Cheer squad: why every athlete needs support
Every athlete needs a cheer squad – someone who lights the fire and gives you a reason to get out of bed at 5:30 in the morning. Whether you’re a recreational exerciser or a competitor, social support measurably changes your results.
Why a cheer squad is more than a nice-to-have
Annie Wilson of San Francisco knew this firsthand. For years she struggled with chronic knee pain and the extra pounds she had put on after college – until she joined a triathlon team, Team Love Multisports. The program included six group training sessions a week, including swims in San Francisco Bay. Three months later and 15 pounds lighter, she won her age group in her first triathlon.
“I couldn’t have done it without my team and my coach,” she says.
Psychologist Tim Rees of the University of Exeter, who has studied support systems among athletes, puts it bluntly: “Social support should be regarded as one of the most important resources.” When two equally fit athletes compete, social support may be exactly what separates their results.
A cheer squad boosts physical performance
It’s not just a feeling – there is measurable data.
A study at Arizona State University in Tempe involved experienced male and female lifters. In front of an audience, they lifted on average five pounds more than when they lifted alone or without spectators. One especially interesting finding: the effect was there even when the audience was asked to stay completely silent.
Kinesiology professor Daniel M. Landers, a co-author of the same research, explains: “It increases your motivation, so you try harder.” When a training partner adds “One more! Push!”, the effect is even bigger.
One caveat: an audience has a positive effect only when you’re performing a well-practiced movement. For beginners, the added pressure can actually get in the way.
How to build your cheer squad
For many women, the problem isn’t finding help – it’s asking for it. Wilson admits: “I don’t want to bother anyone.” Yet a few weeks in, she decided to share swimming tips with her teammates and ask the stronger runners for advice. The result? Everyone won.
Sport and psychology researcher Kevin L. Burke of Georgia Southern University says: “We depend on one another. No one operates in a vacuum.”
Certified life coach Val Baldwin of Portland offers practical advice:
- Be direct – ask your partner to have dinner ready so you can go to your workout.
- Explain why training matters to you – your loved ones aren’t mind readers.
- Cheer for others too – go to a friend’s competition and support their goals.
- Offer something concrete in return, not just thanks.
If you don’t have training partners or spectators, consider joining a charity training program – for example Team in Training, which prepares participants for marathons and triathlons while raising money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Marathon runner Kim Richmond from northwest Chicago says: “For many women, it makes a huge difference to be under the supervision of a coach who really tries to get the best out of you.”
Cheer squad FAQ
Is a cheer squad suitable for recreational exercisers too, not just competitors?
Absolutely. Social support works at every level – what matters is the goal, not the medal. Even one good training partner changes your results.
What if I want to train alone?
Training alone is perfectly fine, but you don’t need a complete vacuum. Social media followers, supportive family members, or even a single friend who asks about your results can fill the role of a cheer squad.
How do I ask for help when it feels awkward?
Start with a specific, small request – “Will you come along for an 8 km run on Saturday?” works better than a general “Support me more.” People respond well to clear questions.
Author: No Kia
Source: WHO – physical activity.
Come and train! ArtGym
