Baton twirling

Baton twirling is a sport that combines dance and color guard[clarification needed] to create coordinated routines.

It requires a "baton" which is metal rod, typically just slightly larger than one's dominant arm.

Twirling combines dance, agility, coordination, and flexibility while manipulating a single or multiple batons.

The baton can be described as a rod, usually a lightweight metal such as aluminum, with weighted, resilient ends, typically rubber stoppers.

Therefore, the rifle, saber, and machetes are not real weapons but props created specifically for twirling.

The twirler will soak the ends of the fire batons overnight in a flammable substance, commonly kerosene, tiki oil, or gasoline.

After the twirler has finished performing, the flames can be put out by tossing the baton very fast or placing it in a fire blanket.

[2] Baton twirling requires skillful coordination and great control of the human body.

Additionally, it requires great flexibility to execute baton, dance, and gymnastics elements properly.

For example, in basic march, the twirler places one hand on the left hip and cradles the baton in the other.

It also counts the hitting of the foot off the ground based on the beat of "Stars and Stripes," but other dance moves with the coordinated baton are incorporated into its X pattern.

Twirling Unlimited, TU, has restrictions on the number of turns and continuous elbow rolls in developmental levels, but they allow gymnastics moves.

The National Baton Twirling Association, NBTA, does not have developmental restrictions but does not permit gymnastics.

Both organizations' solo events are divided into Novice, Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, and Elite levels.

Current member countries include Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Catalonia (Spain), Croatia, England, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Philippines, Scotland, Seychelles, Slovenia, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.

[8] Current member countries of the NBTA include Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, England, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Romania, Russia, Scotland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United States.

[10] When competing, a twirler's attire will typically be a leotard or a skater dress that is embellished with sequins, rhinestones, fringe, and other ornate designs.

Jazz shoes are primarily used during competition, as the soft bottoms can easily be torn during practice.

As mentioned earlier, twirlers will be classified based on their skill and age, which allows for a Miss Majorette title in each rank.

Competition is available for soloists, teams, high schools, colleges, and recreational groups of any age or gender.

Awards range from trophies to plush stuffed animals to cash (up to $4,000) and gifts by sponsors.

The World Championships have the following events: Teams, pairs, trios, and show choirs can be co-ed.

For several years, the powerhouse countries (France, Italy, Japan, and the United States) have dominated the world championships.

New events such as Freestyle and Pairs across different age levels and divisions were added to the International Cup.

The following cities have previously hosted the competitions: Events and age divisions and levels may vary due to baton association.