Ultimate Cheerleaders (The First Five Years)

Former Laker Girl Paula Abdul is wrapping up production on a new exercise system that will hit the shelves in time for the holidays. As many people know, Paula has done fitness videos in the past (remember Get up and Dance?) but this is fitness with a twist. Cardio Cheer is, in Paula's words, "a high-energy, fitness focused comprehensive cheerleading program."

This program - the first of its kind - is for, about, and by professional cheerleaders. It's also for anyone who wants to get in shape, audition for the pros, or simply take their skills to the next level. Millions of young people in this country participate in cheering and dance, but only a couple hundred make it to the pros. Cardio Cheer "shares the training techniques, skill drills and dance moves of the professionals. It’s everything needed to tighten the body, increase vertical jump and flexibility, stylize dancing and add to one’s power." So if you want to become a pro cheerleader (or just play one on tv) you might want to check this out.

Cardio Cheer is a well-rounded program. It consists of five DVDs, each one targeting a specific set of skills. At the end of each class, you will learn and perform an original 1.5 minute dance routine. However, the most exciting thing about this program is the classes are taught by four professionals currently dancing for the NFL and NBA.

Candice Jones is a second-year Denver Broncos Cheerleader. In one DVD, she shows you how to improve your flexibility and balance. Candice also leads a second class to help you improve your jumping and endurance.

Traci Swain of the New York Knicks City Dancers shows you how to improve your leg strength, power, and energy.


Renee Herlocker, the most senior veteran on the Broncos squad helps you clean up your moves so you can perform with the confidence and precision of the professionals.

The class taught by Lindsay Rosenberg a second year member of the Los Angeles Clippers Spirit Dance team has one focus: endurance, endurance, endurance. (I don't have first-hand knowledge of this program, but I suspect this class is the one most likely to kick your butt.)


If you'd like to know more about the program or are interested in ordering it for yourself, visit Paula Abdul's Cardio Cheer website.