How To Play Kendama
Now that you’re ready to play kendama, you might be wondering where to start. Here’s some basic tips to get you ready:
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Keep the spike pointed upwards, and the big cup facing you
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The string hole on the ken should be facing the direction of your non-dominant hand (this helps prevent getting tangled up)
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Put your thumb directly under the big cup, and gently grip the ken with the rest of your fingers
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Keep your eyes on the tama 👀
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Use your knees when catching or spiking (this helps cushion the catch, but also gives you an extra bit of time to eye up the bevel)
*There is no right or wrong way to play kendama. Focus one learning how to catch the tama on the cups and the spike first, then start putting combos together! Kendama is about moving forward, creativity, and having FUN!
BONUS: Learn how to SPIKE
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Start by following the directions above
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Keeping the string straight up and down, allow the tama to hang (feel free to use your other hand to steady it out, you don’t want it swinging around)
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Spin the ball using your non-dominant hand (there will be a bead/bearing inside to keep it spinning for a bit)
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Gently pull the ken straight up, allow the tama to come up to chin level
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Keep your eyes on the bevel, and imagine you’re letting the ball fall onto your thumb (it helps if you imagine the spike as an extension of your thumb)
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You landed your first spike! (Missed it? Don’t stress. Keep trying!)
Now you’re ready to learn some of the tricks you’re seeing other players do! Start with these beginner tutorials!