How to Train to Become a Mascot

A mascot might well put out as much energy and effort on the sidelines as the athletes do in the games, and therefore must be in top physical condition. If you want to become a mascot, you'll need to undertake a training program to prepare yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Exercise and dance videos or DVDs
• Athletic gear such as running shoes for cardiovascular training
• Weights, bands or other equipment for strength training

Instructions

Prepare Yourself to Become a Mascot

1. Build up your stamina. Begin to train by developing a running routine. You'll need lots of cardiovascular activity to build up the endurance necessary to keep things moving during an entire game.

2. Lift weights, use exercise bands or work out at a gym with strength training machines. Acrobatic stunts often take a lot of strength, especially in the upper body.

3. Train yourself by doing push-ups--a lot of push-ups. Many schools require the mascot to do push-ups whenever a goal is scored. If your team is good, you'll be doing lots of them. If possible, do push-ups while wearing your costume, since it makes the move more difficult.

4. Become familiar with any standard routines or stunts by talking with cheerleaders, coaches and previous mascots. Become proficient in these routines.

5. Bust a few dance moves. Decide what style of dance will appeal most to your audience. Some will go wild for salsa, while step dancing might appeal more to others. Learn new moves by studying instructional dance videos.

6. Practice your mime and gestures. Mascots are never allowed to speak, so develop a repertoire of gestures such as "I'm scared," "I have an idea" and "I can't hear you." Practice them in costume to be sure they're broad enough to be understood, even from a distance.

7. Work out wearing your costume as it gets closer to the time when you have to perform. There's a huge difference between exercising in shorts and a t-shirt and doing the same moves wearing a hot fursuit and heavy head piece.

Tips & Warnings

• Joining a gym will give you access to both cardiovascular and strength training equipment. However, if is not difficult to develop your own training routine with minimal equipment, if you want to avoid that expense.

• If possible, study tapes of the mascot as personified by previous performers, so you can become familiar with the personality developed for it.

• Start early. Don't try to train in the week before tryouts. Not only will you fail to develop the strength and stamina you need, but you might also find yourself trying to perform with sore, aching muscles.