Key Takeaways
- Cheer camp is one of the most important summer activities you can add to your plan to ensure you improve your technique and keep your skills sharp.
- Some standard cheer camp activities may include practicing stunts, tumbling, dance, and team building.
- Packing for cheer camp is also an important part of your prep, as you need to bring your own bedding, snacks, and practice essentials.
- There are many cheer camp options throughout the country that may fit your interests, so choose the right one for you based on the activities, price, length, and skill level.
The most significant part of many cheerleaders’ summer breaks is cheer camp. You wait all year for it, and summer means it’s finally here! If you’re prepping for this year’s cheer camp, there’s lots to cover before you go.
Ready to learn more about what you do at cheer camp and how you can master your skills while learning new ones? It’s time to read this overview from the experts at Omni Cheer.
What Is Cheer Camp?
Cheer camp can be fun, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity to become a better cheerleader. You will have the time and instruction you need to master old skills and learn new ones, all while bonding with your team and preparing for a great season.
Many cheer camps offer a progression throughout the summer, starting you off with basic skills before progressing to advanced techniques and dance routines. What you do at cheer camp will depend on the type of program you choose.
History of Cheer Camp
Cheer camp was first established in 1948. The initial session was held at the University of Kentucky, where the university’s head coach organized cheer camp activities. Coach H.A. Dickey started with just 25 cheerleaders, but the program quickly took off, leading other universities to start their own camps.
By the 1960s, the variety and selection of cheer camps had expanded to attract cheerleaders of all experience levels. However, most cheer camps still strive to balance a challenging environment that blends learning new skills, making friends, and building confidence.
Types of Cheer Camp
What you do at cheer camp depends on the type of camp you choose. Here are a few of the most common, with an overview that explains essential cheer camp activities and what happens at cheer camps for different skill levels:
- Basic Camp: What do you do at a basic cheer camp? Expect to learn the basics. This option is best for new cheerleaders who require an introduction to nearly every skill and technique. Cheer camp activities include basic tumbling, stunting, and dancing lessons.
- Advanced Camp: For cheerleaders who have a little more experience, this level revolves around challenging stunts and tumbling.
- All-Star Camp: You attend All-Star cheer camp if you plan on competing during the season. You’ll learn stunting and dance routines, how to choreograph, and what to expect from competitions.
- Co-Ed Cheer Camp: There are cheer camps that are open to both boys and girls with a variety of sessions that explore co-ed collaboration, as well as individual activities.
- Girls-Only Camp: Many cheer camps are girl-only, striving to provide a safe space for young women to learn, grow, and thrive in the cheer community.
No matter which type of cheer camp you choose, you should expect to experience a number of benefits after attending, including enhanced confidence, improved skills, and character growth.
Packing for Cheer Camp
Here is a basic packing list for cheer camp to get you started. These should ensure you can participate in what you do at cheer camp!
- Water Bottle
- Sunscreen
- Cheer Shoes
- Cheer Bag
- Hair Accessories/Personal Essentials
- Camp Clothes
- Bedding
- Snacks (2-3 Per Day)
- Comfy Clothes/Sleepwear
- Uniform (if needed)
- Poms (if needed)
Cheer Camp FAQ
How long does cheer camp usually last?
This will depend almost entirely on the program you choose. Some cheer camps are only a few days long, while others can last up to three weeks. Longer programs have more advanced offerings and higher price tags.
What skills will I learn at cheer camp?
What you do at cheer camp mainly revolves around stunting, tumbling, dancing, and team building. Each day, you will have multi-hour sessions that focus on one skill set.
Is cheer camp only for experienced cheerleaders?
No! There are options for every skill level. You can attend a cheer camp even if you’ve never been involved in cheerleading before. Read through what happens at cheer camp in the brochures or on the website to find the best beginner program.
What is a typical day at cheer camp like?
What do you do at cheer camp? Your typical day will start early in the morning. The counselors will send out a wake-up call to have breakfast before heading to the first session of the day. Each session lasts between 2 and 3 hours, and you may attend multiple sessions on the same day. After training, you’ll have time for social activities, making new friends, and bonding.
What should I pack for cheer camp?
You must bring all essential cheer gear, including shoes, warmups, uniforms, and accessories. You should also be prepared to bring snacks, bedding, toiletries, and a water bottle. Each program will have a suggested packing list to help you get started.
Ready to choose your cheer camp? Explore the programs best suited to your needs today!
