Quick answer: a lunge is a lower-body position in which one leg steps forward and bends while the other extends straight behind, typically combined with an arm motion - one of the few core "motions" in cheer built primarily from footwork rather than the arms.
What Does It Look Like?
One leg steps forward and bends at the knee, while the other leg extends straight back, weight distributed between both legs, torso upright - commonly paired with an arm position such as a high V to complete the shape.
How the Term Is Used
"Lunge" refers to this specific lower-body position; it's typically named alongside whatever arm motion accompanies it, such as "lunge, high V."
Where It Fits in a Routine
Lunges commonly appear during chants and dance sections, often used to add a grounded, dynamic lower-body element to combine with the upper-body motion vocabulary.
What Judges Look For
Judges are generally looking for a deep, controlled lunge with correct leg bend, a stable upright torso, and matching depth and timing across the team.
Related Motions
Lunges are often paired with motions like the high V, and are also used as part of a team's formation changes for visual variety.