Expert: Steve Michaud - 3/20/2001

Question
It's the end of my junior year right now, and I am on a very basic (no tumbling, stunts, etc.) squad. What kind of stuff do I need to do to be at the level I need to be for college tryouts in a year? Lessons, excercises, stretches, anything really would be great. Thanks so much,
Lauryn

Answer
Lauryn,

It really depends on where you plan to go to school.  The competitiveness of the program will give you some insight into what you may need, but I'll throw some stuff at you that will help you with whatever you decide.

Get into a tumbling class at a local gym.  While a general gymnastics class will help, you really don't need to focus as much on the other events...just tumbling. make sure to check out the gym and make sure you feel comfortable there and that they have qualified instructors.

Work on your jumps everyday...10 times each of your toe touch, both sides, both fronts and your pikes will make you 60 jumps better every day or 300 a week if you do them 5 days a week...see how that might help.

If you are looking to cheer coed try to find a college prep clinic to teach you how to partner stunt.  The best way I can think of would be to contact a local college program that is coed and see if they are offering any clinics like this, or if they know of any.

Stay in shape and flexible.  By in shape I mean get to a gym and get on a cardio and weight training program.  Flexibility work your shoulders, back, splits, starddle and pikes.  Static (NOT bouncing) stretches held for about     1 min at a time each is a good start.

The only other idea I have for you right now is to look into joining an All Star team.  All Star teams are a great way to work with many talented athletes and some very good coaches that can help improve your skill level.  This solution could solve all the above problems if you get in with a strong program.  Do a cheer search online and see if you can find any in your area or let me know what part of the country you are in and I'll see if I can help you find one.  

Some of these things can get expensive so plan carefuly and keep this in mind.  If you have an idea what schools you will be applying to try to get in touch with the coach to see what their requirements will be.  Some won't even take first year students or have weight restrictions (I don't like these personally) or even run clinics to help incoming cheerleaders prepare for what's coming.

I wish you the best of luck and please write back if I can help again!

Steve Michaud
Cheer Director
ENA, NJ