Expert: Nicole - 6/5/2009

Question
"Hello,

   My name is Megg,and i'm thirteen i have been cheerleading for 3 years and i
got my backhandspring and have been working on my back tuck.i recently injured
my back and was in physical therapy for 3 months, i went back into doing
everything i was before. then i one day stopped. and couldnt do it. i still have
not been able to.everytime i swing to go,i freak out and stop and just can't do
it.

how do i fix this.?!?!

-megg"  

Answer
Hello Megg,

Mental blocks can be tough. They are frustrating and upsetting, but you can get through them! Sometimes with a block you just have to take it slowly, and progress at your own pace with a spotter until you feel comfortable to find a mat or spot of your gym (tumble track, crash pad, air floor, etc.) to starting throwing again safely by yourself. Do not rush yourself into it because then you may just make the block even worse! Take your time and make each pass count.

There are many mental tips and tricks for coping with mental blocks. I unfortunately cannot offer much help as far as that goes, but there is another expert in the cheerleading category named Pamela Enders. She is a sports psychologist and is very knowlegdeable in the mental aspects of cheerleading. She is phenomenal with mentally breaking your block. I recommend checking out her website where she has tons of ideas and tips for mental blocks. You can find it at confidentcheerleadingblog.com


Good Luck! Nicole.