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12. May 2009 07:54
Flags are usually the first piece of equipment that a color guard member is introduced to. Drop spins are an exercise that is often taught first. These spins have a very even feel in tempo/meter with no velocity changes in the weight of the pole as the flag travels from up to down and up again in one continuous motion. Next, some form of a speed spin like "Double Fast" or the infamous "Peggy Spins" are usually taught. These type of spins are a bit faster and allow the performer to get a better understanding of how the weight can be used in their pole. There is a change in velocity in between hand grabs. Both of these spins are taught on the left and right hands for dexterity.
Palm flips is the first time that a new color guard member will have the opportunity to release their flag. This exercise will get them to focus on control of the flag as it leaves their hands only to catch solidly without loosing posturing and alignment. These flips are typically a half rotation that can be from flag up position to flag down position. The release of the flip happens simultaneously from each hand evenly. A combination in succession will allow the performer to develop some consistency. Each time the flip occurs, the performer must regain control over the flag so that another flip can be performed with the same excellence as the first.