Why is Cheerleading a Good Activity for Kids?

Cheerleaders may appear to be the most popular kids in school, but it may actually have more to do with being healthy and feeling great than it does with social status. Because they work out regularly, many cheerleaders are in top physical condition and may have a leg up on their teamwork and leadership skills because they cheer.

  1. Cheerleading Builds a Strong Core

    • Cheerleading is a physical activity requiring energy, powerful muscles and great flexibility. Kids who cheer are encouraged to work on their core muscles -- muscles that control posture, balance and stability. Children who train their abdominals, obliques and lower back muscles on a regular basis develop a strong body core that can lead to a lifetime of good posture and balance without lower back pain.

    Cheerleaders Learn Teamwork

    • Cheerleading is a prime example of teamwork in action. Members of a cheerleading squad must depend on one another to accomplish big stunts such as flying, tossing and spotting, but they must also learn to get along with each other. Team sports teach children how to function as an important member of a group. Skills learned from cheerleading include tolerance for others, the importance of being punctual and how to win and lose with grace.

    Cheerleading is Highly Rewarding

    • Cheerleading is rewarding on many levels for children. They have the opportunity to master difficult techniques, exercises and stunts. They reap the rewards of being in top physical condition. They have access to home and away games and have the privilege of being there to cheer on their team. In addition, kids who pursue cheer on a competitive level may win prizes ranging from trophies to titles to cash awards.

    How to Get Involved

    • If your child is interested in becoming a cheerleader, talk with the school athletic director, who can put you in touch with the right person. Schedule a meeting to sit down with your child and her prospective coach to talk about the commitment involved. Cheerleading expenses -- for example, uniforms and cheerleading camp -- can be high, and most coaches require three to four days of practice weekly. Make sure both you and your child are up for the challenge.

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