Starting as a new cheerleader can feel both exciting and overwhelming. From learning chants to mastering stunts, there’s a lot to take in. One of the first and most important skills every beginner should focus on is learning how to use cheer poms properly. These bright, colorful spirit tools are more than just accessories - they are essential for creating energy, enhancing choreography, and engaging the crowd.
In this guide, we’ll explore beginner-friendly pom pom techniques and training tips that coaches can use to help new cheerleaders build confidence and develop strong fundamentals.
Why Pom Poms Matter for Beginners
Before jumping into techniques, it’s important to understand why pom poms are so crucial in cheerleading:
- Visual Impact: Pom poms make basic motions appear sharper and more dynamic.
- Crowd Engagement: Shaking poms during chants encourages fans to join in the excitement and get involved.
- Team Unity: When used correctly, pom poms help squads look polished and coordinated.
- Confidence Builder: Mastering pom pom basics gives new cheerleaders a sense of accomplishment early on.
Essential Pom Pom Techniques for New Cheerleaders
1. Proper Grip
Holding pom poms the right way is the foundation of every technique. New cheerleaders should:
- Wrap their fingers securely around the handle.
- Avoid letting the streamers cover their faces or uniforms.
- Keep wrists firm to maintain clean lines.
2. Sharp Arm Motions
Pom poms emphasize every motion. Beginners should practice:
- High V: Arms extended in a “V” above the head.
- Low V: Arms lowered in a “V” shape at the sides.
- T Motion: Arms straight out at shoulder height.
- Punches: One arm extended upward while the other stays at the hip.
Repetition builds muscle memory and ensures consistency across the team.
3. Pom Shakes
Cheerleaders should practice shaking pom-poms with energy while maintaining controlled movements. Coaches can teach:
- Side-to-Side Shakes to pump up the crowd.
- Overhead Shakes for big moments in routines.
- Downward Shakes to transition between motions.
4. Transitions and Levels
Pom pom choreography often requires quick transitions. Beginners should learn to:
- Switch smoothly from high to low motions.
- Vary levels (high, middle, low) to add visual interest.
- Avoid dropping or dragging pom poms during transitions.
5. Synchronization
Pom pom motions are most effective when the team is in sync. New cheerleaders should practice in counts (5-6-7-8) to stay in rhythm with both the music and their teammates.
6. Crowd Interaction
Teaching beginners how to aim pom-pom motions toward the crowd helps build confidence. For example, shaking pom poms forward during chants makes the audience feel included and more likely to cheer back.
Training Tips for Coaches and New Cheerleaders
- Start with Basics: Focus on grip, sharp motions, and timing before adding complex choreography.
- Practice with Counts: Break routines into 8-count sections so beginners can follow along.
- Use Mirrors: Practicing in front of mirrors helps new cheerleaders correct posture and alignment.
- Record Practices: Watching recordings allows beginners to see how their motions appear with pom-poms.
- Build Endurance: Holding pom-poms can quickly tire your arms. Encourage conditioning exercises to build strength.
- Encourage Confidence: Remind cheerleaders that energy and enthusiasm are just as important as perfect technique.
Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid
- Floppy Arms: Weak motions reduce the impact of pom choreography.
- Poor Grip: Holding pom poms incorrectly can make routines look messy.
- Out-of-Sync Motions: Failing to count with teammates causes the performance to lose its polished look.
- Overusing Shakes: Excessive shaking can disrupt the routine. Balance is key.
Benefits of Strong Pom Pom Technique
When new cheerleaders master pom pom basics, they enjoy several advantages:
- Polished Routines: Coordinated pom motions make the team look professional.
- Stronger Team Identity: Uniform pom techniques show pride and unity.
- Improved Crowd Energy: Cheerleaders with sharp, confident motions motivate fans to cheer louder.
- Foundation for Growth: Once beginners master the basics of pom, they can advance to more complex choreography.
Final Thoughts
For new cheerleaders, learning pom pom techniques is one of the best starting points in their journey. A proper grip, sharp motions, and synchronized routines create performances that excite fans and foster school pride. With the right training tips and consistent practice, beginners can quickly transform into confident performers who enhance the spirit of every game and rally.
Whether you are a coach training a new squad or a beginner cheerleader learning the ropes, mastering pom pom basics is the first step toward cheerleading success.
