Why do you need formations in your routines? Well, it makes your routine more interesting. Above is a routine that uses several formation changes - they also use variations on the "bowling pin" formation. What do you think the routine would look like if they only stayed in the first formation? Here are some things to consider when choosing your formations:
1. How many team members do you have?
2. How many formations do you want in 1 chant / cheer or dance?
3. Order your formations so that the change or transition between formations will be as invisible as possible.
4. Remember, formations are seen from all sides.
5. Think about the placement of each cheerleader. For example, keep stunt groups together, stronger dancers in the front, etc.
6. To make your formation even more exciting, add level changes. For example, in a Bowling Pin formation, have the cheerleaders in the first few rows on their knees.
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Here are some examples of a variety of formations:
1. Bowling Pins: This formation is also called a Triangle or Pinball formation.
2. Reverse Bowling Pins: Also called a Backwards Triangle:
3. Windows / Staggered Lines: This formation is made up of lines where each cheerleader has her own "window" where she can be seen.
4. Diamond
5. Diagonals
6. Partners: Partners can be positioned side by side or one in front of the other.
Side By Side Partners:
7. Block