Common Dance Mistakes in Pro Cheer Auditions (and How to Fix Them!)
Image credit: Miami HEAT Dancers
Auditioning for a professional cheerleading team is a high-energy, high-stakes experience. With hundreds of talented dancers vying for a few coveted spots, even small mistakes can make a big difference. To help you shine on audition day, let’s break down some of the most common dance mistakes and how to fix them.
1. Low Energy and Lack of Performance Quality
Dancing with great technique is important, but if your performance lacks energy and expression, you won’t stand out. Pro cheer teams want performers who can entertain a stadium crowd, not just execute choreography.
How to Fix It:
âś” Practice performing full-out—not just marking movements. Dance with the same energy in rehearsals as you would in an actual game.
âś” Use your face! Smile naturally, engage your eyes, and match your expressions to the style of the routine.
âś” Channel confidence even if you feel nervous. Act as if you already made the team!
Read more: Pro Cheerleaders' Favorite Fitness Routines to Stay Game-Day Ready
2. Sloppy or Weak Movements
Pro cheer dance styles require sharp, powerful motions. If your movements are soft, unclear, or lack control, it can make you look unpolished.
How to Fix It:
âś” Strengthen your arms and core to maintain control over every movement.
âś” Use a mirror or film yourself to check for proper arm placement, clean lines, and full extensions.
âś” Practice with resistance bands to develop sharper, more controlled movements.
3. Forgetting the Choreography
Audition nerves can cause even seasoned dancers to blank out. But freezing up or hesitating too much can cost you points with the judges.
How to Fix It:
âś” Break the routine into smaller sections and drill each part before piecing everything together.
âś” Use mental visualization techniques to go over the choreography in your head before you perform.
âś” If you mess up, keep moving! Don’t let a small mistake throw off the rest of your routine. Judges value recovery over perfection.
Read more: Why Some Dancers Have Trouble Remembering Choreography
4. Weak Kicks and Jumps
Pro cheerleading often includes high kicks, toe touches, and other jumps that require strength, flexibility, and height. If your kicks are low or your jumps lack power, it can impact your overall performance.
How to Fix It:
âś” Increase flexibility with daily stretching, focusing on hamstrings and hip flexors.
âś” Improve jump height with plyometric exercises like squat jumps and tuck jumps.
âś” Strengthen your core and point your toes to achieve a cleaner, more controlled look.
Read more: The Role of Strength vs. Flexibility in Pro Cheerleading Success
5. Lack of Confidence and Connection with the Judges
Even the most technically skilled dancer won’t stand out if they lack presence. If you avoid eye contact, look stiff, or let nerves take over, you may not make a lasting impression.
How to Fix It:
âś” Practice performing for others—friends, family, or even in the mirror. Get comfortable with being watched.
âś” Engage with the judges! Make eye contact, smile, and radiate confidence.
âś” Use power posing or affirmations before your audition to boost self-assurance.
Final Thoughts
Pro cheer auditions are about more than just dance ability—they’re about energy, personality, and confidence. By fixing these common mistakes, you can boost your performance and increase your chances of making the team. Stay prepared, stay positive, and most importantly—have fun!
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