How to Prepare for Diabolo Juggling

The diabolo, also called the Chinese Yo-Yo in the United States, is the second oldest juggling prop. It was invented in China over 5 thousand years ago. Diabolo juggling requires the hourglass-shaped diabolo and two sticks connected by a string. Because the diabolo is rarely passed between performers, it is fine--and much easier--for left-handed diabolo jugglers to juggle the diabolo left-handed. You can get started by performing a rolling start.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Hold one stick in each hand. Place the diabolo over the string, and lower the sticks until the diabolo rests on the ground.

2. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and slowly roll the diabolo until it is in front of the foot on the same side as your dominant hand.

3. Move both hands toward your weaker side, rolling the diabolo along the floor in front of you until it is about a foot beyond your other foot.

4. Change directions, quickly rolling the diabolo back toward your dominant side. When the diabolo is directly in front of you, lift it into the air. If you are right-handed, the diabolo spins counter-clockwise. If you are left handed, the diabolo spins clockwise.

5. Lift your dominant hand while relaxing your weak hand. To make the diabolo spin more rapidly, lift your hand faster. For most beginning diabolo tricks, try to spin the diabolo at a medium speed.

Tips & Warnings

• For beginning diabolo juggling, a larger diabolo is better. When you are ready to try tossing the diabolo high in the air, you may want to switch to a smaller diabolo.
• If the diabolo begins to tip forward, push your weak hand forward to balance the diabolo under it. If the diabolo begins to tip backward, pull your weak hand closer to your body to rebalance it.