BEGINNER'S GUIDE
How to start playing with a yo-yo
Got your first yo-yo but not sure how to start? Here you will learn everything you need: how to put the string on, wind the yo-yo correctly, make your first throw and bring it back to your hand.
We will also show you how to change the bearing, what the difference is between a responsive and an unresponsive yo-yo, and which tricks are best to start with.
How do you put a string on a yo-yo?
Before your first throw, you need to attach the string correctly.
1. Putting the string on the yo-yo
At one end of the string there is a twisted loop. Untwist it slightly to open a gap and put the yo-yo's bearing inside it. Then let go of the string so it twists back around the bearing.
Do not tie the string in a knot around the axle. It needs to be able to move freely.
2. Attaching it to your finger
At the other end of the string there is a small loop. Pass the string through it to make a slipknot that tightens around your finger.
Put it on your middle finger, usually between the first and second knuckle, so it stays secure while you play.
3. Checking the length
Let the yo-yo down to the floor. To start with, it is easiest if the string reaches roughly up to your belly button. If it is too long, cut it shorter and tie a new loop.
How do you throw a yo-yo?
The basic throw is called the Gravity Throw, and it is the first move you need to learn.
- 1Place the yo-yo in your palm with the string coming out over the top.
- 2Bend your arm at the elbow so the yo-yo is roughly at shoulder height.
- 3With a smooth motion, throw it downwards as you straighten your arm.
- 4Let the yo-yo unwind and start spinning at the end of the string.
When the yo-yo keeps spinning at the end of the string without coming straight back, it is called a Sleeper. It is the basis of many of the tricks that follow.
How do you bring a yo-yo back to your hand?
How you bring it back depends on whether you are using a responsive or an unresponsive yo-yo.
How do you return a responsive yo-yo?
A responsive yo-yo comes back with a light tug on the string.
Once the yo-yo reaches the end of the string, make a light upward movement with your hand. It will start winding up the string and come back to your palm.
You do not need to pull hard. With practice you will learn to hit the right moment.
How do you return an unresponsive yo-yo?
An unresponsive yo-yo does not come back with a simple tug. To bring it back, you need to learn a technique called a Bind.
You feed an extra piece of string into the spinning yo-yo so that it catches and starts winding around the axle.
The Bind is one of the most important tricks for beginners with an unresponsive yo-yo. Once you have mastered it, you can move on to more complex combos.
How do you change a yo-yo bearing?
Most of our models come with two bearings. This lets you use the same yo-yo in both responsive and unresponsive mode.
To change the bearing:
- 1Carefully unscrew the two halves of the yo-yo.
- 2Remove the installed bearing. If needed, use a suitable bearing removal tool.
- 3Fit the other bearing, making sure it is seated correctly.
- 4Screw the yo-yo back together without overtightening.
- 5Put the string on and check that the yo-yo spins freely.
Important: Not all yo-yos can switch between the two modes. Some models may also need a different axle. Always follow the instructions for your specific model.
What yo-yo tricks can I learn?
Now that you know how to throw and return the yo-yo, it is time for the most fun part: tricks!
There are different kinds of yo-yo tricks depending on how they are done and which model you use. If you are a beginner, start with the basic moves and gradually work up to the harder ones.
Tricks with a responsive yo-yo
These categories suit your first tricks. You can start with classic moves such as Sleeper, Walk the Dog and Around the World.
Tricks with an unresponsive yo-yo
Once you have mastered the basic moves and the Bind, you can start learning modern string tricks.
You do not need to learn every kind of trick at once. Start with the ones that look most interesting to you and build up your skills step by step.
WE RECOMMEND
Skill Addicts is one of the best apps for learning yo-yo tricks. It offers step-by-step video lessons, from the first basic moves to complex combos, and is available for Android and iOS.
Frequently asked questions
Why won't my yo-yo come back?
If you are using an unresponsive yo-yo, this is completely normal: you need to do a Bind to bring it back.
If the yo-yo is responsive, check that the string is on correctly, that the bearing is the right one and that the silicone response pads are not worn.
Why does my yo-yo tilt to one side?
The most common cause is an uneven throw. Try to keep your hand straight and throw the yo-yo with a smooth motion. With more practice you will get a more stable spin.
Why does the yo-yo string get twisted?
As you play, the string gradually builds up twist. Let the yo-yo hang freely and allow it to spin in the opposite direction to remove the extra twist.
How often should I change the yo-yo string?
That depends on how often you play. If the string starts to fray, loses its shape or wears thin, it is time to change it. Do not use a damaged string, because it can snap during a throw.
Can I do tricks with a responsive yo-yo?
Yes! With a responsive yo-yo you can do many classic tricks, including Sleeper, Walk the Dog and Around the World. For longer and more complex string combos, however, an unresponsive model is usually used.
What are the easiest yo-yo tricks for beginners?
Start with the Gravity Throw, Sleeper, Walk the Dog and Forward Pass. Once you have mastered them, you can move on to Around the World and other classic tricks.
Ready for your first trick?
Do not worry if not everything works at first. Even the best players started with a simple throw and return.
Practise regularly, start with the easier tricks and gradually move on to the harder ones. The most important thing is to have fun!