College Cheer Habits that changed my life.
Be versatile!
My number one problem coming into college cheer was I was scared of failing in a stunt position that I just tried not to do it at all! Until I realized if I didn’t do something I wouldn’t get better!
I learned how to base and fly elite stunts so that I would always have somewhere to go. I learned how to back simple stunts so if needed I could easily step in.
For reference I’m 5’5 and 125 pounds. Which means I’m a little short for backspotting, tall for flying and sometimes just right for basing.
⬆️⬆️If I can do all of these positions at my height and weight don’t let anyone tell you, your to small, big, skinny or fat to do anything. It’s far from the truth!
#collegecheer #collegecheerleading #collegestunt #collegestudent #studentathlete #studentathletes #collegestudentlife #collegestudent #collegeaesthetic #d1athlete
My journey in college cheer was truly transformative, and while mastering versatility in stunts was a huge part of it, there are so many other essential habits that helped me thrive as a student-athlete. For anyone looking for 'cheerleading tips for college students' or just curious about what it takes to be a 'college cheerleader,' here are some insights I wish I knew from day one. 1. Prioritize Physical Conditioning Beyond Practice: It’s not enough to just show up to practice. My core strength, flexibility, and endurance improved dramatically when I started dedicating time outside of scheduled practices to specific workouts. Think about incorporating targeted strength training for your legs, core, and upper body – crucial for any stunt position, whether you’re basing or flying. Don't forget consistent stretching; it helps prevent injuries and increases your range of motion, which is vital for those high-level stunts and tumbling passes. 2. Master Time Management – Your Secret Weapon: Being a college cheerleader means juggling a demanding schedule. Classes, homework, practices, games, and social life can feel overwhelming. I quickly learned that a solid planner and strict adherence to a schedule were my best friends. Block out time for studying, practice, and even recovery. This habit not only kept my grades up but also reduced stress, allowing me to fully focus when I was on the mat. 3. Embrace Mental Toughness and Resilience: Just like I mentioned about overcoming my fear of failing in stunts, mental fortitude is a cornerstone of college cheer. There will be bad practices, missed stunts, and moments of self-doubt. Learning to bounce back, maintain a positive attitude, and trust your teammates is key. Visualization techniques before big performances and positive self-talk before trying a difficult skill became my go-to strategies. These 'College Cheer HABITS' truly build character. 4. Fuel Your Body Right & Prioritize Recovery: You’re an athlete, and your body needs proper fuel. I started paying close attention to my nutrition – eating balanced meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding processed foods. More importantly, don’t underestimate the power of sleep. Long nights studying often meant a tired body the next day, impacting my performance. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep; it's when your muscles repair and your mind recharges. Incorporating active recovery like foam rolling or light stretching on off-days also made a huge difference in my overall well-being. 5. Communication is Key to Team Success: Cheerleading is the ultimate team sport, and effective communication is non-negotiable, especially during stunts. Learning to clearly vocalize cues, trust my teammates' calls, and give constructive feedback (and receive it!) strengthened our bonds and improved our execution. It’s not just about what you do individually, but how you contribute to the collective synergy. These aren't just tips; they are 'College Cheer HABITS' that became integral to my success and enjoyment throughout my college cheerleading career. They helped me not only physically but also mentally and academically, proving that the lessons learned on the mat extend far beyond it.
