Some people start to engage in cheerleading at a very young age, sometimes through the encouragement of their parents. While starting cheerleading at a young age can give the child a head start, it can also have negative effects.
Subject selection: child or young adolescent
A person who starts cheerleading before the age of 12 is at increased risk for:
(1) bone fractures, especially in the upper extremities
(2) joint dislocations
(3) falls or injury due to impaired coordination or changing proprioception
(4) burnout
(5) overuse injuries from intensive training
If the hazards are recognized and if the focus is on non-strenuous aspects such as working with others, then an interested child can be engaged and prepared for when the person is older and better suited for the sport.
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