Becoming a Baton Twirler

Baton twirling has two origin stories: one says the Dutch introduced baton twirling to the Americas in 1681, whereas another version cites the origin with Major Millsaps and the founding of Millsaps college in Mississippi after the Civil War. The world may never know. Twirling is a competitive sport with various levels and forms, including two-baton, solo, strut, and other divisions. In competitive arenas, twirling can resemble other styles of rhythmic gymnastics, some using ribbons or other small rods or objects. Many schools have baton twirlers that work alongside cheerleaders or the marching band. In the case of marching band twirlers, the title of ‘majorette’ is a coveted position. When alongside cheerleading, twirlers can take on many purposes similar to those of a ‘color guard.’

In this free instructional video series, expert Suzanne Von Schaack will show you all the basics and some advanced techniques of baton twirling. She covers figures eights, horizontal and reverse figure eights, throwing the baton in the air, passing hand to hand, cradling, and setting up your routine. Suzanne also offers tips on creating combinations and more advanced routines as well. She demonstrates two-baton twirling and tosses with the baton for more advanced twirlers. Check this out and you’ll know all you need to start up yourself or one of your kids in baton twirling.