The Ultimate Guide to Pom Pom Balls for Cheerleading Enthusiasts

Cheerleading pom poms are an iconic part of cheerleading uniforms and routines. These colorful pom poms allow cheerleaders to add visual flair and excitement to their cheers and dances. For cheerleading enthusiasts looking to purchase pom pom balls, there are a few key factors to consider.

Types of Pom Poms for Cheerleading

There are two main types of pom poms used in cheerleading - striped pom poms and solid pom poms.

Striped Pom Poms

Striped pom poms feature multiple strips of alternating colors. The most common color combinations are red/white and black/white, but any color combination is possible. Striped pom poms create a striking, vibrant effect when shaken by cheerleaders during routines.

Striped pom poms often feature longer streamers coming off the main pom. These accent streamers add extra movement and visual appeal. Many squads use striped poms as their main practice and performance poms.

Solid Pom Poms

As the name suggests, solid pom poms are a single, solid color, usually white. Solid white poms project a clean, classic look. They are popular for cheer teams looking for a more understated style.

Solid poms can also be any other solid color a squad prefers. Their simplicity makes them easy to match with different cheer uniforms, especially louder, busier cheer uniforms.

Pom Pom Construction

Pom poms are constructed by tying together hundreds of small strips of plastic. Higher-quality poms will have more strips, creating a fuller, fluffier shape. Two main types of materials are used:

Plastic Film Strips

Most pom poms are made from glossy strips of plastic film. These poms are lightweight and durable, shake well, and hold their shape. Plastic film poms come in the widest range of colors and styles.

Metallic Mylar Strips

For extra flash, metallic mylar strips can be used instead of plastic. Metallic poms have an eye-catching shimmer when they move. They're available in colors like silver, gold, copper, and more. Mylar poms cost a bit more but provide lots of visual appeal.

Pom Attachment

Cheerleaders need to be able to grip their poms securely during routines. Pom poms attach to the hand via either a stick or a strap:

Stick Poms

Stick poms feature a rigid plastic stick that attaches to the middle of the pom. Cheerleaders grip the stick to hold the poms. Sticks are typically 6 or 7 inches long.

Stick poms stay securely in the hand and allow for easy pom movements. However, the sticks can feel bulky and awkward at times.

Strap Poms

Strap poms use adjustable fabric straps attached to the backside of the pom. Cheerleaders slide their hands through the loops to grip the poms.

Straps provide more flexibility and a better grip on the pom, allowing the pom to sit flush in the hand. However, straps sometimes twist or slip while performing rigorous motions.

Pom Sizes

Poms come in a range of sizes, measured by their diameter across the face of the pom. The right size depends on the cheerleader's hand size and preference. Typical pom sizes include:

• Extra Small: 4 inches

• Small: 5 inches

• Medium: 6 inches

• Large: 7 inches

• Jumbo: 8+ inches

Smaller poms around 5 inches work well for younger cheerleaders with smaller hands. Older squads tend to prefer medium or large poms in the 6-7-inch range.

Larger jumbo poms make the biggest visual impact but are heavier and harder to handle. Straps help manage the weight of jumbo poms.

Buying Quality Pom Poms

With the many pom pom options available today, it's important to choose the right ones to get the best performance:

Buy from a Reputable Cheer Supplier

Check that the company specializes in cheerleading equipment and apparel. They will have the most variety and expertise. Well-known brands include Rebel, Nfinity, and Champion.

Inspect Construction Quality

Look for tightly packed strips and sturdy bindings. Lower-quality poms may appear flimsy or uneven. Check reviews to help assess durability.

Consider Durability Needs

Practice poms can afford to be lower cost. But invest in higher quality for longer-lasting performance poms.

Request Samples

Many suppliers will provide sample poms to help squads decide. Squads can compare colors, feel, and shake test samples.

Compare Prices

Pricing can range dramatically between brands. Weigh the cost against quality to get the best value.

Creating Pom Pom Routines

Pom routines require coordination between all team members. Here are some tips for putting together exciting, synchronized pom routines:

Choose Music with a Strong Beat

An energetic tempo helps unify pom motions. Make sure the beat is prominent enough to perform.

Use Simple, Repetitive Movements

Layering basic moves makes it easier to stay in sync. Examples include shakes, loops, figure 8s, claps, and hits.

Design Formations

Use formations like lines, circles, or rows. Move together into new formations on changes in the music.

Coordinate Transitions

Moving in and out of formations takes teamwork. Call-out counts to transition smoothly.

Build Up Speed and Motion

Start simpler and slower. Gradually increase speed, height, and energy through the routine to build excitement.

Incorporate Level Changes

Moves like squats, leaping, floor work, and shoulder sits add highs and lows.

Feature Skill Sections

Add synchronized skill sequences like ripples, exchanges, flips, and illusion twirls.

End on a High Note

Finish with an eye-catching move like a jump or a pyramid for a strong finish.

Caring for Pom Poms

With heavy use, pom poms can wear out over a season. Follow these care tips to maximize their lifespan:

• Shake poms gently when not performing to fluff and loosen the strips.

• Spot clean stains immediately with gentle cleaners and let air dry.

• Store poms in a dry area away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

• Place poms in a mesh laundry bag and machine wash cold on a gentle cycle if needed. Air dry.

• Check bindings regularly and re-tie knots or re-wrap handle bindings as needed.

• Consider rotating practice and performance poms to spread out wear and tear.

• Replace poms each season or whenever they appear limp, flattened out, or worn.

With the right pom poms, cheer teams can take their performances to the next level. Evaluate pom construction, materials, attachments, and sizes to select poms tailored to your squad's needs. Establish smart pom care habits to help them last. Most importantly, create fun, exciting routines that showcase team spirit and skill to pump up the crowd!

Conclusion

Pom pom balls are an essential tool for cheerleading enthusiasts, adding flair, energy, and visual appeal to performances. Whether you're a seasoned cheerleader or just starting, selecting the right pom poms can elevate your routines and showcase your team's spirit. With a wide variety of styles, colors, and sizes available from GetPoms, you can find the perfect set to match your team's identity. Embrace the excitement of cheerleading and let your pom poms shine as you cheer your team to victory!

Name: GetPoms 

Address: 7317 La Sobrina Dr, Dallas, TX 

Phone No: 972-385-3035

The Role of Cheerleading Pom-Pom Balls in Team Spirit and Performance

Cheerleading pom-pom balls have become an iconic symbol of cheer squads and an integral part of cheerleading routines. With their bright, colorful, and eye-catching nature, pom-poms attract attention and help cheerleaders visually lead cheers and engage the crowd. But pom-poms serve a greater purpose than just looking good - they have an important role in the psychology of team spirit and have a practical function in cheer performance.

A Brief History of Cheerleading Pom-Poms

Pom-poms became popularized in cheerleading in the mid-1900s, though cheerleaders waved megaphones and other props before that. Pom-poms were adopted from Broadway and performance dance troops in the early 20th century. Some credit the development of cheer pom-poms to Fred Gastoff, who owned a pom-pom manufacturing company in the 1960s. The fluffy pom-poms first made appearances at professional sporting events before trickling down to college and high school squads.

As cheerleading advanced from basic sideline crowdsourcing to competitive routines in the 1970s, pom-poms allowed for more dynamic visuals and choreography. Pom-poms became a staple in cheerleading as both a practical tool and a stylized emblem of cheerleader spirit. Professional and college dance teams and pro sports cheerleaders helped popularize choreographed pom-pom routines. The development of lighter-weight, durable plastic pom-poms also helped pom-poms proliferate.

How Pom-Poms Boost Team Spirit

Team spirit is defined as the shared enthusiasm and devotion shown by a team's fans and members. Positive team spirit is associated with increased motivation, morale, performance, and loyalty. Pom-poms give visual stimulation and energy to increase crowd and team spirit in various ways:

Visual Impact

The vibrant, fluttering pom-poms provide striking visual effects and grab attention when cheerleaders shake them in choreographed motions and formations. This amplifies their voices and helps them lead synchronized cheers. The visuals excite crowds and allow cheerleaders to display team spirit through energetic, dynamic movements.

Sound Effects

When shaken forcefully in unison, pom-poms create reports. The fluctuating noise increases the sense of movement and participation. This audible factor makes pom-poms more dynamic for leading cheers and chants. The sound effects punctuate cheers and add enthusiasm.

Unified Movement

Performing synchronized motions creates a sense of unity. When cheerleaders hold pom-poms in planned formations and shake them together on cues, they demonstrate they are moving as one. This coordination and synchronicity help generate shared eagerness and morale.

Encourages Participation

The eye-catching, energizing nature of waving pom-poms, along with the squad's cheers, motivates fans to join in. When spectators mimic the cheerleaders' motions, they feel more immersed in backing the team and boost their spirit.

Emotional Energy

Vigorously waving pom-poms in fast, upbeat motions creates feelings of excitement and enthusiasm. The physical movements and visual stimulation enhance cheerleaders' energy, which transfers to the crowd. This generates a shared emotional energy and uplifted spirit.

How Pom-Poms Enhance Cheerleading Performance

While clearly boosting visual appeal and crowd spirit, pom-poms also serve important practical purposes for cheerleading performance and skills. Pom-poms improve cheerleading routines in these key ways:

Punctuation

Cheerleaders strategically wave pom-poms in time with specific motions, words, or phrases in their choreographed routines. This sharp punctuation focuses attention and emphasizes these accents, adding power and polish to the performance.

Clean Movements

Holding pom-poms defines and frames cheerleaders' arms. This showcases their form and movements in an exact, refined way as they transition between positions and direct motions with their arms, creating cleaner lines and execution.

Balance and Control

Incorporating pom-pom movements requires cheerleaders to maintain control of their arms and balance as they transition between motions. The extra Weight challenges their strength and body control to improve their technique.

Showmanship

Pom-poms allow cheerleaders to add dramatic expression and flair. Shaking them forcefully in the air demonstrates enthusiasm and energy. Sweeping them in wide arcs and Figure-eight creates visual excitement. Pom-poms expand performance showmanship.

Connection and Interaction

Cheerleaders can use their pom-poms to direct attention and lead interactive cheers with the crowd. They can point to different sections for customized engagement during cheers or pump the pom-poms to elicit crowd responses. This ability to connect and prompt reactions enhances the interactive aspect of their performance.

Dynamic Variety

Pom-poms let cheerleaders seamlessly blend static and dynamic motions by switching from holding poses to high-energy shaking and waving. This adds diversity to visual appeal over relying solely on gymnastics and dancing. Pom-poms provide another dimension of variety.

Uniformity

Matching pom-poms in team colors and designs creates cohesive styles. Pom-poms worn by all cheerleaders unify the look of uniforms when choreographing formations, projecting a synchronized identity.

By understanding the strategic role pom-poms have in engaging crowds and sharpening performance, coaches can leverage them to maximize cheerleading's impact. Cheerleaders can use pom-poms to enhance their skills and pump up crowds. Pom-poms ultimately epitomize the infectious team spirit embedded in cheerleading culture. Whether waved at professional stadiums or local high schools, pom-poms bring exhilarating visuals and energy to cheering squads.

Selecting the Right Pom-Poms for Your Squad

While pom-poms are simple accessories, there are actually many options to choose from. The right pom-poms can amplify your squad's spirit, while the wrong ones will fall flat. Consider these factors when selecting effective pom-poms for your cheer squad:

Pom Attachment Styles

Pom-poms come in three main attachment styles:

• Sticks - Pom-poms attached to plastic sticks or rods provide the most versatility for integrated pom movements but require continuous holding.

• Handles - Pom-poms are constructed with plastic handles extending from the base. Handles allow for flourishing motions and even tosses, and they require less grip strength than sticks.

• Straps— Pom-poms tied to wrist straps. Straps free up the hands in between motions but limit motion versatility. They are best for younger cheerleaders.

Consider your squad's skill levels and preferences when deciding between stick, handle, or strap attachment styles.

Pom Weight

Pom-pom weight affects performance and comfort:

• Lightweight—2-3 ounce poms are ideal for maximum shaking motions and reduced arm fatigue. They allow for more complex, extended routines. They are best for older, experienced cheerleaders.

• Medium Weight - 4-6 ounce poms provide substantial visual impact and audible sound with less tiring.

• Heavy Weight - 8+ ounce poms deliver the loudest, fullest visuals but can strain arms, especially for long routines. Better for short cheers or use by stronger cheerleaders.

Lighter pom-poms are recommended for high school and youth cheer, while heavier poms work for quick college or professional cheers.

Pom Size

Standard cheer pom sizes range from 5" to 8" diameter. Size impacts visual presence and use:

• Small (5") - Compact and easy to hold but less visible from a distance. Allow intricate handle/stick manipulations.

• Medium (6-7") - The most versatile and balanced size for both visual impact and maneuverability.

• Large (8") - Make the biggest statement but can be bulky for complex moves. Better for the back line or male cheerleaders.

Medium 7" pom-poms offer the best all-around option for high school and younger cheerleaders.

Number of Poms

Most squads use two pom-poms per cheerleader, holding one in each hand. Pros of using two poms:

• Provides balanced, symmetrical impact.

• Allows alternating or simultaneous dual-hand motions.

• Keeps hands active without empty motions.

Some squads utilize a single pom for a greater range of motion, which allows for the integration of more dance and gymnastics movements. Single poms can be alternated between hands. The quantity depends on your cheer style and preferences.

Custom Design Options

Pom manufacturing companies offer many custom options:

• Team Colors - Matching exact hues from your school's color scheme.

• Glitter Poms - Incorporating glittery tinsel strands and metallic accents.

• Patterned Poms - Custom graphic prints or alternating color stripes/sections.

• Shape Poms - Unique shapes like stars, hearts, and megaphones.

• Mixed Media - Attaching bows, beads, and foam shapes.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, cheerleading pom-poms are not just vibrant accessories but essential tools that significantly enhance team spirit and performance. Their ability to visually and audibly engage the crowd, unify movement, and add dynamic variety to routines makes them indispensable in cheerleading. From their historical roots to their strategic use in modern cheerleading, pom-poms epitomize the energy and unity that define this sport. When selecting pom-poms, it is crucial to consider factors like attachment style, weight, size, and customization to ensure they amplify your squad's spirit effectively. For the best selection and variety, GetPoms provides top-quality options tailored to meet the unique needs of every cheer squad.

The Impact of Color Psychology in Cheerleading

Cheerleading is a fast-paced, high-energy sport that relies heavily on visual elements to engage and excite both participants and spectators. One of the most important visual components of cheerleading is color. The uniforms, hot pink cheerleading pom poms, signs, and other accessories used in cheerleading are carefully chosen to have maximum visual impact. Understanding the psychology behind color and how different colors affect emotions and perceptions is critical for creating the kind of high-energy environment that cheerleading demands.

How Color Impacts Emotions and Energy

Research has shown that color has a significant effect on mood, emotions, and energy levels. Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow are stimulating and can boost excitement, confidence, and enthusiasm. Cool colors like blue, green, and purple are calming and relax the nervous system. Neutral colors like black, white, gray, and brown are stabilizing.

Cheerleaders use warm, high-energy colors like hot pink to stimulate crowd excitement and involvement. When spectators see hot pink pom poms shaking and cheerleaders yelling enthusiastically while wearing bright, vibrant uniforms, energy and engagement levels naturally increase. Cool colors don't have the same stimulating effect. Hot pink increases energy boosts mood, grabs attention, and really allows cheerleaders to rally the crowd.

Color Coordination for Visual Impact

Coordinating colors for uniforms, accessories, and gear is an important part of creating a cohesive, eye-catching visual presentation. Color coordination ensures all elements work together for maximum visual impact.

For example, a squad coordinating uniforms, bows, shoes, pom poms, and signs in the same one or two colors makes a bold visual statement and unifies the look of the squad. On the other hand, a haphazard mix of colors can look messy and disjointed.

Careful color coordination also ensures the cheerleaders stand out visually against the backdrop of the crowd, field, court, or mat. Coordinated looks in bright, vibrant colors provide the cheer squad with high visibility.

Psychological Impact of Color in Performance

Color doesn't impact the psychology of spectators and cheerleaders wearing hot pink. Bright, energizing colors actually improve performance through psychological mechanisms.

Studies show that red uniforms can boost athletes' performance in competitions. The bold, vivid color gives a psychological edge that improves speed, strength, and accuracy. Research also shows that viewing red prior to competitions increases heart rate, muscle strength, and testosterone levels.

This effect applies to cheerleaders as well. Hot pink uniforms can improve energy, confidence, and motivation during a performance. The cheerleaders feed off the bold uniform color, sparking their energy and enthusiasm. This creates a positive feedback loop where the performance impacts the psychology and vice versa.

Color Trends in Cheerleading

Like fashion, color trends come and go in the world of cheerleading. While many squads stick with traditional school colors, uniform and accessory colors often reflect what's trendy. Competition squads, in particular, usually follow color trends.

For example, hot pink had a major moment in the early 2000s, with many squads donning uniforms, bows, and pom poms in various shades of pink. Black and metallic colors also had strong staying power through the 90s and 2000s.

Recently, brighter, bolder colors like turquoise have come into vogue. More unique shades like lime green, coral, and lavender are also cropping up in competition cheer. Of course, classics like red and blue remain staples, but many squads enjoy expressing their style through on-trend shades.

Psychologically Appropriate Uses of Color

While cheerleading heavily uses color, squads must also consider appropriateness. Some color choices have a different psychological impact. For example, hot pink would likely seem odd at a funeral or solemn ceremony.

Here are some psychologically appropriate uses of color in cheer:

• Hot pink pom poms, bows, and other accessories for competitions, rallies, games, and energetic crowds

• School colors like navy blue, maroon, or orange for game day uniforms to show school pride

• Softer shades like baby blue for youth league cheerleaders

• Black and glittery accents for dramatic effect at competitions

• Red and green for holiday-themed performances

Considering the atmosphere, audience, and purpose of the performance can guide smart color choices.

Considerations for Skin Tone

Another psychological consideration is how uniform colors flatter various skin tones. For example, warm peachy shades of pink tend to suit warm, yellow-undertone complexions. Cool berry pink shades pair better with cool pinkish undertones.

Issues like color clashing can impact a cheerleader's confidence and performance if the uniform seems unflattering. Choosing strategically tailored shades allows every member of the squad to feel great.

Considering undertones and finding the most flattering shades of hot pink, red, blue, etc., ensures that the uniforms boost self-assurance. The psychological benefits of color can't fully take effect if the shades chosen diminish confidence.

Color and Lighting Design

For competition cheer, squads put great thought into lighting design and color schemes for maximum visual appeal. Bright, vibrant colors stand out and pop under the right lighting.

Strategic lighting can make uniforms seem to glow or shimmer. Spotlights, neon, blacklights, and other lighting tools allow teams to create a multi-sensory experience where color takes center stage.

Light and color even sync together through technologies like ambient LED strips changing color on cue. The psychology of color intertwines with innovative lighting tech and choreography.

The Future of Color Psychology in Cheerleading

Understanding the psychology behind color will continue to be essential knowledge for cheer squads seeking to maximize visual appeal and crowd engagement.

As technology advances expect even more innovative integrations of color, such as LED-enhanced fabrics, holographic materials, and possibly even wearable tech that changes colors on command.

Wearable tech could allow instant uniform color changes to match ever-changing lighting cues on stage for competitions. With color psychology research continuing to expand, cheerleading will likely find new and creative ways to harness color's energizing effects.

Conclusion

The strategic use of color in cheerleading plays a crucial role in enhancing visual impact, boosting performance, and engaging spectators. By understanding the psychology behind different colors, cheer squads can effectively use vibrant, energizing hues like hot pink to stimulate excitement and involvement while also ensuring coordinated and flattering uniforms that boost confidence. As trends evolve and technology advances, innovative uses of color, such as LED-enhanced fabrics and wearable tech, promise to further revolutionize cheerleading. Incorporating these insights, platforms like GetPoms can provide cheerleaders with the tools and accessories needed to maximize their visual and psychological impact.