This is a general overview of some basic cheer motions with the focus on the position of the arms. You may perform them, or see them performed, slightly different. These motions can be used while a cheerleader is on the ground or up in a stunt, and the position of his or her feet will vary from being shoulder width apart to being together, depending on when and the motion is being used. Review our other cheer motion articles to get tips to you help you perfect all your motions and strengthen your arms! Basic Cheerleading Motions: Part 1 Basic Cheerleading Motions: Part 2 Basic Cheerleading Motions: Part 3 Left Clasp Bring your arms and hands into a middle clasp position, then pull your right arm to your left so that it crosses your chest. Keep your arms at chest level, don't drop them down. Right Clasp Bring your arms and hands into a middle clasp position, then pull your right arm to your right so that it crosses your chest. Keep your arms at chest level, don't drop them down. Clap Bend your elbows and bring your arms in tight to your body. Your elbows should be pulled in and pointed down, and your hands should be just below your chin. Bring your hands together, keeping them open with your fingers facing up toward your chin, so that both palms are touching. Your thumbs should be positioned on the side of your hands that are closest to your body. Blades This motion is similar to the T motion, but instead of putting your hands into fists, they should be in blades. In the blade position, your hands are open and your fingers are straight and together. Extend your arms from your shoulders so that they are parallel with the ground. Keep your hands in blades with your palms facing down and your pinkies facing back.