How to Spin a Bo Staff

Spinning a Bo Staff can be challenging at first. The Bo Staff is about six feet long and can be difficult to handle especially while spinning. However, with lots of practice you can master the technique required.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bo Staff

1. Hold the Bo Staff in the middle with your right hand. Extend it in front of you, parallel to the ground.

2. Bring your hand to your left and turn your wrist over so your palm is up. Sweep your hand to the right then turn your wrist over again so that your palm is down. Never stop moving during this motion.

3. Move your wrist in a figure-8 motion. After the first time through the Bo Staff will pick up speed. Allow the weight of the Bo Staff to work for you. Don't fight the momentum. Use it.

4. Switch hands with a transition motion. When your hand is at its farthest point to your left place your bent left arm over your right arm spinning the Bo Staff. Your right hand should be under your left elbow. Just as your right hand would be sweeping back to your right, let go of the Bo Staff. The momentum of the spinning Bo Staff will spin it right into your open left hand.

5. Transition to your left hand. Once the Bo Staff is in your left hand sweep it to your right and continue with your figure 8 motions. You can change hands again by transitioning to your right hand on your right side.

Tips & Warnings

• Spinning a Bo Staff requires lots and lots of practice. Do not expect to be able to do it right away. Focus on controlling the center of the Bo Staff and letting the weight work for you. Do not try to do it with muscle. Spinning a Bo Staff is all about technique.
• It is common to lose your grip on the Bo Staff while it is spinning. Be sure there are no people or breakable objects anywhere near you while you spin the Bo Staff.