Things to Know When Preparing for Cheerleading

Once only a part of other sports, cheerleading is now often considered a sport unto itself. Cheerleaders not only lead the crowd in rooting for their team, but they are also athletes who have honed their skills. Cheerleaders can choose a traditional path, cheering for their school, or they can opt to cheer for an all-star squad that focuses on cheerleading competitions. Some cheerleaders do both. Programs start for kids as young as 4, and opportunities continue from kindergarten through high school and to the college and professional level.

  1. Fitness

    • Cheerleading requires strength, stamina and flexibility over a long season. You need strength to perform stunts, and you must have strength and flexibility to perform jumps and splits. When preparing for cheerleading, find out what your strengths and weaknesses are, and work on improving your weaknesses. If you need more stamina, build up your aerobic capacity. If you need more strength, start lifting weights or exercising with a resistance band. If you need more flexibility, concentrate on stretching. To prevent injuries, start your conditioning program at least four to six weeks before practice begins.

    The Basics

    • Every cheerleader must be able to execute the basic stunts and movements. You can learn them at special cheerleading camps, which teach drills and stunts; tumbling-for-cheerleaders classes; or gymnastics classes.

      Most squads have specific tumbling skills they expect their cheerleaders to perform. Ask your cheerleading coach what they are and concentrate on perfecting them. As most cheerleading squads include choreographed dance in their routines, it’s helpful to take dance classes, too.

    Style

    • Many school squads use a particular style of cheerleading. Ask present or former team members about the squad’s style. For example, some cheerleading squads hold their hands in specific positions while cheering. Cheerleading squads may also perform jumps in a certain way. Instead of holding the arms in a "T" position during the toe-touch jump, your squad members may extend their arms toward their feet or forward. In addition, many squads incorporate a particular dance style in their cheers and choreography. Dance styles range from hip-hop, which emphasizes body isolations and rhythm, to pom, which requires sharp, precise movements and changes in formation. The dance style can be the most difficult element of cheerleading to master.

      To ensure you are correctly performing your squad's style, ask team members to watch and correct you. Practice in that style so you build muscle memory. Take video of yourself and fix any errors. Continue to ask other cheerleaders and coaches to critique you until you have it right.

    Interview Questions

    • Whether on or off the field, cheerleaders are representatives of their school. As such, they are expected to exemplify high personal standards. In addition, they must show leadership ability, work well with others and be problem-solvers. To determine whether or not you meet those qualifications, you may be interviewed or asked essay questions. Understand what you have to offer as a cheerleader and how you would handle challenging situations. Be prepared to give solid, well-thought-out answers to questions such as: “What are your strengths as a cheerleader?” “What is the role of a cheerleader?” “What community work do you think cheerleaders should participate in?” and “How would you improve school spirit?”

    Time and Cost

    • Between games and practice, cheerleading requires a lot of time. You’ll need to know how often and how long practices are, which games you are expected to cheer for, and how long your season(s) lasts. Carefully consider all your commitments – school, family responsibilities and other activities – to determine whether you can add cheerleading to your schedule and, if so, how you will organize your time.

      Consider the cost associated with cheerleading as well. Cheerleading expenses may include registration fees, uniforms, travel, accommodations and food, competition fees and cheerleading camp, among others. If this is a concern, check with your school to see if funds are available for assistance.

    Presentation

    • Presentation is extremely important in cheerleading. You must be enthusiastic and energetic. In addition, you must know how to show grace under pressure. If you make a mistake, you have to keep your smile, compose yourself and continue with the routine. Find out what you are expected to wear for practice and tryouts and how your hair should be styled. Generally, avoid jewelry. When cheering, limit distractions and keep your focus on your job.