Level 2 Cheerleading Explained

Quick answer: Level 2 is where back handsprings arrive - a single standing back handspring, plus running handsprings such as a roundoff back handspring. In stunts it adds single-leg positions such as a liberty at prep (shoulder) height, two-leg extensions, and the first toss, a straight ride. Flips, extended single-leg stunts and release moves are still not allowed.

What Does This Level Mean?

Level 2 is the second step in the competitive cheer level system, for athletes who are consistent with Level 1 fundamentals and ready for their first airborne tumbling and higher stunts.

The details below follow the USASF All Star Cheer Rules for 2026–27. Other governing bodies and event producers can differ.

Typical Stunt Categories

• Single-leg stunts at prep level, such as a prep-level liberty. A single-leg stunt may pass straight through an extended position but can't be held there.
• Two-leg extended stunts, such as an extension.
• Twisting up to a half twist (plus a full-twisting log roll that starts and ends in a cradle).
• Tosses: a straight ride only.
• Inversions only at ground level, moving directly into a non-inverted position.
• No release moves other than dismounts, tosses and log rolls.

Typical Tumbling Categories

• Standing: a single back handspring (or front handspring). Back handsprings in series are not allowed from a standing start.
• Running: handsprings in series, such as roundoff back handspring back handspring.
• No flips (tucks, layouts or other saltos), and no twisting or turning after a back handspring step-out.

Jumps and Motions

Jumps and motions aren't restricted by level. Expectations simply rise: cleaner jump technique, and sharp, consistent motions across the whole routine.

What Changes From the Previous Level?

Compared with Level 1, the headline changes are back handsprings (standing and running), prep-level single-leg stunts, extensions and the straight-ride toss.

What Changes at the Next Level?

Level 3 introduces the first flips - a back tuck at the end of a running pass - along with standing back handspring series, extended single-leg stunts such as an extended liberty, the first release moves, and tosses with one trick.

Division / Governing Body Differences

Exact skill lists for Level 2 vary between governing bodies and competition providers, and are updated every season. Always check the current official rules for your team's governing body.

Parent Questions

Parents often ask what really separates Level 1 from Level 2. In short: back handsprings, and stunts that go higher (single legs at shoulder height and two-leg extensions). Because a team's level reflects what the team as a whole can do, a Level 2 team doesn't need every athlete to have a standing back handspring - but it's the skill most Level 2 athletes work towards.

Related Levels

See Level 1, Level 3, or the levels hub for the full system.