Protein-Powered Fuel and Sky-High Hair: DCC’s Insider Secrets
I’m doing you the favor of breaking down how the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders keep those legs high and locks higher—so pay attention. Joining the second season of Netflix’s America’s Sweethearts hasn’t magically endowed the 36-woman squad with superpowers; it’s a mix of rigorous training, strategic eating and enough hairspray to trigger a fire alarm. According to E! News and Netflix’s Tudum global fan event coverage, these athletes rely on a no-starvation diet loaded with lean proteins and smart carbs to maintain the stamina for killer kicks that nearly graze their teammates’ noses.
You probably think they subsist on kale chips and water, but veteran cheerleader Megan McElaney set the record straight: high-protein is the real MVP, partnered with moderate carbohydrates to keep energy levels on point. Kennedy Hannan—now in her second year—emphasized that this cycle isn’t a crash diet; it’s a carefully calibrated fuel strategy that powers them through punishing jump splits and marathon rehearsals choreographed by Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell. They warm up meticulously to avoid injuries, stretching every muscle until it practically begs for mercy.
And if you thought the work stops at the last beat, think again. The legendary DCC hair height doesn’t happen by accident. Madeline Salter and Kelee Norris confirmed they go through “many cans of hairspray” and have perfected a teasing ritual worthy of a Hollywood stylist. Flipping the hair forward, a few firm brushes, another layer of spray—voilà, gravity-defying volume. Megan adds that avoiding brushing out the ringlets entirely ensures that every hair flip on game day falls perfectly in place.
But let’s not ignore the darker side of cheerleading glory. Former member Caroline Sundvold revealed on season one of America’s Sweethearts that four seasons of jump splits led to hip surgery and a follow-up foot operation. Despite a stern warning from her doctor, she pushed through the pain to cheer a fifth year, proving there’s a high cost to those signature splits. Sister rookie Anna Kate Sundvold’s return for 2024 shows the resilience that defines this squad. If you’re curious about maintenance, just scroll through Salter’s Instagram: spine rehab sessions at Kinetic Centre, chiropractic adjustments with Dr. Kristina Myles and enough taping on her feet to rival an Olympic athlete.
The cameras start rolling again June 18, so you’ll soon see if this protein-plus-carb diet and teased-to-the-ceiling hair trickery translates to more jaw-dropping routines. Now you finally understand the mix of discipline, nutrition and styling that powers America’s Sweethearts. Glad I could clear that up for you.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and E! News, Netflix Tudum global fan event
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
