The Role of the Backspot & Why It’s So Important

Backspots: the unsung heroes who hold the team (and the stunt) together.

In the world of cheerleading, flyers often get the attention—the dazzling skills, the big smiles, the gravity-defying moments that light up the crowd. But behind every incredible stunt is a backspot, working quietly, confidently, and tirelessly to make sure everything stays safe and hits sharp. The backspot’s role is one of the most crucial positions in stunting, and it’s time we shine a light on why it matters so much and how to become the best backspot you can be.

At its core, the backspot is the anchor of the stunt group. While bases provide the primary lifting power, it’s the backspot who adds stability, control, and safety from start to finish. From the initial load-in to the cradle, the backspot’s hands are on the flyer, helping absorb the impact, correct body lines, and provide crucial balance adjustments. Without a strong, focused backspot, even the best flyers and bases can struggle to hit clean, confident stunts.

One of the most important jobs of a backspot is watching everything— not just their own flyer, but the entire group. Backspots are like the eyes in the back of the stunt. They communicate with the bases, call counts, make adjustments when grips slip or weight shifts, and often act as the first line of defense when a stunt starts to go wrong. Great backspots have a calm, focused mindset. They’re alert to every detail, from the flyer’s hips and feet to the base grips and timing. This role demands excellent body awareness, strong communication, and the ability to react in a split second without panicking.

Physical strength is another key element. A great backspot is not just there to touch the ankles—they’re actively lifting, guiding, and absorbing force. They help push the flyer into the air during the load-in, provide lift through extended stunts, and help control the cradle and dismount. Backspots also play a huge role in keeping the flyer’s technique sharp, gently adjusting ankles or calves to keep body lines straight and centered. This requires not only muscle, but precision and control—two things that can only be developed through intentional practice.

But perhaps the most underrated skill of a backspot is trust-building. Flyers need to know their backspot is there no matter what. Bases need to feel confident that the backspot has their backs (literally) if things get shaky. Coaches rely on backspots to hold the team together when pressure is on. The best backspots understand that their role isn’t about standing behind—it’s about being fully present and connected to their group at all times. That trust doesn’t just happen; it’s built through consistency, hard work, and a team-first mindset.

If you’re looking to become the best backspot on your team, focus on mastering the basics first. Show up ready to work on grip strength, timing, communication, and flexibility. Pay attention to details—where your hands go, how you push, how you absorb impact. Ask your coaches for feedback. Watch video of great backspots and study their technique. And above all, remember that a backspot’s job is never about personal glory. It’s about making the group stronger, safer, and more successful as a whole.

For parents of backspot athletes, it’s important to understand just how demanding this role is, both physically and mentally. Backspots carry a lot of responsibility, often with little recognition, and that can sometimes feel frustrating or overlooked. Parents can support their backspot by reminding them how valuable their role is to the team, praising their focus and hard work, and helping them care for their body with good recovery habits, especially after intense practices. Encouraging conversations about teamwork and leadership can also help backspots develop the quiet confidence that makes them so effective in their role. Trust us—your backspot may not always be in the spotlight, but they are absolutely the glue holding the team together.

For athletes, becoming a standout backspot means going beyond just “showing up” at practice. Focus on developing strong, consistent grips, quick reactions, and clear communication with your group. Always keep your eyes up and stay connected to the stunt—you are the team’s safety net. Be proactive: help count, give calm feedback to your bases and flyer, and stay steady under pressure. Most importantly, take pride in your role. The best backspots know they’re making every teammate better, stronger, and more confident, even if they’re not the ones soaring through the air.

In the end, the backspot may not always get the biggest cheers or the flashiest moments—but make no mistake: they are the heart of the stunt group. Without a strong, skilled, and trusted backspot, the entire pyramid wobbles. So here’s to the backspots—the quiet leaders, the protectors, and the ultimate team players who hold it all together, one stunt at a time.