When I was younger, I was a junior cheerleader for six years (and then I coached junior cheerleading for three years). It was fun at that time and, of course, nothing you had to try out for. You just signed up and you were a cheerleader. However, I did try out for high school cheerleading and it was rather tough considering my experience. I am sure trying out for professional teams is much harder.

Cheerleading is all about teamwork, poise and attitude. It is tough. It is strict. You have to keep your arms straight, your wrists cannot be bent (which is tougher than you think and frowned upon a lot!) and you have to strike perfect moves during cheers or dances. You have to cheer properly (try not to sing your words). You have to perform stunts on your own or with other cheerleaders. You need to have the strength to be the base in pyramids or be lifted in one. During all of this, you have to smile the entire time.

I think being a cheerleader in general, you need to be in shape and work out on a regular basis. You do not need to be skinny, but at least toned. Again, you need to have the strength to perform stunts or be a base in pyramids. You need to have the energy to perform. I think to be a professional cheerleader (say, for a sports team), looking good is often a plus.
Source(s):
Personal experience.

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