Are you looking for a new and exciting way to get active while having fun? Have you ever heard of devil sticks? Devil sticks are a popular toy among circus performers that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of age or skill level. In this post, we’ll go over some easy devil stick tricks for beginners that will keep you entertained and challenged.
What Are Devil Sticks?
Devil sticks, also known as flower sticks, are a type of juggling prop made up of three sticks. The two handsticks are held by the player and used to manipulate the central stick, also known as the devil stick. The devil stick is typically weighted on the ends, allowing it to spin and rotate in the air.
Getting Started
Before you begin practicing any tricks, it’s important to ensure that you have the right equipment. Devil sticks come in a variety of sizes and weights, so choose one that feels comfortable to you. It’s also important to use quality handsticks, as cheap ones can break easily and ruin your experience.
Once you have your equipment, find a spacious area to practice in. A flat surface is best, as it will make it easier to control the devil stick. When you’re ready to practice, take a deep breath and relax your body.
Basic Tricks
The lift-off is the first beginner move in devil stick. Start by holding one control stick in each hand and placing the center stick across them. With a quick flick of your wrists, lift the center stick into the air. Catch it on the other side with your control sticks. Repeat this motion until you are comfortable with it.
The cradle is the second beginner move in devil stick. Start by holding one control stick in each hand and placing the center stick on top of them. Slowly and smoothly move your control sticks in a circular motion to keep the center stick balanced. Practice this move until you can do it without dropping the center stick.
The helicopter is the third beginner move in devil stick. Start by holding one control stick in each hand and placing the center stick across them. Flick one control stick up into the air and spin it around while the center stick stays in place. Do the same with the other control stick. Practice this move until you can do it smoothly and without dropping the center stick.
Once you’re comfortable, you can also try the figure-eight. Hold the devil stick in the middle, and using your handsticks, guide it in a figure-eight motion. This trick can be done in either direction, so experiment with both to find which one feels most natural to you.
Intermediate Tricks
Once you’ve mastered the basic tricks, it’s time to move on to more challenging ones. The first intermediate trick to try is the rollover. Hold the devil stick with both handsticks and lift one end up slightly so that the devil stick is at a slant. As the devil stick rolls towards the other end, catch it with both handsticks and flip it back the other way.
Another intermediate trick that requires more control is the stall. Hold the devil stick in the middle, and as it rotates towards you, lift one end up in the air while catching the other end with your opposite handstick. This trick takes some practice, but with patience and determination, you’ll be able to master it.
Advanced Tricks
If you’ve mastered the intermediate tricks, it’s time to move on to the advanced ones. These tricks are designed to challenge you both mentally and physically.
The first advanced trick to try is the whip catch. Hold the devil stick in the middle, and as it rotates towards you, use your other handstick to give it a quick flick, causing it to spin rapidly in the air. Then, quickly catch it with both handsticks. This trick requires a lot of hand-eye coordination and timing, so be patient as you practice it.
Another advanced trick that’s sure to impress is the behind-the-back catch. Hold the devil stick behind your back with one handstick, and using the other handstick, toss the devil stick into the air. As it comes back towards you, catch it with both handsticks. This trick takes some practice, but once you’ve mastered it, it’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Final Thoughts
Devil sticks are a fun and exciting way to get active and challenge yourself both mentally and physically. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there are plenty of tricks to learn and master. Remember to be patient with yourself and practice regularly. With time and dedication, you will surely become a master of devil stick!
