Buf Barista — Performance Protocols
This document defines the exact procedures for all Buff Barista performance modes. These protocols ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all public appearances.
Full Public Reader
Buf Barista — Performance Protocols
Document ID: BB-REF-006
Version: 1.2.0
Last Updated: 2026-01-18
---
Overview
This document defines the exact procedures for all Buff Barista performance modes. These protocols ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all public appearances.
> "A great performance looks spontaneous. It's actually highly rehearsed."
---
Performance Modes
Buff Barista has five primary performance modes:
| Mode | Description | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| DJ Set | Music mixing with crowd engagement | 30 min - 2 hours |
| Handstand Performance | Signature athletic demonstration | 30 sec - 2 min per attempt |
| Dancing with Weights | Movement performance with dumbbells | 3-5 min per song |
| Buff Flow Session | Full structured dance-fitness workout | 15-60 min |
| Comp-Core Integration | Motion-reactive DJ performance | Variable |
---
DJ Set Protocol
Set Structure
Short Set (30 minutes)
| Phase | Duration | BPM Range | Energy | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Opener | 5 min | 100-110 | 6/10 | Warm up crowd, establish presence |
| Build | 10 min | 110-125 | 7-8/10 | Increase energy, test response |
| Peak | 10 min | 125-135 | 9-10/10 | Maximum energy, signature moments |
| Closer | 5 min | 120-110 | 7/10 | Controlled descent, memorable finish |
Standard Set (60 minutes)
| Phase | Duration | BPM Range | Energy | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Opener | 8 min | 95-105 | 5/10 | Atmospheric, let crowd settle |
| Warm-up | 12 min | 105-120 | 6-7/10 | Build recognition, familiar tracks |
| Build 1 | 10 min | 120-128 | 8/10 | First energy push |
| Peak 1 | 8 min | 128-135 | 10/10 | First climax |
| Valley | 7 min | 115-120 | 6/10 | Recovery, regroup |
| Build 2 | 7 min | 120-130 | 8-9/10 | Second push |
| Peak 2 | 5 min | 130-140 | 10/10 | Maximum moment |
| Closer | 3 min | 120-100 | 7/10 | Graceful exit |
Extended Set (2 hours)
Follow standard structure with:
- 3-4 peak moments
- 2-3 valleys for recovery
- More variety in genre/era
- Planned handstand or weights moments
Energy Curve
Energy Level (1-10)
10 │ ★ Peak 1 ★ Peak 2
9 │ ╱ ╲ ╱ ╲
8 │ ╱ ╲ ╱ ╲
7 │ ╱ ╲ ╱ ╲
6 │ ╱ ╲╱ ╲
5 │ ╱ ╲
└──────────────────────────────────────────────
Open Build Peak Valley Build Peak CloseCrowd Reading
| Signal | Interpretation | Response |
|---|---|---|
| Dancing/moving | Engaged | Maintain or increase energy |
| Standing still | Uncertain | Try different genre/era |
| Leaving floor | Disengaged | Bring familiar hit, change pace |
| Phones out (filming) | Peak moment | Extend the moment, give them content |
| Requesting songs | Connected | Acknowledge even if can't play |
Technical Standards
| Metric | Target | Acceptable Range |
|---|---|---|
| Beat Matching | 100 | |
| Transition Smoothness | Seamless | No dead air > 1 second |
| Volume Consistency | Even | No jarring level changes |
| EQ Management | Clean | No harsh frequencies |
| Microphone Use | Purposeful | Only for genuine hype moments |
---
Handstand Performance Protocol
Pre-Performance Checklist
Before any handstand attempt:
- [ ] Surface check: Flat, stable, non-slip
- [ ] Space check: 6ft radius clear of obstacles
- [ ] Crowd check: People at safe distance
- [ ] Body check: No injuries, properly warmed up
- [ ] Mental check: Confident, focused, ready
Warm-Up Routine (Minimum 10 minutes before)
| Exercise | Reps/Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Wrist circles | 20 each direction | Joint prep |
| Shoulder dislocates | 10 reps | Shoulder mobility |
| Downward dog | 30 sec hold | Shoulder load prep |
| Pike walks | 5 reps | Core activation |
| Wall walks | 3 reps | Inversion prep |
| Crow pose | 3 x 10 sec | Balance activation |
| Wall handstand | 30 sec | Full prep |
Handstand Progression Targets
| Level | Duration | Status | Public Performance? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Handstand | 60+ sec | COMPLETE | Demo only |
| Freestanding 15 sec | 15 sec | IN PROGRESS | With spotter nearby |
| Freestanding 30 sec | 30 sec | TARGET | Yes, primary performance |
| Freestanding 45 sec | 45 sec | FUTURE | Yes, signature move |
| One-Handed | Any duration | ASPIRATIONAL | Showstopper |
Performance Confidence Thresholds
Only perform publicly if:
- Success rate in practice: 80
- No injuries or soreness in relevant muscles
- Mental state: Confident, not anxious
- Environment: Surface, space, and crowd conditions met
During Performance
| Phase | Action | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Clear space, build anticipation | 10-15 sec |
| Entry | Kick up or press up (whichever stronger) | 2-3 sec |
| Hold | Maintain position, engage crowd | Target duration |
| Exit | Controlled descent (never crash) | 2-3 sec |
| Recovery | Quick stretch, acknowledge crowd | 5-10 sec |
Safety Protocols
Bail Positions:
1. Forward Roll: Tuck chin, roll through
2. Cartwheel Out: Turn sideways, controlled exit
3. Pirouette: Turn 180°, step down
Never:
- Attempt on wet/slippery surface
- Attempt when fatigued
- Attempt after alcohol (even if not performing)
- Attempt without warm-up
- Attempt near obstacles or edges
Recovery Protocol
| After Each Attempt | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Wrist shakes | Release tension |
| Shoulder rolls | Decompress |
| Deep breaths | Re-center |
| 2-3 min minimum between attempts | Recovery |
---
Dancing with Weights Protocol
Weight Selection
| Context | Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Quick demo | 5 lbs | Minimal fatigue, max movement |
| Standard performance | 10 lbs | Balance of visual and mobility |
| Strength emphasis | 15 lbs | Shorter duration, impressive visuals |
Movement Patterns
Basic Movements (Any skill level)
| Movement | Description | BPM Sweet Spot |
|---|---|---|
| Bicep Curl to Beat | Curl on 1 and 3 | 100-120 |
| Shoulder Press Pulse | Press on beat, lower between | 90-110 |
| Weight Walk | March with weights at sides | 110-130 |
| Lateral Raise Groove | Raise to shoulder on drop | 120-140 |
Intermediate Combinations
| Combination | Beats | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Curl-Press-Step | 8 count | Curl (1-2), press (3-4), step R (5-6), step L (7-8) |
| Lunge and Lift | 8 count | Lunge R (1-4), lateral raise (5-8), repeat L |
| Box Step Arms | 4 count | Box step feet, overhead press alternating |
Signature Moves
| Move | Description | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| The Flex Pour | Mime pouring coffee while curling | Photo moments |
| The Beat Drop Squat | Deep squat on major drop | Peak energy |
| The Shuffle Press | Shuffle feet, press overhead | Transition between songs |
Duration Guidelines
| Set Length | Weights Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 30 min DJ set | 1-2 segments, 2 min each | Conserve energy |
| 60 min DJ set | 2-3 segments, 3 min each | Peak moments only |
| Dedicated weights performance | 5 min max continuous | Full focus |
Safety Rules
- Grip: Always secure, dry hands
- Space: 8ft radius clear when weights in motion
- Floor: Padded surface preferred if dropping possible
- Fatigue: Stop before form breaks down
- Overhead: Never directly over face/head of others
---
Buff Flow Session Protocol
Overview
Buff Flow is the structured evolution of "Dancing with Weights" — a full fitness program modeled on Billy Blanks' Tae Bo, adapted for the livestream era.
> "Energy builds energy. Movement creates music. Coffee fuels the flow."
Program Tiers
| Tier | Name | Duration | Intensity | Weights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation | First Brew | 20 min | 5/10 | None or 2lb |
| Building | The Warm-Up | 30 min | 6-7/10 | 3-5lb |
| Standard | Full Roast | 45 min | 7-8/10 | 5-10lb |
| Intense | Double Shot | 45-60 min | 9/10 | 10-15lb |
| Express | Quick Pour | 15 min | 8/10 | Any |
Standard Session Structure (45 min — Full Roast)
| Time | Phase | Focus | Energy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 00:00-03:00 | Welcome | Energy check, intention, community | 5/10 |
| 03:00-08:00 | Warm-Up | No weights, mobility, groove activation | 6/10 |
| 08:00-10:00 | Weights Up | Grab weights, first patterns | 6/10 |
| 10:00-25:00 | Flow Block 1 | 3-4 songs, progressive choreography | 7-8/10 |
| 25:00-27:00 | Active Recovery | Water, march, engage chat | 4/10 |
| 27:00-38:00 | Flow Block 2 | Peak intensity, signature moves | 9-10/10 |
| 38:00-42:00 | Cool Down | Weights down, slower movement | 4/10 |
| 42:00-45:00 | Close | Stretch, gratitude, community | 3/10 |
Energy Curve
Intensity
│
10 │ ╭──────╮
│ ╱ ╲
8 │ ╭───────╯ ╲
│ ╱ ╲
6 │ ╭───╯ ╲
│ ╱ ╲
4 │──╯ ╲──
│
2 │
└────────────────────────────────────────
Warm Block1 Recovery Block2 Cool
↑ ↑ ↑
Build Breathe PeakSignature Moves
| Move | Description | Counts | Cue Words |
|---|---|---|---|
| The March | Basic march in place, arms swinging | 8 | "March it out" |
| Side Step | Step-touch side to side | 8 | "Side to side" |
| The Groove | Hip sway with arm waves | 8 | "Feel the groove" |
| The Pump | Alternating bicep curls while stepping | 8 | "Pump it up" |
| Flow Press | Shoulder press while grooving | 4 | "Press and flow" |
| The Barista | Squat + bicep curl + press (like pouring) | 8 | "Pour it up" |
| Coffee Grind | Hip circles with weights overhead | 8 | "Grind it" |
| Espresso Shot | Quick squat pulse + punches | 4 | "Shot, shot, shot" |
Pre-Session Checklist
30 Minutes Before:
- [ ] Space cleared and clean
- [ ] Weights ready (appropriate for tier)
- [ ] Phone/camera charged or plugged in
- [ ] Internet speed tested (for livestream)
- [ ] Ring light on, positioned
- [ ] Test audio (voice + music balance)
- [ ] Playlist ready
- [ ] Water bottle filled
- [ ] Outfit on (apron visible)
10 Minutes Before:
- [ ] Start test stream (private)
- [ ] Check framing (full body visible)
- [ ] Post "Going live in 10!" on Stories
- [ ] Deep breaths, get in character
2 Minutes Before:
- [ ] Go live
- [ ] Welcome early viewers
- [ ] Energy UP
During Session
Energy Management:
- Start high, maintain throughout
- Use music as energy booster
- If tired, fake it (audience can't tell)
- Verbal cues keep YOU energized too
Engagement (Livestream):
| Timing | Action |
|--------|--------|
| Every 5 min | Acknowledge new viewers by name |
| During breaks | Read and respond to comments |
| After big moves | Check chat, celebrate together |
| End of blocks | "Drop a 🔥 if you're feeling it" |
Cueing System:
| Timing | Cue Type | Example |
|--------|----------|---------|
| 4 counts before | Preview | "Next we pump it up" |
| On the move | Action | "Pump, pump, pump, pump" |
| During move | Encouragement | "Yes! That's it!" |
| On transition | Direction | "And switch!" |
Crew Management (Phase 1.7+)
Positioning (2-Person Setup):
┌──────────────────────────────────────┐
│ │
│ CAMERA │
│ 📷 │
│ │
│ [Crew 1] [MOHAMED] [Crew 2] │
│ ◯ ★ ◯ │
│ │
│ Slightly CENTER Slightly │
│ behind FRONT behind │
│ │
└──────────────────────────────────────┘Crew Signals:
| Signal | Meaning |
|--------|---------|
| Eye contact + nod | You're on camera, extra energy |
| Hand up | Weights up |
| Hand down | Weights down |
| Flat palm out | Hold/pause |
| Circle motion | Keep repeating current move |
Post-Session
Immediately After:
1. Thank viewers, announce next session
2. End stream properly
3. Check stream analytics
4. Download for clips if needed
Within 24 Hours:
1. Create clips for TikTok/Reels
2. Update title/description with timestamps
3. Add to YouTube playlist
4. Promote replay on Stories
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Stream drops | Check internet, reduce quality |
| Audio echo | Use headphones or move mic |
| Out of frame | Mark floor, practice moves before |
| Music too loud | Reduce before stream |
| No viewers | Keep going, replay gets views |
| Energy dropping | Change song, take water break |
Documentation
For complete Buff Flow documentation, see:
- [../program/BUFF_FLOW_PROGRAM.md](../program/BUFF_FLOW_PROGRAM.md) — Full program overview
- [../program/CHOREOGRAPHY_LIBRARY.md](../program/CHOREOGRAPHY_LIBRARY.md) — All moves and patterns
- [../program/SESSION_TEMPLATES.md](../program/SESSION_TEMPLATES.md) — Tier-specific templates
- [../program/LIVESTREAM_SETUP.md](../program/LIVESTREAM_SETUP.md) — Equipment and tech
- [../program/CREW_GUIDELINES.md](../program/CREW_GUIDELINES.md) — Crew protocols
---
Comp-Core Integration Protocol
Overview
Comp-Core is a computational choreography platform that enables motion-reactive performances. Your movement controls the music in real-time with 48ms latency.
> "Your movement IS the music."
System Architecture
Mocopi Sensors (6 IMU) → cc-collection → cc-anticipation → cc-conductor → cc-echelon → MUSIC
↓
MotionWindow
↓
AnticipationPacket
↓
Section DecisionSystem Requirements
| Component | Specification | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Motion Sensors | Sony Mocopi (6 IMU sensors) | Required |
| Recording Laptop | cc-mcs motion capture server | Required |
| Audio Interface | Low-latency (<10ms) | Required |
| DJ Controller | MIDI-capable, Ableton Link | Required |
| Calibration Space | 10x10 ft minimum | Required |
| Target Latency | <50ms motion-to-sound | Required |
Core Systems Reference
| System | Location | Function |
|---|---|---|
| cc-collection | `/core/motion/cc-collection/` | Multi-sensor fusion |
| cc-anticipation | `/core/motion/cc-anticipation/` | Predictive signals |
| cc-conductor | `/core/agents/cc-conductor/` | Policy engine |
| cc-echelon | `/core/audio-media/cc-echelon/` | Audio control |
| motion-bridge | `/core/audio-media/cc-echelon/crates/motion-bridge/` | Motion→Music |
Pre-Performance Setup
T-60 minutes:
- [ ] Charge all 6 Mocopi sensors
- [ ] Start cc-mcs on laptop
- [ ] Test Bluetooth connectivity
T-30 minutes:
- [ ] Put on all sensors
- [ ] Calibrate in Mocopi app (T-pose)
- [ ] Verify all 6 sensors in cc-mcs
- [ ] Run motion test (full range of motion)
T-15 minutes:
- [ ] Load performance preset in cc-echelon
- [ ] Test motion-to-music mapping
- [ ] Verify Ableton Link sync
- [ ] Check volume levels
T-5 minutes:
- [ ] Final connectivity check
- [ ] Start motion-bridge
- [ ] Verify latency <50ms
- [ ] Brief tech support on standby
Anticipation Signal Mapping
The system extracts 7 key signals from your movement:
| Signal | Range | Performance Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| `commitment` | [0-1] | How locked-in to current move |
| `uncertainty` | [0-1] | Possible transition points |
| `transition_pressure` | N/A | Move boundary detection |
| `recovery_margin` | [0-1] | Available energy reserve |
| `novelty` | [0-1] | Unexpected vs. repeated moves |
| `stability` | [0-1] | Balance and form quality |
| `phase_stiffness` | [0-1] | Rhythmic constraint |
Motion-to-Music Mapping
| Your State | Anticipation Signal | Music Response |
|---|---|---|
| Building energy | High commitment, rising energy | Build section, faster BPM |
| Peak performance | Peak energy, high novelty | Climax, drops |
| Recovery | Falling energy, high uncertainty | Recovery section, slower |
| Stillness | Low commitment, stillness | Breakdown, ambient |
| Transition | Transition pressure spike | Phrase boundary, section change |
Section Control
The system automatically detects and controls music sections:
| Section | Trigger | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Intro | Session start | Sparse, foundational |
| Groove | Steady movement detected | Rhythmic, consistent |
| Build | Rising commitment | Increasing intensity |
| Climax | Peak energy + novelty | Maximum energy, drops |
| Breakdown | Sudden stillness | Ambient, recovery |
Performance Flow
1. Calibration (2 min): T-pose, then full range of motion
2. Demo (1-2 min): Show audience how motion affects music
3. Warm-up (3-5 min): Let system learn your patterns
4. Performance: Full integration, reactive set
5. Override Ready: Know how to switch to manual instantly
Sensor Placement Check
┌───┐
│ H │ ← Head (headband, tight fit)
└───┘
┌─────┼─────┐
│ │ │
LW [T] RW ← Wrists + Torso (under apron OK)
│ │
LA RA ← Ankles (above bone)Troubleshooting
| Issue | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| High latency (>100ms) | Reduce motion sensitivity, check CPU |
| No response | Check Bluetooth, restart sensors |
| Erratic music | Recalibrate, check sensor straps |
| Section stuck | Reduce threshold sensitivity |
| Complete failure | Switch to manual DJ mode immediately |
Contingency Protocol
If Comp-Core fails during performance:
1. Smoothly transition to standard DJ mode (one button)
2. No acknowledgment to audience unless asked
3. Continue performance as normal DJ set
4. Keep moving — manual DJ still works great
5. Debrief with tech team post-event
Motion Capture During Performance
If recording for later analysis:
1. Start cc-mcs recording before performance
2. Verbal markers for key moments
3. Stop recording after cool-down
4. Export for MotionPhrase library
Documentation
For complete Comp-Core integration details, see:
- [../program/COMP_CORE_INTEGRATION.md](../program/COMP_CORE_INTEGRATION.md) — Full integration plan
- [../program/MOTION_CAPTURE_SETUP.md](../program/MOTION_CAPTURE_SETUP.md) — Mocopi setup guide
- [Comp-Core Technical Docs](../../Desktop/Comp-Core/core/) — System architecture
---
Warm-Up Routines
Standard Pre-Performance Warm-Up (15 minutes)
Minutes 0-5: Mobility
- Neck circles (30 sec)
- Shoulder circles (30 sec)
- Arm swings (30 sec)
- Hip circles (30 sec)
- Leg swings (30 sec each)
- Ankle circles (30 sec)
Minutes 5-10: Activation
- Jumping jacks (30 sec)
- High knees (30 sec)
- Bodyweight squats (10 reps)
- Push-ups (10 reps)
- Plank (30 sec)
Minutes 10-15: Performance Specific
- Handstand prep (if performing handstands)
- Weight movement practice (if performing with weights)
- Dance movement preview (key moves for set)
Quick Warm-Up (If time-crunched, 5 minutes)
- Jumping jacks (1 min)
- Arm circles and swings (1 min)
- Bodyweight squats (1 min)
- Hip/leg swings (1 min)
- Light movement to music (1 min)
Cool-Down Protocol (Post-Performance)
| Activity | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Walk around | 3 min | Lower heart rate gradually |
| Shoulder stretches | 2 min | Release tension |
| Wrist stretches | 2 min | Especially after weights/handstands |
| Hip flexor stretch | 2 min | Counter standing |
| Deep breathing | 2 min | Mental recovery |
---
Injury Prevention Framework
High-Risk Areas
| Body Part | Risk Factor | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Wrists | Handstands, DJ'ing | Stretching, strengthening, rest |
| Shoulders | Weights, handstands | Warm-up, progressive loading |
| Lower Back | Standing, dancing | Core strength, posture |
| Knees | Dancing, squats | Proper form, surface awareness |
Warning Signs (Stop Immediately)
- Sharp pain (vs. muscle burn)
- Joint clicking with pain
- Numbness or tingling
- Swelling during activity
- Sudden weakness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Recovery Mandates
| Condition | Minimum Rest | Before Return |
|---|---|---|
| Minor muscle soreness | 48 hours | Pain-free movement |
| Wrist strain | 1 week | Full mobility, no pain |
| Shoulder strain | 1-2 weeks | Full range of motion |
| Back tightness | 72 hours | Core activation without pain |
Prehab Routine (Weekly)
| Exercise | Sets/Reps | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Wrist circles and stretches | Daily | Joint health |
| Shoulder dislocates | 3x10, 3x/week | Mobility |
| Dead hangs | 3x30 sec, 3x/week | Shoulder decompression |
| Plank variations | 3x30 sec, 3x/week | Core stability |
| Foam rolling | 10 min, 3x/week | Recovery |
---
Performance Confidence Thresholds
Minimum Requirements for Public Performance
| Skill | Threshold | How to Verify |
|---|---|---|
| DJ Set | 3+ successful practice sets | Record and review |
| Handstand | 80 | |
| Weights | 5+ rehearsals of planned routine | Video review |
| Comp-Core | 2+ successful full run-throughs | With tech present |
Green Light / Red Light Decision
Green Light (Perform as planned):
- All thresholds met
- Body feels good
- Mental state confident
- Environment conditions favorable
Yellow Light (Modify performance):
- One threshold marginal
- Minor fatigue or soreness
- Environmental concern
- Action: Reduce difficulty, skip risky elements
Red Light (Cancel or significantly reduce):
- Multiple thresholds not met
- Pain or injury present
- Environmental hazard
- Mental state not right
- Action: Standard DJ only, or cancel
---
Related Documents
- [PERSONA_SPECIFICATION](PERSONA_SPECIFICATION.md) — Character guidelines
- [EVENT_PLAYBOOKS](EVENT_PLAYBOOKS.md) — Event-specific procedures
- [TRAINING_PROTOCOLS](TRAINING_PROTOCOLS.md) — Skill development plans
- [Comp-Core Technical Docs](../../Comp-Core/) — System integration
---
Change Log
| Version | Date | Changes |
|---|---|---|
| 1.2.0 | 2026-01-18 | Enhanced Comp-Core Integration Protocol with system architecture, anticipation signals, motion-to-music mapping, sensor placement, and links to new program/ documentation. |
| 1.1.0 | 2026-01-18 | Added Buff Flow Session Protocol. Expanded from 4 to 5 performance modes. Added links to program/ documentation. |
| 1.0.0 | 2026-01-17 | Initial creation — comprehensive performance protocols |
Promotion Decision
Attach run IDs, datasets, metrics, and reproduction commands.
Source Anchor
spine/Buf Barista/reference/PERFORMANCE_PROTOCOLS.md
Detected Structure
Method · Evaluation · Architecture