches are not allowed.

Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.

L1 Stunts - Release Moves
	1.	Release moves are not allowed other than those allowed at Level 1 in "Dismounts".
	2.	Release moves may not land in a prone position.
	3.	Release moves must return to original bases.
	4.	Helicopters are not allowed.
	5.	A single full twisting log/barrel roll is not allowed.
	6.	Release moves may not intentionally travel.

L1 Stunts - Inversions
	1.	All inversions must maintain contact with the performance surface (Example: supported handstand).

Level 1 Pyramids

Pyramids must follow Level 1 "Stunts" and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.

Top person must receive primary support from a base.

Two leg extended stunts
	1.	Two leg extended stunts must be braced by at least two persons at prep level or below with hand/arm connection only.
	2.	The connection must be made at or below prep level.

Single leg stunts at prep level
	1.	Single leg stunts at prep level must be braced by at least two persons at prep level or below with hand/arm connection only.
	2.	The connection must be made prior to executing single leg stunt and must be made at or below prep level.

No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual.

Level 1 Dismounts

Cradles from single based stunts at prep level must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Cradles from multi-based stunts at prep level must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids at prep level must be assisted by an original base.

Only straight pop downs and basic straight cradles are allowed.

Twisting dismounts (including 1/4 turns) are not allowed.

No dismounts are allowed from extended stunts in pyramids.

No free flipping or assisted flipping dismounts allowed.

Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.

When cradling single based double awesome/cupies, 2 catchers must catch each top person.

Level 1 Tosses

No tosses allowed.

Level 2 Rules

Level 2 General Tumbling

Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.

Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.

Assisted, or connected tumbling is not allowed.

Dive rolls:
1.	Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed.
2.	Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed.

Level 2 Standing Tumbling

Flips and aerials are not allowed.

Series front and back handsprings are not allowed. Clarification: A back walk over into a back handspring is allowed.

Jump skills in immediate combination with handspring(s) are not allowed. (Example: toe touch handsprings and handspring toe touches)

Non-airborne skills must involve hand support with at least one hand when passing through the inverted position. Example: Front and back walkovers, cartwheels and round offs

Airborne skills must involve hand support with both hands when passing through the inverted position. Example: Front and back handsprings

No twisting while airborne. (Exception: Round offs)

Level 2 Running Tumbling

Flips and aerials are not allowed.

Series front and back handsprings are allowed.

Airborne skills must involve hand support with at least one hand when passing through the inverted position.

No twisting while airborne. (Exception: Round offs)

Level 2 Stunts

A spotter is required for all extended stunts.

Single leg stunts may not be held at or pass through an extended position.
Clarifications:
	1.	If it is obvious to the safety judge that the intent of the stunt group is to gain a competitive advantage by passing through an extended position, than it is a violation of this rule. Taking the top person above the head of the bases would be illegal.
	2.	If the primary bases squat, go to their knees or drop the overall height of the stunt while extending their arms, this skill would be considered extended and therefore illegal, regardless of the back spot's positioning.

Twisting mounts and transitions are allowed up to a total of 1/2 twist between the bases and the top person combined. Clarification: a half twist performed with an additional half turn by the bases would be illegal if performed simultaneously.

During transitions, at least one base must remain in contact with the top person.

Free flipping or assisted flipping stunts and transitions are not allowed.

No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).

Single based split catches are not allowed.

Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.

Log rolls are allowed and may only be assisted by a base. Clarification: The log roll may not be assisted by another top person.

L2 Stunts - Release Moves
	1.	No release moves allowed other than those allowed at Level 2 in "Dismounts" and "Tosses."
	2.	Release moves may not land in a prone position.
	3.	Release moves must return to original bases.
	4.	Helicopters are not allowed.
	5.	A single full twisting log/barrel roll is allowed as long as it starts and ends in a cradle position. Clarification: Log/Barrel roll must return to original bases and may not include any skill other than the twist (ex: no kick full twists).
	6.	Release moves may not intentionally travel.

L2 Stunts - Inversions
	1.	All inversions must maintain contact with the performance surface. Exception: Transitions from ground level inversions to non-inverted positions are allowed. Clarifications: Legal: Going from a handstand on the ground to a non-inverted stunt such as a shoulder sit. Illegal: Going from a cradle to a handstand or from a prone position to a forward roll.

Level 2 Pyramids

Pyramids must follow Level 2 "Stunts" and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.

Top persons must receive primary support from a base. Clarification: Anytime a top person is released by the bases during a pyramid transition, the top person must land in a cradle or dismount to the performing surface.

Extended single leg stunts may not brace or be braced by any other extended stunts.

No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).

Extended single-leg stunts
	1.	must be braced by two top persons at prep level or below.
	2.	The connection to the braces can be hand or foot and must be established at or below prep level.
	3.	Prep level top persons must have both feet in bases hands. (Exception: shoulder sit, double base thigh stand or shoulder stand)

Level 2 Dismounts

Cradles from single based stunts at prep level and above must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Cradles from multi-based stunts at prep level and above must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids from prep level and above must be assisted by an original base.

Only straight pop downs, basic straight cradles and 1/4 turns are allowed.

Twisting dismounts exceeding 1/4 turn are not allowed. All other positions (e.g. toe touch, pike, tuck, etc) are not allowed.

Cradles from extended single leg stunts in pyramids are allowed.

No free flipping or assisted flipping dismounts allowed.

Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.

When cradling single based double awesomes/cupies, 2 catchers must catch each top person. Catchers and bases must be stationary prior to the initiation of the dismount.

Level 2 Tosses

Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss.

Tosses must be performed from ground level and must land in a cradle position. Top person must be caught in a cradle position by at least 3 original bases one of which is positioned at the head and shoulder area of the top person. Bases must remain stationary during the toss (i.e. No intentional traveling tosses).

Flipping, inverted or traveling tosses are not allowed.

No stunt, pyramid, individual, or, prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props.

The only body positions allowed are straight rides.

During the straight body ride, the top person may use different arm variations such as (but not limited to) a salute or blowing a kiss but must keep the legs and body in the straight ride position.

Level 3 Rules

Level 3 General Tumbling

Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.

Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.

Assisted, or connected tumbling is not allowed. Clarification: double cartwheels and double forward rolls are allowed because they will be interpreted as stunts, not assisted tumbling.

Dive rolls:

1. Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed.

2. Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed.

Level 3 Standing Tumbling

Flips are not allowed.

Series front and back handsprings are allowed.

Airborne skills must involve hand support with at least one hand when passing through the inverted position.

No twisting while airborne (Exception: round offs).

Level 3 Running Tumbling

Flips:
1.	Flips may ONLY be performed in tuck position only from a round off or round off back handspring(s). (Exception: aerial cartwheels, running tuck fronts, and 3/4 front flips are allowed). The following tumbling skills are examples of skills not allowed: X-outs, layouts, layout step outs, whips, pikes, aerial walkovers, and arabians.
2.	Other skills with hand support prior to the round off or round off back handspring are allowed. Example: front handsprings and front walkover through to round off back handspring back tucks
3.	Cartwheel tucked flips are not allowed.

No tumbling is allowed after a flip or an aerial cartwheel. (Exception: a forward or backward roll is allowed after a tuck flip; however, no tumbling is allowed after the roll.)

No twisting while airborne. (Exception: round offs)

Level 3 Stunts

A spotter is required for all extended stunts.

Single leg extended stunts are allowed.

Twisting mounts and transitions:
1.	Twisting mounts and transitions are allowed up to one twist by the top person.
2.	Full twisting transitions may land or originate from prep level or below only. (ex: full up to an extended stunt would not be allowed.) Clarification: 3/4 up to an extended stunt or down from an extended stunt is allowed.
3.	Full twisting transitions to/from an extended stunt are not allowed.
	Clarification: a half twist performed with an additional half turn by the bases to an extended position would be illegal if performed simultaneously.

During transitions, at least one base must remain in contact with the top person.

Free flipping stunts and transitions are not allowed.

No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).

Prep level or above pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts where the top person falls away from the bases requires three stationary catchers, at least two of which are not original bases. Physical contact must be maintained with all of the original base(s).

Single based split catches are not allowed.

Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.

L3 Stunts - Release Moves
	1.	No release moves allowed other than those allowed at Level 3 in "Dismounts" and "Tosses." Exception: Single based, coed style toss stunts to prep level are allowed.
	2.	Release moves may not land in a prone position.
	3.	Release moves must return to original bases.
	4.	Helicopters are not allowed.
	5.	A single full twisting log/barrel roll is allowed as long as it starts and ends in a cradle position. Clarification: Log/Barrel roll must return to original bases and may not include any skill other than the twist (ex: no kick full twists).
	6.	Release moves may not intentionally travel.

L3 Stunts - Inversions
	1.	No inverted stunts above shoulder level. (Exception: Double base suspended forward roll dismount to a cradle or the performing surface is allowed) The connection and support of the top person with the base(s) must be at shoulder level or below.
	2.	Downward inversions are only allowed below prep level and must be assisted by at least two bases positioned at the head and shoulder area. Top person must maintain contact with an original base. Clarification: The stunt may not pass through prep level and then become inverted below prep level (the momentum of the top person coming down is the primary safety concern). *Clarification: Catchers must physically catch the top person at the head and shoulder area.*

Level 3 Pyramids

Pyramids must follow Level 3 "Stunts" and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.

Top persons must receive primary support from a base.

Extended single leg stunts may not brace or be braced by any other extended stunts.

No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (ex: shoulder sits walking under prep).

L3 Pyramids - Release Moves
	1.	During a pyramid transition, a top person may pass above 2 persons high while in direct physical contact with at least two persons at prep level or below.
	2.	Top person must remain in direct arm-to-arm contact with at least two different top persons at prep level or below. Clarification: a. Being braced on one side with both arms and the other side by hand-foot connection is NOT allowed. b. If top person is braced on each side with arm-to-arm connection and a THIRD bracer with hand-foot connection, the skill would be legal.
	3.	These release transitions may not involve changing bases.
	4.	These transitions must be caught by at least 2 catchers. a. Both catchers must be stationary. b. Both catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition.

L3 Pyramids - Inversions
	1.	Must follow L3 Stunt Inversions rules

L3 Pyramids - Release Moves w/ Braced Inversions
	1.	Pyramid transitions may not involve inversions while released from the bases.

Level 3 Dismounts

Cradles from single based stunts at prep level and above must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Cradles from multi-based stunts at prep level and above must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids at prep level and above must be assisted by an original base.

Only straight pop downs, basic straight cradles and quarter turns are allowed from any single leg stunt.

Up to 1-1/4 twists are allowed from any two leg stunts.

Up to 1 trick allowed during a dismount from any two leg stunt.

No free flipping dismounts allowed.

Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.

When cradling single based double awesomes/cupies, 2 catchers must catch each top person. Catchers and bases must be stationary prior to the initiation of the dismount.

Level 3 Tosses

Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss.

Flipping, inverted or traveling tosses are not allowed.

No stunt, pyramid, individual, or, prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props.

Up to 1 trick allowed during a toss. Twisting tosses may not exceed 1 twisting rotation. (Legal: toe-touch, ball out, pretty girl, etc...) (Illegal: Switch kick, pretty girl-kick, double toe-touch) Clarification: The "arch" does not count as a trick. Exception: a Ball X is allowed at this level.

During a twisting toss, no skill other than the twist is allowed. (e.g. kick fulls, 1/2 twist toe touches, etc... are not allowed)

Level 4 Rules

Level 4 General Tumbling

Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.

Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.

Assisted, or connected tumbling is not allowed. Clarification: double cartwheels and double forward rolls are allowed because they will be interpreted as stunts, not assisted tumbling.

Dive rolls:

1. Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed.

2. Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed.

Level 4 Standing Tumbling

Standing flips and flips from a back handspring entry are allowed.

Skills are allowed up to 1 flipping and 0 twisting rotations. (Exception: aerial cartwheel, Onodi)

Consecutive flip-flip combinations are not allowed (ex: back tuck-back tuck, back tuck-punch front, etc).

Jump skills are not allowed in immediate combination with a standing flip (Example: toe touch back tucks, back tuck toe touches, pike jump front flips) Clarification: toe touch back handspring back tucks are allowed because the flip skill is not connected immediately after the jump skill.

Level 4 Running Tumbling

Skills are allowed up to 1 flipping and 0 twisting rotations. (Exception: aerial cartwheel, Onodi)

Level 4 Stunts

A spotter is required for all extended stunts.

Single leg extended stunts are allowed.

Twisting mounts and transitions are allowed up to 1-1/2 twists by the top person.

No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).

Free flipping mounts or transitional stunts are not allowed.

During transitions, at least one base must remain in contact with the top person. (Exception: See "Release Moves")

Single based split catches are not allowed.

Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.

L4 Stunts - Release Moves
	1.	Release moves are allowed but must not exceed extended arm level (exception: cradles). (i.e. Tick-tocks are allowed.)
	2.	Release moves may not land in a prone position.
	3.	Release moves must return to original bases.
	4.	Helicopters are not allowed.
	5.	Release moves may not intentionally travel.

L4 Stunts - Inversions
	1.	Extended inverted stunts allowed. Also, see "Stunts"and "Pyramids".
	2.	Downward inversions are allowed at prep level or below and must be assisted by at least three bases, at least two of which are positioned to protect the head and shoulder area. Clarification: The stunt may not pass above prep level and then become inverted at prep level. (The momentum of the top person coming down is the primary safety concern.) *Clarification: Catchers must make contact with the head and shoulder area.*
	3.	Downward inversions must maintain contact with an original base.
	4.	RULE ADJUSTMENT~~: Downward inversions from prep level or above may not land in an inverted position.~~ Clarification: Downward inversions from prep level that land in an inverted position ARE NOW ALLOWED this season.

Level 4 Pyramids

Pyramids must follow Level 4 "Stunts" and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.

Top persons must receive primary support from a base.

Extended single leg stunts may not brace or be braced by any other extended stunts.

1.	No stunt or pyramid may move over or under another separate stunt or pyramid (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).
2.	In a pyramid transition, a top person may travel over another top person while connected to that top person at prep level or below.

E.	L4 Pyramids Release Moves
		1.	During a pyramid transition, a top person may pass above 2 persons high while in direct physical contact with at least one person at prep level or below.
		2.	Primary weight may not be borne at second level. Clarification: The transition must be continuous.
		3.	Non-inverted pyramid release moves must be caught by at least 2 catchers. a. RULE ADJUSTMENT: In pyramids where the top person travels over their bracer (i.e. leap frogs or wolf wall transitions), both catchers must be stationary. b. Both catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition.
		4.	Non-inverted transitional pyramids may involve changing bases. When changing bases: a. The top person must maintain physical contact with a person at prep level or below. b. The top person must be caught by at least 2 catchers. Both catchers must be stationary and may not be involved with any other skill or choreography when the transition is initiated.
F.	L4 Pyramids- Inversions
		1.	Must follow L4 Stunt Inversions rules.
G.	L4 Pyramids - Release Moves w/ Braced Inversions
		1.	Pyramid transitions may involve braced inversions (including braced flips) while released from the bases if contact is maintained with at least 2 persons at prep level or below. Contact must be maintained throughout entire transition with either the top person(s) or the base(s).
		2.	Braced inversions (including braced flips) are allowed up to 1-1/4 flipping rotations, 0 twisting rotations.
		3.	Braced inversions (including braced flips) may not involve changing bases.
		4.	Braced inversions (including braced flips) must be in continuous movement.
		5.	All braced inversions (including braced flips) must be caught by at least 3 catchers. a. All catchers must be stationary b. All catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition. c. The 3 catchers may not be involved with any other skill or choreography when the transition is initiated.
		6.	Braced inversions (including braced flips) may not travel downward while inverted.

Level 4 Dismounts

Cradles from single based stunts at prep level and above must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Cradles from multi-based stunts at prep level and above must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids prep level and above must be assisted by an original base.

Up to a 2-1/4 twisting rotation allowed from all two legged stunts.

Up to a 1-1/4 twisting rotation allowed from all single leg stunts.

During a cradle that exceeds 1-1/4 twists, no skill other than the twist is allowed.

No free flipping dismounts allowed.

Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.

When cradling single based double awesomes/cupies 2 catchers must catch each top person. Catchers and bases must be stationary prior to the initiation of the dismount.

Level 4 Tosses

Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss.

Flipping, inverted or traveling tosses are not allowed.

No stunt, pyramid, individual, or, prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props.

Up to 2 tricks allowed during a toss. (e.g. kick full, full up toe touch, etc.)

During a toss that exceeds 1-1/2 twisting rotations, no skill other than the twist is allowed. (e.g. kick doubles are not allowed)

Tosses may not exceed 2 twisting rotations.

Level 5 Rules

Level 5 General Tumbling

Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.

Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.

Assisted, or connected tumbling is not allowed. Clarification: double cartwheels and double forward rolls are allowed because they will be interpreted as stunts, not assisted tumbling.

Dive rolls:

1. Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed.

2. Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed.

Level 5 Standing/Running Tumbling

Skills are allowed up to 1 flipping and 2 twisting rotations.

Level 5 Stunts

A spotter is required for all extended stunts.

Single leg extended stunts are allowed.

Twisting mounts and twisting transitions are allowed up to 2 twisting rotations by the top person.

Free flipping stunts or transitional are not allowed.

RULE ADJUSTMENT: ~~No stunt or pyramid may move over or under another stunt or pyramid. (ex: shoulder sits walking under prep).~~ This rule no longer exists.

Single based split catches are not allowed.

Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.

L5 Stunts - Release Moves
	1.	Release moves are allowed but must not exceed more than eighteen inches above extended arm level. (Example: Tic-tocks are allowed.)
	2.	Release moves may not land in a prone position.
	3.	Release moves must return to original bases.
	4.	Helicopters are allowed up to a 180 degree rotation with a 1/2 twist and must be caught by at least 3 catchers, one of which is positioned at head and shoulder area of the top person.
	5.	Release moves may not intentionally travel.

L5 Stunts - Inversions
	1.	Extended inverted stunts allowed. Also, see "Stunts" and "Pyramids".
	2.	Downward inversions are allowed from prep level and above and must be assisted by at least three bases, at least two of which are positioned to protect the head and shoulder area. Contact must be initiated at the shoulder level (or above) of the bases. (Exception: A controlled powerpressing of an extended inverted stunt (i.e. needle) to shoulder level is allowed). *Clarification: Catchers must make contact with the head and shoulder area.*
	3.	Downward inversions must maintain contact with an original base.
	4.	RULE ADJUSTMENT: Downward inversions from above prep level may not be caught and/or land in an inverted position. Clarification: Top person may not be caught or land with their shoulders below their hips.

Level 5 Pyramids

Pyramids must follow Level 5 "Stunts" and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.

Top persons must receive primary support from a base.

C.	L5 Pyramids - Release Moves
		1.	During a pyramid transition, a top person may pass above 2 persons high while in direct physical contact with at least one person at prep level or below.
		2.	Primary weight may not be borne at second level. Clarification: The transition must be continuous.
		3.	Non-inverted pyramid release moves must be caught by at least 2 catchers. a. RULE ADJUSTMENT: In pyramids where the top person travels over their bracer (i.e. leap frogs or wolf wall transitions), both catchers must be stationary. b. Both catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition.
		4.	Non inverted transitional pyramids may involve changing bases When changing bases: a. The top person must maintain physical contact with a person at prep level or below. b. The top person must be caught by at least 2 catchers. Both catchers must be stationary and may not be involved with any other skill or choreography when the transition is initiated.
D.	L5 Pyramids - Inversions
		1.	Must follow L5 Stunt Inversions rules.
E.	L5 Pyramids - Release Moves w/ Braced Inversions
		1.	Pyramid transitions may involve braced inversions (including braced flips) while released from the bases if contact is maintained with at least 1 persons at prep level or below. Contact must be maintained throughout entire transition with either the top person(s) or the base(s).
		2.	Braced inversions (including braced flips) are allowed up to 1-1/4 flipping rotations.
		3.	Braced inversions (including braced flips) are allowed up to 1 twist if contact is maintained with 2 top persons at prep level or below.
		4.	Inverted transitional pyramids may involve changing bases.
		5.	Braced inversions (including braced flips) must be in continuous movement.
		6.	All braced inversions (including braced flips) must be caught by at least 3 catchers. a. All catchers must be stationary. b. All catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition. c. The 3 catchers may not be involved with any other skill or choreography when the transition is initiated.
		7.	Braced inversions (including braced flips) may not travel downward while inverted.

Level 5 Dismounts

Cradles from single based stunts at prep level and above must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Cradles from multi-based stunts at prep level and above must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.

Dismounts to the performing surface must be assisted by an original base.

Up to a 2-1/4 twisting rotation allowed from all stunts.

No free flipping dismounts allowed.

Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.

When cradling single based double awesomes/cupies 2 catchers must catch each top person.

Level 5 Tosses

Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss.

Flipping, inverted or traveling tosses are not allowed.

No stunt, pyramid, individual, or prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props.

Up to 2-1/2 twisting rotations allowed.

Level 6 Rules

Level 6 General Tumbling

Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.

Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.

Assisted, or connected tumbling is not allowed.

Dive rolls:

1. Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed.

2. Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed.

Level 6 Standing/Running Tumbling

Skills are allowed up to 1 flipping and 2 twisting rotations.

Level 6 Stunts

A spotter is required:

1. During extended one-arm stunts other than an extension, awesomes/cupies or liberties

2. When the load/transition involves a twist or flip

Twisting stunts and transitions are allowed up to 2 twisting rotations by the top person.

Free flipping or assisted flipping stunts and transitions are allowed. Rewinds must originate from ground level only and are allowed up to 1 flipping and 2 twisting rotations. Exception: Rewinds to a cradle position are allowed. RULE ADJUSTMENT: All free flipping transitions caught at shoulder level or below must use an additional catcher who protects the head and neck. (example: a flip that lands in a straddle position requires a hands-on spotter)

Transitional stunts may involve changing bases.

Single based split catches are not allowed.

Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person

RULE ADJUSTMENT: ~~No stunt or pyramid may move over or under another stunt or pyramid. (ex: shoulder sits walking under prep).~~ This rule no longer exists.

L6 Stunts - Release Moves
	1.	Release moves are allowed.
	2.	Release moves may not land in a prone position.
	3.	Release moves must return to original bases.
	4.	Helicopters are allowed up to a 180 degree rotation with a 1/2 twist and must be caught by at least 3 catchers, one of which is positioned at head and shoulder area of the top person.
	5.	Release moves may not intentionally travel.

L6 Stunts - Inversions
	1.	Downward inversions from above prep level must be assisted by at least 2 bases. Top person must maintain contact with a base.

Level 6 Pyramids

Pyramids are allowed up to 2-1/2 high.

For 2-1/2 high pyramids, there must be a spotter in front and back for each person on the top level, and the spotter(s) must be in position the entire time the top person(s) is at the 2-1/2 high level(s) Spotters may stand slightly to the side but must remain in a position to adequately spot the top person. Spotters must maintain visual contact with the top person the entire time the top person is at the 2-1/2 high level. Spotters may not be a primary support of the pyramid.

RULE ADJUSTMENT: Free-flyings mounts must originate from ground level only and are allowed up to 1 flipping and 1 twisting rotation, or 0 flipping and 2 twisting rotations.

L6 Pyramids - Release Moves
	1.	During a pyramid transition, a top person may pass above 2-1/2 high while in direct physical contact with at least one person at prep level or below.

L6 Pyramids - Inversions
	1.	Inverted stunts are allowed up to 2-1/2 persons high and must be braced by at least 1 person at prep level or below.
	2.	Downward inversions from above prep level must be assisted by at least 2 bases. Top person must maintain contact with a base or another top person.

L6 Pyramids - Release Moves w/ Braced Inversions
	1.	Braced flips are allowed up to up to 1-1/4 flipping and 1 twisting rotation.
	2.	Braced flips are allowed if direct physical contact is maintained with at least 1 top person at prep level or below and must be caught by at least 2 catchers.

Level 6 Dismounts

Single based cradles that exceed 1-1/4 twisting rotations must have a spotter assisting the cradle with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder of the top person.

Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids must be assisted.

RULE ADJUSTMENT: Up to a 2-1/4 twist cradle is allowed from all stunts and pyramids up to 2 persons high and requires at least 2 catchers. Cradles from 2-1/2 high pyramids are allowed up to 1-1/4 twist and require 3 catchers. (Exception: 2-1-1 thigh stands may perform 2 twists from a forward facing stunt only. E.g. extension, liberty, heel stretch).

Free flipping ~~skills~~ dismounts are allowed up to 1 flipping and 0 twisting rotations.

Free flipping dismounts to the performance surface are not allowed.

Flips into cradles from prep level or below stunts require at least 2 catchers, one of which is an original base.

Flips that originate above prep level are not allowed. (Exception: 3/4 front flip may occur from a 2-1/2 high pyramid but requires 2 catchers and an additional spotter positioned at the head and shoulder area of the top person. Spotter may stand slightly to the side but must use at least one hand/arm to catch under the top person's head and shoulders.)

Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.

When cradling single based double awesomes/cupies 2 catchers must catch each top person. Catchers and bases must be stationary prior to the initiation of the dismount.

Level 6 Tosses

Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss.

Tosses must be performed from ground level and must land in a cradle position by at least 3 bases, one of which is positioned at the head and shoulders area of the top person.

Flipping tosses are allowed up to 1 flipping rotation and 2 twists.

No stunt, pyramid, individual, or, prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props.

Non-flipping tosses may not exceed 3-1/2 twists.

Top persons tossed to another set of bases must be caught in a cradle position by at least 3 stationary catchers. Catchers may not be involved in any other choreography and must have visual contact with top person when the toss is initiated and must maintain visual contact throughout the entire toss. The toss is allowed up to 0 flipping and 1-1/2 twisting rotations. (Exception: 3/4 front flips with no twists are allowed)