Cowboys Cheerleader Dani McGinnis Shares Swimsuit Photo “In Paradise”

Dallas Cowboys cheerleader Dani McGinnis enjoyed a summer trip at the gorgeous Vidanta Riviera Maya resort on the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. McGinnis and her fellow cheerleaders train incredibly hard to stay on top of their game, so when they get a chance to relax they take full advantage of it, and McGinnis is no exception. The dancer posted pictures from her vacation, including one of her lounging in the sun in an orange bandeau bikini. “A week in paradise🌴🐡🥥,” she captioned the post. Here’s how the cheerleader stays fit and fabulous.

1. Pilates Instructor

McGinnis is a trained Pilates instructor, teaching classes on a reformer machine. "A class is beneficial because the equipment can help support you — removing some of the tension so that you're only working the muscles that you need to work, rather than having to work all of your stabilizing and balancing muscles when using a mat," says trainer Leanne Wonesh. "The equipment just really supports you in a different way that I think can really transform your experience. Then, after a few reformer Pilates classes, you will probably feel more confident about moving to an online mat Pilates class."

2. She’s a Dancer

McGinnis is an accomplished dancer, which is a non-negotiable for becoming a cheerleader. "Be prepared, not only in the form of dance, of course take every dance class you can," says Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders director Kelli Finglass. "Practice at other auditions and dance competitions. Video tape yourself. There is so much information now, online. There is no secret to who makes our team and who doesn't. Be prepared in every facet."

3. Morning Walks and Lattes

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McGinnis starts the day with a long walk, followed by a cold almond milk latte and energy bar for breakfast. “The faster, farther and more frequently you walk, the greater the benefits,” says the Mayo Clinic. “For example, you may start out as an average walker, and then work your way up to walking faster and walking a mile in a shorter amount of time than an average walker, similar to power walkers. This can be a great way to get aerobic activity, improve your heart health and increase your endurance while burning calories.”

4. Greens and Salmon

McGinnis makes her own food as much as possible, with her typical go-to meal consisting of greens, avocado, and grilled salmon, which is an excellent natural source of omega-3. “Populations that eat a lot of fish that contain omega-3 fatty acids have a lower instance of heart disease,” says Luke Laffin, MD. “We know that people who consume high levels of omega-3 fatty acids by eating fish have a lower risk of cardiovascular events, but that hasn’t been borne out in studies about over-the-counter doses of fish oil.”

5. All the Coffee

McGinnis drinks coffee throughout the day for energy, usually opting for plant-based milks. “There’s really no downside to drinking plant-based milk instead of cow’s milk,” says Dana Ellis Hunnes, PhD, MPH, UCLA Health senior dietitian. “Although milk is only one small part of a person’s diet, plant-based milk along with a plant-forward diet offers many benefits for your health and the environment.”

1. She Loves Dairy

Windey is not a fan of dairy-alternative drinks, telling her fans she prefers the real thing. "Dairy isn't necessary in the diet for optimal health, but for many people, it is the easiest way to get the calcium, vitamin D, and protein they need to keep their heart, muscles, and bones healthy and functioning properly," says Vasanti Malik, nutrition research scientist with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

2. New Life

Windey recently announced she is dating comedian and TV writer Hoffman, and says she’s very happy. “I always just want to live my truth, and my story,” she says. “And so I have been seeing someone for a couple months, and I’ve been keeping it a little more private because it is like a bigger story and a bigger conversation, because I’m dating a girl!”

3. Mexican Food

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Windey loves Mexican cuisine, which can be very healthy depending on how it’s prepared—the more traditional, the better. “Pick corn tortillas over flour tortillas,” advises Kate Patton, MEd, RD, CSSD, LD. “Corn tortillas are more natural and less processed, making them a good source of fiber and magnesium (great for maintaining healthy muscles), not to mention they are significantly lower in calories, saturated fat, sodium and sugar compared to flour tortillas.”

4. She’s a Dancer

Anyone who watched Windey on Dancing With the Stars knows she is a fantastic dancer. “I like to say that dancing checks a lot of boxes,” says Kathleen Davenport, MD. “In social dancing, you interact with different people and can make new friends, which has multiple psychological benefits. On the physical side, you need good balance, you need core strength, you need strength in your lower and upper extremities if you’re doing partner work. Dancing can also be an excellent cardio workout.”

5. Cheerleading Background

Windey is a professional cheerleader, which is a very athletic activity based in gymnastics. Experts say gymnasts should make sure they stay strong and get good cardio. “Gymnasts require stamina and good cardiovascular health,” says sports medicine specialist Marie Schaefer, MD. “Exercises that get your heart pumping are beneficial both during and between competition seasons.”

New York Knicks cheerleader McKenzie Landis took a break from her busy New York schedule over the summer to get some sun and fun in Miami, Florida. Landis shared pictures of her trip, including snaps of herself posing in a green bikini and matching shirt against a background of sand and sea. “Miami takeover loading,” she captioned the post. “YOU ARE THE MOMENT,” a friend commented. Landis is one of the most accomplished dancers for the Knicks: Here’s how the dancer is on top of her game and only getting better.

1. Class of 2023

Landis is a proud college graduate. “We did it class of 2023!” she captioned an Instagram post. “Graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Commercial Dance ✅

~ these past four years have taught me so much here at Pace and I couldn't be more grateful for the friendships I’ve made, professors who pushed me, and the continued support from my family! I can't wait to embark on this new post grad journey!”

2. Hiking In LA

Landis loves taking long hikes when she’s on the West Coast. “Being in nature decreases anxiety and includes some benefits such as an increase in cognition and affect, or feelings and emotions,” says ACE Certified Health Coach Jen Kates, Pn2, NASM-CPT. “Being in nature may also provide the opportunity to be more mindful and present to the moment you’re experiencing, which has been shown to reduce stress and blood pressure.”

3. Animal Lover

Landis loves animals, especially her dog Oakley. “Pets can benefit your health in many different ways,” says the American Heart Association. “They can help raise fitness levels. They can help lower stress, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. Best of all, pets can boost people’s overall happiness and well-being.”

4. Veteran Knicks Dancer

Landis is officially a Knicks dancer veteran, as she detailed in a social media post. “Officially on vet status… I’m returning to the court for the 2023-2024 season and I couldn't be more excited!! so honored to be a part of such an iconic group of ladies that bring a special type of fire to the court!! y’all not ready for what’s in store this season! 🔥🔥As always thank you to @fatima_noir for believing in me. I’m beyond blessed to be able to work under your direction again! Also thank you to my dream team!!”

5. Dance Professional

While all cheerleaders have to know how to dance, Landis is a step above. “The evidence for the health benefits of exercise is indisputable,” say the experts at Harvard Health. “Physiologic studies have demonstrated that regular activity builds muscle and bone, reduces fat, increases aerobic capacity, lowers blood pressure, and improves the ratio of ‘good’ to ‘bad’ cholesterol. Dance has been shown to have all the benefits of other forms of exercise.”

Denver Broncos cheerleader Berkleigh Wright isn’t ready to say goodbye to summer (or her swimsuits) just yet. The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit finalist took some time off from her busy schedule as an account manager and professional NFL cheerleader to get some R&R at the Clayton Members Club & Hotel in Denver. Wright shared pictures of herself posing in a white one-piece swimsuit, with a white shirt and straw hat. “Summer’s not over until Clayton says it’s over ☀️,” she captioned the post. Here’s how she works hard, plays hard, and cheers hard.

1. Look Good, Feel Good

Wright starts the day with a cup of matcha green tea to wake up and hit the ground running. “I’m all about the look good, feel good, work good vibes,” she says. “I always like to wake up and do my full skincare [routine], put on a fresh face and make sure that I’m setting myself up for success and a productive day.”

2. Sports Illustrated Beckons

Wright was a finalist in the Sports Illustrated Swim Search competition (no surprise there!). “I took this leap of faith because I feel that Sports Illustrated [Swimsuit] is a world-class organization that embodies everything I strive to be as a woman,” she says. “It extends beyond beauty: they stand for being a strong individual with depth, brains, kindness and integrity. A brand that celebrates everyone’s differences, exhibiting that our imperfections are what makes us beautiful. SI Swim helped me embrace those ideals in myself, and now I strive to imprint that mindset in others.”

3. Skiing Trips

Like a true Colorado girl, Wright is at home on the slopes. “It’s well documented that skiing and snowboarding benefits cardiovascular health, overall fitness, strength, coordination, balance and more,” says the Canadian Ski Council. “Regardless of your health and fitness goals, strapping on a pair of skis or a snowboard is sure to fulfill some of them. Due to the versatility of skiing and snowboarding, it can encompass the benefits of a cardio workout, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session, and strength training session, all in one fun activity.”

4. Advice To Younger Self

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Wright’s advice she would give her younger self is all about self-love and confidence. “Listen to your heart. If something is on it, it is there for a reason. Some things are only meant to be in your life for a reason or a season. Letting them go with grace will make room for what is meant to stay. Find your people and hold them close. Kindness is cool. Your authentic, genuine, weird and quirky self is the MOST beautiful thing you can be.”

5. Role Model

Wright wants to use her platform with the Denver Broncos and Sports Illustrated to be a role model for younger women. “Winning SI Swim Search to me means being a part of something bigger than myself,” she says. “Being a member of the Sports Illustrated family and having this powerful platform would help me further myself as a mentor and reach a wider audience of our youth. A mentor that demonstrates to our younger generation that you are not limited by your external factors, but rather unlimited by the person you can become from the inside out.”

1. Filming In Montana

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Randolph enjoyed working in Montana and exploring nature. “I loved Montana – it was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been,” she says. “I was thankfully there at the best time of year so I got all the good seasons! I got there in August and it was sunny and 80 degrees. It was perfect weather from August to October, and then it started to feel really nice in the fall in November. Then, when it got really cold, I got two weeks of snow and was able to go home. Montana really was one of the coolest places to film because we were able to spend so much time on our off days exploring as well.”

2. Cassie Randolph’s Sister

Animal welfare is important to Randolph, and something she focuses on with the help of her sister Cassie Randolph (of The Bachelor fame). “I’m a cat lady. I’ve had cats my whole life and fostered for many years,” she says. “My three cats are foster fails. Shelters are overflowing with animals that need homes and I think when people are searching for a pet, rescuing should be their intention. I am very passionate about this. Basically, I started ‘House Cat’ to channel some of that passion into something productive. With my schedule, ‘House Cat’ gives me a way to support these organizations and their causes even when I am not home. It’s impossible to ignore the amount of financial and physical help rescues and shelters need. My sister Cassie and one of my best friends, Chandler, work on it with me and we hope to continue growing it.”

3. Meditating In Nature

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Randolph loves the peace and quiet of being in Montana. “Montana was an adjustment, but I think we were so present and busy the whole time that I just fell in love with it completely,” she says. “I mean, we were riding horses on our off days and spending time together. I actually have gone back and forth about [the idea of what place I feel suits me most] a lot. I kind of confuse myself. I love cities, I love the hustle and bustle and how everything is available and right there. At the same time, I think I am happiest, not to sound cliché, but when I’m in nature. It just feels like you’re taking a step back and the real priorities in life are health and wellness and you can meditate and not hear cars honking [laughs]! I do think it’s a balance. I could spend 6 months in Montana and then I need 6 months in the city too. I’d like to think of myself as a well-rounded person in that regard.”

4. Cowboy Lifestyle

Randolph went to “cowboy camp” with the rest of the Yellowstone and 1883 casts. “I really fell in love with Montana. We shot for about 5 months and spent just as much time together off set as we did on set,” she says. “I feel so lucky to have made such great friends with the cast and crew. I think that is one of the best parts about shooting on location. The most memorable days were when we shot the large exterior scenes and had the horses and wranglers with us. Before we started filming, we did ‘cowboy camp’ and all learned how to ride, rope, etc. Being in Montana throughout filming gave us the chance to embrace and embody that lifestyle.”

5. Family First

Randolph pulled from her real life to help play the character of Elizabeth Strafford in 1923. “We are all very close and very family-oriented,” she says. “I spend so much time with my family. We are all very loyal to each other and we put each other first. My family really values quality time with each other which is something that I learned from my mom and her sisters being really close. It doesn’t necessarily come naturally. Your family knows you; You can be your most authentic, horrible self to them [laughs], but to make a choice and be pleasant and spend quality time is something that is not just second nature. So, that’s something that runs like gasoline through my family!”