What to Pack for a [Away] Cheer Competition

That season is coming up fast and besides all of the hard and long practices to come you should start thinking of what to pack when your team is ready to start traveling to and from every competition!

 

The thing to remember is to pack light but not to forget anything you'll need. You have to prepare your suitcase for any situation from hairspray before hitting the mat or going night swimming with your teammates. 

Picture from Google Image Search

What to Carry?
The best way to carry around your stuff is by getting a handy duffel bag (which teams usually get with their uniforms) and a heavy duty suitcase (which can be bought at any department store). Make you it rolls and have a easy to access hand to steer. When dealing with your uniform some cheerleaders like to carry garment bags in order to keep their uniform together and tidy but to be honest this just increases your chances of loosing your uniform! You could set it down and forget to pick it up in the airport or on the bus. If you have less it's not a chore. Fold your uniform neatly in your suitcase and you should be fine!

What Not to Bring?
This should be obvious. Don't bring any weapons or drugs or alcohol. You can have a good time without them trust me! It's not worth getting in trouble or worse getting kicked off your squad. Also you might not need: a book because I doubt you'll have time to read; a magazine is fine but it could be hard to finish a good book with everything around you. You might not need paper, pens, etc.

What to Bring?
- Uniform
- Cheer Socks
- Spankies
- Sports Bra
- Cheer Sneakers
- Hair Bow
- Warm Up Pants & Jacket
-Cheer Hoodie
- Cheer Makeup Kit – Glitter, Adhesive, Mascara, Lipstick, Blush, Foundation, Face Powder
- Hair Curls if required
 -Pins/Clips
- Hairspray
- Hair Gel – Strong Hold
- Hair Ponies
- Curling Iron and/or Straightener
- Pajamas
- Sweat Shirt and Pants for lounging
- Jeans and Tee’s
- Undergarments
- Street Shoes
- Swimsuit if your hotel has a pool
- Jacket and outdoor wear, if necessary
-Normal Sweats
-Yoga Pants
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste and Floss
- Razor and Shaving Cream
- Comb and/or hairbrush
- Shampoo, bar soap & container
- Face and Body Wash
- Deodorant
- Nail File, Clippers and Nail Polish Remover
- Cotton Balls and Qtips
- Pain Reliever
- Female Products
- Lotion
 
Don't Forget!!
-Passport (op)
-I.D
-Cash ($50-$200)
-Phone
-Camera
-Charger
-Headphones

Have a blast at every competition and don't let anything hold back your spirit. Pack smart and perform wonderfully!

Love,
A Cheerleader
 

Intro to Toe Touches

Jumps are key! They're a cool visual that most cheerleaders use at least 2+ times in a single routine. There's many different types of jumps such as the herkie, hurdler, pike, etc. but the one this post is focusing on is the toe touch! If you are a newbie have no fear, the process of a toe touch is simple to grasp but progressing can be the challenging part.

Now a lot of cheerleaders or people are under the impression that 1. you jump like a starfish in the air and 2. your jumps are only good if your jumps are high. Both of these impressions are not true and can be overcome by following these steps when learning:

Step 1: Find an open space away from tables, chairs, etc. and make sure you're wear comfortable attire. (loose top, athletic shorts, and athletic shoes)

Step 2: Know the counts! All jumps are performed in what is called an 8-count. It takes one full 8-count to perform a jump or a series of jumps. Whatever the case it is usually all in one.
You start by saying "5-6-7-8" and you clap on 8. From here you count all the way to 8 again. "1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8" This isn't fast or slow paced it's a steady pace that allows you to keep counting by yourself as your perform the jump.

Step 3: The motions you need to know are a high V, straddle, T with blades, landing, clean, and clap

 

Pictures from Google Image Search

 

Step 4: Now it's time to do the jump here's a break down of the jump by it's counts!

 

5

6

7

8-CLAP!

1- Hit high V

2-Hold high V

3-Swing your arms into your X in front of your body. Your legs are in a squatted position together

4- Now it's time to bring your legs up as if you were in a straddle on the floor. Rotate your hips and toes your toes while holding your arms in a T with bladed fingers.

5-Land with your knees bent and your hands to your sides

6-Hold

7-Clean (stand up straight)

8-Clap or hold depending on preference

 

Now you can practice and move on to stretches below that will help make your jumps stronger and higher! Like I said it's not about having the highest jumps but they sure do like pretty!

 

In case you need a visual here's a great "how to" video just click here!

I hope this helps all of y'all!

Love,

A Cheerleader

Basketball Half Time Songs

It's finally basketball season and that means it's time for half time shows. You know those little 30 second dances we all run out on the court and do! But how do you start making those dances up when you can't put your finger on the right song? Here's a few crowd pleasing options!

 

1. Timber-Pitbull Feat. Ke$ha

 

 

2. 23-Miley Cyrus Feat. Juicy J (Clean Version)

 

 

3. Red-Taylor Swift (Cheer Mix)

 

 

4. Black Skinhead-Kanye West

 

 

5. Work B***ch- Birtney Spears (Clean Version)

 

 

All of these songs are upbeat and can easily be cut into the perfect fit for your basketball dance! I hope these songs come in handy this season!

 

Love,

A Cheerleader

 

 



Cheerleaders Getting Bullied Too... :(

In all of those stereotypical movies, cheerleaders are always characterized as the bully but what people don't understand is cheerleaders are probably the most bullied and picked up people at their schools. It doesn't matter how much their school loves and appreciates them there will always be that group of people who frown upon them as a whole or as individuals. They constantly have a negative thought to add or a rude comment to say either towards the cheerleaders or behind their backs. So as a cheerleader, how do we deal with these bullies?

Picture from Etsy.com (click the link purchase the bow...if you want)

#1 Ignore Them

I know it sounds super cliché but a reaction is what your tormentor wants and the moment you begin to backlash and said equally rude things about them you're not better then them. By ignoring them you put yourself at an advantage because it just makes them look bad for being so cruel to someone who isn't directly doing anything to them.

#2 Finish What They Started

A lot of people are under the impression that by telling someone like a parent, coach, or teacher that you will like a weak person who can't handle their own problems but when I situation gets out of hand or even to the point when your don't feel safe or comfortable in a school environment its time to stop being silenced and tell someone what's been going on.

#3 Be Prepared

The truth is you just have to be prepared for whatever the bully towards at you and not give them the satisfaction that they hurt you. In all honesty you will lose people and gain people. You will say goodbye to people who you thought were friends and hello to those who are willing to stick by you even with all of your "problems" included.

No one deserves to be bullied. It doesn't matter how "slutty" the person is, how "annoying" the person is, how "two-faced" the person is. It doesn't matter because if the bully is so focused on not being like that person, the minute they start the torment they became everything they didn't like about that person and more. Cheerleaders get bullied too, everyone does, but just because we're cheerleaders and we expect the hate doesn't mean we have to stay quiet and take it.

Love,
A Cheerleader

Cheerleader's Guide to Gifts

As cheerleaders we're usually set on certain Christmas presents that can help during practice and games so here's a few gift ideas to ask for! Stores have been listed in the summaries for each product. I don't own any of these sites. Just trying to be helpful and list stores to get these products from. This blog entry is not related to any of these stores or sponsored by any of the listed locations/stores.

Picture from OLIVECOCOMAG.COM

#1 Warm Up Pants

Whether they're from VSPink, Target, Walmart, Aerie, etc. etc. Any cheerleader will be glad to receive a pair of nice warm sweatpants for those long practices they'll be having in late winter after Christmas. Make sure you get them in the right length so that they can dance, jump, stunt, and flip around in them without tripping.

 

 



#2 Basic Makeup

Now that your cheerleader doesn't have to get all dolled up by putting on glittery and bold makeup. Now they can focus on more basic and natural looks. It might be a good idea to invest in newer makeup such as browns, light pinks, and soft golds. Sephora, Target, and other drug stores cover goodies like these which can also make good stocking stuffers!


#3 Nfinity Cheer Shoes

Since football season is over your cheerleader's shoes might be a little worn out and not ready for comp and basketball season. Get the brand that I personally love and think will last: Nfinity.





#4 Etsy Giftcard

It may sound silly but it won't when your cheerleader sees all of those bows that she could use the card for. Trust me when I say there's tons of cute options your cheerleader will love so Etsy is the right choice!


(Disclaimer: All photos from Google Image Search)

I hope this helps you either fill out your Christmas list or help your parents help fill up the tree! Let's make this a merry Christmas!

Love,
A Cheerleader

Where Will Your Cheer Career Lead?

You might be a senior, a junior, a sophomore, or even a freshman in high school but it's never too early to wonder where your cheer career might lead to. Many people fall in the love with sport and want to continue taking part in it, and for others it's a fun pass time to make new friends and stay active. Here's some things to consider if you're thinking of joining a college cheer team. 

Picture from Google Image Search

#1 Put in the Work

If you're in high school you might not have as much performing or tumbling experience as a girl who has been a part of a level 6 or co-ed all star team, but that just means you need to put in the work to level out the playing field. Most college's cheerleading teams are co-ed which means it's mixed genders on the mat and field. Most of the cheerleading stunts consists of partner stunts, so if you're unfamiliar with this type of stunting it's not too late to start going to co-ed stunt classes at your local cheer gym. You can call your local cheer and get more info and limitations and what to expect if you're a newbee. If tumbling isn't your strongest point maybe you should try going to more classes a week if it fits your schedule and budget. Most colleges require round off/standing back handspring, standing tuck, and 3 to tuck. This might take some time to master so it's best to get started.

#2 Save the Date

If there's a certain college you've applied for and are hoping to be accepted to start researching their cheerleading team and find clinics or the actual tryout date. Most colleges have clinics for high schoolers who are interested in being apart of their squad in the future. Clinics consist of stunting practice, tumbling, mock tryouts, etc. You can also contact the coach and ask any necessary questions you might have.

#3 Be 100% Positive

Before you go overboard with classes and clinics be sure you know what you want so you can put all of your time into pursuing this as a future pass by/sport. Make sure you will continue to love cheer and will be able to progress and make it to your goal. While you're doing this though, don't lose track of what's important: SCHOOL. In order to be a college cheerleader you have be in college, so keep your G.P.A up and make sure to study hard for SAT! Good luck!

Love,
A Cheerleader

Football Season is Over...Now What?

It seems like I lose more and more days on this daily blog! I'm sorry about that and I'll try to keep up!
___________________________________________________________

You've cheered every night on those Friday (...or Thursday) Night Lights Games and now the season is finally or soon to be closed. It's bittersweet because yes, we'll finally get a good nights sleep but we'll miss those games with the cheering crowd, standing on our boxes, and bonding with teammates while making memories. Now what next? Here's a few things that can keep your squad busy until the next assembly, or basketball season!

Picture from Google Image Search

#1 Fundraisers
Now that your squad isn't so busy with football and pep rallies you'll have more time raise money for the fun things your squad wants to take part in. You can hold a few more car washes before it gets too cold. You can have a candy fundraiser, etc. etc. Get creative and make some extra cash to add to your program's budget.

#2 Charity Work
It's the season of giving, so why not give? Take part in a few local charity events or even start your own like a food or toy drive at your school or local grocery store. Every little thing counts to those with not much. (more info in article coming soon)

#3 Christmas Partners
For the next holiday assembly include some of the boys. Have the Varsity girls dance with Basketball or Wrestling. This might take a while and a lot of practice since they all seem to have two left feet! :)

There's some much your squad can take part in, even if it's just performing for a nearby elementary school. Take part in community fun this season!

Love,
A Cheerleader



 

What to Expect When Starting Tumbling Classes

Now that football season is coming to a close, cheer teams usually have more time to learn how to tumble and take squad tumbling classes at local gyms. Here's a few things to expect when starting your first tumbling class cheerleader or not.

Picture from Google Image Search

#1 Attire

Coming to tumbling you should wear comfortable clothes you can well, flip around in.

• Athletic Shorts
• Sports Bra
• Tank top or loose shirt
• Athletic shoes or Cheer shoes
• hair in high pony and clipped out of your face

#2 Listen to Instruction

When the coach is talking make to sure to pay attention so you can learn on the right speed. Don't assume just because you watch a couple youtube tutorials you know what's best. You paid to learn so you might as well with a safe coach and nice floors.

#3 Don't Get Flustered

You're not gonna know everything the minute you get there and you most likely won't be able to throw you bhs after one class. Be patient and tryyour best. Don't get all flustered if you're not at the same level as the other girls or your teammates.

Love,
A Cheerleader
 

#Cured: Last Cheer 4 A Cure Game

With the last "Go Pink" football game coming up you and your cheer squad probably want to go out with a bang! Here's a few ways to incorporate "pink" or "the cure," into your next game!

#1 One Last Use

Picture from Poms4Less.com

 

If you're like my squad then you probably used pink pom poms throughout the month of October! It's time for that one last use. This is a nice touch to keep. (Oh how we'll miss the pink poms)

 

#2 Run-Throughs

Picture from Google Image Search

 

You can have themed run throughs. If you haven't tried this idea throughout October it's always nice to add it! You can have slogans like "(School's Name) Goes Pink", "Kick for the Cure", "Ta Ta (Opposing School's Name)", etc. etc. etc.

 

#3 Survivor

Picture from Google Image Search

 

Since it's the last "Go Pink" game you could have the announcer tell the names of alumni, or family members of the cheerleaders or football players that have or had cancer effect their family. If the person who had breast cancer is in the audience the cheerleaders could provide them with a nice gift basket of some sort. Make sure you get the person's permission before you do this because it is an extremely personal matter that they might not want everyone to know.

 

I hope you had a great October full of lots of football, fun, and pink!

 

Love,

A Cheerleader

Homecoming Game Hairstyles

Homecoming is happening all around and those memorable games are always super fun. Here's a few hair styles to pair with your head wreaths in all of those pictures you'll be taking!

 

#1 Curled Hair

Picture from Google Image Search

The best way to get spiral and thick curls is to use a Wand. Star by clicking the top half of your hair up (depending on the thickness of your hair) and then spray heat protector on the bottom half. Curl hair on to wand by twirling hair onto the wand inward and hold for as long as you desire. Pull up on the wand to get the hair off the wand and hold up the curled hair for a second or two. When you're done with the bottom half do this to the top until of the hair is curled and ready!


#2 Beach Waves

Picture from Google Image Search

Take a shower and then braid your damp hair. In the morning scrunch up hair and then use a regular curling iron to curl your hair in large portions. The curls should fall out throughout the day but still keep that edgy wavy look.

#Straight Hair



Picture from Google Image Search

This one is easy to master. Add heat spray and a good straightener and you got your perfect straightener look!

Hope you like these hairstyles!

Love,
A Cheerleader
 



Diary of A Cheerleader: Cause...Why Not?

Dear Diary,
I decided to add an extra entry this week because...why not? I wasn't really sure what to add to my blog so I decided another diary page would be perfect!

So basically at practice today we began starting our Homecoming routine. I'm super excited for it but also nervous considering my stunt group has never done a full blown sequence before. I know we can do it but I always get nervous because there's that possibility of getting hurt and being out for the assembly but I guess there's danger with everything I do. I could walk down the stairs and twist my ankle! [knock on wood]

I have also found my newest food obsession which are soft cookies! So if anyone wants to send me some my address is....Just kidding! Remember diary, I'm anon. So any ways, I have a lot of homework and I should probably go to bed soon!

-A Cheerleader

Team Bonding Ideas 4 October!

I believe that squads should bond with each other at least once a month and as every month goes by so does a new season. So as for October it's all about Halloween and all of it's blood, gore, and of course....pumpkins! Here's some great team bonding ideas your squad can take part in during October!

#1 Watching Scary Movies

Picture from Google Image Search

It might seem lame but trust me, all of you guys in one room wrapped in blankets scared out of your mind can be good for some laughs and some good memories. Most of the time squads don't even end up watching the whole movie because they end up talking, joking, and laughing. It's just a  good excuse to get together and hang out!

#2 Pumpkin Patch



Picture from Google Image Search

Your squad can get together and have a great time at a local pumpkin patch. My own squad is planning a team bonding for all of us to get together and pick out pumpkins for the girls on the other squads (like jv or freshman), so that we can decorate them and leave them on their steps as presents. It's also really fun to go on some of the attractions and take lots of pictures.

#3 Haunted Attractions



Picture from Google Image Search

It's always fun to be a little scared every once and a while and there's tons of places around the globe where this is a possibility. You can research around to see if there's any haunted houses and haunted hospitals around (that are legal to go into, haha). There's also amusement parks to go to like Universal Studios and Knott's Scary Farm.

#4 Costume Exploring

Picture from Google Image Search

With Halloween soon there is probably some parties going on, your squad can get together and help each pick out or even made costumes for each. It's always fun to shop so why not make it a team bonding!

I hope all of these ideas seem to fit your team's needs when it comes to bonding! Thanks for reading!

Love,
A Cheerleader