How to: Get Ready for your first Cheer & Dance Competition of the season!

1) practice, practice, practice!

This one is obvious, but the more you practice, the more you will feel prepared for the big day. Be sure to give your full attention during all practices leading up to your first competition, and practice FULL OUT every time to create the muscle memory needed to perform in front of a crowd. Practice your facials beforehand, too, and it will all come more naturally when you finally compete.

2) be conscious of your nutrition and sleep habits

Since you will need your FULL ENERGY to do your best at the competition, be sure you are getting a good night's sleep in the nights before the competition. Increasing the amount of complex carbohydrates in the days leading up to your competition will help you to store energy. Be sure to pack health snacks and drinks for competition day as well, to restore your energy after your performance. Drink PLENTY of water before, during, and after comp day to ensure you stay hydrated.

3) mentally prepare yourself for the competition

In order to make sure you are mentally prepared for your first competition, there are several things you can do to prep:

• Discuss any questions you have with your parents or coach before the competition to be sure you know what's coming
• Prepare yourself by packing well and early, so you don't feel stressed to prepare last minute
• Take a few minutes a day to meditate and show gratitude for the opportunities you and your team have been given
• Compliment and show support to your teammates to encourage them for the big day

4) pack appropriately

Need help packing for your first competition? We've put together a list below of some essentials that you won't want to forget!

• Your cheer Uniform, practice gear
• Haircare products: hairspray, bobby pins, hairties, bows, scrunchie and cuffs if needed
• Socks and undergarments (if you need a specific BRA that goes with your uniform, don't forget it!)
• Cheer Shoes (from GlitterStarz and No Limit Sportswear of course), outdoor shoes, and casual shoes, such as our custom slide sandals
• Healthy Snacks
• Your Fancy Face Makeup Palette + any brushes, primers, or setting spray you may want to use. Makeup wipes and remover are always needed too!
• Phone Charger
• Athletic Tape + Pain Reliever if needed
• Extra $$ if you want to buy anything at the booths