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Step 1
First determine whether you have the personal characteristics that make a good cheerleader: determination, will, drive and enthusiasm. Watch some cheerleaders at a local high school or college game and decide if it's a sport you would enjoy.
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Step 2
Enroll in a local cheerleading or beginning gymnastics course if you have no formal training, since it will help you learn the basics. Find out when the annual try-outs are for your school team or look into local non-school affiliated cheer squads if you want to cheer on a more competitive level.
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Step 3
Stay in optimal shape and practice proper safety techniques before beginning each cheer practice. Stretch optimally and always wear proper attire and athletic shoes to optimize your performance as you cheer.
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Step 4
Learn basic tumbling passes such as the cartwheel and the round-house. Then work your way up to a back flip, which should be sufficient for tumbling required in cheerleading. Master other cheer basics such as the split jump, hurkey and the splits.
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Step 5
Sign up for try-outs at the school or gym that you wish to participate, and attend the informational session where you learn the try-out routine. Practice your routine every day for at least 3 hours to become well-versed in the basics. Get someone to videotape you for optimal objectivity during your performance.
