How to Choreograph a Drill Team Routine

Being on a drill team allows the creative juices to flow. There are many ways to tie in other forms of movement, such as dance, and there are endless sequencing possibilities to work with. Some of the most impressive drill teams are led by highly creative senior members and coaches who have intently studied drill team videos, the competition and footwork in an effort to choreograph truly unique drill routines.

Things You'll Need

  • Trained animals
  • Costumes
  • Music
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Instructions

  1. Choreograph a Stunning Drill Routine

    • 1

      Opt for maximum shifting and movement of drill team members. By shifting placement, especially on larger teams, impressive visual effects can be created and complicated shifts can be performed.

    • 2

      Choreograph dance elements into the drill routine. Modern dance is an especially compatible choice since the fluid movement and limitless sequencing work well with most drill routines.

    • 3

      Use music. Break down the beats and rhythm of different songs to create a customized drill routine designed to be a crowd pleaser.

    • 4

      Vary the routine by using silent drill maneuvers. Silent drill maneuvers often provide the highest level of entertainment as the only things which can be heard are the swift marching, the rustling of the uniforms and the simultaneous movement of a truly top-notch team.

    • 5

      Visualize the formations and then draw diagrams. You'll need to share the diagrams with drill team members in order to perfect each routine.

    • 6

      Consider the use of animals. Drill teams have been known to do the unexpected for shock value. While using horses in equestrian drill routines is not uncommon, dogs are rare and present a unique challenge that is highly regarded when overcome.

    • 7

      Use costumes instead of your team's regular uniforms. Costumes can be elaborate and sometimes challenging to perform in, but they are ideal for large performances or celebrations in front of a demanding audience.

    Get Your Drill Team Up to Par

    • 8

      Send drill team members to camp. Drill team camp is both intense and fun, and most camps take place over the summer. Seasoned practitioners and coaches are hired to lead various teams in a series of warm-ups, workouts and complicated routines designed to improve overall performance.

    • 9

      Encourage a daily practice. Drill team life is a big commitment and most large, accomplished teams have a daily practice that usually takes place in the morning.

    • 10

      Make copies of any music that is to be used in a performance. You need to make sure each drill team member has a copy since home practice is equally as important as group practice.

    • 11

      Work on basic movements and strength building before performances. Kicking and stretching need to be practiced daily to strengthen the quads and calves, as well as lengthening the hamstrings.