What is Competitive Cheerleading

Competitive cheerleading is when cheer squads compete against each other at a competition.

At a typical cheerleading competition, teams perform a 2 and a half minute routine with music that includes stunts, jumps, tumbling. Teams are judged by a panel of cheerleading experts on difficulty and execution. The winner in each division gets a trophy and bragging rights.

All types of cheerleading teams have the option to compete, but not all school-based cheerleading squads are competitive. School teams perform routines with a cheer with signs, poms, and megaphones that showcase their sideline skills along with an entertainment section to music.

On the other hand, all star cheerleading squads, who are not affiliated with a school, exist solely to compete. All star routines do not include a cheer since they don’t technically cheer for anyone, and their routines are all entertainment/music. Teams compete based on age and difficulty level (1-6, 6 being the most difficult).

Either way, competing as a cheerleader is really challenging, athletic, and so much fun. If you want to become a competitive cheerleader, find out if your school has a cheer squad that competes or contact a local all star gym. To find a competition in your area, visit Varsity.com