Cheerleaders - What it Takes
If you're like most people, the word cheerleader conjures up visions of beautiful, young women in skimpy, sexy outfits. You may also imagine a cheerleader is not too bright and more concerned about what color lipstick to wear than world events. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Cheerleading takes an extreme amount of physical work as well as practice. Most cheerleaders practice an average of 8 hours a week. They must be as graceful as dancers, as poised as models, and as athletic as any gymnasts. Cheerleaders also have to be in top physical condition. The San Francisco 49er's Gold Rushmembers are encouraged to be "on a consistent cardiovascular & body conditioning workout program". In addition, they are advised to take a variety of dance classes including jazz, hip hop, and ballet.
As for intelligence, high school and college cheerleaders are usually required to have at least a 2.0 GPA to try out. A lot of schools will disqualify or remove a cheerleader that falls below an 1.5 average in any semester. This year the Denver Bronco's Cheerleaders boast of having 11 bachelor's degree-holders, two master's degree-holders, one graduate student, three teachers, the 1999 Miss Colorado USA, 1999 Miss Teen Colorado USA, 1998 Miss Teen Colorado USA and 13 full-time students on their team. Obviously, these women are certainly not lacking in intelligence.
Just like basketball, football, and baseball Cheerleading is a sport. So, the next time you look at a cheerleader on the field or court, remember she/he has put in many hours of dedication and there is more there than good looks, a pretty smile, and an outgoing personality.
*graphics courtesy of Clickart
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