Cheerleading is not technically considered a sport, except in cases of organized team competition. Cheerleaders, however, are considered athletes because of the intense physical activity that cheerleading involves. Although cheerleading does exist in other countries, it is primarily an American activity, and most high schools and colleges around the country have some sort of cheerleading squad on campus.
Cheerleading is Easy
Cheerleading is tough work. Not only do you have to be in excellent physical shape, but you also have to adhere to a strict training schedule in order to perform the routines properly. Some maneuvers can be dangerous and accidents can lead to fractured vertebrae, concussions or broken bones. According to Dr. Sally Harris from the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, cheerleading accidents account for more than 50 percent of female athletes' injuries. All-star cheerleading competitions are held throughout the U.S. every year. The competition is fierce and the squads often perform difficult and dangerous maneuvers, tumbling passes and flying acrobatic moves.
Cheerleading is For Dumb Girls
Hollywood stereotypically portrays cheerleaders as "pretty but dumb," but the fact is that many teens who were cheerleaders in high school or college ended up with illustrious careers in well-respected fields. Halle Berry was a cheerleader at her high school in Ohio, but she also was class president and editor of the school's newspaper. News anchor Diane Sawyer was a cheerleader, as was Kathy Lee Gifford.
Cheerleading is for Girls
Cheerleading is mostly associated with beautiful girls, but male cheerleaders also exist and often form part of teams that deal with lots of acrobatics. The male cheerleaders act as the bottom of the pyramids and in other physically demanding positions in the squad. Kirk and Michael Douglas were both cheerleaders before they got into acting, as was Aaron Spelling before he became known for producing "Charlie's Angels" and "90210." Ronald Reagan was a cheerleader for the basketball team at Eureka College and former senator Thad Cochran was a cheerleader at the University of Mississippi.
Cheerleading is Just for High School
While the image of high-school cheerleading squads is the most common, cheerleaders exist at other levels as well. Colleges have cheerleading teams, as do professional football teams. The cheerleaders in the squat are paid to participate in a game and have a schedule of practices and performances to follow. For example, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders must audition for the role. If accepted, they must commit to a year and agree to attend all scheduled rehearsals and games.
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