How to Twirl a Flaming Baton
Most people have vague memories of baton twirling from watching parades, beauty pageants and half-time at high school football games, but to the serious twirler, baton-twirling is a sport with its own championships. And the highlight of a baton twirler's routine is the flaming baton. It looks silly and scary at the same time, and here's how they do it.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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1
Buy a special fire baton. They're available from baton twirling websites and include a metal case, fuel and safety booklet. They come in several different lengths.
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2
Practice twirling. Twirling the baton (with or without flames) is based on the same principle as juggling balls or other items. You don't need to move your hands or your body much at all to toss the baton up in the air. Use your peripheral vision and keep your eyesight focused on the baton. With practice, you won't even seem to be watching the baton at all when you twirl.
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3
Follow the instructions that come with your fire baton. Practice and twirl in a safe, spacious environment before performing in front of an audience.
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4
Hold the baton in the middle. The flames are on either end, so holding the baton firmly when you twirl it is the key. And don't be nervous. Control the flame. Don't let it control you.
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5
Keep your gaze steady. Grab the flaming baton in the middle as it falls back down toward you and continue your twirling routine.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Some brands of lighter fluid burn cooler and longer than others, so you may want to twirl a few different brands.
Even if you're an expert baton twirler, the heat from the flames may singe the light, downy hair on your arms.
