Planes
In Color Guard, you will be asked to spin in different geometric planes. You often have to imagine yourself in these planes so you know how to position your flag pole during the exercise or choreography.
"Toaster" Plane
This vertical plane is the most common plane to spin and toss your flag in.
You have to imagine your self and your flag as "bread" in a "toaster".
If your flag poles hits the front or back of the toaster slot, then you will get "burned."
Drop spins and double-fast spins are like a fan or windmill motion in this plane.
Flourishes, basic tosses, & The Toaster Exercise are also in the Toaster Plane.
Standing in front of a wall & imagining another wall behind you is a great way to practice staying in your toaster.
"Parallel" Plane
This horizontal plane is more challenging and feels more dangerous as it is usually done above your head.
Your flag is rotating parallel to the ceiling and floor when tossing or spinning in the Parallel Plane.
Imagine your flag is one of the rotary blades on a helicopter when you are tossing or spinning in the Parallel Plane.
"45°" Plane
This angled plane is the most challenging plane to spin and toss in Color Guard.
The flag rotates at a 45° angle while spinning or tossing in this plane.
Your body usually needs to lean to the side to avoid contact with the flag.
A 45° angle might go in any direction in Color Guard so it is important to pay attention to your check points!
