Pyramids are three-dimensional figures with triangular side faces meeting at a common vertex and a polygonal base. They are classified by the shape of their base and are used in architecture and cheerleading. Different cultures built pyramids, including Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Cheerleading pyramids have three roles: foundations, spotters, and flyers. The World Cheerleading Association has safety guidelines and rules for pyramid use in competition.
Mathematics. Pyramids are one of the fundamental solids used in Euclidean geometry. There are three elements needed to make a pyramid. It’s a
three-dimensional figure with
triangular side faces meeting at a common vertex, with
a polygonal base.
Pyramids are classified according to the shape of their base. A triangular pyramid has a triangular base and three triangular side faces. A square pyramid has a square base and four triangular sides. A pentagonal pyramid has a pentagonal base and five triangular sides. A hexagonal pyramid has a hexagonal base and six triangular sides, and so on.
Pyramids are called n-sided, where n is the number of sides of the polygon forming the base. An n-sided pyramid has n triangular faces.
Architecture. Pyramids are also a prime form for architectural construction, both ancient and modern. Ancient cultures that built pyramids include Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, several Mesoamerican cultures, China, and Rome. In Egypt, where pyramids were used in burial complexes, both two types were built: step pyramids and “true” pyramids. In Mesopotamia, the type of pyramid built was the ziggurat, a temple with terraced stories. Many Chinese pyramids, used as funerary monuments, have flat tops.
Cheerleading. The pyramid is also one of the basic cheerleading structures and allows for endless variations. The World Cheerleading Association (WCA), which includes pyramids/hoop throwing as one of six technical skill scoring categories, issues general safety guidelines with rules for the use of pyramids in competition. There are six levels of competition and special rules for what types of pyramids are allowed at each level. Pyramids can be 2, 2½, or 3 people tall, but for WCA competition, the limit is 2½ people tall at Level Six.
There are three types of roles in cheerleading pyramids: foundations, spotters, and flyers. The baseplates form the basis upon which to mount the flyers. Observers may simply be standing by to assist, support or capture someone should the need arise, or they may even support the stunt.
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