Today, cheerleading is not just about cheering, wearing skimpy outfits and shaking pom-poms. There’s a lot more to it than that, in fact, a large number of injuries can take place due to incorrect methods of cheerleading. In this article, we will discuss health tips for teenage cheerleaders.
Firstly, for your teenage daughter’s health, it’s important that the coach be qualified, and that the staff be properly trained. The coach should have first aid and CPR training. The coach should understand cheerleading technicalities properly and also know how to maintain the health of the cheerleaders. Appropriate shoes and clothing should be worn – ideally rubber soled sneakers are the best option during events and practice. These provide a sort of cushioning for the knees and the feet, and the rubber soles prevent falling or slipping. Warm clothes should be worn during cold weather and breathable, comfortable clothes during hot weather.
For the health of your teenage daughter, it is essential that all practices and events should be held in a proper, safe environment. If your daughter says she has been practicing on a gym floor, macadam, asphalt, or even a wet surface – make a complaint immediately, as these are inappropriate places. Make sure the practices are being supervised by a coach; this will help in her overall health and prevent any nasty accidents or injuries from taking place. Also, the coach will be able to guide the girls on doing the cheerleading properly.
Stretching up and warming up before practice and events is also essential. This prevents any injuries later on, by making the body attuned to the exercise. It also gets the blood rushing, and prepares the girl for the cheerleading. This makes her fitter and overall healthier.
