Expert: James - 1/15/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I want to try out for the cheer team next year, I'm in 8th grade, and its the highest level out of my school (6th-8th) which means we get a better chance of making the team. I have never try out before but im good at gymnastics. I really don't know the requirements that would help me make the team. I think we have to do toe touches and im not that good at them, i cant go very high (at all) if there any advantages that will help me make the team please tell me

PS I have until The Fall NEXT YEAR; I would like to start early
PPS: Im very flexible, but haven't worked out in a while, meaning I've gained a couple pounds loll

Thanks TONS

ANSWER: Well if you're flexible you can work out and drop whatever couple of pounds you've put on. Toe touches are pretty easy actually. But they are impossible to explain over the internet really. If there are any all-star gyms near you I would go there and have someone show you the proper technique, then you can practice them over and over on your own. Another good thing to do (since squads vary) is to politely ask the coach what the requirements are. Good luck, starting this early and having the drive to work hard that you seem to, I'm sure you'll do great.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: well i cant really work out much here in NJ its cold if that's what you mean, i also don't have access to any gyms. My mom cannot really drive me anywhere, but are there any simple exercises that i can do every day?

Answer
straddle ups , straddle hold one leg 5 sec then switch,

Then once you know the right technique and can safely do them, you can obviously do the toe touches over and over and over. Just like with anything, nothing substitutes for actually practicing the stunt or jump.