How to Make a Color Guard Flagpole
How to Make a Color Guard Flagpole. As far as color guard flags go, the bigger the better--and big flags need the right size flagpole. Flags make a huge impact on your show and the right pole is essential. Poles come in a variety of lengths and colors and a few tips can help you make the best decision. Read on to learn how to make a color guard flag pole.
Choose a size for your flagpole. Longer poles can handle bigger flags, but smaller poles might be better for beginners. The average length of poles used in high school is 6 feet and advanced groups typically use poles that are 7 feet long, or poles as long as 10 feet for over-sized flags.
Choose a type and color of flagpole. They are made with a variety of materials, including aluminum, PVC piping and fiberglass. Typical colors are gold, silver, black, white or clear, or you can change the color of your pole with electrical tape or contact paper. Find a selection of poles and accessories at websites such as Dance Cheer. See the Resources section below for a link.
Decide between plastic and rubber tips. Poles come with plastic tips, which can help prevent sails, but some find rubber easier to work with in a routine. Companies will often include rubber tips in addition to plastic for a nominal additional charge.
Buy enough poles for your color guard. Each student is usually given a practice flag and several show flags. Flags are attached with Velcro or taped to poles.
Weight your pole with bolts, screws or tape. Extra weight makes it easier to control flag tosses. You can buy weights for poles or you can use bolts bought at a hardware store. If you use bolts or screws, be sure to wrap them in duct tape first so they won't rattle around. The pole should be weighted slightly heavier on top than on the bottom.
Choose your flags. Buy or design a flag that reflects the theme of your show. Find tips for flag designs at websites such as Color Guard Central and True Colors. See the Resources section below for a link.
Tips
Try a pole that is part-metal and part-PVC piping for 10-foot poles. The PVC causes a little extra drag and has a nice effect.
Warnings
Don't use visible hand markers on poles--choose tape that matches the pole.
References
- Kocur P, Wiernicka M, Wilski M, et al. Does Nordic walking improves the postural control and gait parameters of women between the age 65 and 74: a randomized trial. J Phys Ther Sci. 2015;27(12):3733-7. doi:10.1589/jpts.27.3733
- Cho SY, Roh HT. Trekking poles reduce downhill walking-induced muscle and cartilage damage in obese women. Journal of Physical Therapy Science. 2016;28(5):1574-1576. doi:10.1589/jpts.28.1574
- Foissac MJ, Berthollet R, Seux J, Belli A, Millet GY. Effects of Hiking Pole Inertia on Energy and Muscular Costs During Uphill Walking. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. 2008;40(6):1117-1125. doi:10.1249/mss.0b013e318167228a
- Howatson G, Hough P, Pattison J, et al. Trekking Poles Reduce Exercise-Induced Muscle Injury during Mountain Walking. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. 2011;43(1):140-145. doi:10.1249/mss.0b013e3181e4b649
Tips
- Try a pole that is part-metal and part-PVC piping for 10-foot poles. The PVC causes a little extra drag and has a nice effect.
Warnings
- Don't use visible hand markers on poles--choose tape that matches the pole.
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