How to Do the Best at Cheerleading Tryouts

Cheerleaders get high billing at basketball and football games, with all eyes focused on their halftime routines. What's more, cheerleaders are inevitably among the most popular kids in school so it's normal to want to be one. To do your best at tryouts, start preparing months ahead of time.

Instructions

    • 1

      Start conditioning your muscles and stretching at least 3 months before tryouts. It takes at least that long to reach your peak physical condition and flexibility. Work out for strength, stretch every night and watch your diet.

    • 2

      Sign up for a dance or gymnastics' class. Rhythm is important in cheer routines so dance classes are beneficial. Find a gymnastic class that focuses on cheerleading, tumbling and stunts. Regular gymnastic classes follow a rigorous schedule designed for competition.

    • 3

      Perfect your cheer moves ahead of time. It's easier if you can find another girl who wants to try out for the squad and practice together, making your own cheers. Rent cheer videos and attend high school and college games to film the cheers to learn new moves. Practice often before tryouts.

    • 4

      Attend tryout week and be gracious to everyone. Although the coaches say they judge only on talent, if you're in the running for a spot and they remember how well you got along with others, it may tip the scale in your favor.

    • 5

      Practice the cheer at home until you know it by heart. When you're in front of the judges it will come naturally.

    • 6

      Perform your cheer with a smile and a bounce. Walk onto the floor with your head held high and a confident step. Smile at the judges and do your routine with professionalism. You've practiced so hard, now is the time to make it happen.

    • 7

      Accept the results with graciousness. Whether you make the cheerleading squad, your attitude will be under the microscope. If you make the squad, wait until you get home to celebrate and brag to your parents. If you don't make the cut, smile and congratulate the girls who did. There's always next year.