Is Cheerleading a Sport “It’s not about being the best it’s about being better than you were yesterday” - Michael Jordan. People often think that cheerleading is just an accessory to football games or basketball games, but it is so much more than what people realize. Before people say that cheerleading is not a sport, they should look at it’s profound history, exceptional athletic attributes, and jaw dropping all-star cheer performances. Cheerleading’s history is super interesting and is a sport. First of all “The first organized cheers, according to USA Cheer, were shouted at Ivy League football games in 1860” (ProCon.org 1). Cheerleading first started out with just some chants, but who knew the controversy would start once it got popular? …show more content…
Cheerleading is a sport, but people have to understand other opinions and viewpoints on this subject and what they believe in. Being a cheerleader requires a lot of physical attributes, including a strong mentality and being fit. Initially “Cheerleaders also lift weights to ensure they are strong enough to toss, catch, and support other cheerleaders, not to mention the strength needed to get through an intense routine” (ProCon.org 3). People who are not somewhat fit will have a hard time doing this sport because they have to be able to stunt, jump, tumble and dance. Another good example “A survey of high school and college sport injuries found cheerleading had the second highest rate of injuries overall, out numbered only by football” (ProCon.org 3). Cheerleading is a sport that requires dedication and hard work, but with that comes injury. Concussions are a big issue because when you are throwing people up in the air it is hard to not really get hurt. Being fit is excellent for this sport, no athlete should put too much pressure on trying to look their best and should just have fun with their extracurricular