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Object manipulation

Object manipulation is a fundamental discipline within circus arts and performing arts, defined as the skillful physical interaction between one or more performers and inanimate objects to demonstrate dexterity, timing, and visual harmony.^[1] This practice emphasizes control over objects through techniques such as tossing, spinning, balancing, and rolling, often synchronized with music, movement, or other performers to create engaging entertainment or artistic expressions.^[2] Unlike acrobatics or aerial acts, which focus primarily on the body, object manipulation highlights the interplay between human skill and prop dynamics, making it accessible for solo or group performances in circuses, variety shows, and contemporary arts.^[3] The origins of object manipulation trace back to ancient civilizations, with some of the earliest documented evidence appearing in Egyptian tomb paintings from the Middle Kingdom period (c. 2050–1710 BCE), depicting figures juggling.^[1] Similar practices emerged independently in other cultures, including Chinese acrobatics involving object handling as early as 500 BCE^[4] and Greco-Roman performances featuring balanced props during festivals. By the Middle Ages in Europe, juggling and related manipulations were common among traveling entertainers, evolving into formalized acts within 18th- and 19th-century circuses pioneered by figures like Philip Astley, who integrated object skills into structured shows.^[5]^[6] This historical progression transformed isolated dexterity displays into a recognized performing art, influencing global traditions from Indian club swinging^[7] to modern flow arts.^[8]^[9] Key forms of object manipulation include toss juggling, where objects like balls, clubs, or rings are thrown and caught in rhythmic patterns; contact juggling, which maintains continuous body-object contact for illusionary effects, as seen with crystal balls; and spinning techniques involving props such as diabolos, poi, or plates.^[10] Balance-oriented variations, like hat or cane manipulation, add theatrical elements, while contemporary innovations blend these with technology or multimedia for immersive experiences.^[3] Beyond entertainment, object manipulation fosters cognitive and motor development, finding applications in therapeutic programs for coordination and focus enhancement.^[2]

Overview

Definition

Object manipulation is a form of dexterity play or performance in which one or more individuals physically interact with one or more objects using their hands, body, or tools to create patterns, rhythms, or visual effects.^[11] This activity encompasses a broad range of controlled interactions, where the primary goal is to demonstrate proficiency in handling props to produce engaging sequences, often in circus, street performance, or recreational settings.^[12] Key characteristics of object manipulation include a strong emphasis on skill, coordination, timing, and control, setting it apart from simple object handling by demanding sustained engagement without dropping or losing mastery over the props.^[13] Performers must integrate hand-eye coordination, bilateral dexterity, and spatial awareness to maintain fluid motion and precision, often adapting to the object's weight, shape, and momentum.^[14] This sustained control distinguishes it as a performative art rather than casual use, requiring practice to achieve rhythmic and aesthetic outcomes.^[15] The scope of object manipulation includes both solo and group activities, with objects varying from balls and clubs to hats and poi, allowing for diverse expressions in entertainment or personal challenge.^[11] It excludes non-physical interactions, such as digital simulations or conceptual manipulations like telekinesis, focusing solely on tangible, direct contact.^[12] The term originated in 20th-century circus and street performance contexts to differentiate broader prop handling from traditional periodic juggling, and it was later formalized within skill toy and flow arts communities to encompass emerging disciplines like contact juggling and spinning props.^[16]

Historical Development

The earliest evidence of object manipulation, particularly juggling, dates to ancient Egypt around 1994–1781 BCE, where tomb paintings in the Beni Hasan necropolis depict women performing with balls, showcasing rhythmic tossing and catching as part of ritual or entertainment scenes.^[17] Similar practices appear in ancient Greece and Rome circa 300 BCE, with vase paintings and artifacts illustrating performers juggling balls, hoops, and other props, often in contexts of athletic displays or theatrical performances.^[18]^[19] During the medieval and Renaissance periods in Europe, object manipulation evolved within the traditions of itinerant minstrels and jongleurs, who incorporated juggling into their multifaceted acts of music, acrobatics, and storytelling by the 14th century, as evidenced in illuminated manuscripts depicting performers balancing swords and balls.^[20] Professionalization advanced through the formation of minstrel guilds across European towns in the 14th and 15th centuries, which regulated entertainers including jugglers and provided mutual support for traveling troupes.^[21] In Asia, parallel traditions emerged, with the Chinese diabolo—known locally as kongzhu—standardized around the 12th century as a spinning top manipulated on string, rooted in earlier yo-yo-like toys from the Three Kingdoms period (220–280 CE).^[22] Japanese kendama, a cup-and-ball skill toy, developed in the 18th century, drawing from imported European influences and evolving into a test of precision and dexterity.^[23] The modern era saw object manipulation integrate into formalized entertainment, particularly through 19th-century circuses where jugglers like Enrico Rastelli (1896–1931) elevated the art with complex routines involving up to ten balls, sticks, and plates, performing for global audiences and influencing vaudeville stages.^[24]^[25] In the 20th century, skill toys proliferated, with devil sticks—manipulated via handsticks to control a central baton—gaining popularity in the 1970s counterculture scene after earlier European sightings in the 19th century, fostering community workshops and festivals.^[26] Contact juggling, involving seamless body isolations of balls to create illusions of levitation, was popularized in the 1980s by performer Michael Moschen through his acclaimed "Light" routine, which used crystal spheres to blend manipulation with dance and optics.^[27] In the 21st century, object manipulation has expanded through global festivals and digital platforms, with the International Jugglers' Association—founded in 1947—hosting annual conventions that draw thousands for workshops, competitions, and innovation sharing, sustaining a worldwide community.^[28] The rise of internet tutorials on sites like YouTube has democratized access, enabling self-taught practitioners to master techniques via video demonstrations and fostering viral trends in social media.^[29] Technological integration, such as LED-illuminated props introduced in the early 2000s, has enhanced visual performances with programmable lights in clubs, balls, and poi, allowing dynamic color patterns for stage and flow arts.^[30]

Principles and Techniques

Physical Principles

Object manipulation relies on fundamental physical principles, particularly Newton's laws of motion, to govern the acceleration and trajectory of objects during activities such as throwing and tossing. When a manipulator applies force to propel an object, Newton's second law (F = ma) dictates the resulting acceleration, where the force exerted by the hand or tool determines the object's initial velocity based on its mass.^[31] In tossing, objects follow parabolic trajectories under the influence of gravity, described by the equation for vertical motion: y = v₀ sinθ t - (1/2)gt², where y is the height, v₀ is the initial velocity, θ is the launch angle, t is time, and g is gravitational acceleration (approximately 9.8 m/s²). This kinematic model ensures predictable paths, allowing manipulators to time catches accurately, as analyzed in early mathematical treatments of juggling dynamics. For rotational aspects like twirling, angular velocity (ω = v/r) relates tangential speed (v) to the radius (r) of rotation, enabling stable spin dynamics where objects maintain orientation through torque application from the manipulator's grip. These rotational principles, rooted in rigid body mechanics, ensure objects like batons or poi follow consistent circular paths without excessive wobbling. Biomechanical factors underpin the human ability to execute these motions precisely, with hand-eye coordination emerging from integrated sensory inputs including proprioception (awareness of body position) and the vestibular system (for balance and spatial orientation). Muscle memory, a form of procedural learning consolidated through repetition, allows performers to automate complex sequences, reducing cognitive load and enabling fluid execution even under varying conditions.^[32] In contact-based manipulation, maintaining the object's center of mass over the point of support is essential for stability, as deviations lead to tipping or loss of control, a principle analogous to static equilibrium in physics. The properties of manipulated objects—mass, shape, and material—significantly influence performance stability and dynamics. Denser balls, for instance, provide greater inertial stability during juggling by resisting perturbations, while their shape affects aerodynamic drag and spin decay. Material elasticity determines bounce behavior in techniques like bounce juggling, leading to more predictable rebounds with certain materials. These attributes allow manipulators to select props that align with physical constraints for sustained patterns.

Core Techniques

Core techniques in object manipulation encompass foundational skills that enable practitioners to control and coordinate multiple objects through precise hand and body movements. Among the basic hand patterns, the cascade involves three objects in alternating tosses between hands, creating a smooth, overlapping arc trajectory that forms the basis for many aerial manipulations.^[33] The fountain pattern features simultaneous throws from both hands, with objects returning to the same hand, emphasizing symmetric timing and height consistency for stability.^[33] In contrast, the box pattern utilizes horizontal crossing paths, where one object travels across the body while the others follow vertical routes, requiring coordinated wrist flicks to maintain separation and rhythm.^[34] These patterns rely on consistent timing, with dwell time—the duration an object remains in the hand between catch and throw—typically ranging from 0.1 to 0.3 seconds per hand to optimize control and minimize errors.^[35] Body integration extends these hand patterns by incorporating larger muscle groups for enhanced reach and fluidity. Practitioners use arms and shoulders to generate power for higher or longer throws, while feet can serve as auxiliary catch points or launch aids, allowing for seamless transitions in dynamic routines.^[36] Isolation techniques further refine this integration, involving controlled body movements that make objects appear to float independently, achieved by matching the object's path to subtle hand or arm motions without visible propulsion.^[37] Progression models build from simple one-handed rolls, where an object is rotated continuously in a single palm to develop dexterity, to advanced multi-object siteswaps. Siteswap notation quantifies these patterns mathematically; for instance, the number 3 denotes the three-ball cascade, where the sum of throws equals the period of the sequence, enabling systematic advancement to complex variations like 4 or 5 for increased object counts.^[38] Effective practice strategies focus on rhythm and resilience to foster mastery. Drills help synchronize throws and catches, building internal timing for consistent execution. Error recovery techniques, such as body catches—using the torso or legs to intercept errant objects—minimize disruptions, while establishing soft landing zones ensures safety by cushioning drops and preventing injury during extended sessions.^[39]

Types

Juggling and Tossing

Juggling and tossing, a primary form of aerial object manipulation, involves the rhythmic throwing and catching of multiple identical props to maintain them continuously aloft, typically using two hands in alternating patterns. This discipline, often simply referred to as toss juggling, employs props such as balls, clubs, or rings, with practitioners commonly using 3 to 7 objects for standard routines, though advanced performers handle up to 10 or more. Balls are spherical and grippable, often beanbag-style for better control; rings are lightweight, flat hoops about 28 cm in diameter for visibility; and clubs, the most complex prop, measure 50-60 cm in length with weighted ends—typically 200-250 grams total—to facilitate precise spin and rotation during flight.^[40]^[41] The foundational pattern in juggling is the three-ball cascade, an entry-level technique where objects are tossed in a smooth, overlapping arc from one hand to the other, achieving heights of approximately 1.5-2 meters to allow sufficient dwell time for catches. This pattern establishes bilateral coordination and timing, with each hand throwing every third beat in a repeating cycle. Advanced variations build on this, such as Mills' mess, which introduces crossing throws where the arms intertwine and untangle, creating a visually chaotic yet rhythmic flow of objects across the body. Another sophisticated pattern is backcrosses, involving throws launched behind the back over the shoulders and caught in front, demanding enhanced spatial awareness and body isolation to sustain the cascade's tempo.^[42]^[43]^[44] Variations extend juggling into interactive and competitive formats, including partner passing, where two or more jugglers exchange props mid-air in synchronized routines. Synchronous passing occurs when both partners throw simultaneously on the same beat, fostering mirror-like precision, while asynchronous passing alternates throws for a staggered, flowing exchange that reduces collision risks. Combat juggling transforms the practice into an evasion-based game, where performers maintain a three-club cascade while attempting to disrupt opponents by throwing clubs at them, blending skill with strategy in team or individual matches. Notable achievements include world records for endurance and quantity, such as the current record of 18 catches with 8 clubs by Moritz Rosner in 2023, building on earlier feats like Anthony Gatto's 2005 performance of 8 clubs for 16 catches, showcasing the pinnacle of solo numbers juggling.^[45]^[46]^[47]^[48] Challenges in juggling and tossing intensify with increasing object count, as patterns scale nonlinearly: for n objects in a basic cascade, a full cycle requires n throws to return all props to their starting hands, exponentially raising demands on timing, height consistency, and error recovery. Environmental factors like wind alter trajectories unpredictably, necessitating adjustments in throw force and angle, while audience interference—such as distractions or proximity—can disrupt focus and rhythm during performances. These elements underscore the blend of physical dexterity and mental adaptability central to the discipline.^[49]^[50]^[51]

Spinning and Twirling

Spinning and twirling encompasses contact-based object manipulation techniques that sustain rotational motion through continuous physical interaction, leveraging friction and momentum to keep props in motion without release.^[52] Common props include poi, which are balls or weights attached to cords or chains, swung in circular trajectories around the body.^[53] Another key prop is the devilstick, comprising a central baton manipulated via impacts from two shorter handsticks to generate spinning and bouncing patterns.^[54] Techniques emphasize controlled rotations, such as poi flower patterns, where performers execute horizontal figure-eights by synchronizing arm swings to trace petal-like loops in the air.^[55] Isolation twirls, often practiced with elongated objects like pens or folding fans, involve precise wrist flicks that rotate the item 360 degrees while maintaining an illusion of stillness relative to the hand's position.^[56] These methods draw on angular velocity to achieve smooth, hypnotic flows, as outlined in foundational physical principles.^[52] Variations adapt these techniques for performance contexts, including fire spinning where poi or similar props incorporate Kevlar wicks to resist combustion temperatures up to 650°C, enhancing performer safety during ignited displays.^[57] Body wraps extend the motion by guiding poi cords around arms, torso, or legs to form helical paths that integrate the performer's body into the pattern.^[58] Historically, poi twirling traces to pre-1800s Māori traditions in New Zealand, where women used raupa poi—small flax balls on strings—for wrist-strengthening exercises and rhythmic dances to accompany songs.^[59] Skill development progresses from foundational circles, where props trace simple loops to build timing and control, to advanced maneuvers like stalls, which involve sudden halts to redirect momentum, and weaves, interlacing multiple rotational paths for complex visuals.^[60] Practitioners often encounter errors such as tangling in tethered props, typically resulting from asynchronous hand movements or unintended cord overlaps during transitions.^[61]

Skill Toys

Skill toys are specialized inanimate props engineered for developing dexterity and coordination through precise manipulation, often involving spinning, tossing, or balancing. These objects encourage repetitive practice to master increasingly complex interactions, distinguishing them from general playthings by their focus on skill-building mechanics. Prominent examples include the yo-yo, a spool with an axle around which a string is looped, enabling tricks like "sleeping" where it spins freely at the string's end; the diabolo, an hourglass-shaped spool spun vertically on a taut string held between two handsticks; and the kendama, a wooden handle (ken) with cups and a spike connected by string to a ball (tama) for catching and balancing.^[62]^[63]^[64] The mechanics of skill toys revolve around controlled energy transfer and momentum, tailored to each prop's design. In yo-yos, the string—typically 110-120 cm long, measured from fingertip to floor or belly button height—loops loosely around the axle to allow free spinning during sleep or tricks like "walk the dog," where the yo-yo rolls forward on the ground before being jerked back. Returning the yo-yo after a trick relies on binds, where the string wraps around the axle via a backspin mount, rotating the bearing to wind it up without tangling. For the diabolo, the hourglass shape facilitates high-speed spinning on the string, with basic maneuvers like acceleration involving whipping the sticks to build angular momentum; advanced tricks such as the grind balance the diabolo's rim horizontally on one stick after a short toss, requiring precise tilt to maintain contact and spin. Kendama play centers on ball-cup balancing, where the ball's momentum is directed into the handle's cups or spike, originating from cup-and-ball games introduced to Japan around 1777-1778 during the Edo period.^[65]^[66]^[67] Variations in skill toys enhance accessibility and performance, incorporating modern engineering for broader appeal. For instance, Yomega yo-yos feature a centrifugal clutch mechanism: at low speeds, weights clamp the spindle to the axle for automatic return, but at high RPMs during sleep, the weights fly outward, freeing the spindle to spin independently and enabling extended tricks. Competitive play has formalized these skills, with the International Yo-Yo Federation organizing the annual World Yo-Yo Contest since 1992, drawing global participants for judged routines in categories like 1A string tricks, emphasizing precision, creativity, and endurance. Kendama and diabolo variants include reinforced shapes for durability, such as multi-cup handles or lightweight plastic spools, while hybrid designs blend elements like extended strings for aerial combos.^[68]^[69] Mastering skill toys follows a progressive learning curve, from foundational techniques to elaborate combinations, influenced by material choices that affect handling. Beginners start with basics like yo-yo sleep or diabolo tosses, advancing to binds or grinds within sessions due to the relatively gentle progression; chaining 10+ moves, such as kendama cup-to-spike transitions or diabolo whip-grind sequences, demands months of practice for fluidity. Wooden constructions, common in traditional kendama and some diabolos, provide superior grip through natural texture and weight distribution, reducing slippage during balances compared to slick plastic alternatives used in modern yo-yos for lighter responsiveness.^[70]^[71]^[72]

Dexterity-Based Forms

Dexterity-based forms of object manipulation prioritize fine motor control and precision in handling everyday or simple objects, distinguishing them from aerial or rotational techniques by maintaining continuous contact and minimal movement amplitude. These forms rely on subtle finger dexterity, wrist flexibility, and hand-eye coordination to execute intricate patterns, often creating visual illusions through controlled positioning rather than momentum.^[73] A prominent example is contact juggling, where performers roll transparent balls—typically acrylic or glass spheres—across their fingers, arms, and torso without releasing them from contact, simulating levitation through smooth, unbroken motion. This technique, popularized by performers like Michael Moschen in the late 20th century, draws on gestalt principles to exploit perceptual illusions, making the balls appear to float independently. Pioneered in modern form through instructional works like James Ernest's 1990 book Contact Juggling, it emphasizes isolation moves and body rolls to sustain fluid sequences.^[74]^[75] Coin manipulation exemplifies precision in smaller-scale dexterity, involving techniques such as rolling coins edge-over-edge between the fingers or fanning multiple coins in cascading displays. Seminal contributions from early 20th-century experts like Nelson Downs, detailed in his 1900 treatise Modern Coin Manipulation, highlight palm spinning—rotating coins at rates up to 5-10 per second using thumb and finger opposition for seamless transitions. These methods demand exceptional tactile sensitivity to maintain grip without audible clicks or visible slips, often integrated into sleight-of-hand routines for magical effects.^[76]^[77] Hat tricks represent a historical variant rooted in vaudeville performance around the 1900s, where brimmed hats like bowlers or derbies are manipulated using the hat's edge for leverage in cascades and toss-free balances. Performers such as those documented in early 20th-century juggling archives executed sequences like "dancing hats," rolling multiple hats down the arm or across the body while leveraging the brim to redirect motion without full releases. This style, prevalent from 1900 to 1950, showcased portability with everyday attire as props, allowing improvisational acts in theater settings.^[78] Variations extend to card flourishing, where decks are riffled, fanned, or sprung into symmetrical displays through rapid finger shuffles and pivots, emphasizing aesthetic precision over utility. In speedcubing contexts, cube rolling involves advanced finger manipulations beyond puzzle-solving, such as one-handed layer turns or edge rolls to accelerate orientation at over 10 turns per second, enhancing overall dexterity in competitive settings. Therapeutically, these forms are applied in occupational therapy to develop in-hand manipulation skills, aiding children and adults in tasks like coin handling or tool positioning to improve daily functional independence.^[79]^[80]^[81] Unique challenges in dexterity-based forms include sustaining endurance for routines exceeding 30 minutes, requiring sustained muscle control to prevent fatigue-induced errors, as seen in prolonged contact juggling performances. Creating illusions of levitation often involves perceptual misdirection through hidden palm contacts or body isolations, demanding rigorous practice to mask transitions seamlessly. The use of minimal, ad-hoc props further enhances portability, enabling practice and performance in diverse environments without specialized equipment.^[75]^[74]

Applications and Cultural Impact

In Performance Arts

Object manipulation is integral to performance arts, enhancing entertainment through skillful displays in circus, theater, and street spectacles. In circus productions, such as those by Cirque du Soleil—established in 1984—acts frequently integrate juggling and other manipulation techniques with acrobatics to produce fluid, high-energy routines that captivate audiences.^[82] Street busking, a form of impromptu public performance, often features poi manipulation to draw and entertain crowds, with performers using the rhythmic swinging of these weighted balls on strings to create engaging visual flows.^[83] Artistic elements elevate these displays by synchronizing manipulation with broader performative aspects. Choreography in juggling and spinning routines is commonly aligned to music tempos, where tosses and rotations match the beats per minute (BPM) for seamless rhythmic integration.^[84] Lighting effects, including LED-equipped glow balls, amplify nighttime shows by producing luminous trails and color-shifting patterns that heighten the visual drama.^[85] Additionally, performers employ objects narratively, using their motion to symbolize themes like balance or chaos, thereby infusing acts with emotional and conceptual depth.^[84] Prominent practitioners exemplify the artistry's sophistication. Canadian juggler Philippe Dupuis, a graduate of the École nationale de cirque specializing in advanced patterns, has showcased technical precision in professional settings.^[86] Fire spinning troupes, including those affiliated with the Flow Arts Institute, deliver coordinated group performances that blend dance and pyrotechnics for festival and event stages.^[87] This practice has evolved from vaudeville-era variety shows, where jugglers performed comedic object tricks, to contemporary festivals like Burning Man, incorporating manipulation into immersive, participatory art experiences.^[25] ^[88] Behind the scenes, production emphasizes customization and safety. Props are often tailored, such as incorporating weighted components into costumes to facilitate stable manipulation during dynamic movements. For routines involving flaming props, strict protocols are enforced, including fire marshal approvals, dedicated safety attendants, and clear zones free of flammables to mitigate risks.^[89]

In Recreation and Education

Object manipulation serves as a popular recreational activity, fostering hobbies through dedicated clubs and events that bring enthusiasts together. University juggling societies, such as those at Cornell University and Case Western Reserve University, provide regular meetings for members to practice skills like ball juggling and club passing, promoting social interaction and skill progression among students.^[90]^[91] Similarly, the World Juggling Federation (WJF) has organized annual conventions and competitions since its inaugural event in 2004, including televised sport juggling events that attract participants worldwide and emphasize competitive yet accessible formats.^[92] These gatherings, like the WJF's ongoing championships, highlight object manipulation as a communal hobby that encourages creativity and persistence; as of 2025, the WJF continues efforts to include juggling in the Olympics and partnered with events like the European Juggling Convention.^[93] Beyond social aspects, recreational object manipulation offers therapeutic benefits, particularly for stress relief through achieving a flow state. The rhythmic coordination required in activities like juggling induces a meditative focus that reduces anxiety and enhances mood, as the repetitive motions promote relaxation and immersion.^[94] Neuroscience research supports this, showing that juggling activates brain regions associated with visual-motor integration, leading to improved concentration and a sense of calm during practice.^[95] In educational settings, object manipulation builds essential motor coordination skills, often integrated into school programs to enhance physical development. Physical education curricula incorporate manipulative activities, such as tossing and catching balls or using skill toys, to improve hand-eye coordination and body awareness in children.^[96] These programs emphasize precision and fluidity in object control, helping students progress from basic throws to more complex patterns. Therapeutically, juggling and similar tasks aid individuals with ADHD and autism by alleviating symptoms through enhanced focus and motor proficiency; studies indicate that circus-based interventions, including juggling, promote neuroplasticity and reduce anxiety in neurodiverse youth.^[12] For instance, regular ball-handling exercises have been linked to better dexterity and bilateral coordination in children with developmental challenges.^[97] Community engagement amplifies accessibility via online resources and improvised tools. YouTube channels like Taylor Tries offer beginner tutorials on three-ball juggling, with videos garnering over 2.6 million views to guide learners step-by-step.^[98] DIY props made from household items, such as rolled socks or small fabric pouches for tossing, enable novices to start without specialized equipment, adapting basic techniques like underhand throws.^[99] On a broader scale, object manipulation facilitates team-building workshops that enhance collaboration and problem-solving. Sessions involving group juggling or poi spinning encourage participants to synchronize movements, building trust and communication in corporate or community settings.^[100] Cognitively, these activities bolster spatial reasoning via bilateral training, where alternating hand use strengthens neural connections for visuospatial processing, as evidenced by brain imaging studies showing structural changes after short-term juggling practice.^[101]^[102]

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Sep 26, 2015 · Squeeze patterns can be described by siteswap notation, including multiplexes. In a normal multiplex siteswap pattern, you do a 2 and then wait ...
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https://www.juggling.org/records/rules.html
[41]
https://www.dube.com/club/european-juggling-clubs.php
[42]
European Clubs - Dube Juggling Equipment
Diameter: 8.25 cm (3.25 in.) Weight**: European 220 -- approximately 220 gm (7.7 oz). **Weights are average -- all clubs within a set are weight matched.
[43]
Three Ball Cascade - Library of Juggling
You will want to get very comfortable throwing the ball from you dominant hand to your non-dominant, and vice versa. Try to keep the height of the throws a ...
[44]
Mills Mess - Library of Juggling
Starting with one ball in your dominant hand, cross that arm over the other, and throw the ball across your body to your non-dominant hand. At the same time, ...
[45]
Backcrosses - Library of Juggling
Backcrosses is a variation of the Cascade where each throw is made behind your back, over your shoulder, and caught in front. It is difficult to master.
[46]
Passing for total beginners
Synchronous passing is good for getting early success and looking at your passes, but asynchronous passing will last longer in the end. ... If you've seen or done ...
[47]
Combat Juggling
Combat Juggling integrates the skill of juggling three clubs into a team sport where team members must attack and destroy the opposing force's ability to ...
[48]
JIS Numbers Juggling Records
Jul 1, 2012 · 11, Anthony Gatto, 2006, 17 catches, Gatto Entertainment 13 web video. 10, Anthony Gatto, 2005, 47 catches, Legendary Moments video. 9, Anthony ...
[49]
The Mathematics of Juggling | Quanta Magazine
May 24, 2017 · Juggling has advanced enormously in recent decades, since mathematicians began systematically investigating the possible patterns of non-colliding throws.
[50]
Where Math Meets Art: New Frontiers in the Mathematics of Juggling
Sep 23, 2012 · One good example of a math-juggling idea is the “average theorem.” It states that you can determine the number of balls being juggled in any ...Missing: scaling | Show results with:scaling
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The Physics—and Physicality—of Extreme Juggling | WIRED
May 17, 2018 · Practitioners often put the ceiling at 14, a number whose experimental origins can be traced to a paper published in 1997 by stuntman Jack ...
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What is object manipulation? - RD buugeng
Object manipulation is when someone performs by physically interacting with one or more objects. You can do this with many different kinds of props and they ...Types of object manipulation · Juggling, tossing & passing · Skill toys · Dexterity
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https://moodhoops.com/poi-spinning/
[54]
Manipulation Skills | UCD Juggling Society
Jan 7, 2025 · Two forms of Whip are generally used in Circus Skills; Bullwhip or Stockwhip. Shortwhips are handled, single-tailed braided lashes, while the ...
[55]
https://www.ultrapoi.com/blogs/news/poi-flowers
[56]
[PDF] Dance Terminology
Basic Twirls. Horizontals: Flat spins in one hand, with ball moving over arm and tip underneath. Verticals: Wrist twirls and ball stays on one side of arm, tip.
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https://www.homeofpoi.com/us/shop/productDetails/Kevlar-Wick-Length-of-2-x-1-8-inch-50mm-x-32mm
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https://www.homeofpoi.com/us/lessons/teach/POI/Wraps/Waist-Wrap-1
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Poi Origins | KQED
Aug 4, 2010 · The pre-European Maori used Poi in games and physical exercises to hone reflexes, improve wrist flexibility, increase overall flexibility and ...Missing: 1800s | Show results with:1800s<|separator|>
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All Videos - Learn Spinning Poi for Beginners to Advanced Online ...
In this poi tutorial, I'm showing how the 3-beat weave pattern becomes a much bigger pattern with circles placed in different positions around the body and ...
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https://www.homeofpoi.com/us/community/forums/topics/118655/Circle
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https://skilladdicts.com/what-is-yoyo/
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What the Diabolo?? - Phare Circus
Consisting of what looks like a big yo-yo spun on a string, tied between two sticks, the Diabolo evolved from the very similar “Chinese yo-yo.”
[64]
Why Every YoYo Player Should Play Kendama - YoYoFactory Europe
Dec 12, 2024 · A kendama is a traditional Japanese skill toy that has been enjoyed for many generations. It consists of a wooden ball (tama) attached to a ...
[65]
How Yo-Yos Work | HowStuffWorks - Entertainment
Yo-yoists try to keep the spool sleeping while making shapes with the string and swinging the yo-yo around them. Another trick is to "walk the dog" -- let the ...
[66]
Preferred string length poll - General Yo-Yo - YoYoExpert Forums
Sep 11, 2018 · The “official” string length for a yo-yo is from the floor to the height of your belly button when the string is on your finger.
[67]
Bind Theory - What Makes Yoyo Binds Work? - YoYoTricks.com
Mar 25, 2016 · Learn the mechanics that makes yoyo binds work in this yoyo bind theory video. Learn to master binds with easy by learning how all binds ...
[68]
How do those yo-yos with the special clutches work? | HowStuffWorks
The new yo-yos use a centrifugal clutch to make it easy for the yo-yo to sleep. The string is attached to a spindle, and the spindle is free to spin on the axle ...
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IYYF.ORG – International Yo-Yo Federation
World Yo-Yo Contest brings together the best players from around the globe to compete, connect, and celebrate the art of Yo-Yoing.Past Rules · World Yo-Yo Contest · About IYYF · WYYC2019 Contest Rules
[70]
Grind Diabolo Tricks
1) Slightly toss the diabolo up in the center. 2) Point your right stick to the left and keep it horizontal. 3) After the diabolo reaches its highest point and ...Missing: curve | Show results with:curve
[71]
Diabolo is insane. I had no idea. Watch this short video, trust me
Mar 25, 2022 · The learning curve is not that steep. Especially if you already know how to yoyo, you can quickly land a couple of grind tricks. Once you learn ...Missing: rim balancing
[72]
Kendama Origins
According to historical literature it is believed that Kendama grew out of Cup & Ball type toys. Included in this group are the cup with a ball on a string type ...Missing: 17th reliable sources
[73]
The Seven Types of Juggling Skills
May 7, 2023 · These seven types of juggling skills are as follows. toss juggling; object balancing; gyroscopic juggling; contact juggling; swinging; striking ...Missing: techniques | Show results with:techniques
[74]
Reviews - Juggling Information Service
Ernest differentiates contact juggling other forms of juggling by defining it as "manipulations of single objects or object groups involving very little tossing ...
[75]
45-1,p22
Moschen uses the elements of contact juggling in quite idiosyncratic ways, depending heavily on illusion based on tricks of gestalt and cognitive psychology.
[76]
[PDF] Tricks with coins or Modern coin manipulation - Ferran Rizo
The magic wand is taken in the left hand, and the coins caught on its extreme end one by one, each being then invisibly passed from the wand to the. Biblioteca ...
[77]
Magic 101: What Is Coin Magic? 14 Types of Coin Tricks - MasterClass
Sep 2, 2022 · More advanced than card tricks, coin tricks require a lot of practice and dexterity to perform convincingly. ... Guide to Impressionism: History ...
[78]
Old School Hat Juggling: 1900 - 1950 · IJA
Dec 30, 2021 · Hat juggling was popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s, with styles like "dancing hats" and tricks with top hats, clown hats, and derbies.Missing: vaudeville object
[79]
Magic 101: 13 Different Techniques to Master Easy Card Tricks - 2025
Sep 2, 2022 · From false deals, shuffles, and cuts, to subtle sneak peeks and forced cards, there are myriad beginner-level card tricks that anybody can master.
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Improving Turning Speed - CubeSkills
This short blog is mainly focused on the physical manipulation of the cube, but will also include some tips to improve turning speed in a solve.Missing: rolling | Show results with:rolling
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In-Hand Manipulation Skills: What are they?
In-hand Manipulation refers to the ability to move and position one or more objects within one hand without using the other hand to assist.Download Our Guide For... · Continue Reading · Questions To Ask Your...
[82]
The Fascinating World of Circus Acts | Blog - Cirque du Soleil
Jun 26, 2024 · Juggling Acts. The world of object manipulation and juggling are other things you see at the circus, and we're here to tell you all about them.
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Fire Dancers Busk for Travel Funds - Vagabond Journey
Jan 7, 2011 · These entertainers are more than often travelers, moving across countries and continents off of the funds they raise from performing in the streets.<|separator|>
[84]
The Power of Storytelling in Fire and Juggling Performances | FireGuy
Sep 20, 2024 · A juggling act isn't just about coordination; it can represent balance, chaos, or resilience. Through storytelling, the performer gives meaning ...
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Glow Balls - TLC Creative Technology
These glowing orbs come to life with dynamic, customizable LED lighting, creating mesmerizing effects that are perfect for concerts, festivals, parties, ...
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Philippe Dupuis - École nationale de cirque
Philippe Dupuis graduated from the National circus school on 2018, specializing in juggling. GalleryMissing: famous one- handed
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Flow Arts Institute: Home
The Flow Arts Institute puts on high-quality retreats and workshops focused on the flow arts: fire-spinning, dance, juggling, and beyond.Missing: troupes | Show results with:troupes
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No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man
The thriving temporary metropolis known as Burning Man is a hotbed of artistic ingenuity, driving innovation through its principles of radical self-expression, ...
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Fire Performance Safety 101 | Specialty Insurance Agency
Oct 12, 2023 · There are four essential safety rules to follow for any fire performance: 1) ALWAYS have a dedicated fire safety (or safeties).
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Home - Juggling Club | Cornell University
We hold regular meetings where members can practice their juggling skills, socialize, and pass with other jugglers. In addition to our weekly meetings, we also ...Missing: examples | Show results with:examples
[91]
Home - Juggling Club | Case Western Reserve University
Case Juggling Club is a group of performers and enthusiasts in all kinds of juggling ... Some of the main props/acts we have include: Ball Juggling Club Juggling ...
[92]
About the WJF - The World Juggling Federation
The initial goal was to produce juggling competition programming to air on a sports network. In 2004, the WJF secured their first five TV deals with ESPN and ...
[93]
The World Juggling Federation – The Global Governing Body for the ...
In 2004, the WJF held it's first convention and aired 5 sport juggling competitions on ESPN. Fifteen WJF Conventions have been held so far with many more on ...WJF 14 · Combat Juggling · Juggling in the Olympics · Juggling Simulator
[94]
Juggling: A Fun Way to Boost Focus and Beat Anxiety
Nov 25, 2024 · Juggling improves focus, reduces anxiety, enhances brain areas for visual/motor activity, and acts as a moving meditation, also improving hand- ...
[95]
Effect of the Juggling-Based Motor Learning Physical Activity on ...
Twenty elderly people (70.55 ± 4.91) were included in a juggling-based motor learning protocol for twelve training units during one month of exercising.
[96]
Manipulative Skills in Physical Education: A Comprehensive Guide ...
Feb 28, 2023 · Manipulative skills in PE involve using hands, feet, or other body parts to control and move objects with precision, accuracy, and fluidity.
[97]
Use it or Lose It: Juggling to Sharpen your Mind (and Body)
In fact there have been multiple instances linking juggling to the alleviation of symptoms of ADHD, dyslexia, and autism. As for a famous example, now world ...
[98]
Learn to JUGGLE 3 BALLS - Beginner Tutorial - YouTube
Sep 17, 2019 · Comments. 2.9K. Me holding three oranges because I don't have the proper equipment: ... Alphabet of 3 ball juggling - 43 tricks. Daniel Simu•214K ...Missing: height | Show results with:height
[99]
Common Objects: Fun and Games with Household Items
Ring Toss: Glue an empty paper towel roll to the center of a paper plate. Grab a handful of paper plates and cut out the middle to make a ring. Take turns ...
[100]
How accessible do you think yoyo would be to a totally blind person
Nov 2, 2025 · I think you completely can do it. Yoyoing doesn't need sight. Most tricks are movement patterns, and spatial awareness is one of the most ...<|separator|>
[101]
Team Building Workshops - Holistic Circus Therapy
Object Manipulation: Juggling, Hula Hoops, Plate Spinning, Poi, and more: Object manipulation tasks provide opportunities for participants to improve ...
[102]
Training-Induced Brain Structure Changes in the Elderly - PMC
We observed that elderly persons were able to learn three-ball cascade juggling, but with less proficiency compared with 20-year-old adolescents. Similar to the ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[103]
The Effect of Juggling as Dual-Task Activity on Human Neuroplasticity
Jun 9, 2022 · It can be concluded that the bimanual juggling task, as a dual-task activity, may effectively integrate brain areas to improve neuroplasticity.Missing: therapy ADHD autism