Level 4 Cheerleading Explained

Quick answer: Level 4 allows any single non-twisting flip - so running layouts and whips arrive, and tucks can now be thrown from a standing start. In stunts it adds extended inversions, release moves that land at extended height and more twisting, and tosses can include two tricks, such as a kick full. Twisting tumbling is still not allowed.

What Does This Level Mean?

Level 4 sits in the middle of the numbered system. Teams here combine solid technique with a much wider skill set than Level 3: full non-twisting tumbling, bigger stunt transitions and more complex pyramids.

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

Typical Stunt Categories

• Twisting up to 1½ twists into prep-level and extended two-leg stunts, and up to a full twist into an extended single-leg stunt (for example a full-up liberty).
• Release moves may now land at extended height if they start at prep level or below, with up to two skills - which makes skills like an extended switch-up and prep-to-extended tic-tocks possible. Helicopters up to 180 degrees are allowed with extra catchers.
• Inversions at extended height, and downward inversions from prep level with three catchers.
• Tosses with up to two tricks and 2¼ twists, such as a kick full.

Typical Tumbling Categories

• Running: one flip with no twisting - so layouts and whips as well as tucks - plus aerials and Onodis.
• Standing: standing tucks and tucks from a back handspring, and other single non-twisting flips. Nothing may be connected after a standing tuck, and jump flips and consecutive flips aren't allowed.

Jumps and Motions

Jumps and motions aren't restricted by level. Jump sequences are expected to be more difficult and more consistent, and motion technique is judged across a longer, more demanding routine.

What Changes From the Previous Level?

Compared with Level 3, Level 4 adds standing flips, non-tuck running flips (layouts and whips), extended inversions, release moves to extended height, and a second trick in tosses.

What Changes at the Next Level?

Level 5 introduces twisting tumbling - up to a full twist in running tumbling - along with more twisting in stunts, release moves that start and land at extended height, and tosses with up to three tricks.

Division / Governing Body Differences

Level 4 requirements vary between governing bodies and competition providers, and are updated every season. Some event producers also run "Level 4.2" divisions with their own modified skill limits - check the event's own rules if your team competes in one. Always check current official rules for your team's governing body and event.

Parent Questions

Parents sometimes ask whether Level 4 is "halfway" to the top. In a seven-level system it's close to the midpoint by number, but the step up from Level 4 to 5 - the arrival of twisting tumbling - is one of the biggest in the system.

Related Levels

See Level 3, Level 5, or the levels hub for the full system.