Regarding Ambidexterity

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The definition according to dictionary.com am·bi·dex·trous [am-bi-dek-struhs] 1. able to use both hands equally well: an ambidextrous surgeon. 2. unusually skillful; facile: an ambidextrous painter, familiar with all media. For the military drill world, having ambidexterity means 1. being able to use both hands/arms to manipulate your piece of equipment for armed exhibition drill and, 2. being able to use …

The Opening Statement

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When I judge, I create a commentary/critique of each performance during the performance and I then post it on my website here for the Drillers/teams to download and listen to. On many of my recordings, you can hear me talk about the Driller’s or team’s “opening statement.” But what is this opening statement? Defining the Term In military exhibition drill …

How to Write a Military Drill Routine: Routine Mapping Tools

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How to Write a Military Drill Routine: Routine Mapping Tools It’s that time of year again, the time to start planning your drill team, squad and solo/tandem routines- if you haven’t already. To help you along in this endeavor, years ago I developed the DrillMaster Routine Mapping Tools (RMT) to try to fit all kinds of situations. Here are the …

Where can I find a complete list of exhibition drill moves?

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Some other countries use a separation of terms: Foot Drill and Rifle Drill. At The DrillMaster, we use “Drill” as meaning the feet; Unarmed Exhibition Drill (UXD) and Armed Exhibition Drill (AXD) to mean the body and equipment movement layered over the drill for the feet. On with the question. In General There isn’t such a thing as a “complete …

Stepping and the Military Drill Team

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I really enjoy watching a step team and seeing the synchronized movements along with some chanting. It’s good stuff, but does it belong in a military drill team’s routine? Sure- to a point. If stepping is the only part of the routine and not just part of it (influences in one place or peppered throughout), then there is a problem …

Routine Design Considerations

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Issues to consider when designing/programing a routine. The Routine Marching Surface- hard (asphalt or cement) or soft (some gymnasium floors and grass)- does the routine rely on taps on the shoes or butt slams? Location of performance area: The direction you will be facing (into the sun?). Audience location- near or far? Audience safety may be an issue as well …