How to Prep for Cheer Tryouts
Many people dream of being part of a cheer squad. To make that dream a reality, though, you have to be prepared for the amount of time, and energy, that the hours of practicing, performing, competing, and cheerleading uniforms, cheer shoes, travel costs, food on the road – expenses that can add up to a significant amount. Cheerleaders happily make the choice to take on these demands because they want to be part of a team. Not to stand out themselves, but to make their squad’s performance and their school spirit as strong and excellent as it can be.

Every school has their own standards for cheerleaders, and the cheer coach or school administrators will be glad to let you know what you need to do in terms of paperwork. Make sure you take your time to fill it all out completely, and be aware of requirements that need to be accomplished before a deadline, such as medical exams.

That’s the easy part, though. Preparing for the cheerleader tryouts is a much more physical process. Cheerleaders have to have the strength of a gymnast, the flexibility of a dancer, and the stamina of a long-distance runner to be able to shout cheers, do stunts, and keep their spirit strong all the way through a game or competition. Taking lessons in any of those disciplines is a good idea, but you’ll get the most valuable information from present or previous cheerleaders who know what it takes. They may be able to teach you previous routines, and certainly will have suggestions about how to get in shape for your tryout.

Don’t stop there, though – remember, while you are trying to become part of a team, you want to stand out from the rest of the candidates. Do research on sites such as YouTube to learn how other squads do the motions, and practice in front of a mirror. Are your arms fully extended? Does your leg need to kick higher? How about your facial expressions- just because you’re doing hard work doesn’t mean you should look like it!

Make sure you also dress accordingly. You not only need to act the part, but like the part as well. Soffe cheer shorts are always a fan favorite as they come in a variety of colors that are sure to match your school and are perfect for cheerleaders on a budget. Chasse makes cute lycra cheer skirts that have built in shorts and also come in basic school colors. They have matching racer-back tank tops with support.

Once you’ve got the basics down, ask friends and family to watch you, to help you fine-tune your performance. Your job is to motivate – so make eye contact, smile, get them excited. Do that, and you’ll be ready for the judges’ table.

Come back next week for our feature article about how to perform in front of the judges’ tables plus tips on how to stand out once you’re in front of the judges.