The yo-yo has been a famous toy worldwide for a long time, and you might be surprised to learn how long this yo-yoing has been around.
It has been a long way for yo-yoing, and even in the current age of video apps and games, it remains a classical toy.
But, Is The Yo Yo Still a Hobby Worth Pursuing?
If you are looking for one of the cheapest and most fun hobbies, yo-yoing is one of the best options. You can start this hobby with less than $10, and it has a significantly cheaper ongoing cost than other hobbies. Also, yo-yoing is fun and cool to watch.
You probably can’t be a pro in yo-yoing immediately, but you can begin with the basic styles with your yo-yo quickly.
Before getting into tricks, you will require to learn some basic things such as adjusting and winding the string as well as mastering a basic throw.
After this, tackle all types of tricks. One of the best thrills of yo-yoing is feeling proficient at the art, which will do wonders for your well-being and do what you love.
How A Yo-Yo Works
If you are not familiar with a yo-yo, it is a round-shaped toy with an axle and string attached to it.
Performing yo-yo tricks can be relatively challenging, but all yo-yos operate on the same concept.
After understanding the basics of how a yo-yo works, you can do any trick.
Gravity keeps the Yoyo rotating downwards when you let go of your yo-yo that is still attached to your finger.
The yo-yo reaches the maximum rotation rate when the string goes taut.
And because the string is attached to the yo-yo, the yo-yo can continue rotating even after reaching its lowest point.
When it gets there, the built-up energy begins to decrease.
Pulling the string upward creates friction that enables the yo-yo to return to you.
Yoyo Shapes
There are three primary yo-yo shapes; butterfly, modified, and classic.
1. Butterfly
This yo-yo type resembles the shape of the letter ‘V’ and is perfect for performing a wide range of yo-yo tricks.
Butterfly yo-yos are also available in various sizes and tend to have a more significant gap than the classic and modified option.
2. Classic
Classic yo-yos are circular with slightly angled edges, making them look cookie-like.
It can be more challenging to do more advanced yo-yo tricks with this type of yo yo.
3. Modified
Modified yo-yo looks relatively similar to classic yo-yo, but all the sides are equal.
Modified yo-yos are the best option for yo-yo tricks, particularly for beginners.
The Eight Types Of Yo Yo Tricks
Ranging from advanced to beginner, there are many yo-yo tricks to teach yourself.
The most common yo-yo tricks include;
- Quick wind up the string
- Looping tricks
- Basic throw
- String tricks
- Rock the baby
- Elevator trick
- Sidewinder
- Walk the dog
You might require mastering particular basic tricks before moving on to more advanced tricks.
Yo-Yoing Styles
There are several yo-yoing styles to choose from. These include;
1. 1a Style
This is an essential style in which you do tricks with a single yo-yo.
This style is best for beginners looking to perform some basic tricks.
2. 2a and 3a
These styles involve the use of two yo-yos simultaneously. 2a style primarily involves the lopping tricks, while 3a encompasses string tricks.
3. 4a Style
Also referred to as ‘offspring,’ this yo-yoing style involves no string when doing tricks.
4. 5a style
This is a ‘freestyle’ where the yo-yo isn’t attached to your hand during the tricks.
What To Look for When Finding a Good Yo-Yo
1. Materials
The material used in making a yo-yo can influence the grip, rotation speed, and weight of the Yo-yo.
One of the common materials used in making traditional yo-yos is hardwood.
If you want something smooth and reliable in aesthetics, a wooden yo-yo is the best option.
Most modern yo-yos today are made of plastics, including ABS and polycarbonate.
Metal is also used to make yo-yos.
Metal yo-yos usually are denser than other options and have lesser friction.
Similar to their plastic counterparts, metal yo-yos are perfect for tricks.
2. String
Most yo-yos contain a string inside.
Over time, the string might begin to break or tear, so it will require to be replaced.
Fortunately, it usually is inexpensive and easy to do this.
Most yo-yo strings consist of a polyester and cotton blend, which are long-lasting and durable.
Some types of strings are made of synthetic materials like rayon and nylon, which are durable.
Yo-yo strings have different thicknesses, including types 6,8, and 9.
3. Axles And Bearings
The axle refers to what joins both sides of the yo-yo together. It is where the string is attached and wraps around.
The type of bearings and axle used in yo-yo has a significant impact on the yo-yo performance.
Metal or wooden yo-yos most commonly have fixed axles or an axle with a loosely attached string.
These types of yo-yos lack any moving parts, and their simple design is an excellent choice for beginners.
How Expensive Is Yo-Yoing as A Hobby
One of the best things about yo-yoing as a hobby is you don’t have to spend a lot.
For beginner and intermediate yo-yos, you should expect to pay $10 to $15.
You can even start with a cheaper, beginner-style yo-yo for as low as $8.
Some high-end yo-yos might cost over $20, mainly if they come with a spare string or carrying bag.
The butterfly yo-yo is the best option if you want to learn tricks, but if you only want something slick and quick, you can for the classic type.
Bottom Line
Hopefully, you now have a good understanding of yo-yoing as a hobby and everything it entails.
Ultimately, yo-yoing is still a worthy hobby to pursue and provides a fun way to spend your time without high costs.
So, is it worth your time?
Definitely yes!
| Additional Gaming Hobbies | |
|---|---|
| Darts | Entering Sweepstakes |
| Esports | Fantasy Sports |
| RC Cars | Kendama |
| Laser Tag | Lego |
| Marbles | Mazes |
| Paintball | Pen Spinning |
| Pinball | Robot Combat |
| Slot Car Racing | Solving Puzzles |
| Speedcubing | String Figures |
| Tabletop Game | Tether Cars |
| Video Gaming | Wikipedia Racing |
| Yo Yoing | VR Gaming |