Twisting Belt

This arrangement uses a different type of belt that incorporates a metal ring mounted on bearings to allow the flyer to turn independently from the safety lines (this avoids them tangling). It is used when the flyer performs a trick that requires a full twist or more. For tricks involving just a half twist, wrapping the lines before leaving the platform is usually the simpler method (see 'Half Turn Lines').

ATTACHING: The lines are attached to the Twisting Belt in the same way as Regular Lines - the left side line on the left side of the belt and the right side on the right.

TRICK EXAMPLES: Somersaults with full and double twists (e.g. Full Twisting Layout), tricks with two half turns (such as a Half Turn Catch).

While the Twisting Belt seems like a perfect solution for twisting tricks, it has its disadvantages. They are expensive, and the size of the ring is fixed, so each belt only fits a narrow range of flyers. You might find that your school doesn't have a belt to fit you. You also have to climb into the ring (and pass it over your hips) before tightening it around the waist (which can be tricky). While flying, it is also bulky and restricts the flyer's movements more than a regular safety belt.

On this website, and in my books, I recommend a Twisting Belt for all tricks involving more than a half twist. However, if your trick involves a full twist (or two half twists), you have two other options which you could try if the Twisting Belt doesn't work for you:

TRICKS WITH A FULL TWIST: Wrap the lines for a full turn around your body before leaving the platform (like for 'Half Turn Lines' but with an extra turn). They will unwrap during the trick leaving you with uncrossed lines for the catch.

TRICKS WITH TWO HALF TWISTS: Use 'Half Turn Lines' and wrap just a half turn before leaving. They will unwrap for the first half twist, and will wrap again during the second. This will leave you with the lines wrapped around your body at the moment of the catch.

Neither of these options is ideal, as having lines wrapped around you makes them less safe. However it might work better for you than a Twisting Belt. Discuss with your instructor!