Mastering the Kendama Jumping Stick: A Comprehensive Guide
How to J-Stick: A Kendama Tutorial
Kendama, a traditional Japanese skill toy, has been captivating enthusiasts worldwide with its challenging and impressive tricks. In this guide, we’re going to break down the “Jumping Stick” kendama trick, also known as the Jay Stick. It’s an exciting move that requires precision, control, and a deep understanding of the kendama. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned kendama player, this guide will help you master the Jumping Stick and even explore variations and complementary tricks.
How to Do the Jumping Stick
Step 1: Start with Airplane
Before diving into the Jumping Stick, ensure you have a solid grasp of kendama basics. If you haven’t already, learn how to perform the airplane trick, as it lays the groundwork for the Jumping Stick.
Step 2: Enter Airplane Mode
To perform the Jumping Stick, start by getting into the airplane position, which is a crucial setup for this trick.
Step 3: Keep Your Eye on the Spike
The key to a successful Jumping Stick is keeping a keen eye on the spike throughout the entire process. Inside the Tama (ball), there’s a bit of wiggle room, and that’s what you’ll need to feel for to execute this trick perfectly.
Step 4: Tilt and Flick
- Tilt the kendama slightly forward.
- Use your wrist to flick the Tama backward while keeping your gaze fixed on the spike.
- You may need to practice this motion a few times to get comfortable with it.
Step 5: Aim for the Spike
As you flick the Tama backward, aim to land it back on the spike. To ensure you have enough time to complete the trick, throw the Tama slightly higher than you initially think. However, be cautious not to throw it too high, as the string has a limited length.
Step 6: Eye-Level Focus
Maintain the kendama at eye level while performing the Jumping Stick to ensure you can watch it throughout the entire motion. Avoid throwing it too high, as this can make it challenging to track the Tama.
Step 7: Bend Your Knees
As with other kendama tricks, give yourself enough time to catch the Tama on the spike by slightly bending your knees during the trick. This adds control and fluidity to your movements.
Step 8: Follow It In
Once the Tama is on its way down, align the hole in the Tama with the spike on the kendama’s handle and follow it into the hole.
Tips for Mastering the Jumping Stick
Tip 1: Patience and Practice
As with any kendama trick, patience and practice are your best friends. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t nail the Jumping Stick on your first try. It may take some time to develop the muscle memory and control required.
Tip 2: Perfect Your Timing
Timing is critical for the Jumping Stick. Practice the flick and catch motion until you can consistently land the Tama on the spike. Experiment with different heights and angles to find what works best for you.
Tip 3: Maintain Focus
Keeping your eye on the spike is vital for this trick. Train yourself to follow the Tama’s movement closely, and this will greatly enhance your chances of success.
Tip 4: Experiment with Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic Jumping Stick, don’t hesitate to explore variations. You can try an inward Jumping Stick, where you execute the trick in the opposite direction. Additionally, challenge yourself with double or even triple Jumping Sticks for an extra level of difficulty.
Tip 5: String Length Matters
Be mindful of the length of the string. If it’s too short, you may find it challenging to perform the trick smoothly. Adjust the string length to suit your comfort and style.
Tip 6: Practice Combinations
As you become proficient in the Jumping Stick, incorporate it into combinations with other kendama tricks. Combining tricks can create visually stunning and challenging sequences that showcase your skills.
Conclusion
The Jumping Stick, or Jay Stick, is an exciting kendama trick that demands precision, practice, and dedication. Start by mastering the basics, then focus on perfecting your timing and maintaining your concentration. Once you’ve conquered the Jumping Stick, explore variations and combinations to take your kendama skills to the next level.
Remember, kendama is all about fun and personal growth. Don’t get discouraged by initial failures; instead, embrace them as opportunities to improve. So grab your kendama, start practicing, and soon you’ll be wowing friends and fellow players with your Jumping Stick prowess. Happy kendama-ing