The Importance of Balancing Strength and Flexibility in Cheerleading

Do you have to be flexible to do cheerleading? This is a common question among aspiring cheerleaders, especially beginners. The truth is, while flexibility is often seen as a crucial component for various cheerleading stunts and lifts, it needs to be balanced with strength to prevent injury and enhance performance.

Strength and Flexibility: A Yin and Yang

Cheerleading requires a harmonious combination of both flexibility and strength. While an individual may possess one or the other in abundance, it is the balance between the two that truly sets a cheerleader apart. A strong cheerleader who is not flexible increases their risk of injury, particularly muscle strains and tears. Conversely, a highly flexible cheerleader who lacks strength may find themselves engaging in movements that put excessive stress on their joints and tendons, leading to potential injuries.

The Risks of Excessive Flexibility Without Strength

When a cheerleader focuses solely on improving their flexibility, they run the risk of becoming over-extended and lacking the necessary strength to support their bodies effectively during stunts. For example, attempting advanced stunts such as foot-to-ear pose can lead to joint injuries if the underlying muscle support is not sufficient. It is imperative to strike a balance between flexibility and strength to prevent such injuries and ensure safety during training and performances.

Yoga: A Path to Balance

Yoga emerges as a powerful tool for achieving this balance. It is specifically designed to enhance both strength and flexibility simultaneously. Regular yoga practice, even for beginners, can significantly improve overall body control, core strength, and flexibility. For instance, my daughter, a now fully-grown young woman, has benefited immensely from years of yoga. She credits her yoga classes as a child for helping her develop mental balance, a trait she values deeply today.

From elementary school yoga classes, where she flapped her knees together in a butterfly position, to more advanced poses in her teenage years, yoga provided her with a foundation of strength and flexibility. The mental impact of this balanced practice has been profound, contributing to her remarkable equanimity. As she grew, her yoga practice continued to build her core strength, making it easier for her to perform complex movements such as foot to ear pose in her later years.

Flexibility in Practice

Flexibility can vary widely among cheerleaders depending on their specific roles and the type of cheerleading they engage in. For instance, a high school cheer team that performs less complex stunts and jumps might not require the same flexibility levels as a college cheer team that incorporates more advanced maneuvers. This means that the level of flexibility required can vary greatly and should be adapted to the individual and their specific role in the team.

Conclusion: Balancing the Scales

In conclusion, while flexibility is important for cheerleaders, it is not the only factor. Strengthening both your flexibility and strength is crucial to prevent injuries and maximize your performance. Incorporating practices such as yoga, which aims to balance strength and flexibility, can be highly beneficial. Remember, a balanced approach not only enhances your performance but also ensures your safety and long-term enjoyment of the sport.