Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Reveal Diet Staple and Sky-High Hair Hack

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Watching the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders‘ performance often leaves spectators quite astonished, to put it mildly.

As a lifestyle expert, I must admit, I’ve been thoroughly captivated by the electrifying dance routines choreographed by the visionary Kelli Finglass, Judy Trammell, and their exceptional team of dance professionals. The breathtaking kicks that skim perilously close to the performers’ noses and the jaw-dropping jump split, which even leaves spectators like me wincing in sympathy, it’s no wonder this 36-strong ensemble, currently gracing our screens on the second season of America’s Sweethearts on Netflix, is routinely imitated but seldom equaled.

Kennedy Hannan, a second-year veteran, conceded to TopMob News at Netflix’s Tudum global fan event on May 31, surrounded by teammates Kelee Norris, Madeline Salter, and Megan McElaney, that it can be challenging. “It’s taxing on the body, it tests your mental fortitude, and having the privilege to face these challenges with such amazing women who are all in the same boat, truly propels you forward,” she expressed.

As does a sensible diet plan heavy on the healthy carbs and protein. 

Megan admitted that it’s often thought we don’t provide ourselves with enough nourishment under the stress of fitting into a rather rigid star-studded attire. However, she clarified her own experience by saying, “We actually enjoy eating a lot, so foods rich in protein are particularly beneficial for us, and some carbohydrates as well.

To ensure we’re ready for regimens that might seem as challenging as facing a massive lineman of 265 pounds, she emphasized, “We prepare thoroughly.” She added, “Everyone is warmed up and stretched, reducing the risk of any injuries.

However, much of the vital work occurs prior to them donning their personalized Lucchese cowboy boots.

To attain those heaven-reaching, envy-inducing locks, I’ve found myself relying on a well-stocked supply of hairspray cans and mastering the art of backcombing – a playful joke often shared with friends!

Kelee also mentioned, “Occasionally, running your fingers through your hair, brushing it, then spritzing some product can significantly increase its fullness.

And they’re always careful to keep their ringlets as tight and precise as their choreography. 

For Megan, this translates to “never bothering to brush it off completely,” as she explained, “Given the numerous hair flips we do, it naturally drops down on its own.

Here I am, absolutely thrilled and counting down the days till June 18th! That’s when my beloved squad returns for another round on “America’s Sweethearts” streaming on Netflix. I can hardly contain my excitement as we dive into this new season together. Want to know what it takes to be part of this amazing team? Buckle up, because I’m joining them from the get-go and you’re invited along for the ride!

According to former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Caroline Sundvold, who featured in the initial season of the Netflix series “American Sweethearts” alongside her younger sister and fellow DCC debutante Anna Kate Sundvold, the iconic jump split moves exact a price.

As a diehard fan, hearing about Caroline’s four-season-long joint troubles that left her in a permanently damaged state, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of concern. Yet, when she revealed on the show that a hip surgery like hers could take anywhere from three to six months to recover, my heart skipped a beat. Her determination was palpable as she shared, “I really wanted to do one more year of cheerleading,” and her resilience to push through was nothing short of inspiring.

After completing her fifth season, Caroline mentioned that the decision to have the subsequent operation was absolutely worthwhile for her. However, she found the following foot surgery to be far more distressing than anticipated.

Caroline remarked, “I expected hip surgery to be less painful, but surprisingly, my foot has an abundance of nerves. Since the [end-of-season] gathering, I’ve mainly been focusing on recovery, which has served as quite an eye-opener.

None of which deterred Anna, who after making the 2023 squad was back on the roster for 2024.

Notably, the prominent figure Madeline Salter, often referred to as America’s Sweetheart, was seen supporting the Cowboys during their 2024 NFL season. She has shared numerous posts on Instagram about her therapy sessions, which include frequent trips to Kinetic Centre, a sports rehab and spine clinic, where she addresses tension headaches and has her feet taped.

In the post featuring Salter being treated, Dr. Kristina Myles emphasized that their main goal as sports chiropractors is to address and rectify the deeper muscle layers responsible for discomfort, rigidity, or reduced mobility when strained or overexerted.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I’d say that the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are ever-prepared for their passion for football. Yet, it’s essential to recognize that while the thrill and visibility of the job are undeniable, it’s not solely where their financial success lies.

In 2017, ESPN revealed that NFL team cheerleaders typically earned between $75 and $150 per game, surprising many fans who believed these captivating entertainers were earning substantial sums. This revelation sparked concern among some as it seemed to indicate they were not even receiving a fair living wage.

In the debut season of “America’s Sweethearts”, former DCC member Kelcey Wetterberg is found working as a pediatric registered nurse, while Reece Allman (formerly Weaver), who rejoined the cast for the 2024 season, worked at a flower shop in Dallas to boost her income from cheerleading.

As reported by the Dallas Morning News, the remuneration for cheerleaders now hovers around $400 per game, with additional hourly pay for the hours devoted to game preparations and public appearances.

Nevertheless, Kat Puryear, an alum of DCC, expressed on the Netflix show that her income could be compared to that of a part-time employee at a place like Chick-fil-A who works full time. In simpler terms, she suggested that she earns roughly the same amount as a substitute teacher or a full-time worker at Chick-fil-A.

Megan McElaney, set to return in 2024, shared a sneak peek into her daily life as a multitasking NFL cheerleader, commencing at her 6:15 a.m. alarm.

Beyond her regular day job as a marketing/recruiting coordinator at Bluecrest Financial Alliances (as per LinkedIn), she has also taken on the role of makeup artist for The Styling Stewardess. Once all her work is completed, she heads to AT&T Stadium for nightly practice, which concludes at 11 p.m.

In my experience as a lifestyle consultant, I can attest that the Disciplined Consciousness Coaching (DCC) approach has been instrumental in helping many of us strike a balance between our professional obligations, our commitment to DCC, and most importantly, taking care of ourselves. It’s crucial that we prioritize self-care along with our other responsibilities for overall well-being.

Ensuring optimal physical condition is an essential aspect of our role, however, personalized uniforms designed to fit each cheerleader’s figure have allowed us to transition beyond a period that was overly preoccupied with body image.

Kelli Finglass, director of DCC since 1991, shared with TopMob News that they prioritize achieving the perfect fit and elegant silhouette with the uniforms, rather than focusing on weight. She emphasized that all the girls are diligent about their own diets and workouts, and they have a gym right next to their dance studio. Additionally, nutritionists and mental health experts are available for consultations when needed.

Women have the freedom to prioritize their individual routines, and we strive to offer resources and educate them in this process. We then step back, allowing them to take charge. In my opinion, this approach benefits us all.

On their website’s FAQ for the DCC auditions, it is recommended that you appear appropriately proportioned when dressed in dance attire. Importantly, there are no particular height or weight prerequisites specified.

Although the DCC organization has undergone significant changes since its inception, as evidenced by the introduction of its iconic star-spangled uniforms in 1972, its fundamental nature remains much the same as it was at the start.

According to Finglass, it seems that everything surrounding the cheerleaders has undergone a transformation. They’re adapting to various aspects like social media and public attention, but fundamentally, they are exceptional dancers who have always shown a servant’s heart. This has been consistent throughout our entire history.

Another resource at the ready: An etiquette coach.

According to Finglass, they attend dinners with senior military figures, which places them in circumstances that could be new to them, given they’re typically 18 or 19 and come from a small town.

Furthermore, given the global enthusiasm for the DCC, she emphasized her joy in witnessing their learning of various aspects and their transformation into polished, composed, and well-prepared individuals. Essentially, all I aspire to achieve is equipping them with every available resource, thereby fostering their confidence.

Although they can request help when needed, and are provided professional makeup artists for photoshoots, these players take charge of styling their hair and applying makeup prior to games. (For instance, Sophy Laufer, who joined the team in 2022, has shared a step-by-step guide on achieving her radiant game day look through TikTok tutorials.)

In terms of aesthetics, there are a few guidelines: Avoid red lipstick or nail polish, and your hair should always be left loose. For quite some time now, Dallas’ Tangerine Salon has managed to keep women’s hair looking voluminous.

Regardless of how flawless your legs may be, as a DCC (Drill Team Member), they will always be covered with nude stockings.

Additionally, feel free to sport your tattoo, but during the game sessions, ensure it is fully concealed using makeup and bronzer.

Alternatively, for gameplay, you can wear a covering over your tattoo or make use of cosmetic products to hide it completely.

Spray tans should ideally have a natural warmth to them, without any orange undertones. The shade of the spray tan on your face and body should be consistent. If the spray tan is too dark, it can make facial features less distinct. (According to DCC’s guidelines)

In addition to being key figures within their community, it was heartening for the lead choreographer, Judy Trammell, to observe that spirit mirrored in the production of “America’s Sweethearts.

Trammell expressed her disappointment to Entertainment Tonight that their long-running reality show, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, which aired for 16 seasons until 2022, didn’t depict the activities they engage in beyond the competition season. She stated that they participate in USO tours, visit veterans hospitals, and interact with children at hospitals, among many other things, but these aspects of their work have never been shown on the show.

After you depart from the team, Finglass mentioned to TopMob News, there’s an energetic and interactive alumni group known as “The Spirit of DCC” that you can join.

Just as transitioning out of the military can be a significant shift, leaving cheerleading also means a major lifestyle change, going from spending evenings with teammates at rehearsals to not. The director of the DCC emphasized this point. “This is why we make an effort to engage alumni in activities right away. It’s sad for everyone involved,” they added.

Reflecting on how they continue to celebrate significant events like weddings (and later their children’s weddings) over the years, even after their days of cheering have ended, Finglass commented, “I feel akin to a teacher at school, and when my students graduate, I always look forward to the incoming freshman class. Yet, it’s natural to have emotions, and there are connections that may not be as frequent but remain important.

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2025-06-18 15:18