Cheerleaders are known for their high energy, impressive stunts, and captivating routines. But did you know that behind the scenes, many cheerleaders have their own set of superstitions and rituals? These pre-performance traditions, lovingly referred to by LVL 7 Cheer Dad as “cheer-stitions,” are believed to bring good luck and success to the team. Let’s take a closer look at some of the superstitious handshakes and actions cheerleaders perform before taking the competition floor in all-star cheer.

Superstitious Handshakes and Actions: Cheer-stitions

Handshakes play a significant role in cheer-stitions. Many athletes have specific handshake routines that they perform before every competition. Some even have different ones for different members on the team. These intricate handshakes are not only a way to bond and show team unity but are also stress relievers, believed to bring luck. The more complex the handshake, the more luck it is thought to bring. So, if you see cheerleaders intertwining their fingers, slapping hands, and doing intricate hand movements with another athlete, don’t be surprised – it’s all part of their pre-competition ritual!

The Power of Handshakes

Another common cheer-stition involves twitches and body movements. Some cheerleaders believe that performing a certain twitches or body movements before performing a tumbling pass or difficult stunt, will bring them good luck. You might see cheerleaders twitching their hands, feet or entire bodies before taking the mat. Many of them do this on the mat before a performance or tumbling pass.  These actions are not just for show; they are believed to release negative energy and provide a positive and familiar place to begin. These Cheer-stitions set the stage for a successful tumbling pass, stunt or routine.

Good Luck Charms

In addition to handshakes and actions, cheerleaders often carry good luck charms with them. These can be anything from lucky socks to small trinkets or even a special hair accessory. These charms are believed to bring good fortune and help the team perform their best. So, if you see a cheerleader clutching onto a lucky charm, know that it’s not just a fashion statement – it’s a cheer-stition!

Twirls and Jumps

In the world of Cheerleading, superstitions and rituals are as much a part of the sport as the routines themselves. They provide comfort, unity, and a sense of control in a high-pressure environment. So, the next time you see cheerleaders performing intricate handshakes, twitching, and carrying lucky charms, remember that there’s more to it than meets the eye. It’s all part of the cheer-stitions that help these athletes bring their A-game to the competition floor!