Tips for being a better base
- Trust - This can't be stressed enough. You must trust your squad members and them you.
- Confidence - Know you can do it. Be confident and have a good attitude.
- Use Your Legs and Arms - Lift with your legs, that is where the majority of your strength should come from. It should progress from your legs to your shoulders and then your arms.
- Keep Your Back Straight - Bending your back or leaning will cause you to use your back to lift and may cause injuries to it.
- Timing - Bases must be in time with each other, they have to know when to dip, when to step and when to lock. Practice this without a flyer actually going up to avoid injuries. Synchronize your moves and make sure everyone knows what to do and when to do it.
- Foot Placement - Keep your feet shoulder-width apart to stabilize yourself and the stunt.
- Placement of Bases - Bases should stand no further than the flyer's shoulder width apart from each other.
- Don't talk during a stunt. Only the coach or person calling the stunt should talk.
- Know how to catch your flyer. Although this is technically the spotters job, a good base should be capable of catching the flyer and assisting. The flyer should never fall and hit the ground.
- Be prepared and alert at all times. Maintain good eye contact on the stunt and don't become distracted. Stay focused regardless of what is going on around you.
- Practice good safety guidelines. Safety should be your top priority.
- Smile and have fun.