Quick answer: a base is an athlete who supports and lifts the flyer from below. Most stunts use two bases working together, using their legs and arms to create a stable platform for the flyer to stand, sit or be extended above their heads.
What Does the Base Do?
Bases form the foundation of a stunt. Standing side by side, they hold the flyer's foot or feet, generate the lift needed to raise the flyer to shoulder height or above, and hold that position with control until the stunt comes back down.
Because they carry most of the flyer's weight, bases need significant lower-body and shoulder strength, along with the coordination to move in sync with their partner base.
Responsibilities in Stunts
In a two-base stunt, each base typically supports one of the flyer's feet. Their responsibilities include:
- generating a controlled, synchronised lift;
- holding a stable, level platform for the flyer;
- adjusting quickly if the flyer shifts weight or balance;
- working with the back spot to catch the flyer safely on the way down.
Responsibilities in Pyramids
In pyramids, bases may support their own flyer while also bracing or connecting to neighbouring stunts, which asks for awareness of more than just their own stunt group.
Responsibilities in Tosses
In toss skills such as a basket toss, bases work together to generate upward force that sends the flyer into the air, then reposition quickly to help catch the flyer safely on the way down.
Skills Commonly Associated With the Role
Bases are associated with the lifting and support side of stunts - preps, extensions and tosses - rather than the positions the flyer holds once airborne.
How the Role Works With Other Athletes
Bases work as a pair, in close coordination with the flyer above them and the back spot behind them. Some larger stunts also use a front spot for additional support. Together, these athletes make up a stunt group.
Common Misconceptions
Basing is sometimes assumed to be purely about strength. Timing, communication and the ability to make small, constant adjustments matter just as much as raw lifting power.
Can Athletes Change Roles?
Yes. Athletes often move between basing, back spotting and flying as they develop, and many experienced athletes are comfortable in more than one role.
Related Roles
See Flyer, Back Spot and Stunt Group for the rest of the group.