How to Get Trained Up for Cheerleading Tryouts

Cheerleading tryouts usually take place only once per year, so it's important to prepare well in advance if you want to make the squad. Whether you're trying to get on a grade school, high school, college, all-star or semipro cheerleading team, the competition will be fierce, and most squads have a limited number of open spots. You may be competing against returning squad members, seasoned cheerleaders and gymnasts, so it's best to come to tryouts well prepared.

Instructions

    • 1

      Practice yelling from your diaphragm, clearly enunciating your words. Cheerleaders use this method when doing cheers and chants, since it ensures that they are able to be loud enough while performing jumps and stunts.

    • 2

      Stretch every day before tryouts for at least 20 minutes. Flexibility is not only key for good jumps, but it will keep you safe when tumbling and stunting.

    • 3

      Strength train at least three times a week leading up to tryouts. Bases, spotters and flyers need to have strength – the best cheerleaders are both strong and flexible. You can start by doing three to four sets of 8 to 12 reps of each of the following exercises: basic squats, forward and reverse lunges, crunches and pushups. If at all possible, you should also lift weights. Try doing shoulder presses, stiff-legged dead lifts, bicep curls and kickbacks with 3- to 8-pound weights. If you don't feel challenged by the last few reps, use a larger weight.

    • 4

      Run, jog or walk for 30 minutes at least two times per week before tryouts. This will help build up your endurance, which is crucial in cheerleading. If you prefer, you can use an elliptical machine, bicycle or treadmill instead.

    • 5

      Jump in front of a mirror to check your posture and arm placement. If you do not have access to a mirror long enough to allow you to look at your jumps, have a friend record you while jumping so you can view the footage. Alternatively, ask a friend that is knowledgeable about cheerleading to critique your jumps. While it's ideal if your legs can go high, the most important thing is that your back stays straight and your arms remain strong. Above all else, show the judges that you have good form.