As we approach the year 2025, the world of baton twirling is evolving with new trends and innovations. Here are some exciting trends to look out for in the coming years:
1. LED and Light-Up Batons
Posted: 12/20/2024
As a baton twirler, the start of a new year is the perfect time to set goals and resolutions for how you can improve your skills, routines, and overall performance. Here are some resolutions that you can consider to make 2025 your best year yet as a baton twirler:
1. Practice Consistently
Posted: 12/6/2024
Star Line Baton offers a wide range of high quality products designed to help you shine in the spotlight. We are known for offering some of the best twirling batons in the business, but we also have products for color and winter guard, cheerleading, spirit dance and more. Read on to learn more about the products we carry.
Pro Grade Twirling Batons
Posted: 10/23/2024
So, you’ve mastered the basics of baton twirling, and now you’re ready to take that next step. Becoming a pro baton twirler means learning the basics, taking the intermediate steps, then taking a leap into the big leagues. Here are some tips for those who find themselves between “beginner” and “professional:”
Relax your arms and wrists.
Posted: 10/9/2024
If you’re new to baton twirling, you may think that any old baton will do. However, all batons are not created equal. The better quality baton you go for, the better twirling experience you will have. High-quality baton products are safer, work better and last longer. Here’s what you should look for when shopping for a high-quality baton:
Posted: 7/15/2024
Baton twirling can add a touch of magic to any occasion. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, or community event, baton twirling can captivate audiences of all ages. Seeing baton twirlers anywhere can be a delight, whether it's a surprise or something you knew was part of the plan. Read on to learn about how baton twirling can be incorporated into various special occasions to create unforgettable memories. Weddings One of the most popular uses of baton twirling is at weddings. Baton twirlers can perform during the ceremony, reception, or as part of the bridal party entrance. They can even be incorporated into the wedding as a surprise for the guests. Their dazzling routines and coordinated movements impress guests and create memorable experiences for the newlyweds. Birthday Parties Whether it’s a child’s birthday party or an adult celebration, having a baton twirler perform can add an element of excitement and entertainment. Children enjoy watching the twirler’s intric
Posted: 6/21/2024
If you've ever watched a baton twirler performing a routine, you may have been amazed by their ability to seamlessly twirl and toss their baton while executing intricate dance moves. In this blog, we will break down the components of baton twirling to help you gain a better understanding of this dynamic sport. Baton Handling Techniques One fundamental aspect of baton twirling is learning how to handle the baton with precision and control. Twirlers must master various basic baton-handling techniques, such as spins, rolls, and catches, before they can move on to more advanced tricks. Developing a strong foundation in baton handling is essential for twirlers to execute their routines with fluidity and confidence. Dance and Movement In addition to mastering baton handling techniques, baton twirlers must also have a strong foundation in dance and movement. Twirling routines often involve a combination of dance steps, jumps, and turns choreographed to music. Developing flexibilit
Posted: 6/7/2024
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned twirler, there are always ways to improve your performance and wow your audience. In this blog, we'll discuss some tips and tricks to help you enhance your baton-twirling abilities so you can put on a stellar show every time. Practice Every Day Like any skill, baton twirling requires consistent practice to master. Set aside time every day to work on your twirling routines and drills. Focus on perfecting your technique and being mindful of your movements. The more you practice, the more confident and polished you will become. Strengthen Your Core A strong core is essential for good baton twirling, as it helps with balance, control, and overall performance. Make sure you incorporate core-strengthening exercises like planks and leg lifts into your workout routine. A strong core will make your twirling routines look effortless. Get More Flexible Flexibility is crucial for executing advanced baton twirling tricks and moves. Incorp
Posted: 4/26/2024
Baton twirling is a beautiful and dynamic sport filled with glitz and glamor. One of the most exciting parts of being a baton twirler is the opportunity to perform in stunning costumes that enhance your performance and wow the audience. If you want to design your baton-twirling costumes, here are some tips to help you get started. Find the Right Fabrics When you design a baton twirling costume, choose lightweight, stretchy, and breathable fabrics. Look for materials like lycra, spandex, and mesh that allow you to move freely and comfortably while twirling your baton. Consider the Movements Since baton twirling involves fast-paced movements and jumps, you need to create a costume that allows for maximum range of motion. Avoid designs that restrict movement or have excess material that could get tangled in the baton. Add Some Sparkle One of the best parts of baton twirling costumes is the opportunity to add sparkle and shine. Consider incorporating sequins, rhinestones, glitt
Posted: 4/12/2024
So, you’ve honed your baton twirling skills over the years, and now you’re ready to become a teacher. As a teacher, you will help to create the future of baton twirling. You will be bringing this enriching sport into the lives of your students. However, you may not be sure where to start. After all, it’s been a long time since you were a beginner. Here are some tips for getting started as a baton twirling teacher:
Setting the Foundation
Posted: 2/2/2024
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
The art of dance is built on years of hard work and dedication. To the general public, it can often be seen as a solo activity, but teamwork and collaboration are huge aspects of dance. Dancers have to work together to bring a performance to life, and in doing so, many have learned about the power of teamwork and collaboration. Here are some examples of how dance can encourage people to work together.
Group Choreography
Posted: 1/5/2024
Any dancer will tell you that the art of dancing improves their overall quality of life. Spiritual dance takes this to another level by incorporating spiritual faith into a healing form of self-expression. By learning, practicing and executing spiritual dance routines, you become more connected to yourself and to the world around you. There are many benefits to incorporating spirit dance into your life. Here are a few:
Connecting Body, Mind and Spirit
Posted: 12/15/2023
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
If you love baton twirling, you’re not alone. However, you may have a hard time finding online content that focuses specifically on twirling and the world surrounding it. Whether you need a reminder of why you do what you do or just want to hear stories of others with a similar passion, there are a couple podcasts that might be perfect for you. Baton Twirling Podcast Sara Rudin, founder of the Honeybees Baton Twirling and Dance Studio in Round Rock, Texas who twirled competitively for more than 15 years, hosts the aptly named Baton Twirling Podcast. You can find this podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and on many other podcast apps and websites. This is the go-to podcast if you’re looking for advice from some of the greatest baton twirlers, as well as their stories. This podcast is accompanied by a Baton Twirling 101 YouTube channel, a perfect resource for video demonstrations of baton twirling tricks. The podcast, which started in 2019 and has about 40 episodes, includes inter
Posted: 11/4/2023
Baton twirling is a dynamic art form that combines elements of dance, gymnastics, and prop manipulation. To take your baton twirling skills to the next level, incorporating dance into your routines can add an extra layer of artistic expression. Whether you're a beginner or already experienced in baton twirling, here are five essential tips to seamlessly blend dance and twirling techniques. 1. Develop your dance vocabulary. To begin merging dance and baton twirling, start by expanding your dance vocabulary. Take dance classes, watch dance performances, and practice various dance styles. This exposure will enable you to understand and internalize different rhythms, movements, and techniques, ultimately enhancing your ability to choreograph captivating and synchronized routines. 2. Enhance your flexibility and strength. Both dance and baton twirling rely heavily on flexibility and strength. Prioritize flexibility exercises by stretching daily, focusing on your hamstrings, back, an
Posted: 10/5/2023
Baton twirling is a captivating and visually stunning art. It requires precision, coordination, and flair. Like any other skill, it's common to make mistakes along the way. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baton twirler, understanding these mistakes can help enhance your performance and improve your technique. Learn about some of the most prevalent errors and practical solutions to overcome them. Gripping the Baton Too Tightly One of the most common mistakes seen in baton twirling is gripping the baton too tightly. While it's important to have a firm grip, a tight hold can lead to muscle tension, hindering fluidity in your movements. Resolve this issue by focusing on relaxing your hand, finding the right balance between control and ease. Practicing with a lighter baton or doing hand-strengthening exercises can also help you develop a more relaxed grip. Dropping the Baton Dropping a baton can be disheartening, especially during a performance. To avoid this, pa
Posted: 9/22/2023
As a beginner twirler, choosing the right baton is crucial for your performance and comfort. With various options available, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. However, fear not! In this guide, we will explore the essential factors to consider when buying your first baton, ensuring that you make a well-informed choice that suits your needs. Let's begin! 1. Determine Your Skill Level Before purchasing a baton, it's important to assess your skill level. Are you a beginner just starting out, or do you have some experience under your belt? This information will help in finding a baton suitable for your current abilities. Star Line Baton offers a wide range of options for twirlers of all skill levels. 2. Choose the Correct Baton Length Selecting the appropriate length is crucial to ensure that your baton feels balanced and comfortable during twirling routines. Measure the distance from your armpit to your fingertips with your arm fully extended to gauge the ideal len
Posted: 9/8/2023
Baton twirling is a popular type of gymnastic art form practiced and enjoyed by people of all ages. It involves spinning and manipulating a stick as a form of art and exercise. The batons used in twirlers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. In this blog, we will look at five common types of batons used in baton twirling. Streamers Streamers are one of the most commonly used types of batons in twirling. These are a long and thin kind of baton that consists of a central rod with a pair of streamers tied to it. The central rod is usually made from aluminum but can also be made of other materials such as plastic. Streamers are popular among beginner twirlers as they are light and easy to control. Single-Binders Single-binders are slightly larger than streamers and are best suited for more experienced twirlers. They have a thicker, heavier body and a single streamer attached to it. They are usually made from aluminum. These types of batons are great for performing complex tricks
Posted: 8/18/2023
Becoming a professional baton twirler is not an easy task and requires a great deal of time, training, and dedication. By putting in the effort to master the art of twirling, you can become an accomplished performer and earn accolades for your twirling skills. Start with the Basics The first thing that anyone wanting to become a professional baton twirler must do is learn the fundamentals. This includes learning proper technique and developing coordination, balance, and flexibility. As a beginner, it is important to have access to an experienced twirler, instructor, or baton club to provide guidance in the basics of twirling. When starting out, twirlers should look for novice baton classes or programs to help familiarize them with the various components of twirling and the safety rules associated with it. Create Routines Once twirlers gain a basic understanding of twirling, they should work on developing their repertoire. This includes learning how to spin the baton in differen
Posted: 8/4/2023
Baton twirling is a timeless sport that cultivate strength of character, life-long friendships, and physical fitness. It doesn’t matter your age or your skill level – with practice and dedication, anyone can become a dazzling baton twirler. If you’ve been considering picking up baton twirling, read on to find out what options are available to you depending on your age. For Young Children If you’re a young child interested in baton twirling, then you’re in the perfect spot to start. Baton twirling for young children is less about perfect precision and skill, and more about having fun while learning some basic movements. You can opt for recreational classes or individual lessons, depending on what you’re interested in and your budget. The challenges that baton twirling presents to young children are physical and mental, as well as an opportunity to work on coordination and self-discipline. For Teenagers Once you hit your teenage years, baton twirling can still be a fun and re
Posted: 7/14/2023
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
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
Twirling the baton has been a popular pastime in the United States since the 1800s, and over the years, it has evolved into many different styles. Majorette performances in marching bands continue to be some of the most popular baton twirling shows. Many baton twirlers perform on their own or with small groups of fellow twirlers. One style that has emerged from the competitive circuit is freestyle, or “street” twirling. Read on to learn more about this baton twirling style. Spinoff from Traditional Twirling In the 1960s, baton twirlers began to perform less traditional routines. Freestyle routines are based on traditional techniques but add in more acrobatic and gymnastic flair. These routines tend to be faster and can incorporate complex choreography, juggling and more. Street Baton Twirling Freestyle baton twirling is also known as street baton twirling. Street baton twirling is even less traditional than the freestyle routines you may see on a competitive stage. It’s more
Posted: 3/24/2023
Twirling the baton is a fairly unique skill in today’s world, one that requires serious dedication and coordination to do successfully. Baton twirlers typically start out in the sport very young, long before they start thinking about the potential benefits. From the first time a twirler masters a difficult move, baton twirling can have major benefits for mental and physical health. Here are a few: Cardiovascular Health Baton twirling on its own requires a lot of practice, which leads to hours and hours of exercise. In many cases, baton twirlers are required to learn additional choreography that they practice alongside twirling techniques. This means doing a lot of cardio, which is great for the heart and for the nervous system. Balance and Coordination One of the essential skills required for baton twirling is coordination. Without knowing where the baton is going, you’re likely to lose control of your baton. As twirlers begin to master baton twirls and tosses, their balance
Posted: 3/10/2023
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
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
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
When you think of baton twirling, the first images that come to mind are likely to be majorettes and young girls in sparkly leotards. This is how we most commonly see baton twirlers today. Most of the participants in this sport are women and girls. Boys and men who twirl the baton are often seen as unicorns within their classes. Read on to learn about why that changed. Male Origins of Baton Twirling The origins of baton twirling have been reported to have come from a few different places. Some say twirling began among warriors on the Samoan Islands. Others say that Swiss flag twirlers inspired the sport. In America, the first baton twirlers juggled heavy batons while leading marching bands. Most, if not all, of the first baton twirlers were male. Passing the Baton Baton twirling was not always a female-dominated sport. In the 1930s and 1940s, most participants in baton twirling contests were men. Around that time, many men went off to war, and while they were there, women fill
Posted: 1/12/2023
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
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
Twirling the baton, like many sports, requires you to have a decent amount of hand-eye coordination. It’s something that you can’t live without when you’re trying to master complex moves. It may seem like the easiest part of twirling the baton is knowing where it is at all times, but not everyone is born with natural coordination. It’s also an important skill to hone throughout your life. Here are a few ways you can work on your hand-eye coordination. Learn to Juggle This skill goes hand-in-hand with baton twirling. Advanced routines often involve juggling batons, and a great way to learn is to start by juggling objects like balls that make more predictable movements. You can start with just one, then add two, and eventually get to three. Hopefully, you never have to juggle more than one baton, but if you do, this will be a great way to build the baseline skill. Play Video Games One of the main defenses for video games is that they improve hand-eye coordination. Whether you’re
Posted: 9/7/2022
It’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine while learning how to baton twirl. Twirling the baton requires physical and mental strength. This sport takes a lot out of athletes because of the rigorous training necessary in order to safely and accurately twirl. Learn more about why maintaining your health is important if you participate in this sport. Muscle Strength Twirling takes more physical strength than most people realize. The technical movements require precision and accuracy. Therefore, maintaining muscle is important for your technique. Practicing helps build muscle, but you should take extra steps to build strength by exercising outside of practice. Performing exercises that focus on your triceps and biceps will help to strengthen your arms. Another important muscle group is your back. When working out, it’s crucial to build your back muscles to support the flexing motions of twirling. Flexibility Being flexible is important in baton twirling. Flex
Posted: 5/13/2022
It’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine while learning how to baton twirl. Twirling the baton requires physical and mental strength. This sport takes a lot out of athletes because of the rigorous training necessary in order to safely and accurately twirl. Learn more about why maintaining your health is important if you participate in this sport. Muscle Strength Twirling takes more physical strength than most people realize. The technical movements require precision and accuracy. Therefore, maintaining muscle is important for your technique. Practicing helps build muscle, but you should take extra steps to build strength by exercising outside of practice. Performing exercises that focus on your triceps and biceps will help to strengthen your arms. Another important muscle group is your back. When working out, it’s crucial to build your back muscles to support the flexing motions of twirling. Flexibility Being flexible is important in baton twirling. Flex
Posted: 5/13/2022
Color guard dates back to the Civil War era. It was used primarily in a military setting but has since evolved to be used in schools and churches to enhance performative presentations. Color guard is not just about the flags; there are other instruments used with flags to showcase the same motions and to enhance the visual experience. Rifles Color guard within the military was used for the organization of the platoon and to keep formation. This was a very prestigious honor that was given to young officers. The rifles within color guard are symbols of respect to the military. In the military, the color guard holding rifles were there to protect the flag. At Star Line Baton, we offer various Elite rifles from different sizes to accessories that are sure to fit your rifle needs. Batons Batons are an important part of color guard performances. Outside of color guard, baton twirling is used in marching bands in various stages of school. In marching bands, the baton twirlers are st
Posted: 4/8/2022
The baton has made many historical appearances as a symbol of leadership and structure. It signifies dominance and command while also being used in practical ways. Check out some ways batons have been used in history and are used in modern times: The Bible The significance of the baton throughout the Bible is prevalent within the context of war and tribulations. In the book of Ezekiel, the baton is used as a metaphorical joining of forces between the nations. The Bible refers to the baton as a symbol of Joseph, which Ephraim and the nations of Israel are holding together. The baton symbolizes peace and unity within the text, through the leadership of the nations of Israel’s leaders. Battle The baton is notable for its prevalence in battle. You can find batons in many paintings of historical figures in American history. They were used by high ranking officers or field marshals to signify leadership and respect as a part of their uniform. The leadership held by the baton helped
Posted: 3/4/2022
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
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
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
Participating in sports requires a great deal of energy, and healthy food is the best source of fuel. Whether you’re a color guard performer, a baton twirler or a football player, certain foods can help you prepare for the big day. As the game approaches, consider smaller meals packed with nutrients. The following foods can help you improve your overall athletic performance: Protein When some people hear “protein,” they picture huge plates of processed meats like bacon and burgers. Some sources of protein are better than others. These healthy protein sources will benefit you as gameday approaches: Eggs Greek yogurt Lean meat like chicken breast Fish Hummus / chickpeas Healthy Fats Fats in foods have a reputation for negative health outcomes. However, healthy fats create much-needed, sustained energy. To perform at your peak, consider the following sources of healthy fats: Avocado Peanut butter (watch out for sugar content) Nuts Olive oil Flaxseed Carbohydrates T
Posted: 10/15/2021
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
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
Each year, thousands of kids decide they want to try the sport of baton twirling. Many children start twirling the baton when they’re young and keep going until high school or college. This path involves hard work and dedication to the baton twirling craft. If your child has decided they’re up for the task, here’s how you can encourage them to achieve their dreams. Start with the Basics Sign them up for beginner lessons. This is where they’ll learn how to safely and properly twirl the baton. Then, buy a starter kit. Make sure you have the right baton, case, and uniform or costume parts so your child can participate in baton twirling. Keep in mind that your child is going to need a lot of time to practice. Encourage your kid to work practice time into their schedule. Once they decide they want to go further with baton twirling, figure out the next steps. Give Them Space As much as you want to protect your child, you need to give them room to fail. You can check in on them while
Posted: 8/6/2021
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
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
Baton twirling is more than just a fun skill to show off to your friends. It’s a serious sport that allows twirlers to compete with other athletes from around the world. Our country has produced some great baton twirlers, many of whom win medals in international competitions. Kylee Saltzman of Florida won a gold medal in 2019 at the World Baton Twirling Federation’s Grand Prix. In her two-baton routine, she did not drop either baton once. Kylee often drops her baton while practicing, but she made sure not to let it fall when her dream was on the line. She also won silver and bronze medals at the International Cup in France the same year. The most nerve wracking performance for her, however, was twirling in front of her peers as a high school majorette. Kylee’s mother, Amanda, is also a baton twirler who coaches a girls’ twirling team in Niceville. She brought Kylee to classes as a baby, then encouraged her to pursue twirling herself. Laney Puhalla from Tennessee won a gold medal
Posted: 4/23/2021
If your passion for baton twirling started when you were a child and continues well into your adult life, consider being a baton twirling coach. Whether online or in person, teaching gives you an opportunity to influence the next generation of twirlers and show them the wonderful world you’ve found yourself in. In the US, the best way to become a twirling instructor is by getting certified with the United States Twirling Association. USTA welcomes anyone 16 years of age or older to take their coach and judge training classes. To reach a Level I certification, you have to take a test. First, you need to join the association and pay dues. Then, find the free study materials that are available on their website. You can also buy study guides and training DVDs on their website to prepare for the test. The association recommends studying as many of these materials as possible before taking the Coach Level I exam. For a Level II certification, all you need to do is complete Level I, g
Posted: 4/9/2021
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
The new year has arrived, and it’s the perfect time to set goals for yourself. Mastering the art of baton twirling requires years of practice and dedication, so make sure to set realistic goals for this year. Think about what you really want out of your baton twirling practice that you can do as you wait impatiently for in-person baton twirling events to return. Master New Tricks Now that you are spending more time at home, set time aside to learn tricks that you were afraid to try before. Watch video tutorials to see how the pros do the tricks you are interested in trying. Make sure you are not too close to windows, ceiling fans, or expensive vases, and try these moves yourself. Don’t worry about how it looks when you’re just starting to learn it. No one’s watching anyway, except maybe your dog. Practice Flexibility This might just be the year to take up a new hobby, like yoga. When all your time is not being occupied by practicing for a big event, take some time to work on i
Posted: 1/18/2021
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 right baton is crucial to improving your twirling game. Batons come in many different shapes, sizes, and textures, and it can be tricky finding the perfect fit. Star Line Baton is known around the world for producing the best batons on the market, and we’re here to help you pick out your very own. Size The first thing a twirler must do before choosing a new baton is deciding on the size. The easiest way to find the right size is to measure the length of your arm with measuring tape, then find a baton that’s the closest to the length of your arm. Weight and Shape The shape of your baton, and its rubber end, can change the way you throw and twirl. The Superstar baton is the most popular around the world, and it can be identified by its star rubber end. This baton can be for any twirler looking to be recognized for their skills. The Lite Star is a lighter baton crafted to provide remarkable controllability, with a simple round rubber end. If you’re a beginner, t
Posted: 10/7/2020
Starting a new hobby is always exciting. You dive into research, watch endless hours of video, and get to teach yourself something new. The best part? A new hobby typically means new supplies, and any baton twirler is only as good as, well, their baton. Your baton twirling survival kit should be filled with everything you need to take from a novice twirler to an expert. But what exactly should be in your kit? Baton: The first, and most important, part of your baton twirling kit should be your baton! We have a range of batons suitable for baton twirlers of every level. For beginners, we carry the Starlet Baton. Both affordable and stylish, this baton is offered in two sizes and is one of our top sellers. Cases and Bags: To properly protect your baton, you’ll need a proper case. In order to make your case easier to carry, we also recommend fitting it with a strap. Footwear: Like any sport, proper footwear is crucial. We carry United Baton Shoes which are designed specifically f
Posted: 8/12/2020
After working hard and preparing for your competitions, it can seem daunting to perform. Since all of your practice has been leading up to this performance, it may help to take some time to help you prepare and center before the show. First, remember to believe in yourself. You have worked hard to prepare for what you are about to do, and you are ready. You can do this. Do your best to maintain good eye contact with the judges; this will help convey just how confident you are in your routine. Remember — the judges want you to succeed and are rooting for you, not against you. The judges are able to see when a performer is slaking, so make sure to give your performance everything you’ve got. If you do make a mistake, continue with your performance. The judges don’t know your routine the way you do! They won’t notice a mistake unless you make it clear. Believe in yourself and your routine, and the rest will come naturally. For more tips on how you can make the most of your performance, co
Posted: 7/29/2020
Baton twirling is an extraordinary art for all. Although, it can be particularly advantageous to children. For children, baton twirling encourages them to practice mindfulness, hand-eye coordination, and other skills. Baton twirling teaches kids to work as an individual as well as in a group, which is very useful for their future. By taking an interest in the art of baton twirling, children learn to create quality performances which will lead to a positive perception of their confidence. Since baton twirling is unique, it can show you a few unique things. For example, how liberating it is to stand out and be different. It has been proven that being a part of a sport helps communication skills and problem-solving. Baton twirling is also a natural stress reliever and will boost serotonin. This art will also help develop healthy lifestyle habits, as well being a fun hobby to enjoy. After reading that you may wonder how to get into baton twirling! Once you decide on baton twirling, you nee
Posted: 6/24/2020
Just like a golf club or field hockey stick, your baton needs to be properly sized. Whether it’s for a competition or you’re practicing your basics, the right sizes baton can make all the difference. To find your correct measurements, you need to measure both your arm span and height. First, have the baton twirler stand straight with the arms out and parallel to the floor. Then, using a tape measure, measure from the base of the neck, above the shoulder, to the end of the middle finger. If your measurement is not a round number, round up. At Starline Baton, we offer batons in lengths from 14 to 32 inches. If you’re looking to buy a baton as a surprise, you can make a good guess on what size to buy based on the baton twirler’s age: Ages 1 to 4: 18 inches Ages 5 to 7: 20 inches Ages 8 to 10: 22 inches Ages 11 to 12: 24 inches Ages 13 and 14: 26 inches Ages 15 and up: 28 inches At Starline Baton, we offer easy returns. To learn more about our products, visit our website or giv
Posted: 5/20/2020
When you’re ten minutes from stepping into the spotlight, you want to feel strong, confident, and ready. But no matter how well-rehearsed any of us are, we all deal with stage fright. It’s fairly common to experience anxiety before a big show. But luckily, stage fright is easy to overcome! Practice makes perfect: Rehearse! Sometimes it is as simple as a little practice. If you know the routine inside and out, you don’t need to worry about forgetting it in the moment. Be sure to attend any scheduled rehearsals and continue to practice at home. Once the spotlight is on you, you’ll be confident you know your moves! Imagine the show: Imagining what the show will be like can help calm your nerves. If you’re feeling anxious, simply close your eyes and picture the music, the stage, your routine, and, most importantly, the cheering audience! Imagine yourself flawlessly executing your routine. When it comes time for the real thing, you’ll be ready. Improvise: Let’s get real — everyone
Posted: 5/6/2020
While baton twirling is a demanding sport, some don’t see it that way. However, despite common misconceptions, it requires hard work and dedication to succeed in baton twirling; you cannot simply pick up a baton and be an expert. Here’s what you should keep in mind when baton twirling: Practice There’s a reason “practice makes perfect” is a common saying. It takes skill and dedication to grow in a sport. There’s no better way to succeed than by practicing every day. Even if it’s just for 15 minutes a day, it counts! Preparation Whether it’s making sure you have all of the necessary equipment or that you are both physically and mentally prepared, preparation is crucial to your baton twirling success. Always be sure to listen to your body and rest when you need to. Be rested before competitions, and most importantly, don’t forget your baton! Have Fun Like anything you dedicate your time to, it’s important to have fun! You need to be interested in what you’re doing. You need
Posted: 4/22/2020
Being told that baton twirling isn’t a sport is like being told the sky isn’t blue. People tend to assume that traditional sports are the only things that count as “real” sports, but such thinking is irrational for a few simple reasons. Baton twirling is more than throwing a stick in the air; it is an activity that combines elements of gymnastics, juggling, and dance, making it indisputably athletic. There is a mix of rigorous conditioning and coordination training that baton twirling athletes have to go through. Baton twirlers, like in any other sport, go on to compete in competitions as high as World Championships. People tend to believe that a sport must be an activity that only involves extreme physical exertion such as, football, soccer, and tennis. However, a sport must also be comprised of individuals that use their skills to compete against another or others. Automatically making any and all accusations against baton twirling being a sport invalid, as this definition encompasse
Posted: 3/4/2020
You’re not like the rest of your classmates — you wake up early every morning and practice, practice, practice. You go to school and all you can think about is how you need to nail that specific move during practice. Understandably, being a baton twirler isn't easy, but it does make you stronger. Research shows that baton twirling helps you develop better self-confidence, positive self-esteem, goal-setting skills, and time management skills that you otherwise wouldn’t have learned. Others might just see you as someone just throwing a stick into the air, but we both know there's more to it than that. But How Does It Make Me Powerful? Being a twirler requires you to be strong, not only physically but mentally. While you are throwing your baton in the air, you are also required to perform artistic gymnastic choreography and still be able to catch the baton with perfect timing. This ability to perform under stressful situations and multitask so efficiently shows the power that
Posted: 2/5/2020
There will always be steps to take and equipment to purchase before you even begin training for any sport. Baton Twirling is certainly no different. However, there seems to be one step that is often overlooked by newcomers to Baton Twirling, and that is being correctly fitted for your twirling baton. Having the correct size baton for twirling will make a big difference in handling, and visual effect. A baton that is too long will be more difficult to handle, and one that is too short may look awkward during a performance. How To Order the Right Baton Size The best way to get the correct size baton is to measure. Have the twirler stand perfectly straight, and measure from the base of their neck (where the neck meets the shoulder), out to the tip of the middle finger. If the length of the measurement is closer to the half-inch mark, then you want to round up in baton size. For example, if your measurement comes to 24 ˝” order a 25” baton. If for some reason you are unable
Posted: 1/22/2020
When you step off the stage after a competition routine, a rush of emotions hit you. Maybe you feel proud of how well you did, embarrassed about a trick that you didn't land, nervous about how the judges will score you, or maybe you're feeling all of the above at once! After a twirling competition, it's important to take some time to think about how you did and how you can improve in the future. Here are some self-reflection questions you can ask yourself after a twirling competition. First, it's important to start on a positive note. Ask yourself, "What was the best part of my routine?" Reflecting on your accomplishments can help quiet the self-doubting thoughts that can sometimes follow a difficult performance. Next, ask yourself if there were any areas in which you could improve next time. If you feel that you messed something up during your routine, framing it as room for improvement can help you acknowledge your mistakes without being too hard on yourself. Once you
Posted: 1/13/2020
Baton twirling can be more than just a fun, fitness-oriented hobby: it can also be a ticket to college. Twirling scholarships are becoming more and more common as schools seek out performers to wow audiences during halftime shows. Want to be a part of a college twirling team? Here's our advice on how to land that coveted spot: Audition Video For most applications, you will have to submit an audition video. This short video should show off a couple of your best twirling moments in a variety of styles and performance settings. Coaches look for versatility and adaptability, so try to bring out those qualities when putting together your video. You should also record a short introduction to your video to tell the viewer who you are, what position you're going for, and maybe a little bit about yourself. Don't forget to check the requirements of the school you're applying to to make sure you include all the elements they ask for. In-Person Auditions If the programs you
Posted: 12/4/2019
You’ve mastered the baton, but that’s not enough for you. You’re ready for the next level: fire twirling. Although spinning a baton that’s on fire seems cool, it can be quite dangerous. To ensure safety, always check your equipment before use. Check each area for signs of wear, and fix them, such as keeping your wick trimmed and not frayed. Wear tight-fitting clothing, sticking to natural fabrics and cloth, and avoid extremely flammable synthetics and fleece. Tie back long hair, and refrain from using hair spray and other highly flammable products. Instead, try wetting your hair, which will both keep it in place and safe from the flames. Never spin alone. You are in danger if you spin without a buddy to be there in case of an accident. Your spotter should hold onto a fire blanket and fire extinguisher in case of an emergency. Take your audience into consideration; their safety is in your hands. Always be aware of where your audience is in relation to your performance. Your dipping stat
Posted: 10/9/2019
Baton twirling has a history in many different cultures, each one with a unique style. One of the earliest forms of baton twirling is devil sticks. This form of juggling consists of a balanced baton accompanied by two smaller handler sticks used to lift, strike, and flip the main baton. Traditionally wooden, the sticks can also be made from fiberglass, aluminum, or plastic. They are typically covered with an elastomer that increases grip and protects against repeated drops. Flower sticks are a version that include added poms at each end of the baton for more balance. Other variations include firesticks and illuminated devil sticks. Thought to have originated in China, the real history of devil sticks is a bit more clouded. Some claim that the sticks hail from ancient Egypt, earlier than 3000 B.C., and the juggling act followed the Silk Road to China in the East. Others believe that the Greeks have been juggling for more than 2,000 years due to the Greek word “diabolo” literally transl
Posted: 8/21/2019
All baton twirlers know how important it is the dazzle everyone with their smiles during a performance. They also know how important it is to dazzle everyone with their costumes! Baton twirling costumes are always fun and full of sparkles! Those costumes can’t rhinestone themselves though! Whoever rhinestones costumes, knows how much time, effort, and precision goes into putting each individual rhinestone on takes. They also know that rhinestones make the costume way more expensive than it was to begin with. Is it worth it? Just for sparkles? Obviously! To rhinestone your costume, all you need are the color and size of rhinestones you want, a design for the costume, fabric glue, and a lot of patience. A great place to order your rhinestones from is DreamTime Creations. They have various sizes and colors to choose from, so you are bound to find the perfect fit for your baton twirling costume! They also sell glue, but you can always find fabric glue at your local craft store. Rhinestonin
Posted: 5/22/2019
Just because you’re a baton twirler doesn’t mean you need to keep your exercising in the studio or gym! Add some variety to your routine to keep things fun and motivating. There are plenty of other ways you can make sure your fitness is kept in check for when it is time to pick up the baton. Pick activities that will benefit your core, arm, and leg strength, while leaving your hands free of potentially getting harmed. You don’t want to catch that baton with a cramped palm! Head to a place with trampolines on the floors and walls. This is a great (and fun!) way to activate your legs and core without you even realizing it. You’ll be having too much fun bouncing around to realize that you’re actually getting in quite an intense workout. For a change of pace, take your friends and family to the beach and go swimming. Not only will you be working hard against the waves, but the salt water actually does a great job in keeping your skin hydrated and cool. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water
Posted: 5/8/2019
If you’re preparing for a dance performance of any sort, having the right shoes can make or break you. Think of wearing the wrong shoes like dancing on a hardwood floor with socks, or trying to glide on the carpet barefoot — it doesn’t work. When it comes to twirling, cheering, color guard, and drill, wearing the right shoes is crucial. With so much movement involved in these activities, you want to make sure your shoes are supportive. Non-slip shoes are a common requirement for many of the above activities. Non-slip allows you to complete, full movements without losing control of your landings. Most non-slip shoes have rubber soles, which provide the perfect balance of grip, and glide while moving across the dance floor. Not only will these shoes help with your performance, but they help reduce the chance of injury. You also have to consider the weight of your dance shoes. Too many leg kicks with heavy shoes can create a serious strain on your ankles. When it comes to sizing, look for
Posted: 4/3/2019
Listen to how the music pauses in anticipation as the baton lands back in the twirler’s hand, or the way the beat pops at every pronounced step. Music is to twirling what butter is to popcorn— that essential addition that brings it all together as a proper duo. Picking the right music for the message you’re trying to convey, whether it’s “look at me!” or “sit back and be mesmerized,” should be just as important as the steps themselves. Consider what suits you most and what matches your current twirling level. Something too fast is bound to be difficult to keep up with if you’re just starting out. However, something too slow might not captivate your audience as much. Gage your audience; twirl to popular music to get the crowd on their feet. During marching routines, rely on a strong beat to get everyone’s blood pumping. When competing, make sure that a song is chosen that has plenty of opportune moments where your twirling tricks can be performed. Have a well-paced rhythm and beat that
Posted: 3/20/2019
Being a part of a team is awesome — there's no doubt about it! Getting involved is a fun and rewarding way to take a break from sitting in a classroom all day. In high school, color guard is a great way to get involved and build favorable skills. You become part of a community that is focused on achieving the same goals, and you learn how to be a team player in order to achieve that goal. Strong communication skills are needed in order to work well within the color guard community, and this skill will be of major benefit in all aspects of your life. Color guard teaches commitment and perseverance. Through constant practices and trial and error, you learn the importance of staying committed to achieving your end goal. Creative problem solving is used to overcome obstacles and work towards goals. Self-confidence is built through these constant trial and error, and this will help encourage you to try new things in life. Physical benefits also come into play when joining color guard. T
Posted: 3/6/2019
Pep rallies are a great way to spread school spirit while involving everyone! Whether it’s the next football game, homecoming, or just to get everyone feeling motivated, pep rallies are a great school activity, you can expect boisterous chants, spirited cheering, and dancing at a pep rally. While the cheerleaders do their best to pump everyone up, they need the help of students to really bring the energy up. As a student in the stands, you can help bring the pep — even in the top bleacher section. Take your pep rally to the next step by accessorizing yourself in school colors. A great way to do this is by bringing your own pom poms to the rally to participate in chanting while still in the stands. Bringing decorations to liven up your section is another great way to show others that you have the most school spirit. If you’re able to wear accessories, pom pom hair ties in your school colors are a fun way to add some spirit to your wardrobe. Or, go a step farther and pep your sneakers up
Posted: 2/20/2019
Twirling can be strenuous — especially when that baton sure seems adamant on bopping you on the head every time it falls down! Sometimes it can feel like the routine is just never going to come together. You’re not alone. It’s important to understand that even professionals and champions don’t just wake up incredible at what they do. Hours and hours of practice are needed in order to take home the gold! However, it’s not only your physical body that needs to be trained and conditioned — it’s also your mental state! Keeping your head in the game is the difference between catching that baton perfectly or letting it swing down and landing on your poor nose. Take the time to mentally prepare yourself by making sure all of your obligations around twirling are tied up and not leaving you anxious while performing. Though you should dedicate plenty of time to the sport, giving your body an adequate amount of rest will bolster your ability to concentrate better the next time you pick up the bat
Posted: 2/6/2019
Struggling when it comes to gift ideas for the twirler in your life? Check out our gift giving guide! From batons to cases to tape and power, we’ve got your go-to for gifts. Batons: Get your twirler a baby baton! This souvenir baton is 10 inches and comes in eight different patterns. Keep it classic with standard chrome or make it funky with a zebra pattern. Baton Components: Everyone loves new accessories for their baton! Stick with the common top to keep it classic, or try the star ball for something more fun. Baton Cases: Help your twirler carry their baton in style. With sparkle cases, neon cases, and shoulder straps, there’s sure to be a case that fits their personality. Novelty Batons and Parts: With colored cartridges, fire batons, and hoop batons, you’ll be able to find something fun that the twirler in your life will love. Flags, Flag Shafts, and Poles: Give your twirler new flags to practice with! We offer a variety of colors, including blue, red, purple, green
Posted: 12/19/2018
As anyone who participates in the world of cheerleading will tell you, it’s a very competitive sport that requires dedication and focus. If you’re considering trying out for cheerleading, it’s important that you think ahead — from what you should do the night before to the day of. When you learn the routines, practice them in front of a mirror when you get home to make sure your motion placement is correct. Show your routine to your family or a friend and listen to their feedback! The night before your tryouts, it’s essential to be well rested. Lack of sleep can affect your performance or lead to an injury. Cheerleading is a physically demanding sport that can take a toll on the body if not properly maintained. Before tryouts, take a minute to make sure you’re in accordance with the dress code and that your clothing is appropriate — it does affect your score. If given a tryout number, make sure it’s visible on your outfit. It’s also important to have your hair pulled back into a ponyta
Posted: 11/29/2018
Like any other sport, baton twirling comes with a dictionary of terms that needs to be memorized in order to understand. Luckily, we’ve get your go-to guide for mastering the terms! Let’s start with the parts of the baton: ball, tip, and shaft. The ball is the larger end of the baton, while the tip is the smaller end. The shaft is the metal middle of the baton. Then, there are the positions of the baton and body. Common ones include: cradle, free hand, salute, at ease, and attention. When you cradle the baton, you’re laying it from your hand up to your elbow. Your free hand is, as you would imagine, your hand without the baton. A salute is when your left hand is on your hip and the baton is perpendicular to the food with your right hand at your shoulder. When you’re at ease, your feet are in second position with your baton resting either behind your back or at your leg. When you’re standing at attention, your feet are in parallel first with the baton in cradle position. Your free hand
Posted: 10/18/2018
As anyone who competes in color guard will tell you, it is a physically demanding sport. Staying in shape is crucial for long practices and competitions. Luckily, if you take the time to practice fundamentals daily, not only will you grow as a performer, but you can stay on top of your game. First, choose a set of basics that you will do as a warm-up every single day. These can be things like drop spins, pull-hits, and flourishes on the flag or the rifle. By practicing the basics, you can increase strength and flexibility. As you begin to master the basics, you can start to add in specific exercises on specific days. For example, Mondays could be focused entirely on flags, while Thursdays could be focused entirely on rifles. Next, layer your body movements with your equipment fundamentals. This will help your body adjust to performing both upper and lower body responsibilities at the same time. This leads into our next tip — multitask. Use any of your downtown at practices (or at home!
Posted: 10/4/2018
There is nothing more essential to a baton twirler’s performance than the baton itself. When it comes time to pick the baton you’ll be using, it’s important to know the differences between the different styles of baton. First, is baton thickness. For the most part, you’ll have two options: ⅜ inch and 7/16 inch. The 7/16 inch shaft is the thickest shaft, but you’ll find more twirlers opting for the ⅜ inch shaft. Next, you need to measure for the correct baton length! There are two different ways to do this. You can either measure from the neck, meaning you’ll lay a yard stick on top of the arm with the “0” inches end against the bottom of your neck. The correct baton length will be wherever the yard stick hits your middle finger. You can also measure from under the arm: place the “0” inches end of a yardstick against your armpit. The correct length will be where the yardstick hits your longest fingertip. Finally, you get to decide between the different features! There are fl
Posted: 9/20/2018
For many young twirlers, baton twirling carried them through the challenges and triumphs of childhood. These fond feelings often last even beyond high school. Taking your passion for twirling to the college level takes dedication, and with these helpful tips, you’ll be able to increase your chances of landing a spot twirling in college. Where To Look The universities with the most well-known twirling programs are state schools and other larger colleges. Where there’s a football team and crowds filling seats, you’ll also find twirlers on the field. This is why larger colleges are your best bet for twirling programs.. Some colleges for avid twirlers include Florida State University, Jacksonville University, Auburn University, Kent State University, the University of South Carolina, and many more! What To Say Auditions will be spring of your senior year of high school, so when you’re touring colleges your junior year, make sure to visit the marching band director’s office to
Posted: 8/23/2018
Baton Twirling is a popular sport, but its origins are somewhat mysterious. The origin of baton twirling is debated. Some say that it might have started in Eastern Europe and Asia, but a solid record shows that the 1930’s was the start of majorettes. Let’s take a look. Baton twirling likely started at dance festivals in Eastern Europe and Asia. Those who attended these festivals would dance with knives, torches, guns, and sticks they used to twirl and toss. This dancing morphed into armies twirling rifles during marches. The twirling rifles turned into maces, which are very similar to today’s batons. The early twirlers were men, mainly due to the batons being very heavy. At the end of the 1930’s, batons had evolved to be lightweight and adorned rubber on the ends. This is when women twirlers began their debut. After batons were shortened and made lighter, more women started joining the sport. It offered a graceful artform people could use to express themselves. The 1950’s ga
Posted: 7/12/2018
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
The history of baton twirling is pretty vague in its origins, but the sport has evolved through men as drum majors, using rifles, sticks, maces, and mallets. It wasn’t until twirling started to include a baton that women became involved in it and practically took over the sport. Today, baton twirling may be a sport dominated by females, but it is certainly not a woman’s only sport. Whether they picked up baton twirling from a sister or another source, boys have been moving into the sport and steadily gaining in numbers. In the United States, the estimated ratio for girls to boys that twirl are about 40-1, but in other countries the numbers are much more evenly distributed. With such low numbers, it can be awkward and uncomfortable for boys just starting out. They may be the only male twirler in a program. Often, it’s not until a boy moves into competitions that he will come across other like-minded boys interested in the fine art of baton twirling. Male champion twirlers
Posted: 1/19/2018
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
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
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
Even with the right shoes and outfit, baton twirling won’t happen without the right size baton to finish the set. Having the right size baton can make all the difference when it comes to your performance. A baton that is too long will collide with your body, while a baton that is too short will look and feel awkward to handle. Professional twirling batons come in sizes ranging from 14 inches to 32 inches, increasing in size by one inch increments. The width of the shaft can come in different sizes depending on what would be the most comfortable grip for the twirler. To measure the appropriate length of your baton, you will need a measuring tape, and the assistance of a friend or family member. Stand still with both of your feet together Outstretch one of your arms to make a 90 degree angle from your body Once it is stretched, have your family member pull out the tape and place the end of it at the base of your neck From there they should pull the tape out until it reache
Posted: 11/29/2017
Baton twirling for most is a team centered activity, having performers work closely with members of their team. Just like the twirling and performances themselves, keeping a strong team together takes time a practice. Team building is important to ensure that team members are cooperating well with each other, as well as build trust among members of the team. When performers build trust with each other, they are more inclined to help each other improve, making the team stronger as a whole. All this leads to a healthier and more enjoyable environment for the team. Below is a list of activities that encourage team building. Egg drop – you may remember this one from middle school, basically the group is split up into teams and must use a few materials to build a carriage to protect an egg from cracking after it is dropped from a great height (both teams should have the exact same number of materials). This is a critical thinking exercise that gets the teams to work together to create a
Posted: 11/10/2017
Baton twirling is a very demanding sport, though many don’t see it as such. Regardless, there is a great amount of effort that goes into becoming a successful baton twirler. Just like any sport, baton twirling requires hard work and dedication; it’s not a sport that anyone can pick up and be an expert. Here are a few things to keep in mind that can help you excel in the world of baton twirling. Practice The term “practice makes perfect” is pretty dead on when it comes to being great at sports or other activities in which some kind of knowledge or skill is required. There’s no way to exceed in any type of sport or activity, especially baton twirling, if you don’t practice! Just remember - every practice counts. Be Prepared Whether being prepared involves making sure you have all the necessary equipment or it involves being prepared physically and mentally, excelling in baton twirling is about staying in the game and being ready to do your thing. Practices and competitions can be
Posted: 10/19/2017
Baton twirling is an activity that utilizes the manipulation of a metal rod, or baton, to perform coordinated routines similar to gymnastics and dance. The activity has been around for decades, yet has become a rare activity over the years. The truth is, baton twirling is actually a great sport that offers a number of benefits for children to enjoy. 1. Baton twirling is a unique activity, and many dancers and gymnasts find baton twirling to be an extremely enjoyable and versatile activity. It’s a sport that offers benefits for both the body and mind that isn’t an extremely common sport. 2. Baton twirling can be taught and played individually or in groups. The best part is that you don’t need a team to practice, and you can take individual lessons on your own to get the most out of the sport. 3. Children can improve their hand-eye coordination through baton twirling. Twirling, tossing and catching all contribute to improving timing and coordination. 4. If you don’t think tw
Posted: 10/9/2017
Before any dance or other workout sessions, it’s essential to prepare your body beforehand. Setting aside time to warm up allows the heart rate and blood flow to gradually increase, rather than all at once. Starline Baton, specializing in baton twirling, would like to help you prepare your body and prevent injury risks by showing how to correctly warm up.
- Start Gently: Begin with simple stretching exercises, such as rolling down the spine and rolling your head, shoulder, wrists, and ankles. Going right into the more rigorous exercises is never a good idea. Not only does skipping warm ups make you sore more easily, but it makes you burn out more quickly.
- Increase Body Temperature: Increasing body temperature is key to giving a great routine from start to finish. Performing any of the following exercises for five to ten minutes should do the trick:
- Brisk walking
- Jumping jacks
- Light jogging, marching, or skipping
- Lunges across the floor
- Fully Body Movements: The next step would be to spend five to ten minutes of completing lengthening, full body movements:
- Large arm swings with torso twisting
- Leg swings standing or leg-drop swings while lying on the floor
- Bending forward, backward, and sideways
- Dynamic series of yoga poses
- Core and Stability: Although this step is optional, we highly recommend you to finish your warm up with one of the following techniques:
- The Pilates Hundred exercise - Pilates is recommended to get your blood fully circulating before your workout or session.
- Bartenieff Body Half - Bartenieff’s Basic Six is an impressive series to warm up with.)
Posted: 9/29/2017
is not uncommon for athletes and performers to go through something called performance anxiety. This is not to be confused with being worried because it is more to the extreme. Rapid heart rate, sweating, and under-confidence can occur from a rush of adrenaline, and baton twirling experts, Starline Baton, believe it is crucial to know how performance anxiety can affect people physically and mentally.
Posted: 9/15/2017
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: 8/31/2017
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:
Posted: 8/15/2017
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:
Posted: 7/28/2017
There are certain basic aspects to every baton routine, whether you are a beginner or an advanced twirler. For example, every routine begins with a salute to the judge. The salute is executed by holding the baton in the right hand with the baton held vertical against the left side of the body. The right hand holds the baton about one-third of the way down from the head of the baton and the right elbow points outward, while the left hand is placed on the twirler's hip. A salute shows the judge that you are ready to begin your routine.
A baton twirling routine should flow smoothly and include tricks according to the skill level of the twirler. Some very common baton tricks include finger twirls, cradles, elbow rolls, open-handed tosses, back hand catches, horizontal spins, thumb flips, and figure-eights. With practice, a twirler's skill level will improve and they will soon be able to learn more advanced tricks, as well as more difficult variations of the tricks they already know.
Posted: 7/13/2017
As your child grows, so does the importance of socialization and agility. What structured activities you choose your them to participate in will influence those developmental areas. Will they be a football player, a soccer star, or part of a dance team? Baton twirling is a good way for you and your child to start their journey of structured activities. There are many benefits your child will gain by joining this sport. These are expressed through the ABCs of movement skills which stand for agility, balance, coordination, and speed. Our Star Line professionals have put together a few benefits why your child should unlock their twirling potential.
Posted: 6/19/2017
Baton twirling isn’t just fun and games. Just like any competitive sports, injuries are very much a reality. While baton twirling can be exciting and a great form of exercise, not being careful can lead to injury. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent your twirler from getting injured while doing the activity they love. Having the proper size baton, watching your technique, and making sure you strengthen and stretch your muscles will help keep your child happy and healthy and without risk of injury. Our professionals at Star Line have provided some details on each below.
Posted: 6/6/2017
Your young twirler has been going to practice for a while now, and then their coach asks if you want to enter some baton twirling competitions. You’re not sure. You worry it could put pressure on your child and cause stress or lowered self-esteem if they do not win, Before you decide, you should know the benefits of healthy competition for young children. Healthy competition in predetermined doses can positively assist in your child’s overall development and self-esteem. Take a look at what our Star Line professionals have compiled.
Posted: 5/31/2017
It’s the morning of competition day. You wake up and think of the day ahead of you. You’ll likely be performing at least five separate times with some rounds right after the next and others with a five-hour gap. There’s so much to do, and you're anxious to get started, but in all of the excitement, you must remember to eat. It's easy to forget this small but crucial part of the day, especially with no appetite, but a square meal to start the day is just what your body needs to dominate the baton twirling competition. Here are some helpful tips from the experts at Star Line:
Posted: 5/17/2017
A majority of baton twirling practice happens outside where there the space allows for high tosses and traveling moves, and since summer demands practice for both competitions and football games alike, it's important to know how to handle the heat. When involved in physical activity outside in the heat, your biggest danger is dehydration. Water helps your body maintain its temperature and circulation keeping your vital organs at normal temperature. Cases of dehydration can lead to thirst, fatigue, dizziness, and extreme cases can result in disorientation, heat stroke, or death. To help you stay hydrated during those hot practices, Starline Baton has gathered some safety tips.
- Drink water. About two liters, around eight glasses, of water are recommended each day, and when you spend the day in the heat, more water consumption will replenish sweat.
- For short practices (an hour or less), make sure to drink water before, during, and after the practice. For long practices (1+ hours), do the same, but along with water, drink a sports drink like Gatorade or Powerade to restore some carbohydrates and electrolytes.
- Keep track of how much water you are losing. If you are thirsty, you’re already dehydrated, and if your urine is darker than pale yellow, you need to be taking in more water. Keep a half-gallon insulated water jug around so you have a cold drinking supply close by.
- Potassium and Sodium are critical for your body absorb water, so make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and an occasional salty snack like pretzels. The healthier you eat, the better state your body will be in to handle the heat.
- End your practice with some protein to help replenish what may have been lost in perspiration. Try some low-fat chocolate milk. It’s both a reward and a healthy choice!
Posted: 4/12/2017
If you’ve been twirling competitively for a while, you have probably graduated from a basic strut to an x-strut. X-struts are not like a typical baton twirling routine. They require that the rod remains in your palm at all times. That means no tossing, rolling, etc. Therefore, the routine relies on both a hands-on manipulation of the baton as well as kicks, illusions, and other graceful moves. One thing these moves all have in common is flexibility. To help you with your X-strut routine, Starline Baton has put together this list of stretches and tips on how to properly execute them in order to help you take your illusions to the next level.
Posted: 3/29/2017
Baton twirling today is defined by a metal rod with rubber ends being manipulated close to the body and thrown into the air in a sport that combines fluidity, fitness, speed, gymnastics, and beauty. This modern day style of twirling also requires the twirler to stay on beat with music while telling a story with his or her movements. Yet, twirling did not always look how it does now. Our Star Line Batons are perfect for the modern day baton twirler, but if you wanted to go back to the beginning of the tradition, you would have to go to a very different store and secure a weapon.
Posted: 3/14/2017
No matter what stage you are at in baton twirling, there’s only one way to improve, and that’s practice. But, sometimes it’s difficult to bring ourselves to practice those necessary minutes and hours. Experts in twirling batons at Star Line Baton understand that even if you love twirling, sometimes it takes a little extra motivation to log that practice time. Here are two methods you can use or adapt to get you or a twirling pupil to practice their way toward stylish, no-drop routines. If you are trying to inspire a younger twirling pupil to practice the tricks, teach them the pepperoni chart. The first thing you need to get is a poster. Then, using construction paper, make a pizza with brown paper crust, red pepper sauce, and yellow paper cheese. Once you have your pizza assembled, it’s time to add the pepperoni or whatever pizza topping your young twirler prefers, and the only way to top the pizza is through practice. Add a topping for every 15 minutes of practice
Posted: 2/28/2017
Marching band parades with the girls carrying those colorful flags are so much fun to watch. However, moving these flags to the beat of the music requires a lot of practice and technique also known as color guard moves. Star Line Baton, expert providers of both batons and color guard flags, has compiled some basic color guard moves for those just becoming acquainted with color guard. Right or Left Shoulder Position: Out of these two, the right position would be most common in the color guard routine. Right position will also typically be the position to enter and exit the field. To achieve this position, hold the bottom stopper in your left hand and hold the pole right under the flag with your right hand at the level of your forehead. Keep your left hand at the belly button level with the pole straight and centered with your nose. Right, Left, or Front Present Position: To achieve a front present, start with your right shoulder position and extend your right arm parallel to the g
Posted: 2/14/2017
What is the United States Twirling Association (USTA) and what is its purpose? Let our baton twirling team explain what USTA is and the importance that it plays in the twirling world!
What is USTA
The United States Twirling Association dedicates itself to being a nonprofit national sports organization focusing on the youth. Their main focus is positive youth development achieved through baton twirling. The USTA provides recreational, educational, and competitive options and programs for their members consisting of twirlers, twirler supporters and coaches.
Contests
The USTA sanctions about 200 twirling clinics and competitions from local to national levels. This allows for an atmosphere filled with fun and respectable sportsmanship. Every summer, the USTA hosts the U.S. National Baton Twirling Championships along with another competition called Festival of the Future. These contests and festivals are hosted throughout the cou
Posted: 1/20/2017
No worries; pre-performance nerves are normal. This is your body’s way of trying to help you stay alert and precise to do your best. That being said, your nerves can get the best of you causing you cold sweats, butterflies, or the inability to think straight. No worries! Our baton team is here with you to help you manage your pre-performance nerves.
- Prepare yourself: Preparation brings confidence, and you’re less likely to freeze up or mess up. So practice as much as you can, by yourself and with groups, to gain the confidence to calm your nerves when the big time comes.
- Get excited!: You never see a football team walk out on the field looking afraid or worried. They’re excited, revved up, and ready to give it their all! Carry this trait over before your performance. Pray in a group or sing a song that will put your team in the spirit. There’s nothing wrong with giving yourself a little pep talk.
- Chill out: It’s beneficial to be
Posted: 1/5/2017
It’s beginning to look a lot like the holiday season! And with that comes the rush and “pressure” of finding the perfect holiday gift for your friends and family. At Star Line Baton, we want to try to make this hectic shopping process a bit easier, and with this in mind, our baton twirling team has crafted an amazing holiday gift list with several Star Line items to surprise friends and family.
- Twirling Batons: With so many baton options to choose from, your child or friend will appreciate an alternative baton to keep for the special events or maybe for the audition or rehearsal day. From pink camo to chevron prints, we have a great selection of batons to choose from. This holiday, make your gift set even cuter with the official Star Line Baton plushes that you can find in the gift section of our online store for only $9.00.
- Baton Case: From deluxe to sparkle cases, our baton case selection offers different options to give your loved ones a case that fits their needs and allows them to carry their batons in style.
- Baton Twirling Apparel: Our new Boxercraft Baton Twirler Jersey will be one of the stars of the holidays and is a soon-to-become best seller product of ours that can’t be missed in your perfect holiday baton basket.
- Twirling Shoes: The perfect gift basket has to have InStep shoes for your twirler. At Star Line Baton, we have a variety of shoes ranging from white and blue to simple tan. If you are looking for good quality shoes that are washable and provide great support, Star Line Baton has you covered.
- Accessories: Make this holiday basket extra special with some of our unique items especially designed for our twirling baton lovers. Bumper stickers, water bottles, or even a soft and 100% cotton towel with the message, “I heart to twirl” are some of the original items that you can find in our online store.
- Jewelry: This is probably the cutest and most stylish option to give this holiday season to someone that loves the world of baton twirling. At Star Line Baton, you can find beautiful bracelets, charms, or earrings in gold or silver finishes. Our jewelry can certainly set you apart this holiday season by providing the perfect accessory for your loved one.
Posted: 12/20/2016
We know you love baton twirling, but did you know that on top of being an excellence exercise to improve your body coordination and flexibility, it has a lot of benefits for young children? Baton twirling is an international sport that encompasses agility of gymnastics, ballet movements, and the technical skill of twirling your baton. However, besides the physical benefits, this sport can also teach and build some important attitudes that young children can benefit from while practicing their favorite hobby. Our baton twirling experts at Star Line Baton, have compiled some of these benefits in this sweet and short list:
- Self-Esteem: Baton twirling requires a lot of concentration and coordination. These are both attributes that can be easily weakened by lack of self-esteem. Believing in yourself to not to drop your baton will help children to improve their self-esteem. In the case they drop the baton, they’ll learn to not to panic and continue with their performance with the best of their smiles.
- Self-Discipline: As we mentioned before, the trick is to never drop the stick, and that requires a lot of discipline. Also, the commitment of religiously attending practice and competitions will require a lot of sacrifice which will help to build that self-discipline in your child.
- Stage Presence: Performing on a stage is not an easy task. The pressure of the audience, not dropping the baton, or memorizing the choreography can push your child’s nerves to the limit. However, the more children deal with this situation the more comfortable and confident they’ll be when they have to face any presentation or public speaking related event in the future.
- Teamwork: Working with the rest of the team to beautifully perform choreography will be key. This is the reason why cooperation is something that any baton twirler can benefit from. Learning to work with the rest of the team is a mandatory attribute to adopt to ensure a successful career in the future.
- Good Ethics: Like any other sport, showing good sportsmanship will be key to succeeding in life. Baton twirling can help instill good ethics in children by teaching them the importance of helping each other and of never stepping over anyone, even when that person or team is their competitor. Baton twirling will help children to have a diplomatic attitude from an early age.
Posted: 11/23/2016
Over the years, your twirling baton can start getting a bit dirty or dingy. Usage, sweat, food, or even dust can make your baton not as shiny as when you first bought it. While this is normal, following some cleaning guidelines can make your baton last longer and keep it in mint condition. With this in mind, our Star Line Baton team has compiled a step-by-step guide on how to easily clean your baton at home. Grab a pen and some paper, and let’s get started:
Posted: 11/7/2016
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
First of all, welcome to the baton twirling family! Beside getting a new baton, there are some supplies that you’ll need to purchase to be equipped for your first baton twirling class. Wearing a proper outfit, carrying your items in an appropriate bag, or adding a touch of color with some ribbons or flags can make you shine as a star on your first day! At Starline Baton, we want to make you look like a pro, even if you are just a beginner. With this in mind, we have prepared a list with some of the basic supplies every beginner should start with:
- Baton: This is the most obvious piece of equipment. However, not every type of baton will be the right fit for you. For beginners, most teachers recommend the Starlet Baton. Its affordability and simple style have made this baton one of our top sellers. We carry two sizes: ⅜ inches and a thicker one with 7/16 inches.
- Cases and Bags: The wide variety of cases available to carry your baton can make choosing the winning case a tedious task. Sizes and colors aside, getting a strap for your case is definitely something that you should consider to easily carry your baton.
- Footwear: Choosing the right shoes is crucial to perform at your full potential. Our United Baton Shoes are designed exclusively for twirlers which make them one of the best options available for beginners. Oh, and don’t forget to get yourself a good pair of tights!
- Hoop Baton: The hoop baton is a circular baton that offers a different perspective to your performance. It’s fun to use and highly recommended for novices.
Posted: 10/10/2016
It is another competition, and you see the same two people and think to yourself “Great. NOW how am I supposed to win if so and so is here? They ALWAYS win!” However, instead of negatively thinking about it, how about approaching it as “I wonder what they are doing to ensure they bring their A game every time, and what can I do differently to get on that upper-echelon level?” The experts in everything related to baton twirling at Starline Baton let you in on a few secrets of the habits at those who always seem to win.
- The Night Before Visualization: Before going to bed each night, winners visualize every nuance of their routine and see themselves doing it perfectly. That foot that their coach is always telling them to point? Fixed! Not spotting the correct way sometimes in the routine? Fixed! By visualizing the whole routine executed flawlessly, it helps the mind prepare for what the body w
Posted: 9/12/2016
For every person who trains to be on top of their game, whether it be a dancer, soccer player, golfer, or love baton twirling, there comes a point when there is a break in training. One example of this is vacation. While the thought of not being able to train for seven or 10 straight days may give you cold sweats, Starline Baton has some suggestions on how you can practice your skills so that they remain sharp, even on a relaxing vacation!
- Check Around the Area: Let’s say that you are staying with Grandma and Grandpa for a whole month out of state. This presents a wonderful opportunity to take classes at another studio or training facility. Look around and see what different places are available, and inquire about how much just a class is. A new set of eyes can help determine why you are having a specific problem you may be experiencing. Also, there are a ton of different styles to whatever it is you are involved with, so you are bound to learn something new.
- Use Technology: With just about everyone on the planet able to connect digitally, take advantage of that opportunity. FaceTime with your coach so that the two of you can discuss ways of staying in shape, or you can talk about perfecting a certain element of your training. In some cases, you can find coaches and trainers that conduct virtual meetings for training that you can take advantage of. Be sure to check that it is OK with your current coach, though.
- Just Step Outside: If you are feeling cooped up, just take a step outside and practice! Just because practicing is not done where you are used to doing it, whether it be in a gym, on a field, or on a stage, doesn’t mean that practice doesn’t count. So, grab your baton, and go through what your coach has you do in a typical practice. Also, it is important to continue to stretch as it doesn’t take long for performers to lose that stretch.
Posted: 8/30/2016
If you are a baton twirler, and you compete or take part in performances, adding pirouettes to your routine is a crowd pleaser. There is just something about watching someone execute multiple turns in a row flawlessly, and one of the biggest reasons why people enjoy seeing this so much is because it is hard! Here are things to keep in mind when you want to add pirouettes to your performance.
- Strengthen Your Core: One of the most important aspects of executing a beautiful series of pirouettes is a strong core. A strong core provides the balance and strength needed to get your body to turn over and over again in a beautiful fashion. A strong core also allows your alignment to stay the correct way. So, do those stomach crunches!
- Balance: If you do not know how to correctly balance your body, then you will never be able to accomplish pirouettes. Practice balancing the position you want to turn, such as a la seconde.
- Learn How to Spot: If your eyes are on the ground, your body will follow. Always have a fixed place to look at in front of you, and that spot is the only place your eyes will focus on. Remember to whip your head around to quickly get your eyes back on that fixed spot.
- Push the Right Way: A big part of not being able to turn is pushing off the ground too hard. By pushing too hard, it can throw the body off.
- Ankle Strength: Just as your core must be strong to achieve a beautiful pirouette, your ankles must be strong, as well. Strong ankles help support the relevé. Sickled and weak ankles will always negatively affect turns, so incorporate ankle-strengthening exercises into your training.
- Visualize: You know what the body has to do to turn beautifully, so visualize every part of your body doing what it needs to do.
Posted: 8/15/2016
If you are experiencing tight hamstrings and tight shoulders, or if you are experiencing any other muscles in your body feeling stiff, so stiff that it is restricting your movement, maybe it is time to consider working flexibility exercises into your daily routine. . If you commit to working towards greater flexibility then the reward can feeling amazing. Here are some tips from the baton twirling experts at Starline Baton on how you can become more flexible.
- Take Care of Your Inner Self: Being flexible begins from the inside out. Be sure your are making nutritionally-sound eating decisions and are adequately hydrated from water. Also, it is important to get enough sleep every night. A well-taken care of body is the first step in achieving flexibility.
- Remember Both Positive & Negative Motions: Think of this as the ebb to the flow. If you stretch left, stretch right, too. If you are bending forward, bend backward, as well. Also, you want to feel a little strain. That strain means that your stretches are working.
- Remember to Stay Positive, be Patient, Stick to It: It is important to remember that it takes time for your body to achieve a higher level of flexibility. Only time will help you get there, so just keep doing it every day, and tell yourself that every day is one step closer to being more flexible.
Posted: 8/5/2016
In order to become the best you can be in baton twirling, just wanting it isn’t enough. You must practice, practice, and practice. But, what are the things to be aware of to make the most of your rehearsal time? Starline Baton, the experts in baton twirling, offer their advice on how to get the most of your rehearsal time.
- Make Sure You’re Prepared: It is not enough to just show up to rehearsal time. Be sure you are prepared! Have your hair up and pulled off your face, you are wearing the appropriate clothes, and you have all the correct footwear. Also, be sure to have enough water with you so you don’t have to stop and make your way to a water fountain.
- Eat for Energy: Before your rehearsal time, be sure to eat a healthy snack, not sugary snacks or fatty foods, which just weigh you down. A handle full of nuts or some fruit are the the perfect snacks that provide protein for energy, but not too heavy.
- Concentrate: When you start practice, push out anything that might be on your mind, such as homework or any type of worry, and concentrate on just rehearsal. This is the time to concentrate on the task at hand. Any outside concerns can distract you from the many small nuances to be learned.
- Take Notes: Bring a notepad and a pen and jot down anything you may not remember. Perhaps a new set of eight is added to a performance, which can be written down to reference later so it stays fresh.
- Practice Outside the Studio: One way to solidify anything new you have learned is to practice when you are NOT in the studio. It really does help you remember anything new you have learned and to also perfect your moves.
- Have a Good Attitude: One of the most important things to bring is a positive attitude. If you act like you don’t want to be there, it will affect your ability to learn new moves and also hinder your ability in getting better.
Posted: 7/18/2016
The big day is finally here: your performance! You have spent many hours perfecting your routine and your costume is on point. While rehearsing, your baton twirling routine is flawless, but it is a whole new ball game when it comes to competitions because to succeed, you must bring your A-game. It is called competing for a reason-you are competing against other people. Do you know what it takes to have that winning mindset so that you can perform on the level you desire? Here are five things to use to get your mind in the right state.
- Visualize Yourself Doing Well: Get a clear picture in your mind as to what is needed to make your performance amazing. Think of every step, every arm placement, what your face should look like. Visualize what is needed to make THIS performance THE performance that will win.
- Positive Affirmations: Affirmations are positive sayings you create and say to yourself so that they become a part of the process of doing well on stage. Think of it as a type of mantra. An example of a positive affirmation is “Today, I will be the best I can absolutely be.” Create a positive affirmation that is unique to yourself and then repeat and believe in it.
- Focus on the Process: The worst thing a performer can do is watch other performers and see how much better they are on turns, or leaps, or whatever. This is performance is about YOU and what you can show the judges. So, instead of watching other baton twirlers, visualize your routine and concentrate on your upcoming performance.
- Think Positive: A positive mind can get so many more things accomplished than a negative one. If you think good thoughts, good things will happen, so do not let self-doubt and nerves cloud your upcoming performance, which will be amazing!
- Then Let Yourself Shine: As you walk onto the stage for your performance, remember to smile, think positive thoughts, and shine! Show those judges and the audience what you are made of.
Posted: 7/8/2016
It’s fifteen minutes until showtime, and you can’t keep your knees from shaking. The routine you’ve practiced so often seems to have disappeared from your memory. These feelings of stage fright are common, and many performers experience this anxiety before the show. Use these tips to fight off that stage fright and put on an amazing baton twirling performance!
- Rehearse: Rehearsals are vital to avoiding stage fright. If you know the routine so well that you can do it in your sleep, then you don’t have to worry about forgetting a move on stage. Show up to as many scheduled rehearsals as you can and continue to practice your twirling at home. When it’s finally showtime, you’ll be confident that you can hit the moves.
- Visualize the show: Calm your nerves by imagining the performance in detail. Close your eyes and picture the music, your routine, the stage, and the cheering audience. Don’t think of making a mistake or dropping your baton! If you can imagine a well-executed performance beforehand, it will be easier to believe in yourself on stage.
- Improvise: Everyone makes mistakes on stage, even after extensive rehearsals. Don’t panic if you do the wrong move. The audience doesn’t know the choreography, but they will be able to tell if you pause or look panicked. Keep smiling and act as though your mistake is supposed to be part of the show. The audience will never know.
- Focus your energy: That nervous energy doesn’t have to be paralyzing. Take that sudden rush of adrenaline and direct it toward your performance. If you treat that energy as excitement, you’ll be more focused and put on an energetic show.
Posted: 6/20/2016
You’ve practiced the choreography so often that you see it in your dreams, and now it’s time to take that routine to the stage. Putting on a dazzling baton twirling performance that will amaze your audience takes more work than knowing the steps. You’ve probably been told to “smile” on stage thousands of times, but there’s more to a performance than a smiling face. Here are some things you can add to your performance that you haven’t thought of.
- Practice without a mirror: Performing on stage is nothing like practicing where you can see yourself. To prepare yourself, practice your routine without a mirror. This will help you learn how the moves feel without having to rely on the mirror for proper placement.
- Your eyes are as important as your smile: Do you remember those photographs where your family forced you to smile? Chances are, it didn’t look as natural as the photo taken when you were laughing at a joke. A stage performance is the same way. Practice an “open” expression by slightly lifting your eyebrows to portray emotion that extends past your smile.
- Dance as part of a group: You’re never alone when you’re on stage. Whether you’re dancing as part of a group or by yourself, interacting with others is important for an engaging show. Make eye contact with group members and your audience to spread your energy to those around you.
- Be confident!: You’ve poured your heart into practicing your routine, so be proud of your effort and hold your head high! The audience doesn’t know the choreography and can’t tell if you make a mistake. When you show confidence in your twirling, you are telling your audience that you are amazing and know how to twirl like a pro.
Posted: 6/9/2016
It is the end of the school year, which means it is the end of the competing year for many baton twirlers, too. You have worked hard all year long, the costumes have been ordered, the rhinestones applied, and your moves are perfection. So, now it is time for you to show off your skills on the stage! Here are some tips for your to rock your baton twirling performance on the stage.
- Believe in Yourself: You have worked hard at this routine. You have done it over and over again, both in a physical sense and in your head. You even dream about your routine. That being said, since you know this routine so well, let your personality shine. Yes, it is one thing to do a routine perfect, but if there is no heart behind the routine, then who cares if it is perfect. The judges and audience want to feel that connection and that connection is only made by relaxing, making eye contact with the judges and audience, and to let your love of what you are doing on that stage reflect through every movement.
- Believe the Judges are Your Fans: Believe it or not, the judges want you to do an awesome job. All they want is to do your best and trust us; they know when a performer is not giving it their all. Remember to not let nervousness get in the way of showing the judges what you are made of!
- Let it Go: Once you get on that stage, it is time to just let it go. Like we said, you KNOW this routine, so do it! Do not let yourself get hung up on the technical aspects. Listen to the music and move with it, become one with the music. Make that connection with the judges and the audiences and remember to SMILE! This is when you go for it. This is the moment when all those hours practicing make it all worth it.
Posted: 5/23/2016
No matter if you are at baton twirling practice or competing on the stage, having a proper and secure bun can make all the difference. When it comes to baton practice, it is important to keep all your hair out of your face so that you can keep your eyes 100% focused on the baton. And when it comes to competing, the judges can actually take points off if your hair isn’t properly secured as your hair is an actual part of your complete look.
Posted: 5/10/2016
There has been some debate as to whether or not a performer, such as a baton twirler or dancer, should warm up before or after their class, but it can be contingent on the type of stretching. Today, we are going to focus on the proper way to warm up, as properly doing so improves your range of motion and also can reduce your chance of injuring yourself.
- Jog in the Same Spot: As you begin to jog, be sure to increase the speed so that you elevate your heart rate and keep your landing as soft as you can to protect your knees. As your breathing increases, it means that oxygen is being delivered more effectively to your body, and when your heart rate increases, the extra blood flow prepares your muscles for the upcoming physical activity.
- Rotate Arms in a Circular Motion: By swinging your arms in a circular motion for about 30 seconds, and then resting, and then repeating, you are warming up your arm muscles so that their full range of motion can be achieved.
- Spinal Twist: While standing, keep your feet on the ground, shoulder-length apart, and while keeping your hips facing forward, rotate your upper body to the right. Then, have your torso face back to the middle and then to the left.
- Bend at the Knee: While standing, bend your torso at the hips and reach your hands to the ground to then gently bounce at the knees. Let your arms sway for about 25-35 seconds, and be sure to not bend too much.
Posted: 4/25/2016
For many performers, whether they are a baton twirler, dancer, or gymnast, there comes a time when an all-day practice is needed to prepare for a competition or a show. Working so extensively for many hours means that the body needs the proper hydration and fuel to maintain a high level of engagement to perfect the routine for the competition or show. The experts in everything related to baton twirling, Starline Baton, explain what the body needs to stay full of the proper energy to power through.
- Nuts & Seeds: Nuts and seeds are the perfect snacks to help you power through a long day of practice. For example, pumpkin seeds are are an excellent choice as they contain the anti-cramping mineral: potassium. Peanuts are a great way to fill up without feeling too full. Just be sure they are unsalted because the sodium found in salt can contribute to dehydration. Raw almonds feature the good kind of fat that helps maintain a feeling of fullness.
- Fruit: Try packing some dates to take with you. These little pieces of heaven are full of fiber, which helps you feel full, and also has calcium, copper, iron, and magnesium, which, again, helps with keeping your muscles from cramping. Also, think about a medley of fruits like freshly sliced pineapple, an apple, a grapefruit, or banana. You cannot go wrong with fruit as long as it is fresh.
- Yogurt: Bring a container of organic Greek yogurt and throw in a handful of granola. The benefits of Greek yogurt are outstanding as it has double the protein of regular yogurt, along with half the carbs and half the sodium. By adding granola, it will just add to that full feeling without weighing you down.
Posted: 4/11/2016
For those baton twirlers in the country that have extraordinary skills, the U.S. Trials Program is looking for you! This program selects a very elite group of baton twirlers to represent the United States in the World Baton Twirling Championships. These trials are used to select the very best baton twirlers in the country and is held every even-numbered year in different cities chosen every two years.
Posted: 3/28/2016
If you are baton twirling for an audience, whether it be a stadium full of football fans or in front of judges at a competition, a costume is mandatory, and your costume should serve two functions: the be easy to move in and to be dazzling! And the best way to make your costume dazzle? To add lots of crystals, of course! Starline Baton, experts in everything related to baton twirling, explain how to crystalize your costume so you can shine bright on stage.
Posted: 3/14/2016
Knowing how to apply the perfect makeup for your baton twirling performance can really help you to stand out while on the stage. Starline Baton has a list of essentials and ways to apply the makeup for your next big performance.
Posted: 2/15/2016
Colorado University recently announced that the CU Boulder “Golden Buffalo” Marching Band is searching for two to three featured baton twirler positions for the Fall 2016 semester. The Golden Buffalo Marching Band has not featured twirlers in over 15 years, but recently, it was decided that the twirlers would be a welcomed addition.
Posted: 2/2/2016
Baton twirling, once a huge part of the American fabric in the 60s and 70s, has been making a comeback in regards to its popularity. With its intricate and precise movements required to twirl successfully, baton twirling requires complete focus and coordination. With more and more people picking up the fine art of baton twirling, it is important for those just starting to learn about the five traits of baton twirling that helps to separate it from other sports.
- It is Physical: Baton twirling is a physically demanding sport, requiring the participant to have strength, agility, and coordination, from everything to the fingers, the torso, and even the toes.
- It is Psychological: With baton twirling, it is between the artist and their baton alone, so that means the sports requires confidence, awareness of self, and determination. This types of things challenge the athlete, and, as a result, self-discipline is achieved.
- It is Emotional: Most baton twirlers are on a team, a team in which friendships and memories are made while completing their baton twirling training. This also means that baton twirling builds character as well.
- It is Science: Baton twirling requires exact movements and precise execution. With the laws of physics coming into play with every movement, a scientific precision is required to master the art of baton twirling.
- It is Art: Baton twirling, while physically exerting, requires the grace of a ballerina, therefore, can be called art as creative skilled is needed.
Posted: 1/18/2016
If you or your child is a baton twirling machine, then you should know that there are several tricks from the baton twirling book to learn. Starline Baton, leaders in baton twirling equipment, wants to explore some of those specific tricks and how they are done so that our readers can expand their horizons in the baton twirling trick universe.
Posted: 1/4/2016
Some may think that just picking up any sized baton means they are well on their way to baton twirling success. Not so fast! The size of the baton is extremely important for the baton student to succeed in their endeavors, whether it be competing or just learning the basics. When it comes down to picking out the correct baton, you really only need two things: a measuring tape and a someone to help you measure.
Posted: 12/30/2015
There’s nothing more exciting than seeing people who have a passion for baton twirling on the news. Recently, two high school students, Philippa Martin and Emily Jansen, were in the spotlight for giving exceptional performances. Starline Baton would like to share about each of the girl’s memorable performances.
Posted: 11/23/2015
Before any dance or other workout sessions, it’s essential to prepare your body beforehand. Setting aside time to warm up allows the heart rate and blood flow to gradually increase, rather than all at once. Starline Baton, specializing in baton twirling, would like to help you prepare your body and prevent injury risks by showing how to correctly warm up.
- Start Gently: Begin with simple stretching exercises, such as rolling down the spine and rolling your head, shoulder, wrists, and ankles. Going right into the more rigorous exercises is never a good idea. Not only does skipping warm ups make you sore more easily, but it makes you burn out more quickly.
- Increase Body Temperature: Increasing body temperature is key to giving a great routine from start to finish. Performing any of the following exercises for five to ten minutes should do the trick:
- Brisk walking
- Jumping jacks
- Light jogging, marching, or skipping
- Lunges across the floor
- Fully Body Movements: The next step would be to spend five to ten minutes of completing lengthening, full body movements:
- Large arm swings with torso twisting
- Leg swings standing or leg-drop swings while lying on the floor
- Bending forward, backward, and sideways
- Dynamic series of yoga poses
- Core and Stability: Although this step is optional, we highly recommend you to finish your warm up with one of the following techniques:
- The Pilates Hundred exercise - Pilates is recommended to get your blood fully circulating before your workout or session.
- Bartenieff Body Half - Bartenieff’s Basic Six is an impressive series to warm up with.)
Posted: 11/9/2015
As the fall season is here, everyone is getting back into baton twirling as well. To be at the top of your game, creating and establishing goals for yourself is important. Star Line Baton believes setting goals allows for oneself feel empowered in your progress. Follow these three steps in order to achieve your goals and to have a successful season of twirling.
- Look Back: Before trying to change anything, take a step back and write down what successes and challenges you had the past year. When you come to a full understanding of what has happened during that time, you will be able to create more realistic goals and get a sense of how you can overcome those challenges. Not only does this help you face your previous problems, but it helps you build character and stronger self-care habits by tackling them down.
- Branch Out: Everyone in a sport wants to grow as an athlete and this is no different for baton twirlers. Whether it’s accomplishing more rigorous routines, learning new styles, or taking your first solo, there’s room for improvement for everyone. Choose to be self-reliant, pack healthier snacks, be the cheerleader for yourself and your team, and slow down when you don’t get things done 100% correctly. Soon enough, this year will be the year you shine.
- Move Forward With Clarity and Confidence: Don’t be alone! Having a support system is essential when it comes to achieving your goals. Share with your fellow members and, in turn, hear their goals to help one another stay on track and be motivated. In addition to this, setting aside five to ten minutes weekly to write in a journal is a great way to remember the details of your week and can assist you in moving forward.
Posted: 10/13/2015
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
Many people know that baton twirling really hit its stride in the 60s and 70s due to the insurgence of the American high school marching band and the rise in popularity of college sports. The reason the sport of baton twirling saw a decline was due to the increase in sports participation by girls. The art of baton twirling is artistic, expressive, and athletic, and it’s starting to come back into the forefront in the city of Pittsburgh.
Posted: 9/17/2015
So, you have finally decided to pick up the fine art of baton twirling. As you already know, Starline Baton has all the supplies you need to get started on baton twirling. Once you get all of your supplies, including the perfect baton, a case for the baton, and footwear, it’s time to pick the studio that will get you performing at the level you desire in regards to baton twirling. Starline Baton has some guidelines that you can follow so you can find the perfect studio for you.
- What are You Looking For? The type of training you require depends on the level of baton twirling you want to achieve. If you are looking for more of a recreational type of activity, then a once-a-week class should be enough. However, if you want to be on the competitive level, then you need to find a studio that will help you get to that level. These types of studios should allow you to take multiple hours of classes a week in order to properly prepare you for the competitive baton twirling world.
- Talk to Other Baton Twirlers. Just by asking other baton twirlers about where they train can really help you decide where you should be. A lot of the times, these baton twirlers have been to different studios and can offer you insight on more than one studio. You can also peruse the Internet for blogs and online forums where other baton twirlers are talking about their studio to help guide you.
- Decide How Much You Want to Travel: Sometimes the best place to train isn’t close to wear you live. If distance and time do not matter, it will broaden your options when choosing a studio.
- You Narrowed It Down? Investigate: If you are lucky enough to have more than one option for a baton twirling studio, it is time to visit each one and see if they are the studio you should be at. Talk to the teachers, look at the schedule and see if the times and days of the week work for your schedule. Be sure to also see how the studio is maintained. A sloppy, dirty studio can represent a sloppy way of baton twirling, something that truly matters if you want to compete.
Posted: 8/31/2015
is not uncommon for athletes and performers to go through something called performance anxiety. This is not to be confused with being worried because it is more to the extreme. Rapid heart rate, sweating, and under-confidence can occur from a rush of adrenaline, and baton twirling experts, Starline Baton, believe it is crucial to know how performance anxiety can affect people physically and mentally.
Posted: 8/17/2015
The U.S. National Baton Twirling Championship took place in Beaumont, Texas starting July 13th. Top of the line twirlers competed for the gold in this exciting event that happens each year. Next year, make sure you’re performance ready by getting the proper equipment for all your competition needs at Star Line Baton.
- History: In Eastern Europe and Asia, baton twirling started when people did tricks with things like knives and sticks. This was upgraded into guns twirled by people in the army for entertainment during parades. The gun was then exchanged for a mace, offering poor stability for twirlers. In the end, the mace was adjusted to be lighter for an easier opportunity to twirl, and became the baton that many performers use today. The sport of baton twirling was brought to the United States by Major Millsap with the formation of Millsap’s College. Thanks to him, there are now multiple organizations and national competitions for baton twirling.
- The Sport: Baton twirling involves using a metal rod and the body to perform a routine. Three main characteristics include how a performer uses the baton, dance and movement with the baton, and gymnastic elements. The twirler uses the baton by turning, rolling, and tossing it in the air. Performers must have proper timing to toss and catch a baton. Dance is also incorporated into baton twirling, showing off flexibility and beauty. Gymnastic qualities such as tumbling and other skills create risk. This is all coordinated to some sort of music. There are individual as well as paired or groups of twirlers, with anyone from novice stages to elite stages competing. Individual twirlers can use up to three batons at a time in a routine, while groups of twirlers need to perfectly match each other.
Posted: 7/29/2015
At Star Line Baton, we know exactly what performers need to be successful in baton twirling. Performers must always be aware of their movements and how it affects their bodies. Some may not know about the little things they do everyday that are hindering their growth. Here are the top 3 things performers are most likely doing wrong.
- Stretching: Too often, baton twirlers like to sit down before a class and do static stretching. Static stretching happens when you hold a certain pose to make your muscles more flexible. This kind of stretching can be more harmful than beneficial, as it lowers strength and power in the muscles. What performers should be doing instead is dynamic stretching, or any type of movement with less intensity and a large range of motion. Static stretching doesn’t have to be eliminated for good and should be reserved for the very end of the class.
- Walking: While practicing baton twirling, your feet may be too used to the constant turnout position. Walking like this outside of dance class and performances can wreak havoc on your muscles and bones. The stress on your feet can also have an affect on your spine, hips, and other areas. Be sure to walk normally and don’t force your feet to turnout when you don’t need to.
- Turnout: Dancers are always trying to improve their turnout, but should be more careful about forcing their feet to do it. Doctors say that too much turnout can lead to complications with various joints in the body. A better way to practice turnout is to effectively stretch the hip muscle. Many performers forget that correct turnout starts out in the hip and extends all the down to their toes. A good exercise is to lie on your side with knees bent and open and close your leg using your hip muscle.
Posted: 7/13/2015
You have put in hours and hours of practices and your big day is almost here: the baton twirling competition! As the competition draws close, having the appropriate items in the bag you take with you to the competition can really make all of the difference. Just one little thing missed can actually affect your score. So, Starline Baton has complied a list of must-have things that you need to have in your baton twirling competition bag to take with you.
Makeup: Of course you need your makeup, but don’t forget the little things associated with your makeup, like sponges, Q-tips, eye and lip liner sharpeners. As you lay out all your makeup, think about the tools each makeup piece could use to make applying (or fixing a mistake) easier. Hair Products: You need to grab hair ties, hair nets, bobby pins, gel, and a bristle brush (which is an absolute must to slick back all those fly aways). Be sure that if your costumes have any hair pieces, you grab those too. We suggest keeping all hair pieces with the costumes, so the complete outfit is together. Safety Pins: Every competitor should have a wide variety of sizes in safety pins. Imagine a strap breaking right before you walk on stage. You would be amazed how many people do NOT have a safety pin and how many times those little suckers are needed. Wipes: We recommend having baby wipes and also having a Tide to Go Pen. Of course, you should know that you are to NEVER eat or drink while in costume, but accidents happen. Be prepared for those accidents with wipes and the Tide pen for a quick clean up. Sustenance: The thing about any type of competition like this is that there is a lot of downtime. You will get hungry and thirsty. Be sure to pack HEALTHY snacks and drinks. Sometimes, in these types of competitions, there could be an unknown call to twirl more, and to be weighed down by greasy snacks and sugary drinks will affect your performance.
Posted: 6/8/2015
Whether it’s your decision as a parent or your child requests to enter the world of competitive baton twirling, it can be a perplexing and unknown journey. Many people have seen or experienced both competitive and amateur baton twirling, whether it’s at a high school football game or on television. The truth is that it’s a whole different beast when you’re emerged in the world of competitive baton twirling. Rehearsal schedules and instructors can be grueling, demanding the best from students, and the awards and actual competitions are high stakes. Here are some things, as a parent, you should know before entering this foreign, but exciting, world.
Posted: 6/1/2015
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.
- Become Friends with Your Eyeliner - Eyeliner is important when applying stage make-up. Pick a waterproof eyeliner and outline your eyes. Be sure to create strong cat eyes at the tips of your outer eye.
- Plump Lashes - Be sure to finish your stage face with plump lashes. If you have sparse lashes, consider using fake eyelashes.
Posted: 5/11/2015
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 Eye on the Prize - Watch the baton and keep your eye on the baton when you toss it. If you get distracted, you might drop the baton and injury yourself.
Posted: 4/27/2015
What constitutes a sport is a controversial subject with many differing opinions, but in the end, most people tend to agree that a sport requires several factors in order to be considered a true sport. What that boils down to is that a sport requires physical exertion and skill, plus the structure of competition. With that very basic description, twirling batons is most certainly a sport.
Posted: 4/13/2015
The history of baton twirling is pretty vague in its origins, but the sport has evolved through men as drum majors, using rifles, sticks, maces, and mallets. It wasn’t until twirling started to include a baton that women became involved in it and practically took over the sport. Today, baton twirling may be a sport dominated by females, but it is certainly not a woman’s only sport.
Posted: 3/30/2015
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.
Posted: 3/2/2015
Baton twirling has become an increasingly popular sport throughout the world, especially upon the formation of the World Baton Twirling Federation, otherwise known as WBTF. The WBTF was organized in London in 1977 by the leaders of a variety of baton twirling organizations in different countries all over the world. The purpose of the formation of the WBTF is to develop, encourage, and standardize the sport.
Posted: 2/2/2015
This year, the 57th Annual U.S. National Baton Twirling Championship will be held in Beaumont, Texas. The nation’s best baton twirlers will compete on individual and group levels for awards and thousands of dollars in cash scholarships.
Posted: 1/19/2015
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
When shopping for your baton twirler this holiday season, consider giving them gifts that commemorate their favorite sport: baton twirling. Baton twirling gifts come in all shapes and sizes and you can customize your gift package to suit the wants and needs of your unique twirler.
- Commemorative Baton. Does your twirler stay up to date on all the latest competitions and news? If so, then they probably know of the World Baton Twirling Championship in Nottingham, England. Why not commemorate the 2014 baton twirling season with a limited edition WBTF baton, featuring the Robin Hood image? This commemorative baton comes in two styles and the length can be customized to fit your twirler’s needs.
- Fire Baton. Does your twirler want to grow as a performer but doesn't know how? Encourage them to try twirling with a fire baton. This skill is not for the faint of heart but it will enchant and amaze any crowd. If you’re a bit wary of the fire baton, but want to support their ambitions to work to that level, look into purchasing a batteryless lighted baton. It has all the spunk and flair of a fire baton without the hazards.
- Foot Wear. Foot wear is an essential component to any solid routine. Without comfortable foot wear, your twirler will be focusing more on their foot pain than on the task at hand. Consider surprising them with a new pair of twirling shoes so they have a color to match any twirling costume.
- Jewelry. Every girl loves jewelry! Buy your athlete a stocking stuffer that they’ll never forget with baton charms and earrings. You can even buy them a pin to put on their favorite athletic jacket or twirling case. Also look into keychains and buttons to help their gear stand out from the crowd at competitions.
- Twirling Gift Basket. If their gear is getting old or you’re just getting your young athlete started with the sport of baton twirling, compose a gift basket of all the essential twirling items. Make sure they have tape and powder, spare baton components, instructional DVDs, some apparel, and a baton case. You can also include stage makeup essentials as well as costume jewelry that matches their costume. If you’re looking for something extra special, have custom shirts made for the whole family so you can show your pride at competitions. Top it all off with a twirling ornament and you’re all set this holiday season.
Posted: 11/24/2014
Selecting the perfect costume is essential to any competitor's success. The right costume can make or break your routine and create a lasting impression in the minds of the judges and audience. If you mostly twirl in the marching band, you don’t have that much liberty when choosing a costume, but if you compete, you’ll have to help choose the right costume.
Posted: 11/10/2014
As a competitive twirler, it’s important to keep all of your equipment in a conveniently-located place to ensure you’re focused on the competition at hand. Keep your batons in their case and your costumes in a nicely packed bag, but what about all the smaller items like makeup and hair clips, pins, and accessories? If you don’t already have a caboodle, it may be time to invest in one. Caboodles are makeup cases that help keep all your small items organized.
Posted: 10/27/2014
The day of your baton twirling competition is quickly approaching, and you want to make sure you look and feel your best for the big day. You’ve practiced your routine frequently, adjusted for feedback from your instructors, and are proud of how far you’ve come. Now, it’s time to put the finishing touches on your routine so you can shine like the star you are!
Posted: 10/13/2014
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
Just about everyone understands the importance of physical activity and fitness for children. As young ones grow and develop, keeping physically active is a crucial way to help strengthen all of the body’s systems, ensure proper functionality, and even keep learning minds alert. Beyond physical wellness, baton twirling provides a number of great benefits for students and growing children. The following are just a few examples.
Posted: 9/16/2014
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
Color guard, or flag twirling, is an exciting visual component of any parade or pep rally. What may seem to bystanders to be a simple wave of a brightly colored flag is really an intricate series of twirls and motions that really bring a variety of colors to life--much like the sport of baton twirling. When you are choosing flags for a color guard team, it’s important to understand the different types of flags available, and the different purposes they have.
Posted: 8/18/2014
Beyond being fun and exciting, pep rallies are great functions for building support for your team or organization, whether it’s a high school football team or even for local charitable groups. Generating team spirit is an easy and important way to strengthen communities as group members gather to celebrate a common bond or idea. If you want to hold a pep rally for the organization of your choice, you may be wondering, “Where do I get started?” Starline Baton has a few helpful tips to get you started.
Posted: 8/4/2014
If you are a pro performing some basic baton twirling techniques and are looking for some new, exciting, and fun tricks to surprise your friends and family, you are in the right place! Summer is always a good time to practice and dedicate extra time to your favorite hobbies or sports. Grab your baton, and get ready to twirl it like never before! Let’s start with the double leg roll. Holding your baton in your right hand, lift your leg as if you are walking in a military style with your thigh parallel to the ground. Bend your knee so your toe points to the ground. Place the back of your right hand firmly under your left leg, mid-thigh, and roll the baton over your leg, making sure it makes contact with your leg the entire time. As baton goes over top of your left leg and nears the vertical position, quickly switch legs so your right leg is raised in march position. If you do it right, your baton should keep rolling over your right leg. To finish, reach your left hand under your ri
Posted: 7/7/2014
With the school year coming to a close, many students and parents are seeking sports-based summer camps to keep them fit and active during the summer. Many studios and companies across the nation offer baton twirling summer camps, giving you the perfect opportunity to hone your skills! Here are a few things to expect and look out for when selecting a baton twirling summer camp. First of all, camps are often organized by skill level. If you’re twirling just for fun and exercise, or if you’ve never twirled before, look into beginner camps, which will help you understand basic technique. If you plan on twirling competitively, you might benefit by seeking more advanced camp programs. Often, companies offer different levels of twirling instruction at different times during the summer, so be sure you select the camp slot that best fits your skill level. Many times, baton twirling summer camps feature the instruction and assistance of professional or noteworthy twirlers. This is the per
Posted: 6/23/2014
As with any sport, it takes a good deal of practice and dedication to master and perfect baton twirling tricks and techniques. No baton twirler is born with the innate ability to perform a perfect spinner or toss! Here are a few of the basic techniques you’ll need to master before moving on to more advanced baton twirling.
Posted: 6/9/2014
Starline Baton Company is a one stop shop for everything a baton twirler needs. Beginners and professionals alike know that our products are of the highest quality and address all baton twirlers’ needs. What we find fascinating is the long history behind baton twirling and we are delighted that the artistry of baton twirling is still relevant today. Here is a history of baton twirling that we believe you may find just as interesting as we do.
Posted: 5/27/2014
Star Line Baton Company is here to help all baton twirlers, from novice to professional, achieve the level desired through offering the highest quality batons, shoes, cases and accessories. One thing that we are proud to offer our clients is our new series of professionally produced DVDs designed to help coaches, competitors, and athletes learn to twirl the correct way so that the baton twirling experience is optimized for the performer and audience.
Posted: 5/12/2014
Many people across the country and around the world have seen the sport of baton twirling in some form or another, whether they’ve watched an event on TV or played around with a baton themselves. However, those who do not practice baton twirling themselves may not realize exactly what it takes to be a competitor. Here are a few basic components to baton twirling you may not have thought of before.
Posted: 4/29/2014
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
Baton twirling is a very intricate, graceful sport that takes a great deal of practice and coordination. However, many people do not realize that baton twirling has its share of risks and potential dangers. As with any sport, baton twirlers are prone to injury due to mistakes or slip-ups. The following are the most common injuries incurred in baton twirling.
Posted: 3/7/2014
There are several challenges that a new competitor may face when their 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 to 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.
Posted: 3/3/2014
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.
- Rhythm Twirl - The Rhythm Twirl event is a short routine performed to the USTA Dance Twirl music. It’s performed with a combination of dance steps and baton moves in rhythm to music.
Posted: 2/28/2014
Performing well during competition is important and Starline Baton wants to make sure that you are performing your best. Here are some general tips and hints to help guide you through your baton twirling season.
- Stay well rested - Both your mind & body need rest. Make sure you go to bed at a decent hour. This will help you mentally prepare for competition and do your best at twirling.
- Eat well & stay hydrated- Water is important and you need to continue to feed your body with healthy and nutritious food to keep you in top twirling performance.
- Always Stretch - Warming up is very important. Make sure that your body is limber and ready to perform. Speak with your coach and other team members about stretching techniques that will help get you ready for your twirling performance.
- Last but not least, stay active. Be sure to work on your twirling technique and set goals for yourself to perform better.
Posted: 2/27/2014
Even with the right shoes and outfit, baton twirling won’t happen without the right size baton to finish the set. Having the right size baton can make all the difference when it comes to your performance. A baton that is too long will collide with your body, while a baton that is too short will look and feel awkward to handle. Professional twirling batons come in sizes ranging from 14 inches to 32 inches, increasing in size by one inch increments. The width of the shaft can come in different sizes depending on what would be the most comfortable grip for the twirler.
To measure the appropriate length of your baton, you will need a measuring tape, and the assistance of a friend or family member.
• Stand still with both of your feet together
• Outstretch one of your arms to make a 90 degree angle from your body
• Once it is stretched, have your family member pull out the tape and place the end of it at the base of your neck
• From th
Posted: 11/20/2013
Baton twirling for most is a team centered activity, having performers work closely with members of their team. Just like the twirling and performances themselves, keeping a strong team together takes time a practice. Team building is important to ensure that team members are cooperating well with each other, as well as build trust among members of the team. When performers build trust with each other, they are more inclined to help each other improve, making the team stronger as a whole. All this leads to a healthier and more enjoyable environment for the team. Below is a list of activities that encourage team building.
• Egg drop – you may remember this one from middle school, basically the group is split up into teams and must use a few materials to build a carriage to protect an egg from cracking after it is dropped from a great height (both teams should have the exact same number of materials). This is a critical thinking exercise that gets the teams to work toge
Posted: 11/13/2013
Baton twirling is a very demanding sport, though many don’t see it as such. Regardless, there is a great amount of effort that goes into becoming a successful baton twirler. Just like any sport, baton twirling requires hard work and dedication; it’s not a sport that anyone can pick up and be an expert. Here are a few things to keep in mind that can help you excel in the world of baton twirling.
Posted: 10/29/2013
Baton twirling is an activity that utilizes the manipulation of a metal rod, or baton, to perform coordinated routines similar to gymnastics and dance. The activity has been around for decades, yet has become a rare activity over the years. The truth is, baton twirling is actually a great sport that offers a number of benefits for children to enjoy.
Posted: 10/14/2013
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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 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
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
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
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
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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