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Archive for Twirling

4 Ways to Showcase Your Baton Twirling Talent

Baton twirling gives you the potential to dazzle all kinds of audiences. There are many different ways for you to showcase this special talent you’ve been practicing. Classes, competitions and community events are just a few examples of places where your baton twirling skills can shine. Here are some ideas of places where you can show off your twirling talents.

Competitions

Posted: 1/19/2024

4 Strategies to Achieve Better Baton Twirling Technique

Baton twirling combines elements of dance and gymnastics to create a mesmerizing experience. Mastering this sport requires technique, coordination, and practice. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced twirler, there are always ways to take your skills to the next level. These strategies can help you achieve better baton twirling technique.

Strengthen Your Foundation

Posted: 12/1/2023

Understanding the Role of Music in Baton Twirling

From its origins in marching band and marionette performances, baton twirling has always been synonymous with music. The styles of music have evolved over the years, though traditional performances can still be seen around the world. These are the ways in which baton twirling and music have gone hand-in-hand: Setting the Tone As much as baton twirling is a sport that requires athleticism, it’s a performance that requires finesse and stage presence. Choosing music for a baton twirling show is more than picking whatever is fun, upbeat and popular at the time. The song or collection of songs chosen for a performance set a tone for the performers and the audience to follow. Determining the Moves Music can also help baton twirling coaches determine the moves that will be done during the performance. Will they be high energy with lots of throws or more low-key and based on slower choreography? This is all determined by the choice of music, as well as the skill of the performers. Ba

Posted: 4/21/2023

The Importance of Proper Equipment for Safe Baton Twirling

When you’re shopping for equipment for a new sport, you may be tempted to go the economical route. After all, sports like baton twirling can get expensive! What harm could it do if the measurements for the equipment are slightly off? Why wouldn’t you go with an off brand if it’s much less expensive? One important reason to get high-quality equipment that’s right for you is safety. Here are a few reasons why getting the proper equipment is crucial for baton twirling: Preventing Injury to Self If your equipment is even slightly off, it can pose an injury risk. A baton that’s not the right size can be more difficult to handle. Even if you get used to it, this can cause physical harm by messing with your form, straining your muscles or joints. Getting a baton that’s the correct size means having better grip, a better weight and better balance. If any of these dynamics are off, you increase the risk of dropping the baton on yourself, which can cause serious injuries. Avoiding Injur

Posted: 4/7/2023

How to Spend Downtime During Baton Twirling Competitions

Baton twirling competitions give twirlers the chance to shine and show off their skills. Any seasoned baton twirler knows how important it is to prepare for these competitions. Preparing even while you wait to be called to perform can give you even more confidence, which gives you an edge over the competition. Here are a few productive ways you can spend your downtime, both physically and mentally. Practice Backstage It’s natural to be nervous when you’re about to perform, especially when judges are involved. Take time to practice leading up to your performance. Keep others around you in mind. Make sure whatever moves you practice won’t distract them or put them at risk of being hit. Practice twirls that can be done without throwing and that are unlikely to cause you to drop your baton. Eyes on the Prize Unless there’s a fire, it doesn’t matter what’s going on around you. While waiting your turn to perform in a competition, focus on what you’re there to do. Think about your g

Posted: 2/24/2023

Why the Starlite Baton is the Perfect Alternative to Fire Spinning

Fire dancing has ancient roots, and even now, watching a fire dancing routine brings viewers back to a simpler time. However, spinning fire can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced twirlers. For someone looking to make a transition to fire twirling or looking to put on a flashy show without the risks fire brings, there are alternatives available. Battery-powered light batons can be great, but there’s always the risk of batteries dying at inopportune moments. That’s where the batteryless lighted Starlite comes in. Dangers of Fire Spinning No matter what technology we create or what methods we use to make fire safer, it’s inherently dangerous. The tiniest bit of excess fuel can go flying off a fire baton and onto nearby plants — or worse, audience members. Spinning a fire baton can be practiced safely, but it involves several steps and a great deal of training to make fire spinning safe. Inconvenience of Fire Batons When you use fire batons, there are several other types

Posted: 2/10/2023

Themes for Baton Twirling Performances

When you have different students from year to year going through your baton twirling studio, it can be difficult to find ideas that will inspire each class. After years of teaching baton twirling, you may notice that you’re hearing a lot of the same songs or seeing very similar performances. So, how do you make sure you don’t do the same thing over and over for your own classes? Try changing up the theme! Here are a few ideas to get you started: Fantasy What does fantasy mean to you? Dragons and wizards? Fairies and elves? There are several areas to explore within the fantasy world. As you get to know your students, it will be pretty clear whether they want to play the princesses or the knights in shining armor. Fantasy themes are sure to impress with all their colors, sparkles and otherworldly wonder. Movies While your newer students might not know their favorite baton moves yet, they’ll definitely know their favorite movies! Ask around to see what movies everyone enjoys, and

Posted: 1/31/2023

Adding More Fun to Baton Twirling Classes

Baton twirling is entertaining to watch and can be fun to learn. However, it involves learning a lot of new skills and can be difficult to commit to, especially for beginners. Between hours of practice to get a twirling move just right, memorizing dance choreography and combining all the skills you learn, baton twirling can be as grueling as any other sport. Here are a few ways we recommend making baton twirling classes a little more fun, especially for the youngest twirlers. Change Up Warm Ups Warming up for a baton twirling session should involve static and dynamic stretches. However, there’s no one way to do these kinds of stretching exercises. Consider changing it up by adding Crossfit-inspired stretches to some classes and yoga-inspired stretches to another. Read the room, and make sure everyone is on board with the warm ups you’re doing. You can also try some acting warm ups, like telling one word stories, to get the class relaxed and comfortable before they go into learning

Posted: 12/8/2022

Best Songs for Your Baton Twirling Routine

Music is a major part of any performance, especially a majorette performance. Twirling the baton without music would make for a lackluster routine. If you’re looking to compete or just looking to twirl the baton for fun, it helps to have a song or playlist in mind. With so many fun, upbeat songs out there, it can be difficult to choose the perfect one. Here are a few we recommend trying for your next baton twirling act. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen This epic anthem has just as much relevance today as it did in 1975, even if we’re still not completely sure what all the words mean. It’s a long enough song that you can incorporate as many tricks and dance moves as you’d like into your routine. It also has great variety. Between hard rock, opera, and slow, melodic parts, there’s plenty to work with in terms of creating a baton twirling routine. Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves For something that’s plenty upbeat but a little less epic, Walking on Sunshine is a perfect fit.

Posted: 9/30/2022

Items That Improve the Baton Twirling Experience

Anyone who twirls the baton knows that baton twirling is a sport. Like any sport, it comes with its fair share of risks and injuries. Bruises, blisters, breaks and sprains all come with the territory. Fortunately, engineers and performers have designed and discovered products to make the experience easier and more fun, especially in the practice phase. Here are a few of those products: Rosin Powder Rosin is a type of resin that’s used in soaps, inks, adhesives and, most importantly, hand drying powder for baton twirling. Star Line Baton offers a rosin mixture that absorbs moisture, keeping hands dry. This improves friction and helps prevent drops, which helps tremendously when learning new tricks and routines. While this powder is great for practice, it is forbidden in certain competitions, listed as a performance enhancing substance. Baton Tape Baton tape can add sparkle and color to your baton. Star Line Baton offers cotton, vinyl, metallic, prism and sparkle varieties in al

Posted: 1/21/2022

Safety Tips for Baton Twirling

Baton twirling involves throwing around props and sometimes even playing with fire. This means safety needs to be a top priority. While some injuries are bound to occur in any sport, there are always steps you can take to make them less prevalent. Here are some of the most common issues that happen in baton twirling and how they can be prevented. Setting Up for Safety One of the most important ways to stay safe as a baton twirler is by using the correct size baton. Measure the baton by putting one end of the baton under the arm and making sure the other end fits in the palm. Next, make sure you’re practicing in a safe place. Choose areas that are free from tripping hazards like curled mats, loose flooring or debris. Stay hydrated, stick to shaded areas on hot days, and always apply sunscreen when practicing or performing outside. If it’s raining, be extra careful with each move, and look out for lightning. Avoiding Carpal Tunnel When you do the same motion with your hands day

Posted: 12/17/2021

How Title IX Changed Baton Twirling

History has not always been kind to girls, but baton twirling started out as a rare female-dominated sport. Thought of as a sideshow during male-dominated sports games, twirling was one of the only ways girls could participate in athletics. This was until Congress passed Title IX in 1972, allowing girls to join school sports teams. Twirling in the Past Baton twirling started out as a more feminine pursuit that the general public perceived as entertainment for the male athletes who played serious sports. The two options for girls who wanted to get on the field were cheerleading and baton twirling, where they stood on the sidelines. It wasn’t all bad for girls and women who participated. Baton twirling allowed them to travel to games, and in some cases, provided opportunities for scholarships. Current Trends Girls being allowed to participate in sports took away from the popularity of baton twirling. Women became more likely to identify as athletes when participating in team spor

Posted: 12/3/2021

How to Prepare for a Virtual Baton Twirling Competition

With pandemic restrictions being lifted, in-person sports are making a slow return. For now, virtual competitions look like they’re here to stay. Competitions have gone virtual for many top baton twirling organizations. This makes the events accessible to more talented twirlers but also creates its own set of challenges. Here’s how you can prepare for a virtual competition. Practice, Practice, Practice Watch home videos from other baton twirlers to see how you can make the most of the virtual format. Before you decide on a routine, see how it looks on camera. Just like you would for an in-person twirling competition, you need to practice before you compete. Since judges won’t have any distractions from your performance, it’s more important than ever to perfect your routine. Test Out Camera Angles When competing in person, there’s no doubt that the judges can see everything you do. It’s different when you’re performing for a camera. Make sure your whole routine can be seen cle

Posted: 10/1/2021

Encouraging Your Child to Pursue Sports

From football and basketball to color guard and baton twirling, children benefit in many ways from participating in sports. Sports help children learn technical skills while developing a sense of, well, sportsmanship. They learn about the importance of practicing a craft and teamwork. Athletics help students not only navigate school but also their futures. Want to help your child find the right sport for them? Here are a few ways to encourage their decision: Let Your Child Choose The first tip is letting your kids pick what they’re passionate about. Just because you loved playing baseball as a kid does not mean your child will enjoy baseball. If you bring your child to a game and they’re in awe of the color guard or cheerleaders, that could be their path. When in doubt, let them try out multiple sports! Watch the Sport Together One way to get your child motivated to try a sport is to share in their interest. Take time out of the day to watch highlights of the pros excelling in

Posted: 9/3/2021

What Baton Twirlers Want You to Know

The common perception of baton twirling is that it’s a fun, showy parlor trick, but there’s much more to it than that. It’s a sport. Learning tricks and routines involves years of practice and determination. In most cases, baton twirlers need to do more than twirl the baton and walk in place. Here are some things baton twirlers want you to know: Perfection is Expected When a baton twirler starts a routine, they’re under a ton of pressure. At any given time, hundreds of people are staring and waiting for you to drop your baton. When performing a complex routine, not dropping the baton once is a serious accomplishment, especially with all those eyes on you. Perfection isn’t just preferred with baton twirling— it’s expected. Batons Cause Bruises and Calluses Baton twirling routines look pretty and flashy, but they’re not as dainty as they may look from afar. While practicing moves, dropping the baton on yourself or hitting yourself with the baton is common, especially when you sta

Posted: 5/21/2021

How to Prevent Twirling Fatigue

Sports create opportunities for athletes in all areas of life. Baton twirling, which most people get into at a young age, can be especially rewarding. Physical fitness, community engagement and unique skills are just a few of the benefits. However, no matter how much someone loves twirling, fatigue is inevitable. Baton twirling can be physically, mentally and emotionally demanding. Here are our tips for preventing twirling fatigue: Rest Plenty and Eat Well Learning new tricks and routines requires serious discipline and lots of practice. Every once in a while, you may end up working longer than you meant to on that routine you’re looking to master. You may be so focused on one move that you’re practicing well into the night or forgetting to eat. Make time for yourself to rest and eat a balanced diet. If you nourish your body, you’ll be sharper and more focused when it’s showtime. Remember Why You Started Maybe your problem isn’t that you’re practicing too much. After practicin

Posted: 5/7/2021

Types of Baton Twirling

When you hear the term “baton twirling,” what picture comes to mind? A traditional drum majorette leading the school marching band across the football field, or the dazzling, fire-wielding performer at a halftime show? There are many different types of baton twirling, and all require an equal level of skill, commitment, and enthusiasm. Here are just a few kinds you’ll see being performed across the globe today: In marching band twirling, the oldest and most common form of baton twirling, performers called “drum majors” or “drum majorettes” lead the band with colorful uniforms, synchronized movements, and of course, intricate twirling routines. This type of twirling has its roots in rifle-spinning military parades, and has since evolved into a competitive sport that is practiced around the world. Marching band twirlers typically use a standard metal baton with weighted rubber ends—often shaped like stars, flutes, or balls—for utmost flexibility in their routines. They also use h

Posted: 3/5/2021

Types of Baton Twirling

When you hear the term “baton twirling,” what picture comes to mind? A traditional drum majorette leading the school marching band across the football field, or the dazzling, fire-wielding performer at a halftime show? There are many different types of baton twirling, and all require an equal level of skill, commitment, and enthusiasm. Here are just a few kinds you’ll see being performed across the globe today: In marching band twirling, the oldest and most common form of baton twirling, performers called “drum majors” or “drum majorettes” lead the band with colorful uniforms, synchronized movements, and of course, intricate twirling routines. This type of twirling has its roots in rifle-spinning military parades, and has since evolved into a competitive sport that is practiced around the world. Marching band twirlers typically use a standard metal baton with weighted rubber ends—often shaped like stars, flutes, or balls—for utmost flexibility in their routines. They also use h

Posted: 3/5/2021

Twirling During the Pandemic

By all accounts, 2020 was supposed to be a big year for twirling. Two world championships, along with local and national competitions, were planned for this year. However, the world had other plans. Some baton twirlers did not let this get them down. They got creative. Here are some of the ways baton twirlers continued their craft during the COVID-19 pandemic: Virtual Competitions This May, 40 baton twirlers in Canada participated in a video competition to showcase their twirling skills. Judges in Calgary gave twirlers an online space to be creative and competitive. There were no trophies or medals, just bragging rights and a chance to perform for an audience in a year where that would not have otherwise been possible. Modified Classes Baton twirling and dance studios have moved to online classes, which provides the opportunity for wider access and safety from in-person gatherings. Some classes are offered in person with strict guidelines as far as number of people, handwashin

Posted: 1/4/2021

Yes, Baton Twirling is a Sport

Baton twirling may appear to be a cute activity that adds sparkle to sports events, but it is much more than that. Like any other sport, twirling requires hours of practice, years of dedication, and perfectly synchronized teamwork. While baton routines look flawless and joyful, the big smiles are just another display of a twirler’s strength. Practice Makes Perfect If a baton twirling routine looks easy, there is a reason. Each routine is the result of several hours a week dedicated to learning rolls, tosses, and other tricks. These tricks are done with anywhere between one and three batons at a time. Not only does a twirler take time to master tricks; they have to synchronize with other performers. And though dropping the baton may be acceptable during practice, the audience expects perfection on performance day. Sports-Related Injuries Twirlers need to do several tricks quickly to hold an audience’s attention. Practicing these tricks results in bruises on hands, arms and legs

Posted: 12/9/2020

Best Gift Ideas for Twirlers

If you or a loved one are looking to blow away the baton twirler in your life with an amazing gift, Star Line Baton offers many items that will do just that. There’s much more that goes into twirling than just the baton. Baton twirling is a lifestyle that allows you to make countless memories, discover new talents, and most of all make the closest of friends. There's no better gift to give to a twirler than one that reflects their passion and love for the sport. Baton Case After a long day of twirling, it is important to keep all of your batons safe and in one place. Star Line Baton boasts a large selection of baton cases, all of which can be embroidered to make them your own. The Deluxe Professional case can hold up to 15 batons and comes with a shoulder strap for easy mobility. The Sparkle case is the most popular case, and it comes in multiple colors with both large and small sizes to fit any baton. Any twirler would love a colorful, customizable baton bag to keep their

Posted: 11/24/2020

Preparing To Twirl At Home

Now you’re a twirler, but training doesn’t stop once you leave the studio. Talent must be nurtured — even at home. With a little extra effort put in to make sure your mind and body are prepared for the intricacy of the choreography, you’re bound to ace that next performance! Eating well is the first and foremost basic of keeping your body balanced throughout the day. While treating yourself to fast food after a strenuous day sounds very tempting, the high levels of fat and salt will deplete your energy faster and essentially undo your efforts to remain fit. Opting to trade salty snacks for vitamin and protein-strong substitutes will keep your body happy and ready to tackle the day. Sleep plentifully; a comfortable 8 to 10 hours of sleep has proven to boost athletes’ abilities. If time is an issue, a nap after eating, in addition to sleeping at night, can improve brain activity — and it’s important to stay sharp when searching for where that baton is falling! It’s recommended that you t

Posted: 1/23/2019

All About Winter Guard

Everyone has likely heard of Color Guard, but Winter Guard is also an awesome choice. This sport’s popularity is growing and spreading across the world. Interested in Winter Guard? Here’s some information about the sport: Winter Guard is performed in a gymnasium. It is a combination of cheerleading, dancing, and baton twirling (as well as other item maneuverings) all in one sport. Winter Guard has its own organization for those interested in the sport all over the world to join. They host competitions regularly. Winter guard teams require a lot of manpower. There are often multiple coaches that lead a team, a choreographer to help plan the moves, and team captains. Teams practice for months for five-minute performances. The timing is crucial during a performance, so teams have to practice setting up, tearing down, and performing in an efficient manner. Creative staging is often a big bonus during Winter Guard performances. Colorful tarps, imaginative backdrops, and other theme

Posted: 6/19/2018

Baton Twirling Across Cultures

Different forms of twirling can be seen throughout the world and across many different cultures. Each tradition combined together to form the sport to how it’s practiced today. One country that has a rich history of twirling is that of Switzerland. Back in the Middle Ages, it was custom for urban guilds to perform flag throwing. This practice continued on throughout the years and eventually morphed into the Swiss Yodeling Association. The Swiss Yodeling Association introduced rules and regulations to flag throwing and began hosting competitions. Flag throwing in Switzerland is highly regulated. The size of the flag needs to be precise. There are also 90 regulated swings necessary when performing, which includes many different types of swings. These swings all involve throwing the flag up into the air and catching it by the staff. Another culture that holds twirling in high esteem was that of the Aztecs. They were known for their fire dancing. In Bali, a Fire Dance is regularly pe

Posted: 6/8/2018

How to Measure Your Correct Baton Length

Choosing the correct baton length is crucial for success! If your baton is too short, it will be difficult to handle and create an awkward appearance. If your baton is too long, it can end up hitting your body (and that can really hurt). The perfect length will make your performance look effortless and smooth. Batons tend to be between the sizes of 14 and 32 inches. This wide variety of sizes makes it easy to find your right fit. How can you do this? Grab a friend to help! Ask your friend to use a tape measure to measure the length from the top of your shoulder to the tip of your middle finger. Make sure you’re standing straight up with your arm straight out. The length between these two spots is your ideal baton length. If you cannot find a baton to match the exact length of your shoulder to middle finger, it’s okay to size up. It’s better to have a longer baton than a shorter one - and you could always grow into it! If you don’t have a tape measure or someone to help, or you

Posted: 5/22/2018

Picking Quality Baton Twirling Gear

There’s not much gear required for baton twirling, but the things you do need should be of top quality. Two of these items are baton twirling shoes and the baton itself. Finding the right shoes for baton twirling is important. You spend the entire time you practice as well as perform on your feet. During this time on your feet, you walk, sprint, bounce, jump, spin, twirl, and kick. Make sure you have the appropriate shoes so you can perform your best. We recommend getting InStep shoes for your baton twirling needs. They come in different colors to fit your style. The reason InStep shoes are a perfect fit for twirling is because they are lightweight and ultra flexible with a great toe point all while offering great support. When performing high energy routines, it’s important to have non-slip shoes. InStep shoes are both non-slip and non-stick. They are also conveniently washable as they’re made with leather bands on canvas. All of these things make InStep shoes perfect for not onl

Posted: 5/11/2018

Fire Baton Twirling

If you’re already a talented baton twirler you might be interested in branching out within the sport. One of the ways you can do this is through fire baton twirling. Fire baton twirling is not for the faint of heart, but it’s a definite crowd pleaser and actually not as scary as it might sound. Fire baton twirling is for those already experienced in baton twirling and that have a good hold on the sport. You’ll need a fire baton in order to perform a fire baton twirling routine. These batons have special ends meant to catch on fire and hold a flame. When practicing and performing try not to drop your baton very often- the more you drop a fire baton the more the bolts that hold the wick together will loosen. It’s dangerous to perform with a loose wick, so when it starts to unravel, you’ll need to purchase a new one. Another item you’ll need to purchase is fuel. You can buy normal camping fuel to dip your baton ends in so you can light them on fire. Purchasing a baton twirling case

Posted: 4/20/2018

Getting Started in the World of Baton Twirling

Interested in becoming a baton twirler? There are a couple things you need to know first. We’ve got some tips to help jumpstart your baton twirling passion. The first thing you’ll need when entering the world of baton twirling is, of course, a baton. There are many different styles and colors to choose from- there are even batons that light up when in use. The most important thing about picking out a baton is making sure the baton is the proper length. The proper size for a baton is the length from your armpit to your middle finger. After you have acquired a baton and are getting ready for your first baton twirling practice, make sure you have on comfortable clothes that you can easily move around in. You’ll be incorporating many different styles of movement throughout practice, including jazz, ballet, and gymnastics so flexible shoes are important. Another good idea is to put your hair up in a ponytail to keep it out of your face. You can decorate your hair with ribbons, or even

Posted: 4/4/2018

National Baton Twirling Day is Almost Here

The day we’ve all been waiting for is about to arrive- April 10th is World Baton Twirling Day! This is the perfect day to show your love and support for your favorite sport. What can you do to celebrate? Here are some great ideas to get involved: Reach out to social media! Tweet about your love of twirling on Twitter making sure to hashtag World Baton Twirling Day and post pictures of yourself from your last competition on facebook. And here’s exciting news! There’s an official routine you can learn with all the other baton twirling lovers around the world. Post your video specifically for National Baton Twirling Day to Facebook and share it with your friends- it could even inspire someone to learn more about baton twirling or even try their hand at it. Learn the official routine for National Baton Twirling Day. Get a head start and learn the same routine all the baton twirling lovers are performing on this special day. There’s even official music you can download to perform your

Posted: 3/26/2018

Baton Twirling: What Does it Take?

One major misconception others have about baton twirling is that it’s easy to do. This could not be further from the truth. Baton twirling is both a physically and mentally demanding sport that involves hours of intensive practice to truly master. You use many muscles when practicing and performing baton twirling routines. Muscles in your wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, core, and legs are all highlighted during your routine. It takes endurance, strength, and coordination to be a successful baton twirler. Baton twirlers can benefit from strengthening their core strength. You can do this through core-strengthening workshops or performing exercises at home. Some home exercises you can do include planks, bridges, abdominal crunches, and side planks. All of these will target your core and help you gain solid control over your movements during routines. Another area baton twirlers need to be skilled in is flexibility. You need above average flexibility for baton twirling because a lot

Posted: 3/14/2018

Flawless Makeup for Your Twirling Performance

Performing as a baton twirler offers many rewards. One of the most exciting times during your baton twirling career will be the competitions that you get to participate in. On top of your amazing twirling routine, a killer outfit and flawless makeup will certainly set you apart from your competition. So, how do you make sure that your makeup is on point? We have outlined a couple of must-knows for creating the perfect stage face. Start with a Clean Face - Your makeup will need to last all day, so don’t apply makeup in the morning before you put on your stage makeup. Start with a clean face. Wake up in the morning and wash your face, then apply a small amount of moisturizer. Highlight - After you have applied a foundation, highlight your face. Using a light bronzer or shimmering powder, gently sweep your cheekbones and around your eyes to highlight your face. If you use a neutral color under your eyebrows, it can help define the shape of your eyes and make them look bigger.

Posted: 2/26/2018

Protect Yourself Baton Twirling

Are you new to baton twirling, or are you a veteran twirler? Starline Baton has great tips on how you can avoid injuries during practice and performances: Choose the Right Size Baton - Choosing the right size baton is key to performing well and keeping injuries down to a minimum. Get Out of the Way - As you start to practice, toss up the baton and quickly move out of the way, especially if you are new to baton twirling. Practice Outdoors - Wide open spaces and room is key to twirling baton. If you practice outside, you will have plenty of room to practice to help keep you free from injury. Know How to Catch the Baton - Keep your palm face up while twirling the baton as you toss it in the air. If you do this, the baton won’t land on your foot. Pick the Right Surface - Practice on a flat hard surface, and move your feet around. If you pick an uneven surface to practice on, like the yard, then you run the risk of spraining your ankle or hurting yourself. Keep Your

Posted: 2/9/2018

More Tips for Baton Twirling Beginners

Good baton twirlers make it look easy, but for anyone that’s ever tried it, they discover it’s harder than it looks. The trick is to master the basics, then it’s easier to move on to more complicated twirling routines and tosses. Tips on Baton Twirling for Beginners Have the correct baton length. Batons have different tips and varied shaft styles and diameters. The standard 3/8 inch shaft and rounded balls and tips are suggested for beginners. Watch videos about the basics of twirling. YouTube has a great list of resources for the basics of baton twirling. Find a class. Search online for baton twirling organizations such as the World Baton Twirling Federation (WBTF). Many competition web sites have sections on finding local classes for beginners and twirlers who want to move onto competitions. Practice, practice, practice and then practice some more. Developing the dexterity, smoothness, fluidity, and speed of baton twirling takes patience and practice. Customers

Posted: 1/5/2018

Important Information for Beginner Twirlers

There are several challenges that a new competitor may face when they enter the baton twirling arena. It’s nice to have an outline generated by someone who is experienced in the competitive twirling world. You can also ask your child’s coach for information that you may need to familiarize yourself with this world, but it’s important to not take too much time away from your child’s lesson. Performing your own research can go a long way. The first step to entering the competitive twirling world is to get a good coach. If you look into your local twirling organization, they most likely will have several strong, informed coaches available to you that will offer a private lesson. When going through the coach selection process, let your child help in the decision-making process. The reason you should let your child help to make the decision is because of the following reasons: your child will be spending a significant amount of time with this individual. your child will be coll

Posted: 12/15/2017

Choose the Right Baton Twirling Event for Your Skill Level

If you’re new to the competitive baton twirling arena, you may want to learn about the different events that you can compete in. Here at Starline Baton, we understand that not every baton twirler can excel at every event. That’s why we are going to break down each event for you. Basic Strut - The Basic Strut event is usually a short routine that requires marching in rhythm in a square, hitting every beat of the music. This demand is low for this particular event, and it’s often for beginners to develop basic rhythm and good posture. Military Strut - The Military Strut event is performed in an “L” formation and composed of marching stems with a military beat. This is a bit harder than the Basic Strut, as you need good rhythm, posture and arm/feet coordination. Presentation - This event is usually quote short and it helps to develop the proper technique of the competitor. This event is made up of body moves blended and executed to Presentation portion of the Strut music. R

Posted: 12/5/2017

How To Do the Perfect Bun

Baton twirling is a beautiful sport that puts emphasis on the visual aspects. A ponytail can get in the way of your routine, and a simple bun can get boring. Star Line Baton would like to share with you ten different ways to achieve the perfect bun.

  • Low Rolled Updo: Give yourself this effortlessly messy bun in minutes by rolling it up in four simple steps. Click here to see how.
  • Braided Bun: For more of an elegant look, try a braid variation of a bun. Click here to see how.
  • Cotton Candy Bun: Having a frizzy hair day? You’re already halfway there for this bun! Tease your hair to create a cotton candy-like bun. Click here to see how.
  • Sock Bun: Lack of volume doesn’t mean you can’t have a full bun. Use a sock to create a voluminous bun instantly. Click here to see how.
  • Criss-Cross Bun: Elegant buns can still be achieved with short hair. This criss-cross styled updo looks complicated, but takes only a few steps to achieve. Click here to see how.
  • Braided Top Knot Bun: Add a braid at the crown of your head to prevent flyaways and instantly glam yourself up. This is superb for those with curly hair. Click here to see how.
  • Double-Braided Bun: By incorporating two braids into your bun, you’ll be sure to stand out of the crowd. Click here to see how.
  • Ballerina Bun: Create the perfect bun with the usage of spin pins. This reduces the amount of bobby pins needed and works just as great for those with thick hair. Click here to see how.
  • Chalk Bun: Spice up your simple bun by adding a pop of color with hair chalk. Click here to see how.
  • Knotted Bun: Tie your hair into an elegant knot by adding a few bobby pins. Go the extra step by adding your favorite hair brooch on the side. Click here to see how.

Posted: 9/29/2015

Basic Stage Makeup Tips and Tricks

Applying the perfect stage-ready makeup isn’t as easy as it sounds. Your makeup should look professional, somewhat natural, and play to the character that you’re portraying for your routine. Depending on your experience and skill level, your makeup should take around 30-45 minutes to apply. Follow these steps for applying basic stage makeup:

  • Step 1) Give your face a thorough scrub down and make sure to exfoliate. This washing should be followed with toner and moisturizer.
  • Step 2) Evenly apply a skin-tone matching foundation to give your face a smooth and flawless finish. Be wary of your color choice. Stage lights tend to be cooler in tone and they have a tendency to wash out the face, try finding a tone that is a few shades warmer than your natural skin color to offset this problem. Don’t forget to blend your foundation into your hairline and below the jaw with a sponge or foundation brush.
  • Step 3) Add contour and character to your face with a darker shade of foundation. Stage lights are notorious for flattening out the face, therefore, good contouring is a must.
  • Step 4) To emphasize your eyes, use eyeliner to line the upper and lower lashes. Black eyeliner is great for drama and brown eyeliner is perfect for a natural look. For experienced stage-makeup artists, extend the eyeliner up and out so that it merges seamlessly with the line of your lashes. This creates an alert and open effect for the eyes.
  • Step 5) Add natural or statement eyeshadow to match your costume and routine and don’t be shy with false eyelashes. Also, don’t forget to shade your brows to give them a high-arched and authoritative appearance.
  • Step 6) Now that your eyes look incredible, it’s time to work on the lips. Use a dark lip liner to magnify the shape of your mouth--that doesn't mean that you should tweak the shape of your lips to make them look like Angelina Jolie’s, just enhance your mouth’s natural shape. Apply your desired stage lipstick and your smile will steal the show.
  • Step 7) Most people think you’re done after the lipstick, but to even out and finish your makeup, add a light coating of powder. Reapply powder as needed.

Posted: 12/8/2014

Making Your Baton Twirling Performance Memorable

As we know it today, baton twirling is a graceful sport, full of rhythmic movements, driving beats and artistic interpretation. For each athlete, the sport presents something new and different, giving them a way to express themselves and demonstrate their dexterity. While each individual twirler takes a different approach to their performances, there are certain key steps to remember that will help make a performance both successful and memorable.

Posted: 4/1/2014

The History of Baton Twirling

What we see today as baton twirling was not always how it was seen. By today's definition, baton twirling is a game or sport used to create visual art by demonstrating smoothness, physical fitness, beauty, gymnastics (which adds excitement and a variation of physical moves), speed, and fluidity when handling the baton close to your body and when released into the air. Not only is it the physical and visual requirements that make up baton twirling, it's also the ability to twirl in time with music. Being able to tell a story with your body while twiling a baton to the beat of music is what encompasses technical merit and artistic expression. If this is what baton twirling is today, what was it like before?

Posted: 5/24/2013

The Mental and Physical Benefits of Twirling Baton

Baton is a sport for females and males of all ages. This sport requires that the twirler use both sides of their brain, which contributes to many mental and physical benefits. On a physical level, using the left and right side of the brain is called ambidexterity. Being able to use the left side of your body just as well as the right aids in overall coordination and strength. On a mental level, baton twirling promotes bilateral thinking, which can contribute to being able to learn information at a faster rate. Also, when there is a level of communication between the left and right side of the brain, this type of thinking process makes for an overall rise in intelligence.

Posted: 4/17/2013

Using Video to Enhance Your Baton Twirling Technique

Baton twirling is a fantastic sport complete with mesmerizing tricks, stunning costumes, athleticism, and poise. And, just like with every sport, practice makes perfect. A great way to improve the effectiveness of your practice is to utilize video. There are a few ways to do this:

Posted: 4/10/2013

Featured Product: Baton Cases

Posted: 4/2/2013

Perfecting Your Figure 8s

There are certain basic twirls that every baton twirler should be familiar with, whether you are a beginner or an advanced twirler. The Figure 8 (both horizontal and vertical) is a basic baton twirling trick that many more advanced twirling tricks build from. Below is an easy-to-understand description of how to execute these twirls:

Posted: 1/18/2013

World Records in Baton Twirling

We’ve had fun with baton twirling for decades here in the US, but did you know that it originated in Eastern Europe and Asia? The sport made its way to the United States after the Civil War era, and different organizations, like the World Baton Twirling Federation and the World Twirling Association, were created to promote the professionalism of baton twirling.

Posted: 12/7/2012

I Bet You Didn't Know She Twirled!

Quite a few very well known people were baton twirlers when they were younger, and some even started their professional careers in the sport of baton twirling. Here are just a few people you may not have realized were baton twirlers:

  • Lynne V. Cheney, wife of former Vice President Dick Cheney, was a baton twirler. She was even the Wyoming State Baton Twirling Champion in 1958!
  • Actresses Debbie Reynolds and Sissy Spacek were baton twirlers!
  • Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the U.S. Supreme Court Justice, was a baton twirler when she was younger.
  • Famous singer, Sheryl Crow, was a baton twirler!
  • Well-known dancer, choreographer, and actress Debbie Allen was a baton twirler!
  • Debbie Allen's sister, Phylicia Rashad, best known for her role as Clair Huxtable, was a baton twirler.
  • Madonna brought baton twirling to her MDNA 2012 world tour last summer when she performed in a 1940's majorette costume.
Baton twirling is a great sport that gives people the unique opportunity to tap into their creative side, increase hand-eye coordination and flexibility, and even compete in an athletic environment. Baton twirling is a great way to start a professional career as a choreographer, dancer, actor, etc.

Posted: 11/29/2012

Why Start Twirling?

Baton twirling is more than just a sport. Twirling is also an art requiring beauty and style.

Posted: 11/9/2012

Helpful Stretches for Baton Twirlers

Flexibility is key for baton twirlers so that they can execute certain skills in their routines. Here are just a few examples of stretches you can do as a baton twirler to increase your flexibility:

Posted: 10/8/2012

Building Flexibility: 101

The sport of baton twirling requires flexibility in order to successfully execute moves in your baton twirling routine. You can’t become flexible overnight, but with patience and time, you will soon become limber. Stretching not only helps you to be able to perform skills in your routine, but also it prevents muscle injury from over-exertion.

Posted: 10/4/2012

How to Choose the Right Ball and Tip for your Baton

Just as important as the shaft, the ball and tip (the white rubber ends) of your baton makes the difference when choosing the right baton. Today, a wide variety of shapes and sizes give baton twirlers many options to choose from.

Posted: 9/4/2012

Tips for Twirling a Flaming Baton

You’ve more than likely seen baton twirling during a football half-time show, a parade, or in a marching band. It’s fun to practice and it’s especially fun to watch. If you’re a baton twirler and want to bring you’re your skill to the next level, a challenging and unique skill to learn is how to twirl a flaming baton. When done properly, it is a magnificent show and an all-around crowd pleaser. But how is it done?

Posted: 7/11/2012

Tips for Your X-Strut Routine

The X-Strut is a competitive event at baton twirling competitions and is almost always included in the major pageant of the competition. The X-Strut is performed in an elegant costume and in front of a judge, who evaluates the twirler on overall appearance, posture, grace, technique, baton handling, precision, and timing.

Posted: 6/14/2012

Baton Twirling: A (Brief) History

Baton twirling is said to have originated at dance festivals in Asia and Eastern Europe. At these festivals, people would twirl and toss knives, guns, torches and sticks to the rhythm of the music. This activity made its way to armies, where they rhythmically twirled their rifles while marching. When an army was parading, a rifle twirler would always be in front of the other marchers.

Posted: 5/24/2012

Baton Twirling Tricks

Baton twirling is a fun and creative sport. What sets good twirlers from great twirlers is how creative they can get during their performances. Here are instructions for two tricks to incorporate into your next performance to give you a creative edge:

Posted: 5/14/2012

What to Wear to Baton Practice

Just like any other sport, baton twirling requires practice and hard work. To make your baton practice most effective, it is important to dress in the proper attire. First, wear something that you feel comfortable exercising in, such as a tank top and Soffe shorts. Clothes like these will allow you to move throughout your full range of motion, unlike jeans, which will restrict your movement.

If you have long hair, it is best to pull it up into a ponytail or bun so that it does not get in your face while you are practicing your baton routine. Remember to make sure your hair is pulled up securely because you will most likely be doing spins, whether it is a 1-turn, 2-turn, 3-turn, or more.

Also, the proper footwear will help you to get the most out of your practice. At Star Line Baton Company, we recommend the Instep Shoe, a canvas twirling shoe that has a treaded PVC sole, which gives traction while still allowing for spins. The best part is that they are machine washable! So when you have been practicing for months and they start to get dirty, and not to mention a little smelly, you can just throw them in the wash and they will be as good as new!

Posted: 5/9/2012

How to Find the Baton That Is Right for You

Having the baton that is the right size for you is important. If you’re just starting out, having the proper baton will help you learn how to correctly handle batons. This will also help prevent injuries that can occur when you’re learning to twirl. Here are 5 steps to follow in selecting a new baton:

Posted: 4/20/2012

Get Started with Baton Twirling

Twirling is a great sport for anyone, but it is especially beneficial to children because it helps them develop spatial awareness, motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. By participating in the sport of baton twirling, children also develop strength, stamina, and flexibility, as well as poise and a positive body image.

Posted: 4/9/2012

Overcoming Nerves When Performing

Sometimes, performing your baton routine in front of a judge can be a very nerve-racking experience. Even the most expert baton twirlers get nervous before their performance. However, you can overcome your nerves by following these tips:

  • Prepare for your performance by practicing your routine thoroughly before the day of the performance. Make sure you know your routine backwards and forwards so that you are confident in your ability to execute it flawlessly.
  • Check out the performance space beforehand. It is good to know how much space you have to perform and the type of material the floor is. If you discover the floor is too slippery for your comfort, you can always dip the soles of your shoes in rosin to give extra traction.
  • Take deep breaths and imagine yourself performing the baton routine flawlessly. This will boost your self confidence, which will result in a better performance.
  • Most importantly, have fun. Performing your routine gives you a chance to share your talents with others. You never know, your routine may inspire another to start twirling.

Posted: 3/23/2012

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