Braced Extension
An extended stunt incorporated into a connected pyramid structure, with the top person linked to an appropriate bracer or bracers. The extension itself still requires strong vertical stacking, controlled bases and an active flyer — the brace should complement that control rather than replace it.
What Is a Braced Extension?
An extended stunt that forms part of a connected pyramid through a recognised brace relationship.
The top person is supported at an extended height while maintaining one or more required connections to an appropriate bracer or bracers.
Exact legal requirements depend on the level and the complete construction.
Technically, the flyer should still demonstrate the same body control expected in a normal Extension: active legs, organised hips, connected torso and weight centred over the bases.
Own the Extended Position
Stay Active
Maintain strong extension through both legs rather than sinking into the base platforms.
Stay Centred
Avoid allowing the brace connection to move the pelvis away from the supporting feet.
Stay Vertical
Do not create an unnecessary sideways bend simply to maintain brace contact.
Keep It Deliberate
Brace pressure should remain appropriate rather than becoming a tug-of-war between top persons.
The Bracer Has Their Own Job
Stay Secure First
The bracer needs their own stable stunt or supported position before becoming responsible for a connection.
Maintain Contact
The connection should be deliberate and consistent rather than appearing and disappearing unexpectedly.
Support — Don't Pull
Avoid dragging the extended flyer toward the bracer's own stunt group.
Strong vs Weak Braced Extension
✓ Strong
- Extension remains vertical.
- Flyer owns both feet.
- Brace contact is secure.
- Bracer stays stable.
- No heavy sideways lean.
- Platforms remain level.
- Groups hit together.
- Required contact is maintained.
✕ Weak
- Flyer hangs toward bracer.
- Brace pulls stunt sideways.
- Bracer loses own stunt.
- Flyer knees soften.
- Extension sits away from bases.
- Contact repeatedly breaks.
- One group hits significantly late.
- Construction cannot be clearly explained.
Braced Extension Flow
Coaching Cues
Common Problems & Fixes
| What You See | Likely Cause | Check First | Training Direction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flyer leans toward bracer | Using brace for balance | Independent Extension | Remove brace and rebuild. |
| Extension travels sideways | Brace pressure uneven | Connection pressure | Reduce pulling. |
| Bracer loses own stunt | Too much responsibility | Bracer stability | Regress both groups. |
| Contact breaks repeatedly | Spacing or arm position incorrect | Formation distance | Adjust starting positions. |
| Extension arrives late | Group timing mismatch | Dip and rise count | Clean timing separately. |
| Flyer bends at waist | Trying to reach brace | Torso alignment | Correct spacing rather than reaching. |
| Legality uncertain | Construction not fully mapped | Brace and height requirements | Complete current rule review. |
Braced Extensions & Scoring
The Brace Should Not Reduce Stability
Extended height, clean body lines and synchronised groups still need to be maintained once the pyramid connection is added.
Judge the Complete Sequence
Difficulty is comparative across the whole stunt section, including skill challenge, participation, transitions, combinations, pace and use of bases.
Is the Braced Extension Ready?
GREEN · Ready
- Independent Extension is secure.
- Bracer is stable.
- Connection is deliberate.
- No sideways pulling.
- Flyer remains vertical.
- Groups hit together.
- Exit is controlled.
- Legality has been checked.
AMBER · Developing
- Small brace pressure.
- Minor height difference.
- Contact occasionally breaks.
- Timing needs cleaning.
- Full sequence inconsistent.
RED · Regress
- Flyer cannot own Extension.
- Bracer repeatedly loses balance.
- Heavy sideways lean.
- Connection creates travel.
- Exit becomes unsafe.
- Legality cannot be confirmed.