Quick answer: a double nine is a single asymmetrical jump in which one leg extends straight while the other bends at roughly a right angle near the knee, with the arms mirroring the same shape - together forming the outline of the numeral "9" twice over, which gives the jump its name.
What Does It Look Like?
One leg extends fully straight to the side, while the other bends at roughly 90 degrees, foot tucked near the knee. The arms mirror this same shape - one extended, one bent - so that both an arm and a leg trace the outline of a "9," doubling the shape across the body.
How the Term Is Used
"Double nine" refers to this specific asymmetrical shape; it's a less common, more legacy-style jump in cheer's jump vocabulary compared with core jumps like the toe touch or herkie, and naming can vary somewhat between gyms and regions.
Where It Fits in a Routine
A double nine typically appears within a routine's jump sequence alongside other named jumps, adding shape variety rather than serving as a core, universally-used jump.
What Judges Look For
Judges are generally looking for a clean, well-defined "9" shape in both the extended and bent limbs, good height, and consistent team-wide timing.
Related Jumps
The double nine sits alongside other asymmetrical jumps like the herkie in cheer's jump vocabulary, distinguished by its specific mirrored arm-and-leg shape.