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 ground keeping the pole away from your body. To perform a right present position, begin with your right shoulder position and extend the right arm so the flag crosses in front of the left shoulder. A left present position will also begin in the right shoulder position but will differ from the right present position in the direction that you cross your arm: to the left until your right elbow is close to your chin. Right or Left Slam: Slams are done quickly and forcefully. To execute a right slam, begin with the right shoulder position with your left hand level at your belly button and the flag parallel with your body. Then, quickly bring your right hand slamming the tip of the flag toward the ground. Your right hand should now be even with your left shoulder, and the flag should be held at 45-degree angle. For a left slam, switch the positions of your hand and slam the flag to your left rather than to your right. Tosses and spins are other basic moves that we’ll go over in future blogs and that can be done using either flags or rifles. For all your flag or rifle needs, don’t forget to check out our online store. For more trending and helpful tips about baton twirling or color guard moves, stay tuned to our monthly blogs.

Posted: 2/14/2017