Good Ways to Make Your High School Cheerleading Team

Cheerleading is a physical activity in which a team of cheerleaders performs short, organized routines that include jumping, cheering, tumbling and dancing. Cheerleaders perform these routines to cheer on a sports team or to participate in competitions. Individuals in high school who are looking to join a cheerleading team should prepare by getting in shape, practicing cheers and knowing what skills are necessary to be a part of the team.

  1. Find a Mentor

    • When looking to join a cheerleading team, consider choosing a willing mentor that is part of the team. An individual willing to be a mentor for a cheerleader hopeful will be able to provide tips and advice on the best way to become a cheerleader such as practice tips, try-out information and everything else that goes along with being a cheerleader.

    Practice the Routines

    • Learn the routines by watching DVD's of the games and by observing cheerleading practices. Much like learning a new dance, practice the routines until you are familiar with the movements. Practice jumps, tumbling and any other moves that will be required at a try-out.

    Practice the Cheers

    • An essential part of cheerleading is learning how to use the voice correctly, especially when shouting or yelling. To use the voice without straining, build up the stomach muscles and learn to shout or yell from the diaphragm instead of the throat. Build up the stomach muscles with sit-ups and practice cheering while pushing on your stomach with your hand.

    Get In Shape

    • Cheerleading is a sport, and like other sports, the athletes participating in the sport must be strong, coordinated, flexible and in shape. To get in shape, consider daily jogs and beginner weight training. To improve balance and flexibility, start practicing yoga, ballet or Pilates. Many organized routines involve gymnastics moves. Consider taking beginner gymnastics class to learn the basics.

    Get Involved

    • After practicing and getting in shape, get involved with the cheerleading squad and show your dedication by attending the games and volunteering for various cheerleader fundraisers. Find ways to make yourself indispensable to the squad so when the time for try-outs arrives, the squad and the captain are familiar with you.

    Try-Out Tips

    • To prepare for try-outs, pre-pack what you are going to wear and on the day of, bring all of your necessary forms filled out and signed where needed. If you miss a step during try-outs, smile, recover and keep going, as many coaches prefer a cheerleader that can handle the pressure. Always do your best.