CHEERLEADING
A competitive sport that combines high-performance elements such as gymnastics (floor acrobatics), stunts (lifts and human pyramids), synchronized jumps, and dance. Teams are judged based on difficulty, execution cleanliness, synchronization, technique, and the overall visual effect of the routine. Safety and correct progression of movements are highly valued.
Field/Court Dimensions
Generally 12 x 12 meters (mat), with a minimum clearance height of at least 7 meters for aerial maneuvers.
Execute a 2:30 to 3-minute routine combining dance, gymnastics, jumps, and acrobatics (pyramids and tosses) with maximum difficulty, synchronization, and precision.
Johnny Campbell
1898
Originated in the United States, with the first organized cheer led by Johnny Campbell at the University of Minnesota on November 2, 1898, to encourage his football team. It was initially a male-dominated activity. Over time, it became a predominantly female practice, and from the 1980s and 90s, it evolved into the current competitive sport, distinct from specific game-day cheering.
ICU (International Cheer Union)
The Cheerleading Worlds, Continental Championships, World Games.
Competitive Cheerleading requires rigorous physical and technical preparation. Key roles include bases (who hold and toss), flyers (who are lifted), and spotters (who safeguard). Routines are strictly regulated to prevent serious injuries, especially in the construction and dismantling of pyramids and tosses. Scoring is divided into categories like difficulty (acrobatics, jumps, and pyramids), execution (cleanliness and technique), and overall effect (choreography and musical connection). Though initially for sideline cheering, it has consolidated as an athletic and artistic sport in its own right.