For most people the words cheerleading uniforms will conjure up hosts of tall long-limbed American girls in gaily colored somewhat skimpy dresses waving pompoms, dancing and shouting at almost any kind of sporting function. Surprisingly however the very first cheerleaders were male. They made their appearance way back in the dark ages at the end of the 19th century. At first one or two students simply lead the spectators to encourage their team by way of stylized chanting - the college name and a few Hurrahs rhythmically put together usually.
Female students took over during and after WW1 due, presumably, to the dearth of male students and they have never looked back. Now it is considered a sport in its own right and supports an entire industry making uniforms and accessories etc. Complicated acrobatic routines have been developed too and the girls really have to be gymnasts to take part. Co-ed squads do still exist at College level however.
And it is no longer confined to the US. Since cheerleading became recognized as a sport with its own competitions and rules and regulations, it has traveled the world. It is popular in Canada, naturally, and all over Europe and was even to be seen recently at the IPL in India.
The main base however remains however in American schools and colleges where each season girls vie to be on the squad. It is almost as cutthroat as becoming President. Then it is a case of non-stop practice and the choosing and fitting of uniforms prior to the debut at the commencement of the appropriate season.
Color is vital and it is a good precaution to get a color swatch especially if you are ordering online to make sure it really is the correct shade. One size will not fit all even if the girls are generally of a similar height and build. A good session with a measuring tape will save a lot of gnashing of teeth later on. Skirt lengths and sleeve lengths as well as the fabric to be used all need careful planning.
What goes underneath can be just as important though never seen. Girls must be made to understand that properly fitting underwear is essential if they are to perform properly. You never see an Olympic gymnast pulling at her bra strap after all. Everything should fit snugly but not too tight, give adequate support without restricting movement.
Cheerleading shoes are generally white with the proviso to add team color flashes. Again it is of paramount importance that shoes fit comfortably and are not going to cut or pinch. Ideally they should be worn during practice so that any problems can be rectified before the first performance. Lightweight shoes with good support are available but maybe a little expensive.
Cheerleading uniforms are not complete without pompoms. Where there are still co-ed squads the guys must have their megaphones too. What a marvelous gift America has given to the world.
Female students took over during and after WW1 due, presumably, to the dearth of male students and they have never looked back. Now it is considered a sport in its own right and supports an entire industry making uniforms and accessories etc. Complicated acrobatic routines have been developed too and the girls really have to be gymnasts to take part. Co-ed squads do still exist at College level however.
And it is no longer confined to the US. Since cheerleading became recognized as a sport with its own competitions and rules and regulations, it has traveled the world. It is popular in Canada, naturally, and all over Europe and was even to be seen recently at the IPL in India.
The main base however remains however in American schools and colleges where each season girls vie to be on the squad. It is almost as cutthroat as becoming President. Then it is a case of non-stop practice and the choosing and fitting of uniforms prior to the debut at the commencement of the appropriate season.
Color is vital and it is a good precaution to get a color swatch especially if you are ordering online to make sure it really is the correct shade. One size will not fit all even if the girls are generally of a similar height and build. A good session with a measuring tape will save a lot of gnashing of teeth later on. Skirt lengths and sleeve lengths as well as the fabric to be used all need careful planning.
What goes underneath can be just as important though never seen. Girls must be made to understand that properly fitting underwear is essential if they are to perform properly. You never see an Olympic gymnast pulling at her bra strap after all. Everything should fit snugly but not too tight, give adequate support without restricting movement.
Cheerleading shoes are generally white with the proviso to add team color flashes. Again it is of paramount importance that shoes fit comfortably and are not going to cut or pinch. Ideally they should be worn during practice so that any problems can be rectified before the first performance. Lightweight shoes with good support are available but maybe a little expensive.
Cheerleading uniforms are not complete without pompoms. Where there are still co-ed squads the guys must have their megaphones too. What a marvelous gift America has given to the world.
About the Author:
The website found at www.cheeranddancediscountsupply.com provides a selection of cheerleading uniforms from which to choose. You can see our online catalog at http://www.cheeranddancediscountsupply.com now.
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