- Category
- Tumbling
- Type
- Tumbling
- Typical level
- Level 1 upward; handsprings from Level 2 (USASF)
Quick answer: running tumbling is tumbling performed with a run-up, typically starting with a roundoff to build momentum before moving into skills such as a back handspring or airborne pass - generally considered more advanced than the equivalent standing version.
What Does It Look Like?
A running tumbling pass begins with a short run, converts into a roundoff, and flows directly into further connected skills - for example a roundoff, back handspring, back tuck sequence. The added speed and momentum from the run generally allow for higher, more powerful skills than a standing start.
Who Is Involved?
Tumbling is performed individually, though in a routine multiple athletes typically perform their running passes at the same time, in the same direction, as part of a coordinated tumbling section.
Where It Fits in a Routine
Running tumbling usually appears in a dedicated tumbling section of the routine, where the formation allows enough space for a run-up, and is one of the more heavily weighted difficulty elements judges assess.
How the Term Is Used
"Running" describes the run-up entry - for example, a "running back handspring" or a full "running pass" that connects several skills together using that initial momentum.
Related Skills
Running tumbling builds on the same foundational skills used in standing tumbling - roundoffs, handsprings and airborne skills - connected together using a run-up for extra power.
Level / Division Context
Under the USASF All Star rules (2026–27), running tumbling exists at every level. Level 1 allows non-airborne skills such as cartwheels and roundoffs; Level 2 adds running handsprings such as a roundoff back handspring; Level 3 adds a back tuck; Level 4 adds other non-twisting flips such as layouts and whips; and twisting arrives at Level 5.
What Judges Look For Conceptually
Judges are generally looking for controlled speed and power from the run-up, correct technique through each connected skill, straight body lines, and a controlled landing at the end of the pass.
| Standing Tumbling | Running Tumbling | |
|---|---|---|
| Start | Stationary, no run-up | Uses a run and roundoff for momentum |
| First flip allowed (USASF) | Level 4 (standing tuck) | Level 3 (running back tuck) |
| Example | Standing back handspring | Roundoff into a back handspring pass |
Cheer stunts and tumbling should be learned with qualified supervision, appropriate equipment and proper progressions. This site explains terminology and concepts; it is not a substitute for coaching.
Checked against: USASF All Star Cheer Rules and Cheer Age Grid, 2026–27 (updated 18 May 2026) on 15 October 2026