A breakdancing move that many cheerleading groups have adopted is a move that the cheerleaders call a ‘helicopter.’ The helicopter uses the same technique as the breakdance move called the ‘windmill.’ This particular move was developed by the urban street dancers of New York. The first appearance of the move to the national public was during the 1983 movie “Flashdance.” Since that time, the ‘helicopter’ has been seen on a plethora of movies and documentaries.
The ‘windmill’ requires the cheerleader to combine both martial arts and gymnastics into a perfectly completed move. The fluid motion of a properly executed ‘windmill’ requires a great deal of strength and stamina. A well executed ‘windmill’ adds flair to any cheerleading routine
Comfortable clothing and a clean floor is required to practice the move. Practice the move slowly to learn the proper placement of your legs while maintaining the proper arch in your back. Add speed to the move as the positioning becomes comfortable.
‘Windmill’ Move Process:
Position yourself face down on the floor. Arch your back so your head and feet are as far off the ground as possible. Spread your legs as far apart as you can.
Roll on your left shoulder and side. Position your left leg so it is parallel with the floor but not touching. Raise your right leg as high in the air as possible.
Roll onto your back while sweeping your left leg under the right. Position your legs so they are spread and as high in the air as possible. Arch your back with your head lifted high.
Roll onto your right shoulder and side. Position your right leg so it is parallel with the floor but not touching. Raise your left leg as high in the air as possible.
Roll onto your stomach while sweeping your right leg under the left. Position your legs so they are spread and are as high in the air as possible. Arch your back so you are in the starting position.
Repeat the process three to five times to create the ‘windmill’ move.