So you’re thinking about becoming a cheerleader?

Here's a rundown of what it might be handy to know first.

Cheerleading (and for that matter cheerleaders) comes in all kinds of different shapes and sizes. As a bit of fun – maybe take our quiz here to get an idea of what kind of cheerleader you'll be…

Cheerleading in the UK is growing but it's not so big that you can take your pick of squads yet – most potential cheerleaders go to the squad that's local to them - check with the BCA for a squad in your area if you're not in London. And if you are in London, well look no further!

Our squad has a slot for almost every type of cheerleader there is – from tumblers and dancers to stunters and chancers!

At the senior level (a grey area in itself but more about that another time) there are a mix of squads that exist soley to compete and are modeled on the 'All-Star' style squads in America, i.e. they fund themselves through membership fees or sponsorship. By definition, they don't have any affiliation with a sports team and therefore don't 'cheer'. They only train to compete against other cheerleaders and as a result their skills level is often higher.

Other squads are by contrast soley 'spirit' squads that are an integral part of a sports team and choose not to compete.

And of course there are squads that do both – which is probably the best way to describe us. We have an affiliation with an American Football team (also based at Crystal Palace) but we also train to compete in our own right. If you join the squad you will get the opportunity to train for everything we do.

The first practice session is probably what scares people the most. What to expect, who else will be there and what will you be asked to do – these are all questions that the coaches get asked by email every week and the honest answer is that you have to keep an open mind. Every session runs to the same plan but equally they're all a bit different.

Here's what you can expect from a typical practice session with us.

1st quarter – stretching and warming up

2nd quarter – cheer basics

3rd quarter – stunting and tumbling techniques

4th quarter – routine practice or event rehersal depending on bookings

Oh and you'll get to meet a fun bunch of people and get a bit fitter into the bargain!

You too can look this pleased with yourself! Email beacheerleader@gmail.com