Cheer Safety Tips: Practicing At Training Facilities And Gyms

Cheerleaders are fierce performers that have to be skilled in choreography, stunting and tumbling – and need to have the strength training to do all those things! Because their skills cover so many disciplines, it may be required for them to take training outside of their school or organization’s regular practices. Use these tips to make sure that you reduce your risk of injury or loss of property when you use a training facility: Follow all of the rules on posted signage, membership agreement forms, or given verbally by a trainer or staff member. Return equipment to its designated storage space after use. If you see equipment that was not put back where it belongs, take a moment to return it yourself to help keep the facility safe for everyone. If you use exercise equipment, use the facility-provided sanitation formula to wipe down seats, handle bars and other places that come in contact with your skin. Use a spotter if you are lifting or doing tumbling or stunts. Do not eat or chew gum during training, or bring snacks or open drink containers (like a pop can) to the gym. Instead, use a water bottle that can be capped and sealed. This will prevent water from spilling on electric equipment or creating puddles that others could slip on. Wear appropriate cheerleading practice wear and indoor shoes. Your shirts and shorts or pants should not be baggy. Baggy clothing could result in the fabric getting caught on a spotter or on equipment. You should also remove all jewelry. Bring a lock to secure your belongings in the locker room. If there are no locker rooms available, try to wear your training apparel to the gym, and leave your other clothing, personal property and valuables in your car or at home. Do not goof off in the locker room or around training equipment. Goofing off includes horseplay and also the use of cell phones, computers or other distracting electronics. You need to stay focused on training and aware of your surroundings. Report all injuries, your own and also your teammate’s, to your coach, trainer or spotter immediately. How do you and your team stay safe when training at facilities outside of your usual practice space? Share your tips with our readers in the comments section!