What Is a Scale in Cheerleading?

Quick answer: a scale is a single-leg stunt position in which the flyer leans the torso forward while extending the free leg straight up and back, creating a horizontal, T-like shape - closely related to, and sometimes used interchangeably with, an arabesque.

What Does It Look Like?

The flyer balances on one leg with the torso tilted forward, arms typically extended out to the sides or forward for balance, while the free leg lifts straight up behind the body. The overall shape is close to horizontal, resembling a scale balancing on a single point.

Who Is Involved?

A scale is built by a stunt group - a flyer, a main base supporting the standing leg, an assisting base, and a back spot.

Where It Fits in a Routine

Scales commonly appear as a stand-alone stunt or as one position within a sequence of single-leg skills, often shown alongside an arabesque for a similar visual line.

How the Term Is Used

"Scale" and "arabesque" are used somewhat interchangeably by different gyms and regions, though some distinguish them by arm position or the exact height of the extended leg - terminology here varies more than most other stunt names.

Related Skills

The scale is closely related to the arabesque, and both are typically built from a liberty or extension.

Level / Division Context

Under the USASF All Star rules (2026–27), a scale follows the same height rules as other single-leg stunts: prep level from Level 2, extended from Level 3. Teams usually add scales once they are confident with libertys and have the flexibility and core control for the forward-leaning shape.

What Judges Look For Conceptually

Judges are generally looking for a stable single-leg base, a controlled, level torso lean, and a clean overall line rather than a wobbly or rushed position.