Claim OwnershipThe Cheer Athlete
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© Laura Turner
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REAL talk about ways to progress in cheerleading, reduce injuries and stay healthy and fit for life.
Laura Turner is The Cheer PT. She cheered thru college, while becoming a physical therapist. She has coached both high school and college. Later, her doctorate studies in physical therapy included a final project about cheer injuries and how movement screening may reduce the risk. She is passionate about keeping cheerleaders healthy so they don't lose time at school or with their friends and team. And she LOVEs seeing all the progress cheerleaders continue to make. Are you ready? Let's GO!
Laura Turner is The Cheer PT. She cheered thru college, while becoming a physical therapist. She has coached both high school and college. Later, her doctorate studies in physical therapy included a final project about cheer injuries and how movement screening may reduce the risk. She is passionate about keeping cheerleaders healthy so they don't lose time at school or with their friends and team. And she LOVEs seeing all the progress cheerleaders continue to make. Are you ready? Let's GO!
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Should your cheerleader push through… or take a break?In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, we’re talking about something most athletes—and parents—struggle with: knowing when it’s time to reset.From year-round schedules to constant practices and competitions, today’s athletes rarely get a true break. But what happens when their body (or mind) starts asking for one?You’ll learn:Signs your athlete may need time offWhy rest is essential for both performance and long-term healthHow taking a break can actually improve strength, skills, and motivationWhat to do during time off to stay ready without burnoutThis episode is a must-listen for cheer parents and coaches who want to support their athletes without pushing them to exhaustion.💛 Want to help your athlete stay strong, even during breaks?Start with my Injury Prevention Starter Kit Have a movement or PT question fill this out: Ask A PTConnect with Laura and access free content www.LTTheCheerPT.com
If your cheerleader is feeling pain in the front of their hip during back walkovers, this episode is for you.In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, I break down what’s really happening at the pelvis and hips during walkovers—and why that pain isn’t always coming from where you think. We’ll cover:Why pelvic control matters more than flexibilityThe difference between the kicking leg vs. the down legHow tight hamstrings or hip flexors can create painThe role of core stability in tumbling skillsSimple exercises to improve movement and reduce discomfortWhen it’s okay to manage at home—and when to see a PTThis episode is especially helpful for:Cheer parents trying to understand hip painCoaches working on walkover techniqueAthletes who feel “stuck” or uncomfortable in their skills Remember: Pain is often a signal of poor coordination or imbalance—not just tightness. Next Steps:Grab the Injury Prevention Starter Kit for guided warm-ups, recovery routines, and strength exercises to keep your athlete strong and pain-free. Have a question you want answered on the podcast? Submit it here: https://link.srvcsndr.com/widget/form/kduJX73kltSEb2cP4579 If this episode helped you, share it with a cheer parent or coach!
As the high school cheer season comes to an end here in Massachusetts, this time of year can feel bittersweet for athletes, coaches, and parents.In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, I reflect on what the end of a season really means — celebrating the memories, honoring the hard work, and giving your body the recovery it deserves.Whether your athlete is finishing their senior season, continuing into all-star cheer, or thinking about cheering in college, this is an important transition time. Rest, nutrition, and taking a moment to recharge can make a huge difference in long-term performance and injury prevention.In this episode, we talk about:• Why recovery is so important after a long cheer season• How rest, nutrition, and hydration support athlete health• Encouragement for seniors finishing their final high school season• How playing other sports can help prevent overuse injuries• Options for athletes who want to continue cheering in collegeCheerleading creates memories and friendships that last a lifetime — and taking care of your body ensures you can keep enjoying the sport you love.If you’d like more tips to help keep your cheer athlete healthy and strong, check out my Injury Prevention Starter Kit for Cheerleaders.Have a question you want answered on the podcast? Ask A PTSubscribe to the podcast and share this episode with a cheer parent, coach, or athlete who could use a little motivation at the end of the season.
Many cheerleaders are told they need to become more flexible to improve their heel stretches, jumps, and stunts.But flexibility alone isn’t the answer.In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, I break down the missing piece most athletes overlook: control. When athletes rush through stretches or lock out their joints, they lose stability — which can lead to back pain, knee hyperextension, poor stunt stability, and even injury.In this episode you’ll learn:• Why flexibility without control can increase injury risk• How knee hyperextension affects stunt stability• The simple cue that helps athletes activate their quads properly• How controlling the pelvis and ribs improves heel stretches and back stunts• Why quiet landings are a powerful training tool for stronger jumpsIf you want higher jumps, stronger stunts, and healthier athletes, it starts with training control first.If you'd like help implementing these concepts, check out my Injury Prevention Starter Kit for Cheerleaders, where I walk athletes through proper warm-ups, strength training, and movement control.Have a question you want answered Ask A PT Here
How do you know if your cheerleader’s injury is serious… or something you can monitor?Should you go to the ER?Can they walk it off?How long will they be out?In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, I break down:The difference between serious vs catastrophic injuriesWhen to call 911 (loss of consciousness, breathing issues, inability to move limbs)How to recognize possible fractures, ACL injuries, ankle sprains, and head injuriesWhat “bone pain” actually feels likeWhen it’s okay to monitor symptoms — and when it’s notRealistic recovery timelines for fractures, ACL injuries, and sprainsWhy strength and mobility matter more than just stretching for injury preventionAs both a physical therapist and former cheerleader (yes… three clavicle fractures 😅), I walk you through real-life examples so you feel more confident making decisions when it matters most.🎯 When in doubt — get checked out.But let’s help you know what to look for first.👉 Grab the Injury Prevention Starter Kit for Parents here:👉 Have a question? Use the “Ask the PT” Form or DM me on Instagram @thecheerpt.
Growth spurts can be tough on cheerleaders — especially when knee or heel pain starts to show up.In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, I break down two of the most common growth-related injuries in young athletes: Osgood Schlatter’s disease and Sever’s disease.You’ll learn:What’s actually happening at the knee and heel growth platesWhy stretching alone isn’t the answerThe difference between soreness and red-flag symptomsWhen your athlete should modify practiceHow crawling, core stability, and hip strength reduce painWhen it’s time to seek professional helpThese injuries are common during growth spurts — but they don’t have to sideline your athlete.If your cheerleader is limping after practice or landing differently in jumps, this episode is for you.👉 Grab the Injury Prevention Starter Kit👉 Check out my book Strength and Conditioning for the Cheer Athlete👉 Use the “Ask a PT” form if you have questionsAnd remember: when in doubt, breathe out.
In this episode of the Cheer Athlete Podcast, we’re talking about a tough—but important—topic: catastrophic injuries in cheerleading.While these injuries are relatively rare, cheerleading accounts for a significant percentage of catastrophic injuries in female high school sports. In this episode, I break down what “catastrophic injury” really means, the most common types seen in cheer (including concussions, spinal and neck injuries, fractures, and ACL tears), and why many of these injuries occur during practice—not competition.We’ll cover:What qualifies as a catastrophic injury in cheerWhy cheerleading carries unique risks compared to other sportsConcussions vs. traumatic brain injuriesSpinal and cervical injuries and why awareness mattersFractures, ACL injuries, and season-ending orthopedic traumaHow strength, preparation, and proper progressions reduce riskThe importance of recognizing symptoms and following return-to-play protocolsThis episode isn’t meant to scare you—it’s meant to educate, empower, and protect athletes by helping parents and coaches understand risk, readiness, and prevention. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with another cheer parent or coach.Have a question or topic you’d like covered? Use the Ask Your PT form HERE Check out the Injury Prevention Starter Kit for Cheer Parents to learn how to better support your athlete all season long. HERE
Most cheerleading injuries don’t happen from one big fall—they build up slowly over time.In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, we break down what overuse injuries are, why cheerleaders are especially at risk, and how parents and coaches can spot the warning signs before a small issue becomes a season-ending injury.You’ll learn common overuse injuries in cheerleading, why repetition and limited recovery play a role, and three simple things you can start paying attention to right away to keep athletes healthy and on the mat.Check out the Injury Prevention Starter Kit HereDo you have a question you would like answered on the podcast? Ask hereConnect with Laura Here
Recovery isn’t the same as rest—and it deserves its own place in cheer training.In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, we break down what recovery actually is, what it isn’t, and why skipping recovery increases the risk of overuse injuries. You’ll learn how gentle movement, breathing, hydration, and nervous system regulation help cheerleaders feel better, train better, and stay on the mat longer.This episode is especially helpful for cheer parents and coaches who want to know when soreness is normal, when it’s not, and how recovery prepares the body for the next practice—not just the end of today’s workout.If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and make sure you're subscribed. Want to learn more about the $5 Injury Prevention Starter Kit for Cheer Moms? Connect with Laura at LTTheCheerPT.comHave an injury, flexibility or strength questions Ask A PT HERE
Warm-ups aren’t about stretching—and they’re not just a formality before practice.In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, we continue the conversation on warm-ups and break down what they’re actually meant to do for cheerleaders.You’ll learn why many warm-ups miss the mark, how proper preparation supports performance and injury prevention, and what parents and athletes can do to feel more confident heading into training.If you want extra support around warm-ups, recovery, and injury prevention, I created a simple, affordable resource for cheer parents:The Injury Prevention Starter Kit for Cheer MomsIt’s designed to complement cheer training—not add more stress.If this episode helped you, please share it with another cheer parent, athlete, or coach who could benefit.
Concussions are real—and they do happen in cheerleading.In this episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, we talk about why concussions occur, how to recognize the signs (even when they’re subtle), and why proper recovery matters—especially for young athletes. We also discuss readiness, strength, and the responsibility coaches and parents share in protecting cheerleaders for the long haul.This episode is a must-listen as we head into competition season and focus on keeping athletes healthy, strong, and safe. Have a question you want answered by a PT? Ask hereTo connect with Laura Go hereLTTheCheerPT.com
This short holiday episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast is a reminder to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the moment. As Christmas Eve arrives and the year comes to a close, we talk about why perfection isn’t the goal—in cheer or in life.Whether you’re a cheer parent, coach, or athlete, this episode is an invitation to rest, reflect, and remember what truly matters: connection, health, and enjoying the process.Wishing you and your family a peaceful holiday season and a strong start to 2026. See you on January 7!Want to ask a question and have it answered on the podcast? Submit your questions HERE. No email required unless you want a reply back :)
When your cheerleader gets hurt, how do you know what to do next?Should you call the doctor? See your physical therapist? Just keep cheering?In this episode of The Cheer Athlete, Dr. Laura (The Cheer PT) breaks down five clear situations where you should stop scrolling social media and seek professional care—and when it’s actually safe to keep moving. You’ll learn how to recognize red flags like concussions, fractures, and unstable injuries, as well as how to handle common overuse issues like ankle sprains, knee pain, and back soreness.This episode is a must-listen for cheer parents and coaches who want to protect their athletes without overreacting or ignoring warning signs.🎧 Stay until the end for the most important takeaway about listening to your athlete’s body and making confident decisions.Want to learn more? LTTheCheerPT.comConnect with Laura on IG @thecheerptEmail Laura with questions Laura@MoveBetterLLC.com
ABOUT THIS EPISODEIn this heartfelt episode, Laura (“LT the Cheer PT”) opens up about the real-life lessons cheer can teach us—and the lessons we often don’t learn until much later. Through personal stories about her own cheer journey, her mom, and the challenges of being in the “sandwich generation,” she shares meaningful insights for moms, parents, and coaches who want to support their athletes beyond the mat.You’ll hear:• How cheer builds commitment, resilience, and lifelong habits• Why parental support matters more than athletes realize in the moment• The power of teaching cheerleaders to self-regulate, rest, and take ownership• How to balance expectations, boundaries, and the realities of life outside the gym• What it means to care for aging parents while raising and supporting cheer athletesIf you’re navigating cheer life—from the sidelines, the coach's box, or the parent seat—this episode offers perspective, compassion, and reminders we all need.✨ If this resonates, please share it with another cheer mom, parent, or coach. And don’t forget to hit follow so you never miss an episode!👉 Need help keeping your cheerleader strong and injury-free?Visit LTTheCheerPT.com for free resources and programs designed to help cheer athletes move better, feel better, and perform with confidence.
When your cheerleader is suddenly switching roles — from base to flyer or flyer to base — it can feel overwhelming for both athlete and parent. In this episode, I break down what actually matters during a position change: strength, stability, mobility, confidence, and understanding what the other role feels like.You’ll learn:• Why bases often transition smoothly into flying• How flyers can build the strength needed for basing• The role proper warm-ups, mobility, and strength training play in safer stunting• How to help your athlete avoid injuries during the transition• What NOT to rush when it comes to flexibility and body controlWhether your athlete is being asked to jump in for pyramids, switch roles for comp season, or build well-rounded stunt skills… this episode will help you support them every step of the way.📘 Grab the Strength & Conditioning for Cheerleaders Bookhttps://ltthecheerpt.com/cheerathletebookGet bonuses, workout plans & tracking sheets: link in show notes💪 Check Out My Flyer + Base Strength Programs:https://ltthecheerpt.com/cheerworkouts294353-6697Programs designed to improve strength, stability & confidence👉 Follow me on IG: @thecheerpt👉 Have a question? Email me at laura@movebetterllc.com
When is it actually safe for kids to start lifting? In this episode, Laura (LT The Cheer PT) breaks down what the research really says — and what she sees every day in cheer, youth sports, and strength training.You’ll learn why kids can start strength training much earlier than most parents think, what ages are appropriate for different types of training, and how to make sure they’re moving well before loading weight.Want stronger, safer, more resilient cheerleaders?Grab your copy of Strength & Conditioning for the Cheer Athlete — get free bonuses, tracking tools, and Q&A access when you buy directly from Laura: https://ltthecheerpt.com/cheerathletebookFollow @thecheerpt and learn about all our cheer options at LTTheCheerPT.com
This week, we’re breaking down what “knock knees” and “pigeon toes” really mean for cheerleaders — why they happen, how to screen for them, and what actually helps. You’ll learn how hip stability, ankle mobility, and developmental positions contribute to safe landings, plus I’ll walk you through 5 exercises you can start using today.Looking for more help?📘 Strength & Conditioning for the Cheer Athlete (with bonuses!)https://ltthecheerpt.com/cheerathletebook💪 Cheer Strength Programs (Bases, Flyers, All-Around Training)https://ltthecheerpt.com/cheerworkouts294353-6697🎥 Watch the Exercise Demo on YouTubeIf today’s episode helped you, please leave a review and share it with another cheer parent or coach!
Are you working hard in practice but not seeing the results you want?In this episode, LT The Cheer PT shares why having an outside coach can completely change how you train, perform, and stay motivated as a cheerleader.Whether you’re a flyer working on your stability and body control, or a base trying to build power and prevent back pain — this episode will help you understand how personalized strength and mobility training can take your stunts to the next level.You’ll learn:💪 Why “practicing harder” doesn’t always mean “getting better”⚖️ How smart progression prevents burnout and injury🧠 What role strength and mobility play in cheer skill development🌟 How outside coaching helps you stay motivated and consistent“A good coach doesn’t just push you harder — they guide you smarter.”Join LT’s new program for flyers and bases!Learn how to:✅ Build strength and control✅ Improve stunt stability and balance✅ Reduce pain and prevent injuries✅ Stay motivated all season long📍 Get all the details: HERE💬 Key Quote from LT:🩵 Want to Train Smarter This Season?🔗 Connect with LT The Cheer PT🌐 Website: https://www.movebetterllc.comLTTheCheerPT.com📸 Instagram: @thecheerpt🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts: The Cheer Athlete Podcast📩 Email: laura@movebetterllc.com
Back pain holding your bases back? Learn how to spot — and fix — the movement patterns that make stunting harder than it needs to be.Dr. Laura Turner, The Cheer PT, shares how to build a stronger squat, improve core control, and prevent pain by understanding what’s missing in your athlete’s movement.✅ Perfect for: Bases, coaches, and parents who want to keep their cheerleaders healthy and strong.🎯 Learn about the new Cheer Base Backbone Program HERE for bases who want less pain and more power.(If you want to learn more about our Confident Cheer Flyer Project, please fill this form out )🧠 Follow LT on Instagram: @thecheerpt💌 Contact: laura@movebetterllc.com
This week on The Cheer Athlete, Laura breaks down two important cheer topics every parent and coach should understand:💪 1. Bracing for injury prevention — is it actually helping or hurting?Learn why relying on braces can sometimes weaken muscles and delay true recovery, plus what you can do instead to build lasting strength and confidence.🧠 2. Teaching body control and awarenessDiscover simple, effective ways to help cheerleaders feel their movements—tightening the right muscles, improving posture, and mastering body positions for safer, more powerful skills.Whether your athlete is a flyer learning to stay tight in the air or a base working on landing strong, this episode will help you rethink how to train for injury prevention and performance.✨ Ready to help your cheerleader move better, feel stronger, and reduce pain?Laura’s new Flyer Strong and Cheer Backbone programs are coming soon — designed to build flexibility, stability, and power specific to cheer athletes.📩 Stay tuned for early access or reach out directly at laura@movebetterllc.com.Follow @thecheerpt for weekly tips and cheer-specific training advice.Find free guides and content at LTTheCheerPT.com
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