Cheerleading and Dancing are two very similar types of sports, but at the same time, they are quite different in their own ways. Many might think of them as the same sport, but after noting the differences, they can be clearly seen as two different sports. They have many characteristics that are closely related, but to me they are unique individually. As a former cheerleader, I know that cheerleading and dancing are not the same sport. .
Cheerleading originated to be used to get the crowds and players pumped for the game. They are "spirit bunnies," as we once called them at Westwood, and are determined to provide spirit to players and fans. Dancing, however, is a sport that is mainly for show. The dancers use their talent to give a performance for others to watch. They aren't necessarily there for others, sometimes it's just because they like to dance. The dancing is a form of art for the dancers. Cheerleading, in a way, has originated from dancing because cheerleaders use a lot of dance in cheer. They also pump the crowd up at Pep Rally's or at pre-games with dances. Dancers can provide a show to pump people up, too. The Super bowl halftime show is an example of this and NBA basketball games.
Another characteristic of the two sports that makes them similar is the fact that they both require lots of energy. Participants must be physically fit for both sports since either a dancer or cheerleader are constantly moving. Dancing is strenuous on the body. In cheerleading, stunts need a lot of strength in both the upper and lower body. Discipline is also an important factor because of the seriousness of the sport. Stunting can be dangerous, and that is why a cheerleader must be in good shape. .
Cheerleading is a sport composed of cheering, dancing, and stunting. The combining of these characteristics is what makes it different from dancing. In dancing, the sport mainly consists of a choreographed dance routine to perform for others.
