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Step 1
Stretch your muscles before doing the herkie. Sit with your legs in a straddle position and reach over to touch your toes. Keep your legs straight in the stretch.
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Step 2
Practice the position that you wish to attain in the air on the floor first. Stretch one leg out to the side as you do in a straddle. The other leg bends behind you. Remember that your legs are higher when you jump as opposed to laying flat on the floor.
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Step 3
Extend your arms in a high V to practice the form of your arms in the herkie. You can also hold your arms in a T position. The classic herkie has one arm on your hip and the other arm in a touchdown position over your head. Choose the arm position that you think looks best with your herkie.
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Step 4
Start the cheerleading herkie jump with a prep. Stand on your toes as you extend your arms in a high V over your head. Circle your arms in front of your body and bend your knees. Spring off the floor using the power of your legs and the motion of your arms.
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Step 5
Execute the herkie jump as you spring into the air. Use the same form that you used when you were on the floor. Focus on kicking the straight leg high into the air.
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Step 6
Finish your jump with your legs springing together. Land with bent knees to avoid injury. A clean landing makes your herkie look great.
