The cradle is how every stunt ends safely. Timing is everything.

Equipment needed: Mat. Two bases, one flyer, one spotter behind.

Setup: Flyer is in a shoulder sit (start simple).

How to run it:

  1. Bases call “one, two, down, UP” — on UP, flyer pops upward and back.
  2. Bases catch the flyer with one arm under the back, one arm under the legs.
  3. Spotter behind supports the flyer’s head and shoulders during the catch.
  4. Flyer’s body should be horizontal, eyes up.
  5. Six reps.

What to look for: The catch is synchronized. If bases catch at different moments, the flyer twists. Spotter’s hands cradle the head — never grab the hair.

Variation: Once cradle from shoulder sit is clean, progress to cradle from prep (waist-level stunt).