What Is an Inversion in Cheerleading?

Quick answer: an inversion is any stunt or pyramid skill in which the flyer's body passes through an upside-down position - head below the hips - at some point during the skill. Inversions are among the highest-risk stunt elements and are generally restricted to higher competitive levels.

What Does It Look Like?

Rather than describing one specific position, "inversion" covers any moment where a flyer's orientation flips upside-down mid-skill - for example during certain advanced release or transition elements - as opposed to the upright positions used in most foundational and intermediate stunts.

Who Is Involved?

Inversions are performed by a full stunt group, or across connected groups in a pyramid, with the flyer moving through the inverted position while bases and back spot manage support and timing extremely precisely.

Where It Fits in a Routine

Because of their difficulty and risk, inversions are typically reserved for a small number of highlight moments in a routine, generally at the most advanced competitive levels.

How the Term Is Used

"Inversion" is a broad classification term used by governing bodies specifically to identify and regulate this category of higher-risk skill, rather than the name of one specific stunt.

Related Skills

Inversions often appear alongside other advanced pyramid techniques such as release moves and braced skills.

Level / Division Context

Under the USASF All Star rules (2026–27), inversions are not allowed at Level 1. Level 2 allows only ground-level inversions that move straight into a non-inverted position, Level 3 allows inverted stunts at prep level or below (and downward inversions from waist level with two catchers), and extended inversions are allowed from Level 4. Spotter and catcher requirements increase at each step - always check your governing body's current rules for the exact conditions.

What Judges Look For Conceptually

Judges are generally looking for complete control through the inverted position, correct technique and support throughout, and a stable, confident recovery - safety and control are weighted especially heavily for skills in this category.