Simone Biles, a name synonymous with gymnastics excellence, is no stranger to sparking conversation. Whether it’s her jaw-dropping routines or her inspiring resilience, the most decorated gymnast in U.S. history knows how to make headlines. But this time, it’s not just her performance on the mat getting attention—it’s her recent comment about cheerleading that’s got fans buzzing.
During an Instagram thread on September 7, Biles posed a question that sent shockwaves through both the cheer and gymnastics communities: “Why can’t cheerleaders do a proper standing full?” For those unfamiliar, a standing full is a complex tumbling move involving a complete 360-degree twist, usually executed without a running start. It’s a move often seen in high-level gymnastics and cheerleading, showcasing the athlete’s strength, control, and technique.
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While Biles may have intended her question as a lighthearted query, the comment has sparked a heated debate. Some fans defended the legendary gymnast, while others were quick to stand up for cheerleaders everywhere. So, what’s the big deal?
Cheerleading and gymnastics may share common elements, particularly when it comes to tumbling, but they are distinct sports with their own demands. In cheerleading, athletes are not only tumbling but also performing stunts, pyramids, and synchronized routines with their teams, often in high-pressure competitive environments. While a standing full is a staple in both sports, executing one during a fast-paced cheer routine is a different challenge than nailing it in a gymnastics floor exercise.
Fans were quick to point out these differences, with one Instagram user commenting, “Simone, cheerleaders are out there throwing stunts, tumbling, and dancing all in one routine. You’ve got one mat, they’ve got a whole team.” The comment speaks to the reality that cheerleading combines a wide range of skills into a tight performance window, which adds another layer of difficulty.
Simone’s Instagram comment generated a wave of reactions, ranging from supportive to critical. One user took to the comments to say, “Simone, you are a queen, but you set a bar so high no one else can touch it. That’s why it seems like cheerleaders can’t do a standing full as ‘properly’ as you.” It’s no secret that Biles’ athletic ability is unparalleled—after all, there’s a reason why multiple skills are named after her, including the Biles II on vault and the Biles on floor.
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But some followers felt that her comment, while perhaps innocent, downplayed the complexity of cheerleading. Another user replied, “Cheerleading isn’t just about tumbling, it’s about everything that goes into the routine. Gymnastics is about perfecting moves, but cheer is about team execution under pressure.” This remark highlights an important point: cheerleading routines require more than individual perfection; they demand teamwork, coordination, and timing—all while tumbling, flying, or basing.
One fan even suggested a solution: “Let’s see a gymnastics vs. cheerleading showdown! It would be amazing to compare these skills head-to-head.” Whether that’s in the cards or not, the conversation continues to gain momentum as more athletes and fans weigh in.
Simone Biles’ influence goes far beyond gymnastics. With over 12 million Instagram followers and her status as a global sports icon, her words have the power to stir conversations and impact entire communities. Cheerleaders, who often fight for recognition as athletes in their own right, are now using this moment to highlight the dedication and skill required in their sport.
One fan summed it up best: “Simone’s incredible, but let’s not forget that cheerleading requires a different kind of athleticism. It’s a team sport, and each athlete has a role to play.” The conversation is a reminder that both sports demand excellence, and the crossover in skills doesn’t make either any less impressive.
As the dust settles around Biles’ comment, it seems clear that both sports have a deep respect for the athletes within them. Fans of both cheerleading and gymnastics are weighing in, and while some are quick to defend their sport, others see this as a chance to celebrate the incredible athleticism that both disciplines require.
What do you think, squad? Is Simone Biles right to question cheerleaders’ ability to nail a standing full, or is the cheerleading community right to defend their skills in a broader context? Let us know in the comments, and stay tuned for more updates on this heated discussion!
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