You Got Your First Yoyo… Now What?

So you got your first yoyo… now what? You may be eager to start learning tricks immediately. But before you dive into the world of modern yoyoing, let us explain exactly what you need to know to make your yoyo journey easier.

1. Yoyo Parts

Here is a brief breakdown of the yoyo components:

Axel: the central screw that connects the two havles of the yoyo together.
String: Most yoyo string is made of polyester. This string is one cord folded in half and specially twisted.
Ball bearing: string is around the bearing, allowing for longer spin time.
Response System: There will be either silicone Pads or a Starburst response system on both halves of the yoyo. This affects the string and the level of response to return the yoyo back to your hand.

2. Putting the String on Your Finger

There are two ends of the yoyo string: the one that goes around the ball bearing and the Slip Knot for your finger. If there is not a Slip Knot, here is a tutorial on how to set it up.

Take the Slip Knot, place it on top of the string, and pull that string through. This loop should be placed on your middle throw hand finger between the first and second knuckle.

This is important so that the string is secured tightly onto your finger and will not slip off while yoyoing.

3. Winding Up the Yoyo

You’ll need to know how to properly wind up the yoyo for smoother throws.

Hold the yoyo in your non-throw hand with the string hanging down.
With your non-throw thumb, hold a portion of the string.
While holding it, wind the string clockwise with your throw hand around the ball bearing until you reach the end.
Let the loop go. Don’t worry, it’s not a knot. If done correctly, the loop will go away once you throw.

4. Holding the Yoyo

Once the string is on your finger, you need to hold the yoyo the correct side up in your hand. The string should be coming from the top of the yoyo to your finger. This ensures that once thrown, it is spinning in the correct direction.

5. Types of Yoyos

The two types of yoyos used today are either Automatic (Responsive) or Unresponsive. It is important to know the difference as each requires a different method to get it back to your hand.

Automatic (Responsive): Have a slimmer gap in between the yoyo and a smaller ball bearing. This will automatically come back to your hand by tugging upwards

Unresponsive: Have a wider gap and a larger ball bearing. These yoyos require you to do a trick called Bind to return it to your hand.

Now that you’ve learn everything you need to know once you got your first yoyo, you’re ready to learn tricks! You can learn how to tricks and from many other skill toys on the Skill Addicts app HERE.