V-Sit / Straddle Lift
A supported straddle position that combines flyer compression, active leg extension, base timing and clear visual lines. It can be used as a low-level lift, transitional picture or creative element within a larger legal stunt construction.
Do not force the flyer into a wider straddle than they can actively hold. Support, height and entry should be appropriate to the athlete and current competition rules.
What Is a V-Sit / Straddle Lift?
A flyer position where the legs extend apart into a V or straddle while the athlete is supported by bases.
The aim is not simply to create a wide split. The flyer should actively lift and control the legs while maintaining strong torso posture.
Bases should maintain balanced, symmetrical support so the flyer can present the position without collapsing backward.
Create Height Through the Flyer
Lift the Torso
Avoid sinking backward as the legs open.
Active Straddle
Legs should be lifted and extended by the flyer rather than forced by the bases.
Even Height
Uneven support immediately changes the visual line.
Hit Together
Lift, position and finish should occur on shared counts.
Strong vs Weak V-Sit
✓ Strong Position
- Chest remains lifted.
- Legs actively extend.
- Knees remain straight.
- Toes remain pointed.
- Both sides match.
- Bases remain level.
- Position hits sharply.
✕ Weak Position
- Flyer collapses backward.
- Legs hang passively.
- Knees bend.
- One leg is significantly lower.
- Bases lift unevenly.
- Position takes several counts to settle.
V-Sit Flow
Useful Cues & Drills
Seated Straddle Lifts
Develop active hip-flexor strength rather than passive range.
Low Lift → Freeze
Build matched support before adding height or choreography.
Front View
Compare leg height, knee extension and symmetry.
Common Problems & Fixes
| Problem | Likely Cause | Check | Direction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legs remain low | Insufficient active flexibility | Hip flexor strength | Use seated leg-lift conditioning. |
| Flyer falls backward | Torso loses control | Core position | Reduce height and rebuild posture. |
| One leg higher | Strength or support asymmetry | Both sides | Separate athlete vs base cause. |
| Knees bend | Flyer prioritises width over line | Leg extension | Reduce range and clean shape. |
| Position hits late | Timing unclear | Opening count | Rehearse without elevation. |
IASF Scoring Context
Make the Shape Read Clearly
Flexibility, execution, synchronisation and uniformity matter. A controlled moderate straddle scores technically better than an inconsistent wider position.
Use the Position Intelligently
The position can contribute visual and transitional variety, while the complete stunt sequence determines the main difficulty value.
Is the V-Sit Ready?
GREEN · Ready
- Chest remains lifted.
- Legs actively lift.
- Knees stay straight.
- Both sides match.
- Bases remain level.
- Position hits on count.
AMBER · Developing
- Minor knee bend.
- Small asymmetry.
- Short hold.
- Timing still inconsistent.
RED · Regress
- Flyer collapses backward.
- Legs cannot remain controlled.
- Large base height difference.
- Pain or forced flexibility.