There are dozens of cheerleading moves, stunts, cheers, and routines so it makes sense that there are nearly as many essentials required for games, pep rallies, and competitions. Here are the absolute essentials all cheerleaders and cheer coaches need. For Coaches: Perhaps the most important things a cheer coach needs all revolve around a game plan (and creating and executing it). Coach essentials include: Notebook and pens/pencils. At nearly any point in time, coaches will randomly think of a good move, a new routine, or an idea for the squad. By keeping a notebook and writing utensil on hand at all times, a coach will always be prepared. Uniform and apparel catalogs. A big decision every coach encounters is selecting team uniforms and warm-ups. By having a catalog on hand, or knowing where to shop, will make it easier when it comes time to finding the right uniform. Proper equipment. Cheerleading is a tough sport. Cheerleaders experience a lot of injuries, but coaches have the ability to reduce them by knowing and having the right equipment, from stands and braces to pads and mats. Resources. A good coach leads her team. A great coach stays up-to-date with the latest cheer news, tips, and advice. All coaches should read numerous cheer-focused magazines, websites, and blogs in order to know what’s going on in the cheerleading world. For Cheerleaders: For the cheerleaders, it’s all about the look! Cheerleader essentials include: Uniform. A cheerleader isn’t ready for a game, competition, or performance without a uniform! The shell top and skirt (or shorts) is a necessity for all cheerleaders. Many squads wear two different uniforms throughout the year – one for games and the other for competitions. Bodyliner. A uniform isn’t complete without a bodyliner! A bodyliner is worn underneath the uniform. Wear a long-sleeved one during evening, fall, and winter performances and games to keep up your body temperature so you don’t get injured. Shoes. Shoes not only add to the uniform look, they help cheerleaders with their stunts, tumbles, and jumps. Different cheer shoes are geared for different emphases, like being a flyer or performing indoors. Make sure you always have the right cheer shoes for your needs. Spirit! A cheerleader isn’t a cheerleader if she doesn’t have spirit. Some are born with it, some learn it; either way, you must be spirited, even after you make a mistake or take a tumble. What are your necessities as a cheerleader or coach?
The (Not So) Bare Necessities of Cheer Gear
