6 Ways to Use Exercise to Beat Stress

Exercise will always hold a special place in professional cheerleading. It doesn’t matter if you’re a current pro cheerleader or are still aspiring to become one.

Yes, we already know that working out helps us achieve the physique we dream of. Most importantly, it keeps us healthy. But another valuable benefit it provides is stress relief. You read it correctly.

In this blog post, I’m going to teach you five ways to leverage workouts for overcoming any stress you feel. What kind of exercise should you perform? When should you do it? We answer these questions below.

Tip #1: Start small.

Let’s say you’re an aspiring pro cheerleader, and you don’t have an exercise program yet. The best strategy is to take baby steps. To keep the stress away, engage in activities that your body is comfortable doing. It could be riding a bike, swimming, jogging, or basic yoga poses. Make the most out of that session by practicing good form. Listening to music will also help you move more!

Tip #2: Combine your workout with a good distraction.

Can’t stop thinking of a problem but craving for a sweat session? Play your favorite tunes while exercising. You could also listen to a motivational podcast episode or watch TV while on your treadmill. These distractions should help push your worries aside.

Tip #3: Do compound workouts.

Compound exercises are those that engage multiple muscles at once. For example, squats target the quadriceps, glutes, and calves. Compound workouts help release feel-good hormones. They also burn many calories and elevate your heart rate! Now, you also benefit from cardiovascular training.

Tip #4: Find a workout buddy.

You’re less likely to quit in the middle of your workout when you have a friend. Not to mention, you receive some encouragement! Why not invite a fellow squad member for a run? If you’re staying at home, you can also do virtual workouts. (Here’s a cool idea: Set weekly challenges!)

Tip #5: Do what you love!

I’m sure you’ve got some workouts that you consider your FAVORITE. Those could be HIIT workouts or perhaps dancing. If your mind is too tired and overwhelmed to try something new, don’t force it. Stick with your current preference and pair it with great music.

Tip #6: Exercise to sleep better.

The key is to avoid any exercise that will prevent you from relaxing at night. Quality sleep is important to ease stress and stay productive the next day. A high-intensity workout should be done early during the day. However, if the only time you have is in the evening, do it two hours before going to bed. Stick with low-intensity exercises such as yoga, Tai Chi, and walking.

Tip #7: Have someone watch over the kids.

Here’s a bonus tip for pro cheer moms. Make a kind request to your partner or family member to take care of the kids while you’re having that sweat session. It’s great to be able to take your mind off house chores through a focused workout. You should feel better afterwards.

Perhaps the most important tip I can leave you with is this: Enjoy the workout! Exercise is more than an item on your to-do list. It’s an effective approach for stress-reduction.

Check out these additional articles on fitness:

Need a Great Workout Routine for Your Pro Cheer Audition Prep?

Pro cheerleaders stay fit, flexible, and strong so they can give out their best performance in the arena. However, achieving that wow-worthy, toned physique doesn’t happen overnight. You need to arm yourself with the right daily workouts.

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