Quick answer: a T motion is a position in which both arms extend straight out to the sides at shoulder height, forming the shape of the letter T with the body.
What Does It Look Like?
Both arms extend fully straight out to the sides, level with the shoulders, hands typically in tight fists, creating a straight horizontal line across the body.
How the Term Is Used
"T motion" is named directly for the letter shape it forms with the torso, and is one of the most basic reference positions used when teaching cheer motions.
Where It Fits in a Routine
The T motion is used throughout chants, dances and transitions, and often serves as a benchmark position - coaches frequently use it to check that a team's arm height and angles are matching precisely.
What Judges Look For
Judges are generally looking for arms held perfectly level at shoulder height, full extension, and precise team-wide consistency in angle and timing.
Related Motions
The T motion is closely related to the broken T, which bends the elbows rather than keeping the arms fully straight.