Ideas for Cheer Class

Planning cheer lessons can be overwhelming for those who haven't experienced the competitive and spirited world of cheerleading, which is a combination of multiple sports. Breaking down the basic components of a cheer routine, then adding a positive attitude, is really all a coach needs to succeed in teaching a fun cheer class.

  1. Chanting

    • The best way to practice strong cheer voices is to chant while completing other activities. Cheerleaders must be able to chant while dancing, tumbling, jumping and stunting. Have your students get into a routine of repeating their cheers during running or conditioning sessions, helping to build endurance and stamina while multitasking. This also keeps the energy and focus level up during class times that would normally be solemn or quiet.

    Motions

    • The best way to teach students strong cheer motions is to play stance games with students. Have your cheerleaders compete against one another, hitting the motions you call out until a winner is left standing. Think Simon Says for younger cheerleaders, and more of a rapid fire motions list for older students. The goal is hitting the correct motion, and training your class to focus on strong technique.

    Jumps

    • Holding jump contests also keeps classes fun and encourages students to continue improving the height and technique of their jumps. Students aim to throw the highest toe touch, hurdler, pike or herkie, which can easily be picked out in rows of jumpers. Jump contests can also be held for most jumps consecutively. Cheer routines often include double toe touches or jump combinations, so jumping repeatedly is great practice. See which classmate has the most endurance and technique by linking jumps one into another.

    Tumbling

    • Teaching tumbling is best done in a one-on-one setting. To accommodate different skill levels within a class, and to make yourself available to work one on one with each student, set up stations. Designate an area where universal skills can be practiced and students can rotate to each station. Split the class into groups and position yourself at the center station. The coaching station serves as the area where students can practice maneuvers they are trying to master, and the other rotations can be used for practicing relative skills like handstands, snap downs, back bends, walkovers and round-off rebounds.