Being a cheerleader is more than looking cute in a skirt and holding pom poms. It is a highly athletic, intricate activity that has become more physical and demanding over the years. To become a cheerleader, you should learn the sport's terminology and start practicing its moves. When you are first learning, practice your cheerleading in front of a mirror to make sure your technique is correct. Practice with a smile because every move in cheerleading must be accompanied by a good facial expression.
Motion Terminology
Learn the names of the various motions you will do in cheerleading. A touchdown is when you lift both arms above your head, keeping your arms parallel and slightly forward. Another motion is T-motion. Stretch both arms straight out to the side at shoulder level. For broken T-motion, simply bend your arms in so your fists are in front of your shoulders. Keep your bent arms parallel to the ground. A motion which is similar to the T-motions is bow and arrow. One arm is extended out straight like a T motion and the other arm is bent as in a bent T motion. High-V and low-V motions are very similar. Your straight arms form a V shape either lifted above your head or pointing down.
Practicing Motions
Work hard to perfect your motions and perform accurate levels in your motions. A T-motion should be parallel to the ground. V-motions should be at 45-degree angles to your body. Touchdown is perpendicular to the ground. Fists should not bend back or forward and should face the proper direction: buckets --- backs of your hands up --- candlesticks --- backs of your hands facing behind you --- or daggers --- backs of your hands facing out. Hit each motion sharply and strongly. Never allow your arms to extend behind your body. Imagine you are standing with your back against a wall and your motions cannot touch the wall.
Jumps
Jumps add excitement to your cheerleading routines. The most universally used jump is the toe touch. In a toe touch, your legs are extended out to the sides in a straddle position the same way as if you were sitting on the ground in a straddle. Your knees and toes should point up, and your toes should be pointed. Keep your arms in T-motion, lifting your feet up toward your arms instead of reaching for your toes. Your chest and chin should be lifted with your eyes looking forward.
Cheerleading Manners
Lean the proper etiquette of cheerleading. For example, stand at attention on the sidelines for the entire national anthem, keeping your eyes on the flag. Your job as a cheerleader is to be an ambassador for your team. Welcome the other cheerleaders to your school. Distract the crowd away from negative cheering and booing. Be a good example of proper sportsmanship. Never cheer when a player is injured, regardless if it is a player from your team or the opposing team. Your squad can kneel down or sit down as long as you focus your attention on the injured player.
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