How to Take Baton-Twirling Lessons

Baton twirling continues to gain in popularity, and not just in the United States. Japan, in fact, is home to some of the best twirlers in the world and dominates the international competitions. One reason for this is that serious twirlers are always in some sort of training program, taking both private and school-based lessons both individually and in groups. There is no substitute for taking lessons, practicing and staying in good overall shape if you want to join the elite of the baton-twirling world.

Instructions

Take Baton-Twirling Lessons

1. Check with any baton twirlers you know, if you are just starting out. Also consult school and club coaches and local colleges and universities.

2. Determine what you can afford as far as paying for lessons and consider trying out for a team as soon as possible so that you can then minimize your lesson costs.

3. Budget into your costs the prices of supplies, batons, shoes, practice clothes and uniforms (if you are joining a team at the same time). Keep good records of all your expenditures.

4. Keep your expenditure of money, time and energy in correct proportion to your goal. If you are looking to get on a high-school team or a local club, and then attend a college with a strong baton-twirling program, you will devote more resources to these efforts than you would if you just want to pursue twirling as a hobby.

5. Write down lesson plans, routines and exercise tips in a regular journal that you keep just about twirling. This will help you chart your progress and focus on the areas that need the most work.

6. Discuss your next lesson plan or exercise schedule with your teacher or coach at the conclusion of any particular set of lessons. Keep a consistent pace in your advancement as a baton twirler, and stay focused on your ultimate goal, whatever it may be, from developing a lifelong hobby to joining a nationally renowned college or club team.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't think of lessons as an "extra," but as a "required" part of your approach to the sport. Being on a team or in a club makes it easier to stay in a regular routine of lessons, practice and competition, making you a well-rounded twirler.

• Get a practice partner from among the participants in your group lessons.

• Don't take just individual lessons, don't take just group lessons and don't do your twirling only at your lessons. You need to live a "twirling lifestyle" with a comprehensive and balanced approach to study, lessons, practice and competition.