What comes to mind when you think of a great cheerleader? Perfect moves? Flawless stunts? That's good, but it's not enough. You need to be healthy in three aspects of life: mental/emotional health, social connections, and physical fitness. Cheerleading isn't just about games and fun. If you're reading this article, it's because you want to be the best cheerleader you can be, you're bored with nothing else to do, or you're not fully healthy in all three aspects. This article will help you become the best cheerleader you can possibly be!
Working on Your Physiology
Step 1. Stretch!
Stretch! No matter how many times your coach tells you to do this in practice, make it a habit to stretch at home 1-2 times a day. If you're executing stunts in the air, work on your core and side stretches. Do these exercises consistently, and you'll see progress very soon!
Step 2. Improve the Basics!
Improve the basics! Practicing handstands, bridges, and rolls will help you with more complex routines. It's true!
- Learn how to land properly. Believe it or not, there are rules for falling! If you're falling backward, don't panic or twist; tuck into a safe position and stop by raising your hands above your head. If you're falling forward, tuck your chin to your chest and lift your hands over your head.
Step 3. Work on Your Jumps.
Work on your jumps. Always keep your body tight and engaged. If you relax, you could get seriously injured. A great way to improve your jumps is to practice the starting position for the jump you want to achieve. You can do this while watching TV or sitting at your computer.
- For further improvement, get a pair of ankle weights (about a kilogram each). While wearing them, do leg raises, and practice your splits. Keep your hands in front of you and do this exercise by raising your left leg 10 times without letting it touch the floor between raises. Repeat with your right leg, then both at the same time. It's crucial to keep your hands in front of you and not let your legs touch the floor in between raises. Do this exercise daily, and your jumps will improve!
Step 4. Get into Acrobatics.
Get into acrobatics. Being able to perform acrobatic tricks is extremely important for an aspiring cheerleader. Several acrobatic elements will help you master rolls and jumps but require practice.
Step 5. Work on Your Arm Movements.
Work on your arm movements. When you cheer, your movements should be precise and sharp, not wild and uncontrolled. Practice your arm movements, ensuring they aren't floppy. Always keep your arms engaged.
Step 6. Practice Every Day!
Practice every day! Stay dedicated, and this will improve your jumps, rolls, stretches, and more.
- As you practice, you're forming habits, so correct your slightest mistakes at every practice.
Step 7. Have Necessary Training Equipment at Home (but avoid dangerous exercises).
Have the necessary training equipment at home (but avoid practicing anything dangerous). If you're working on your cartwheel, mats will be very helpful.
Appearance and Public Presence
Step 1. Pay Attention to Your Appearance.
Pay attention to your appearance. If you don't take yourself seriously and look messy, why should others take you seriously? Wear clothes that fit you well—not too tight or too loose. The best options are shorts and a tank top, or a fitted uniform top.
- Style your hair— a ponytail is an ideal hairstyle. Not only does it look cute, but it also keeps hair out of your face, making you look more approachable.
- Never wear jewelry! It can fall off, break, or even hurt you.
Step 2. Be Loud!
Be loud! Don't be afraid to shout! However, don't just scream. Your coach will notice you if you're heard above everyone else. Remember to shout loudly and articulate your words clearly.
Step 3. Be Confident.
Be confident. If something doesn’t work the first time, keep practicing over and over. If you succeed, don’t think, “Oh my God, I’m the best!” It’s clear you have the necessary skills if you performed well, but no one (including coaches) will want to deal with that attitude, and it could affect your participation in the next season.
Step 4. Stay Positive!
Stay positive! Always maintain a positive attitude! Always believe in yourself. If you keep faith in yourself, you will surely succeed!
Step 5. Don’t Let Your Personal Life Interfere.
Step 6. Never, Ever Give Up!
Step 7. If You Want to Work on a Specific Skill, Take Private Lessons.
Step 8. Give Your All Even in Practice.
Give your all even in practice. You perform both in practice and on stage, and if you don’t practice hard, you won’t impress when it counts. As soon as you can say, “I gave 100%,” your coach will be pleased.
Step 9. Be Kind.
Be kind. This is an equally important step. While movies often portray cheerleaders as rude and arrogant, that’s not how you should behave in real life. Being a great cheerleader will earn you respect from others and boost your self-esteem. Don’t get involved with a new boyfriend or belittle others. It’s not right, even if your friends do it. A cheerleader should be friendly to everyone, and being kind to everyone also means treating your teammates with respect.
- Ask questions. Inquire with your coach about what you need to do and what you didn’t manage to accomplish.
Step 10. Make Friends with Former Cheerleaders.
Make friends with former cheerleaders. Get to know those who were on the team in previous years, possibly cheerleaders from college who have more experience.
