Another cheer season is about to wrap up and you know what that means – the countdown to tryouts is on! 

Tryouts can be overwhelming, nerve-racking and exciting all at once. That’s where our Tryout Survival Guide comes in. 

As your big day draws nearer, check off the boxes below to ensure that you’ve prepared your body and mind in every way possible. Then, when it’s your time to step in front of the judges, you’ll feel as ready as ever! Now, go get ’em! 

ONE MONTH TO GO:

• Get your body in tryout shape.
• Cardio: Incorporate 20-60 minutes of cardio into your schedule 3-4 times per week to help build endurance. You can go running, swimming, cycling or check out your local gym for fun group classes like kickboxing and Zumba.
• Strength: Work your major muscle groups 3-4 times per week to make stunting and tumbling easier. Leave the weights at the gym and use bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, pushups, tricep dips, planks, crunches and wall sits.
• Flexibility: Stretch for at least 20 minutes, 5 times per week and hold each stretch for a minimum of 30 seconds. This will improve your technique and prevent muscle soreness.
• Attend weekly tumbling classes.
• Attend any open gyms, pre-tryout clinics and informational meetings. This is a great opportunity to meet current squad members as well as the coach.
• Get the details. Is the tryout process two days or an entire week? Does it take place in the mornings or after school? In the gymnasium or outside? Know what skills you will be required to perform and become familiar with the squad’s style of clothing, hair and makeup
• Cheerleading is a big commitment. Make sure you’re willing to dedicate a significant amount of time to the team before you try out. 

ONE WEEK TO GO:

• Get a copy of the tryout music and write down the words to the cheers and sidelines. You should practice this material every night. (Make sure your motions are sharp!)
• Everything’s more fun with a friend, so partner up with someone else trying out. Use each other for critiques, motivation and support.
• Now isn’t the time to try difficult new skills. Focus on perfecting the skills you already have and plan on performing.
• If you haven’t already, introduce yourself to the coach and don’t be afraid to ask questions. That way, when tryout day comes, he/she will recognize your name and face.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the week.
• Get some rest! Aim for at least 9 hours of sleep each night.

ONE DAY TO GO:

• Choose your tryout outfit. Make sure all clothing is appropriate and follows any guidelines set by the coach. Clean your cheer shoes if needed.
• Sign and complete the necessary forms.
• Hold a mock tryout with your partner. Record each other performing the material and fix any noticeable errors.
• Think positive!
• Go to sleep early.

FINALLY! TRYOUT DAY IS HERE:

• Eat a nutritious breakfast and lunch to give your body the energy it needs. Drink lots of water.
• Dress to impress! Double check that everything fits correctly and is wrinkle-free.
• Hair should be pulled back away from your face. Avoid large bows.
• When applying makeup, go for a clean and natural look. Mascara, a touch of blush and a tinted lip color should have you all set.
• Grab your water bottle, deodorant and a healthy snack like apples or trail mix.
• No jewelry or gum!
• Arrive at least 20 minutes early to sign in and warm up. Don’t forget your forms.
• Be professional and polite at all times, whether you’re interacting with the coach, judges or other cheerleaders.
• While you’re waiting to try out, close your eyes and visualize success.
• Take the tryout one skill at a time. Show confidence by keeping your head up, making eye contact with the judges and speaking clearly.
• If a mistake happens, take a breath and continue. Judges will want to see how you handle yourself.
• Don’t show up without your smile and energy! You’ve worked hard. Have fun out there and be proud of all you’ve accomplished!

By Kim Conley / American Cheerleader Magazine