Essay Or Competitive Cheerleading

Sidelines vs. Competition
How different are sideline and competitive cheerleading? I have personally experienced both sides of the sport so many little girls, and boys want to be a part of. In high school I cheered for the school, and a competitive squad on the side. Juggling both teams was difficult at times, but now that I am in college the team consists of both sides. Both sides of cheer take dedication, skill, and time. Although the competition side is more demanding and exciting which leads many athletes to choose competing over standing on the sidelines.
When most people think of cheerleading their minds go straight to seeing girls and guys standing on the sideline of a football or basketball game. During this time the main purpose is to get the crowed involved in what is going on for the team. The fans more than likely
Instead of cheering in the sidelines now everyone wants to be inside a gym tumbling, jumping, and stunting on a floor. Competition routines insist of two minutes and thirty seconds of nonstop skills. Kids of all ages are in the gym working to get the skills it takes to be a competitive athlete and not just a sideline stander. Majority of people are switching to this style of cheerleading because of the purpose. The team is working together to accomplish a common goal which is to win nationals, state, or any other competition the squad attends. In every sport there is a purpose behind why everyone is involved and winning is usually the main purpose! Most athletes prefer this side because of the location also. While cheering on the sidelines the skills are usually done on a track, grass, or basketball floor. For competition the skills are done on a padded four inch mat that helps the athlete with landings and falls. Competitive cheer has proven to not have as many injuries due to the equipment that can be used to help the athletes with