STAFF SPINNING for Beginner Tutorial - Technique 1 Figure 8

Summary

In this first part of a staff spinning tutorial series, Paul Ingram introduces viewers to the basic technique of the downward figure-eight spin. The tutorial covers how to grip the staff, positioning the right and left hands, and the key movements for spinning the staff in front and behind the body. Paul emphasizes the importance of slow practice, starting with one hand before alternating between the right and left hand. Viewers are encouraged to master the spin at a comfortable pace before progressing to intermediate techniques like switching hands while stepping forward or back. The video promises more techniques in future lessons.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start with a traditional rattan staff for better grip and conditioning.
• 😀 The downward figure eight is the first technique in this staff spinning tutorial series.
• 😀 Grip the staff with your right hand in the middle and your left hand at the center of your chest.
• 😀 Keep your right leg forward, with your palm facing the same direction as your chest to start the spin.
• 😀 Rotate the staff by first bringing your thumb down, then rotating it in front and behind your body.
• 😀 The pinky side of the staff simply follows along with the motion of the thumb side.
• 😀 Ensure your right hand stays at chest-to-shoulder height while spinning for proper technique.
• 😀 When alternating hands, switch in front of your chest by transferring the staff from thumb to thumb.
• 😀 To increase speed, tighten the spin’s circular motion and emphasize wrist rotation.
• 😀 Practice slowly at first to develop control, then gradually increase the speed as you improve.

Q & A

What is the focus of the first tutorial in the staff spinning series?

The first tutorial focuses on teaching the downward figure-eight staff spinning technique, guiding viewers through the basic movements and principles.

Why is it recommended to use a rattan staff for training?

Rattan is recommended because it is slightly heavier than other materials, providing better conditioning for grip strength, wrist flexibility, and overall body conditioning.

How should you grip the staff at the beginning of the downward figure-eight technique?

Grab the staff with your right hand roughly in the middle, and place your left hand at the center of your chest, near the solar plexus.

What is the proper stance for performing the downward figure-eight spin?

Position your right leg forward and ensure your right palm is facing the same direction as your chest. This helps maintain stability during the spin.

How do you start the downward figure-eight spin with your right hand?

Begin by rotating the thumb of your right hand down. The staff will spin in front of your body, and as your thumb completes the rotation, it will continue rotating until it’s back in the up position, crossing behind your body.

What is the role of the pinky side of the staff during the figure-eight spin?

The pinky side of the staff simply follows the motion of the thumb side and does not perform any active rotation.

How should you adjust your hand position for the downward figure-eight spin?

Your hand should stay at chest-to-shoulder height to maintain proper control over the staff. Avoid letting your hand go too high or too low.

What is the key to making the downward figure-eight spin faster?

To increase speed, tighten the circular motion of the staff and focus on using your wrist to generate more force.

What should you do when switching hands during the downward figure-eight spin?

When switching hands, perform a thumb-to-thumb motion in front of your chest. Release the staff with the current hand and catch it with the opposite hand.

How can you improve your footwork during staff spinning?

Start by stepping back with the opposite foot of your active hand during the hand switch. Once comfortable, you can practice stepping forward and backward to build more dynamic movement.