The Balancing Pole
There is much difference of opinion amongst acrobats regarding the balancing pole. Some prefer it long and heavy, whilst others dispense with it altogether. Amateurs can scarcely hope to do the latter, however, and 4 ft. 6 in. may be considered a suitable length. The pole should be smooth, round, and even, rather heavier than an ordinary broom-handle. It will probably prove useful to mark its exact center by a notch.
A mattress must be laid beneath the rope to break any falls. Thin-soled dancing pumps should be worn, the soles being well chalked before use.
Such is the apparatus connected with the public performance of tight-rope walking. The first attempts should be, however, on a rope suspended much lower, not more than 1 foot from the ground, as it is useless to try a high rope until the knack of balancing has been acquired.
The assistance of two friends will be necessary for the first few trials. Each must hold a strap fastened around the performer’s waist to support him until he has learned to find the center of gravity. As he grows accustomed to the work their help will become less necessary, and he will soon be able to dispense with their services.
Fig. 3.—Tight-rope ready for walking.
With the pole balanced in his hands, his eyes fixed steadily upon the colored rag at B, known as the “point of sight,” and, supported by his two friends, the first essay is made upon the rope. The feet should be turned out as much as possible, and at each step the heel first and then the great toe placed upon the rope.