'Try anything': Japan's silver-haired cheer-dancing squad

Fumie Takino, 89, founder of a senior cheer squad called Japan Pom Pom, and other members pose for commemorative photos before filming a dance routine for an online performance in Tokyo, Japan, April 12, 2021. "It's dancing; moving your body is nice," Takino said. "And the costumes are unbelievably showy. Some people join just so they can wear them." REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon

TOKYO (Reuters) - Pompoms rustle and silver shoes flash as "Japan Pom Pom" practices, moving to a lively cheer dance beat. With members ages 60 to 89, they're no ordinary squad.

But don't you dare call them grannies.