Why Should Cheerleading Be Considered a Sport?

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Cheerleaders performing routine

There are several reasons why some may consider cheerleading to not be a sport. Historically, cheerleading was primarily seen as a sideline activity to support other sports teams. This perception has led some people to view cheerleading as more of a performance or entertainment activity than a sport. Some people may not fully understand the physical demands and training required for cheerleading as a sport.

Cheerleading requires a high level of physical skill, including strength, flexibility, coordination, balance, and endurance. Cheerleaders perform complex routines that involve tumbling, stunts, jumps, and dance, all of which require athleticism training.

Cheer involves competing against other teams and is judged based on various criteria such as difficulty, execution, and presentation. This competitive aspect is a hallmark of sports, and cheerleading competitions can just be as intense and demanding as any other sport.

Cheerleading is a physically demanding activity that carries a risk of injury, particularly in stunts and tumbling. In fact, according to a study by the National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research, cheerleading is one of the most dangerous sports.

Cheerleaders undergo rigorous physical training and conditioning, including strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises. This is similar to the training required for other sports.
Many organizations, including the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), recognize cheerleading as a sport. In fact, the IOC has even considered adding cheerleading to the Olympic program.

Overall, cheerleading requires a high level of athleticism, involves competition, carries a risk of injury, requires physical training and conditioning, and is recognized as a sport by many organizations. These factors make a compelling case for cheerleading to be considered a sport.

  It’s important to note that there may be some misconceptions or biases against cheerleading as a sport, but many organizations and institutions do recognize it as a legitimate sport. Additionally, the risk of injury associated with cheerleading is similar to those of other sports, supporting the argument that cheerleading should be considered a sport.