Many young girls wish to become cheerleaders when they get older. They spend time watching older girls cheer and begin to practice on their own in the hopes that one day they will have their chance to wear the uniform and cheer on their team. If you want to be a cheerleader, there are numerous skills you will need to perfect before you will make the squad. Look for classes or seminars that teach these skills and practice hard, and you may realize your dream come true.
Cheers and Chants
Cheering and chanting are the skills you will use most when performing. The most effective cheerleaders have strong voices that carry across the court or the field so the players and crowd can easily hear what they are saying. It is essential that you cheer in your loudest voice and that you emphasize your words and really punch the sounds out. Start by practicing in a whispering voice and gradually get louder and louder as you go. Watch veteran cheerleaders and try to imitate their intonation and how they emphasize their sounds.
Jumps
Many cheers and performances require jumps, such as a toe-touch jump, a spread eagle jump or a herkie. You will need to show your expertise with certain jumps when you try out for the squad so you must perfect your skills before then. Start by breaking each jump down into smaller movements and practice them without actually jumping. Get your arm and leg formation down and then add in the jumping part. Watching seasoned cheerleaders can help you get a picture of what each jump should look like from beginning to end.
Stunts
Another important part of cheerleading is stunts, such as pyramids, cartwheels and flips. You will also be asked to showcase these skills when you try out for the squad. Many recreation centers offer cheer classes that focus on stunts, and these will help you learn the techniques so you can practice on your own until you have each movement down. Break up the movements to help you get the hang of what each body part does and when. Work with girls in your class, and try to learn from others. Watching cheerleading competitions is a valuable way to see perfectly executed stunts so you get a visual idea of what your body needs to do.
Body Stance and Formation
Standing tall and proud will help you get your school spirit message across to the players and audience members. You will also need to practice what the rest of your body does while you cheer, jump and perform stunts. Your toes should always be pointed and your thumbs should be tucked into your hands. Keep your wrists and elbows straight as well. Tie your hair back so your smiling face can inspire the crowd to get on their feet and cheer along with you.
References
- "Coaching Cheerleading Successfully"; Linda Rae Chappell; 2005
- "Cheerleading Skills: How to Cheer Like a Champ"; Diane Cecchetti; 2008
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