What It Takes To Be A Pro Cheerleader

Courtesy of the San Diego Chargers Cheerleading and Dance Team

Professional cheerleading isn't only a sport - it's a way of life. Cheerleaders engage in long hours of intense practice despite their day jobs. They give their best to keep sports team fans excited with their lively performances, sweet smiles, and metallic pom-poms. Most of all, they maintain a lifestyle of health and fitness which a typical person finds challenging to do.

Professional cheerleaders are among the best women on the planet simply because they're beautiful inside and out.

What does it take to be a pro cheerleader?

If you're wondering whether you are meant to be one, I've complied a list of criteria based on my experience in the cheerleading industry and experiences of squad members in top teams like the Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, and San Diego Charger Girls.

1. You need to stay in shape.

Ask yourself today: Are you in the best possible shape of your life? If you cannot run or dedicate yourself to clean eating, you're not meant to be on the arena.

Let me get this straight - pro cheerleaders have perfectly sculpted bodies not because they starve themselves, but because they eat RIGHT and LOVE to exercise. They don't just get active at the gym - they find opportunities to move like taking the stairs or indulging in hobbies like biking or hiking.

But hey, cheerleaders have their cheat days too!

2. You are passionate about helping other people.

Jinelle, a Dallas Cowboys squad member, mentions that cheering at games is only a small fraction of what a cheerleader does for the entire year.

It's no secret that professional cheerleading squads like the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos actively participate in charity events and community service. In addition to that, a lot of cheer squads offer dance classes to kids who dream to become pro cheerleaders in the future. Some visit military bases in the east and west.

3. You'll have to work on your flexibility.

Flexibility is a huge ingredient in professional cheerleading. Being flexible allows you to maximize your movements on the arena so you can deliver your best performance. Without flexibility, you won't be able to execute explosive and sudden changes in your dance moves. Also, you'll be at risk for physical injuries.

If you think you're not flexible enough, there's a huge chance you can improve in this area by doing stretching exercises, yoga, and pilates. The most important part about working on your flexibility is that you shouldn't force yourself to hold a position especially when you feel pain.

4. You are responsible for maintaining your looks.

Once you make it to your cheer squad, like other team members you are expected to maintain your appearance because that's how most fans will be identifying you. Also, your physical appearance should complement the team you're in, your uniform, and your squad members as well.

During performances and appearances, you will be doing your own hair and makeup. This is where you'll get good at staying glamorous without having to always rely on the salon for your beauty needs! Deciding on how you'll look can be difficult as a first timer. Pro cheerleaders experiment on their appearance and choose the best hair and makeup that enhance their facial features.

5. You need to overcome negative thinking and adopt a positive mindset.

Every professional cheerleader is dealing with her own battles.

Like any person who's passionate about a career, aspiring cheerleaders are sometimes criticized by family members and friends who don't take pro cheerleading seriously. As you become part of a squad, it's nearly impossible not to be scrutinized by the public. You'll have to deal with a lot of self-doubt.Your insecurities may resurface.

Successful pro cheerleaders aren't perfect yet they know how important it is to focus on positivity. These strong women would rather healthily deal with criticism than hold back and risk losing great opportunities.

Conclusion

You probably already know that professional cheerleading is a big commitment. Pro cheerleading might just be a part-time job on the outside but it has changed the lives of women in several wonderful ways. Overall, you become a better person. The amazing experiences in your cheerleading career will be something you'll always treasure.

Can you picture yourself performing as a pro cheerleader?

If you would love to join the upcoming pro cheerleading auditions but have no idea on how to get started, my book entitled “Professional Cheerleading Audition Secrets: How To Become an Arena Cheerleader for NFL®, NBA®, and Other Pro Cheer Teams” will guide you every step of the way.

I’ve decided to write this book to help you discover reliable tips and advice on adopting the right mindset, maintaining your image, staying fit and beautiful, and more - based on my 20+ years of experience in the cheerleading industry.

Grab your own copy of my book by clicking the text or image below: