Quick answer: a herkie is an asymmetrical cheer jump with one leg extended straight out to the side and the other bent behind the body - one of the oldest named jumps in cheerleading, credited to its creator, Lawrence Herkimer.
What Does It Look Like?
One leg extends straight out to the side at hip height or above, toes pointed, while the other leg bends behind the body with the knee pointing down. The asymmetrical shape distinguishes it clearly from a symmetrical jump like the toe touch.
How the Term Is Used
"Herkie" refers specifically to this one-leg-extended, one-leg-bent shape, and is named after Lawrence Herkimer, a foundational figure in the history of organised cheerleading.
Where It Fits in a Routine
Herkies commonly appear within a routine's jump sequence, often used to add visual variation alongside symmetrical jumps like a toe touch, or connected into a jump combination.
What Judges Look For
Judges are generally looking for full extension of the straight leg, a clean bent-leg shape on the other side, good height, and - as with all jumps - the whole team landing the shape in unison.
Related Jumps
The herkie is often shown alongside the toe touch and the hurdler, which shares a similar one-leg-extended shape but facing forward rather than to the side.