How to Keep From Falling Down at the End of a Toe Touch

Toe touches are often done in cheerleading.

A toe touch is a type of jump often performed in cheerleading and dance routines. To perform a toe touch, an individual jumps into the air and brings his or her legs to a 90-degree angle while reaching the arms to touch the toes. This is not an easy maneuver, and much practice and dedication is required in order to master it. You must train yourself to be flexible and generally fit to be capable of jumping into this position without falling at the end.

Things You'll Need

• Mirror
• Gym shoes with traction

Instructions

1. Wear gym shoes with plenty of traction when practicing toe touches. This will help keep you from slipping when you land.

2. Warm up before beginning to practice toe touch jumps. Stretch your legs so that you are loose and flexible. This will help prevent injuries and increase your balance by putting you in better touch with your body.

3. Perform small jumps the first few times you practice. This is less difficult and makes it easier to land properly because you are not going so far off the ground. Gradually increase the height of the jump and the extension of your arms and legs.

4. Practice in front of a mirror to ensure that you are following proper technique. Monitoring your form can help you determine what you did wrong if you fall down after a jump.

5. Use proper toe touch technique and form. Do not press your chest down to your legs while you are in the air; rather, keep your eyes forward and your chest up. It is easier to keep balanced when you can see what is going on in front of you.

References

• Active.com; Toe Touch Techniques; Kelly Fitzpatrick
• Varsity: Skills and Drills -- Jumps