Injury prevention for young athletes
Cheerleading
Cheer injuries happen less often than in many sports but can be more serious, so stunt safety comes first.
Injuries to know
Wrist sprains
Among the most common cheer injuries.
Learn: Wrist and Hand →Ankle sprains
Also among the most common cheer injuries.
Learn: Ankle Sprain →Head and neck injuries
A growing concern as routines get more acrobatic. A hit to the head needs a concussion check right away.
Learn: Concussion →
Habits that protect you
- Only try stunts you've been trained for, with a coach watching and spotters in place.
- Use mats in practice and as much as possible in competition.
- Skip stunts when you're tired, hurt, or sick.
- Build strength in your lower back, stomach, and shoulders.
Your lesson path
Take these in order. Each lesson takes about 3 minutes.