How Should I Prepare for a NFL Cheerleader Tryout?

Joining an National Football League (NFL) cheer team is a high honor for any cheerleader. It means working as a professional to represent many teams that have been around for decades. It also involves pleasing thousands of fans in a packed stadium. Tryouts are only for those who have years of cheerleading experience and the stamina to compete against other hopefuls. If you're an aspiring NFL cheerleader, there are a few things you can do to prepare to impress a panel of judges at auditions.

Things You'll Need

  • Agenda
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Instructions

    • 1

      Establish a fitness and nutrition plan at least six months prior to auditions. Cheerleading is a demanding sport and will require maximum fitness and energy. Set fitness goals and consult a personal trainer, if necessary. If you aren't sure about what it means to eat healthy, talk with a nutritionist or your doctor. Cheerleaders need flexibility, balance, muscular endurance and plenty of stamina. To achieve this level of fitness, your diet and workout plans must complement each other.

    • 2

      Study the past performances of the NFL cheer team you'd like to join. Browse the team's website for video archives so that you can get an idea of the team's performance style. Regardless of how many years of cheerleading experience you have, it's a good idea to enroll in dance classes so that you can brush up on your technique. At the professional level, you'll need to be a well-rounded cheerleader who needs very little, if any, training.

    • 3

      Consult a beautician to find an overall look that will help you stand out from others at auditions. Overall, you want to look glamorous, yet polished. Keep in mind that NFL cheerleading is different than college and high school cheerleading. Ponytails and ribbons are out. Chic hair, stage makeup, dazzling white teeth and smooth skin are important.

    • 4

      Practice visualization and positive affirmations on a daily basis in the month leading up to tryouts. To do this, set aside five minutes to create mental images of a successful NFL cheerleading audition. Take on one positive affirmation each week, such as "I am a fabulous, well-prepared candidate" or "I am a talented, passionate individual."

    • 5

      Create a checklist the week before tryouts listing all the requirements for auditioning. For instance, you might need to bring printed portraits, proof of citizenship, a change of clothing for interviews, or your own music. Cross things off the list as you gather the items you need so that you don't forget a thing.

    • 6

      Have your own dress rehearsal the day before auditions. Get dressed from head-to-toe in your tryout attire and recreate your designated "look". If anything makes you uncomfortable, change it. You'll need to feel completely confident on the day of the audition.

    • 7

      Pack a duffel bag the night before auditions and review your checklist to make sure you have everything. It's a good idea to bring an extra set of clothing, tights, shoes and the makeup you need for touchups throughout the day. Also, remember to pack water and snacks so that you have the energy to perform well all day.