Endurance and Fitness: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Walk Thousands of Steps on Gameday
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are not only known for their iconic high kicks and flawless routines but also for their incredible endurance. A recent profile in Vogue revealed that on an average gameday, the cheerleaders can rack up an impressive 24,000 steps, roughly equivalent to half of a marathon.
This number was highlighted after the Cowboys’ 34-10 loss to the Houston Texans on November 18, 2024, with one cheerleader’s fitness tracker recording the 24,000-step count. Another cheerleader jokingly added that this didn’t even include the energetic jump splits they perform during their routines.
For perspective, a marathon runner typically takes around 52,400 steps in the full 26.2-mile race, showing just how much physical activity the cheerleaders endure during a game.
Behind the Scenes of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders’ Rigorous Schedule
The cheerleaders’ day begins well before the first whistle. Prior to every home game, they spend hours rehearsing at The Star, the Cowboys’ training facility in Frisco, Texas. From there, they take a bus to AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, which is roughly 37 miles away. Once they arrive at the stadium, the cheerleaders begin hours of preparation, including a meticulous two-hour makeup routine before heading to the field.
The cheerleaders perform in front of fans outside the stadium before making their way to the sidelines, where they remain active throughout the game, dancing and engaging with the crowd. Even after the game ends, their day is far from over, as they face the long trip back to Frisco, often leaving the stadium at around 11:00 p.m.
The Hidden Realities of a Cheerleader’s Life
While the cheerleaders are known for their picture-perfect appearances, there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes. After hours of constant motion and dancing, some cheerleaders are seen struggling with the physical toll, such as peeling off sweat-soaked socks and pushing through exhaustion.
One cheerleader, named Reece, shared, “It’s just one of those things that you have to push through,” highlighting the mental and physical toughness required for the job.
As the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders continue their busy schedule, their dedication to both fitness and performance remains evident, showcasing the demanding nature of their work behind the glitzy cheerleader image.