Cheerleading has evolved from simple chants to complicated and strenuous tumbling routines and dangerous lifts. Once considered a hobby for pretty girls, cheerleading is now a rigorous sport that offers national and regional competitions and awards. Those who plan on becoming a high school cheerleader must be able to balance academics with a busy schedule that involves a fair amount of exercise, practice and travel.
Stay Safe
The National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research’s study of high school and college sports from 1982 through 2007 found that cheerleading, particularly high school cheerleading, was one of the leading causes of sports-related injuries and fatalities. The study determined that cheerleading was responsible for 55 percent of all direct catastrophic injuries to female athletes. Dr. Michael O’Brien of Children’s Hospital Boston recommends that high school cheerleaders who are new to cheerleading and gymnastics learn new physical routines and stunts gradually; use trained spotters when learning new moves; and practice on padded mats, grass or gym floors to avoid serious injury.
Tryouts
High school cheerleading tryouts usually involve a full week of practices and learning routines before doing a routine with a small group in front of a panel of judges. Be sure you are well-rested, hydrated and have eaten a healthy meal before heading into tryouts to ensure the best performance possible. Pull your hair back securely and avoid jewelry, as appearance does count in the judging. Make eye contact with the judges and remember that a high school cheerleader’s job is to instill spirit in the spectators.
Learn to Handle the Pressure
Because high school cheerleaders represent their team and their school at many types of functions, schools often hold them to a higher standard. Cheerleaders must be good role models, keep up their grades and behave responsibly in and out of school. You may find that your school has several rules set in place specifically for cheerleaders and members of other sports teams. Those rules may include keeping up a good grade point average, turning in all homework on time, showing up for class on time or performing volunteer work. If you begin to feel too much pressure, turn to your advisers for advice and carve out some downtime for relaxation.
Keep Fit
Cheerleading is a strenuous sport that requires its members to keep strong and fit. Exercise regularly, and pay special attention to strengthening the arms, legs and abdomen. Consistent aerobic exercise help build stamina to keep you strong through games and competitions. Sit-ups, crunches and leg lifts work to strengthen the stomach muscles, while lunges, squats and push-ups work on the arm and leg muscles.
Member Comments
nurse12345 February 11
what happens when the cheering coach is unethical? When an injured cheerleader who suffered a concussion and several sutures three days prior to a regional comp. is allowed to compete with a fake md note and the cheerleader and coach both lie to her mother telling her she won't be competing just watching.