Baton twirling shows can be impressive on their own, but adding fire brings them to another level. Fire spinning adds an exciting element to this sport, one that can be dangerous if safety precautions are not taken ahead of time. Here’s how we recommend staying safe as a fire baton twirler: Maintain Your Baton When you’re playing with fire, a lot can go wrong very quickly. Checking your equipment before and during a performance is vital to your safety and the safety of those around you. See if your equipment has wear and tear beyond safe levels. Look or feel for cracks and tears. The best way to stay safe in fire baton twirling is to make sure your equipment can handle the task before using it. Dress for Safety The fabrics you wear during a fire performance can be the difference between being safe and causing injury to yourself and others. Choose natural fabrics and cloth, staying away from synthetic materials, which are often more prone to catching fire or melting. Leather c
Posted: 11/18/2023
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Sometimes, baton twirlers go on to do big things, and it’s not always baton twirling! While baton twirling is a sport that becomes a career for some, others who twirl end up becoming music legends or Supreme Court justices. These three women started out in baton twirling and went on to become American icons: Stevie Nicks Singer-songwriter Stevie Nicks, who started her music career as a member of Fleetwood Mac, is known for giving high-energy solo and group performances, which she continues to do to this day. One of her many talents is twirling the baton. She has shown off her skills on The Late Late Show, as well as during concerts, dazzling audiences around the world. Sheryl Crow Another American music icon has a somewhat hidden baton twirling talent. In 2019, Sheryl Crow twirled her baton on the Today Show. At one point, she was quite skilled in twirling two batons at the same time and even twirling fire batons. As a teenager, she twirled a baton to impress a guy, who unfor
Posted: 2/19/2021
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
As you start getting ready for your next season of rehearsals, practices, and auditions, one of the items that always needs to be fully equipped is your bag. There’s nothing worse than realizing that you forgot to bring your deodorant, for instance, on your first day of class. If you want to stay ahead of the game and make your teacher proud, take a look at Starline Baton’s list of essentials to pack in your dance bag. Show up to your next baton twirling class fully prepared with these key life-saving items:
Posted: 10/24/2016
Just like all of your other twirling gear, including your costume, boots, and tights, it’s important for you to find the perfect baton fit for your stature. Not only will the right size baton make twirling easier and more fun, it will also potentially prevent any accidents or slip-ups. So, let’s get started! All you need to find your baton measurements are a tape measure and a friend.
Posted: 9/29/2014
It’s time for back to school! As your children return to their normal routines, begin tackling their first homework assignments, and start looking into extracurricular activities, why not encourage them to try out for their school’s color guard or twirling team? Beyond being great exercise, color guard and twirling help build hand-eye coordination, boost confidence, and present opportunities for new friendships and exciting experiences.
Posted: 9/2/2014
Footwear is an important part of any baton twirling costume and Majorette Boots are just one of the many types of footwear worn in this sport. At Star Line Baton, we have three brand new Majorette Boots available for purchase at our online baton store. We have the Dallas Knee High Majorette Boots, the Gotham Majorette Vinyl or Leather Boots, and the Nancy Majorette Boots. Although any of the four would make any baton outfit fabulous, we want to help you find the right ones for you.
Posted: 5/8/2013
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
Having the appropriate shoes when you practice or perform your baton twirling routine is essential. Not only do the right shoes help you retain your balance while you spin (1-turns, 2-turns, 3-turns, & more!), but also they look clean and professional, which is important for your overall presentation. Good baton shoes are lightweight and flexible, allowing your feet to breathe through the material and to have excellent toe point.
Posted: 3/4/2013
As we start off the New Year, we would like to announce a few exciting changes to our company. As of January 1, 2013, Jack Crum has retired as President of Star Line. However, he and his wife, Marge, still hold seats on the Board of Directors.
Posted: 1/18/2013
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
Baton twirling is more than just a sport. Twirling is also an art requiring beauty and style.
Posted: 11/9/2012
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
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
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
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
Are you planning to try out for your school's color guard or drill team? If you are, you may need to learn how to twirl a flag. One of the most common techniques in twirling a flag is called a drop spin. To spectators, a drop spin looks like the flag is swiftly spinning in front of the twirler's body. To perform a drop spin, follow these simple instructions:
- Begin with the basic holding position - holding the flag upright with your right hand on the middle of the pole, just above your nose in height. Grasp the bottom end of the flag pole with your left hand just over your belly button.
- Release your left hand from the pole and twist the flag counterclockwise with your right hand, forcing your thumb (and the flag) down. Grab the pole with your left hand underneath your right hand.
- Release the pole with your right hand and twist your left wrist counterclockwise to bring the flag back upright. Replace your right hand back on the pole underneath your left hand with your thumb facing up.
- Repeat steps 2-3 and you are doing a drop spin!
Posted: 3/28/2012
Cheerleading practice can be intense, especially for cheerleading squads that compete in tournaments. While cheerleading c...
