Level 3 Cheerleading Explained

Quick answer: Level 3 is where running tumbling typically enters the picture, alongside more advanced stunt transitions - building on the standing tumbling and single-leg stunts introduced at Level 2.

What Does This Level Mean?

Level 3 generally marks a noticeable jump in athleticism and complexity compared with Levels 1 and 2. Teams at this level are usually expected to show consistent execution across a wider range of stunts, tumbling and jumps, not just the ability to attempt harder skills.

Typical Stunt Categories

Level 3 commonly permits more advanced stunt transitions and a wider range of single-leg positions than Level 2, though most systems still hold back the most advanced release or inversion skills for higher levels.

Typical Tumbling Categories

The clearest marker of Level 3 is usually the introduction of running tumbling - using a run and a roundoff to build into a back handspring or similar pass, rather than only standing tumbling.

Jumps and Motions

Jump combinations and connected jump sequences are often expected to be cleaner and more consistent at Level 3, and routines typically demand sharper, more sustained motion technique across a longer routine.

What Changes From the Previous Level?

Compared with Level 2, the headline change at Level 3 is usually the shift from standing-only tumbling to running tumbling, alongside generally increased stunt and jump difficulty.

What Changes at the Next Level?

Level 4 generally continues to raise tumbling and stunt difficulty, often introducing more advanced pyramid and release-based work.

Division / Governing Body Differences

Exactly what's permitted at Level 3 - and even whether a given governing body uses this exact structure - varies significantly. Some organisations also offer Novice or Prep divisions that cap difficulty below the numbered level regardless of age.

Parent Questions

Parents sometimes ask why Level 3 feels like a bigger jump than Level 1 to 2 - it's usually because running tumbling is a meaningfully different (and higher-risk) skill category from standing tumbling, which is why it's commonly used as the dividing line.

Related Levels

See Level 2, Level 4, or the levels hub for the full system.