the freestyle nunchaku ebook ver 1 0
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Despre nunchakuTRANSCRIPT
Ver. 1.0
www.nunchakututorials.com JMVICUNA
[THE FREESTYLE NUNCHAKU E-BOOK] An e-book that will help you discover freestyle nunchaku, by www.nunchakututorials.com
1 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
LICENSE
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported
License.
Copyright © 2012 JMVICUNA & NunchakuTutorials.com. All rights reserved.
Feel free to pass around this e-book and freely distribute it.
However, whatever you do, you must follow these rules:
The e-book must be presented entirety. No modifications allowed.
Don't use any form of spam to promote it.
It must be contained in electronic format. No physical copies allowed.
Some pictures were taken from internet. If you are the owner of one of them, and want them removed, or
given credit, please let me know at: [email protected].
2 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
VERSION
Before you start reading, make sure you have the latest version of this e-book.
You can download the latest version here: http://nunchakututorials.com/ebook
THIS IS A FREE E-BOOK, IF YOU
PAYED FOR THIS YOU WERE ROBBED
Check at the end of any page which version you have.
3 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
CONTENTS
License ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Version .................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................ 7
Some questions ................................................................................................................................................... 8
Comments from readers ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Donations .......................................................................................................................................................... 10
About Freestyle Nunchaku ................................................................................................................................... 11
History ............................................................................................................................................................... 11
About Nunchakus .................................................................................................................................................. 12
History ............................................................................................................................................................... 12
Legal issues of the nunchaku ................................................................................................................................ 14
Types of nunchakus .............................................................................................................................................. 16
Types of nunchakus .............................................................................................................................................. 17
Connection link ..................................................................................................................................................... 17
Nunchakus with Rope as connection link ......................................................................................................... 17
Nunchakus with Chain as connection link ......................................................................................................... 18
Stick material ........................................................................................................................................................ 19
Dimension and weight .......................................................................................................................................... 20
Shape ..................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Geometrical Shape ............................................................................................................................................ 21
Distribution of the mass .................................................................................................................................... 21
Specific Uses .......................................................................................................................................................... 22
Do It Yourself ......................................................................................................................................................... 23
Do It Yourself ......................................................................................................................................................... 24
Tying the Nunchaku .............................................................................................................................................. 25
What type of string to use .................................................................................................................................... 25
Moves & Tricks Classification ................................................................................................................................ 27
Grips ...................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Pivot Point ............................................................................................................................................................. 29
Planes .................................................................................................................................................................... 31
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Aerials.................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Vertical Aerials .................................................................................................................................................. 34
Under the Arm (UTA) ..................................................................................................................................... 34
Under the Leg (UTL) ....................................................................................................................................... 35
Between the legs ........................................................................................................................................... 35
Behind the back ............................................................................................................................................. 35
Front plane .................................................................................................................................................... 36
Horizontal .......................................................................................................................................................... 36
Bounces ................................................................................................................................................................. 37
Horizontal bounces ........................................................................................................................................... 37
Vertical bounces ................................................................................................................................................ 37
Diagonal bounces .............................................................................................................................................. 38
Other bounces ................................................................................................................................................... 38
Passes .................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Vertical Passes ................................................................................................................................................... 39
Shoulder ......................................................................................................................................................... 39
Under The Leg (UTL) ...................................................................................................................................... 40
Front Plane..................................................................................................................................................... 40
Core Plane ...................................................................................................................................................... 40
Horizontal Passes .............................................................................................................................................. 40
Neck ............................................................................................................................................................... 40
Waist .............................................................................................................................................................. 40
Diagonal Passes ................................................................................................................................................. 40
Back Pass ........................................................................................................................................................ 40
One Hand Passes (OHP) .................................................................................................................................... 41
Vertical OHP ................................................................................................................................................... 41
Horizontal OHP .............................................................................................................................................. 41
Diagonal OHP ................................................................................................................................................. 41
Other ................................................................................................................................................................. 41
Double planes ................................................................................................................................................ 41
Under the foot change of direction ............................................................................................................... 42
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Rolls ....................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Fingerspin .......................................................................................................................................................... 43
One Finger ..................................................................................................................................................... 43
Two Fingers .................................................................................................................................................... 43
WristRolls .......................................................................................................................................................... 44
Vertical ........................................................................................................................................................... 44
Horizontal ...................................................................................................................................................... 45
Diagonal ......................................................................................................................................................... 45
One Hand Passes (OHP) .................................................................................................................................... 45
Stalls ...................................................................................................................................................................... 46
Vertical .............................................................................................................................................................. 46
Horizontal .......................................................................................................................................................... 46
Stances .................................................................................................................................................................. 47
Swings ................................................................................................................................................................... 48
Straight Swings .................................................................................................................................................. 48
Circular Swing .................................................................................................................................................... 48
Vertical ........................................................................................................................................................... 48
Horizontal ...................................................................................................................................................... 48
Diagonal ......................................................................................................................................................... 49
Figure 8 (F8) ....................................................................................................................................................... 49
Vertical ........................................................................................................................................................... 49
Horizontal ...................................................................................................................................................... 49
Switches ................................................................................................................................................................ 51
Behind the back ................................................................................................................................................. 51
Training ................................................................................................................................................................. 52
Beginners .............................................................................................................................................................. 53
Nunchaku 101 ................................................................................................................................................... 53
Learning tips ...................................................................................................................................................... 53
Knowing the range of your nunchaku ............................................................................................................... 53
Intermediate ......................................................................................................................................................... 53
Advanced .............................................................................................................................................................. 53
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Nunchaku Speed ............................................................................................................................................... 53
Controlling your nunchaku ................................................................................................................................... 54
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INTRODUCTION
A lot have been said about nunchaku, but in the end the information available is little considering that the
nunchaku is a well-known weapon, and it has been very popular with Bruce Lee movies, or with the Ninja
Turtles TV series.
Freestyle Nunchaku is not easy to define, but the idea is the use the nunchaku, which consist in two sticks
attached together, in whichever way the user want. With this, freestyle nunchaku can be seen as an object
manipulation art.
The history of nunchaku is not known, with many theories going around it. Some said it was a horse bride, a
flail for rice, and other theories. In the 20th century, the nunchaku gain popular in martial arts with Bruce Lee
movies, even though there aren’t any traditional kata which involves a nunchaku, hence it wasn’t a popular
weapon in the old times.
Now, since the 1970´s, the nunchaku has been adapted as an object manipulation art, coexisting with martial
arts, even though there has been an argument between the two of them that is not part of this e-book.
This e-book was made to help freestylers around the world to get better with their style. This e-book contains
many links, all of them goes to the site www.nunchakututorials.com, so be sure to allow the access to that
site, in order to expand the knowledge with videos and tutorials.
As the years have passed by, I have been always trying to create “a place” where people could expand their
knowledge of freestyle nunchaku, and to preserve for the future the classification system of moves and tricks,
so it can be easier to learn existing tricks, and to expand and discover new ones.
I think that this e-book may be the solution for that goal, and when used with the links that are all across this
e-book, you will have a context of where the tricks are coming from, and with that you will have a better basis
to explore and discover new tricks.
The use of this e-book must be with an internet connection, because most of the tricks that are here have links
to www.nunchakututorials.com, were the videos demonstrating or teaching the specific trick are. You have
access to all the links that are in this e-book, by visiting www.nunchakututorials.com, but here you can study
them in a better context, so it can be easier to learn, but to also have the option to just go to the site.
Many of the ideas and concepts of this e-book have been taken from www.freestyleforum.com. This work was
based on Chuckology, a board in the forum above mentioned. This e-book is and will be forever in update
mode, because freestyle nunchaku is expanding more and more. Please comment any correction or idea in the
link below, or send an email:
http://nunchakututorials.com/ebook [email protected]
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SOME QUESTIONS1
This is a how to e-book, what are you teaching exactly? I’m teaching some nunchaku movements, so the
reader can learn them and use them in whatever way they want. In order to help me keep all things in order, I
present the tricks with a conceptual base, so I can keep better tracking on what I’m doing. This is neither a
martial arts course nor a self-defense course and neither am I qualified to teach those things. I’m just showing
some tools so people can use them in their style of freestyle nunchaku
How did you learn all this stuff? I learned how to make a nunchaku on a website, around the year 2003, and
then I learned the basic spins by myself. After that, the websites of people that posted freestyle nunchaku
material was my place of learning. Next http://freestyleforum.com was my home, and there I have learned
lots of stuff.
What is so special with this e-book? This e-book will give you an insight of how to classify and understand
freestyle nunchaku. There are many ways to understand the movements involve in freestyle, and the
approach that we have taken here is to watch what happens and describe it, just that. Someone who has
never read this could get to a very similar understanding of freestyle nunchaku.
What style do you teach? I do not teach a specific style, instead I give tools to the reader, and they can use
them in whatever way they think is better for their own style and flow. Of course here I’m talking about
freestyle nunchaku. For martial arts for example, most of these tricks are useless.
Why should I read this? Because here you will have a lot of information all in one place and you will be able to
learn fastest than having to look for everything by yourself.
Do you give any promise to the readers? The only promise I can give is that whoever read and use this e-book
(following the links to watch the videos and tutorials), will be able to learn the tricks A LOT faster than me. All
other promises like “you will see the results” and “you will be better in no time” depends exclusive on the
freestyler and their dedication to learn.
1 I asked a friend to read this e-book, and he told me to answer these questions
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COMMENTS FROM READERS
This is the part where I will put the comments that readers send to me, and will be available in future versions
of this e-book. As this is version 1.0, this is empty because there haven’t been yet a reader who read this by
his/her own will, and also because I don’t want to lie and invent some comment =P
I hope that in the next version I can delete this part and add some real comments!
10 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
DONATIONS
If you like this video, please consider making a donation to help the creation and development of futures
editions of this e-book. You can go to this link to make the donation: http://nunchakututorials.com/about-
us/money/
Note: The donations are made via Paypal, so all your info is safe if you make a donation ;)
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ABOUT FREESTYLE NUNCHAKU
Freestyle nunchaku is a performing art that use the nunchaku to make movement and to create flow. The
freestyler or nunchaku spinner will create combinations of moves, according to their mood and unique flow,
to create a visual representation of this art.
There are many styles to perform, some spinners like to spin the nunchaku as fast as they can, others prefer to
make the spinning slower, and others like to mix styles. It just depends on flow of the performer, not being
right or wrong styles.
HISTORY
The history of freestyle nunchaku goes back to the 1970’ when Bruce Lee popularizes them in his movies. After
that, many people begun to use the nunchaku in martial arts, and some of them step into freestyle nunchaku.
With the commercial use of internet, many people begun to search and share info about freestyle nunchaku,
and in the year 2002 was created the first freestyle nunchaku community online, in yahoo groups.
After that, the same group of people tried to start online projects about freestyle nunchaku, and in the end
they all converge to www.freestyleforum.net, the biggest community of freestyle nunchaku in the world.
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ABOUT NUNCHAKUS
Nunchakus are in their more basic description two sticks join by a connecting link. The most common
nunchakus are wood sticks linked by rope or chain.
HISTORY
The history of the nunchaku is uncertain. Many people said that they know the true about their origins, but at
the same time there’s another article saying the opposite, and so on. So, as there isn’t any formal historic
document that can prove right or wrong any theory, the history of nunchakus is a mystery. Even though, we
can still look at the different theories, and you can choose the one you like most.
“One popular belief is that nunchaku were originally a short Southeast Asian flail used to thresh rice or soybeans (that is, separate the grain from the husk)” “The nunchaku was originally a rice flail which was converted by Japanese farmers into a deadly weapon to fight against samurai.”
“There are a few more rational beliefs about the nunchaku's prototype. The most credible version is that the nunchaku descends from an Okinawan horse bit (muge). Initially the handles of the bit were curved as you can see in the photo. Later it was changed to the straight-handled weapon that we know today.” “Another story goes to Okinawa, who the same adopted the nunchaku. This gave rise to the theory that nunchaku were originally developed from an Okinawan horse bit (muge)” “The first mention of the Nunchaku can be found in ancient Chinese history, where two pieces of wood tied together by horse hair or piece of straw were used as Horse Brides by mountain soldiers.” “Another ancient tool that resembles the nunchaku is the horse bridle, which was made by two curved sticks of equal length connected at the ends. Some say that the nunchaku was developed from that tool and that the sticks were straightened to make it easier to use as a weapon. The horse bridle’s construction is closer to our nunchaku than the previous tools and therefore the possibility that it was involved in the development of the nunchaku more believable. “
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“There also exists a version of the nunchaku's history which states that it was once a night-watchman's rattle or a tool for barking banana trees (the best fabric on Okinawa was produced from banana bark). Finally, one additional version, supported by such experts as Miyagi and Ikeda, says that the nunchaku was copied from a Chinese weapon brought to Okinawa by Chinese immigrants. Indirect evidence of this version is the fact that the word used for "nunchaku" is borrowed from the Chinese language.” “…that nunchaku were adapted from a wooden clapper called hyoshiki carried by the village night watch; made of two blocks of wood joined by cord, the night watch would hit the blocks of wood together to attract people's attention and then warn them about fires and other dangers.”
“Another theory involves the influence of the Chinese martial arts during the 13 - 14th century. In this period there was a wave of Chinese immigrants to Okinawa. The Chinese mainly settled in the city of Kumemura, where they practiced with a nunchaku-like weapon they called shuang jie gun, which means "two member stick" or "double part baton”.” “A two piece weapon close enough to the nunchaku makes its first appearance in history in the Shaolin Temple in China during the Song Dynasty (960-1127 AD) when the monks started to develop and train with weapons. The Chinese weapon consists of a short stick connected to a longer stick by a chain. The total length of the weapon is over 90” long. In Chinese the weapon is called Chang Xiao Ban. Although the weapon might have some visual resemblance to the nunchaku, as we know it today, it is not likely that the movements of the two weapons would have anything in common at all. Looking at practitioners today the usage of the Chinese two section staff more resembles the usage of the long staff.”
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LEGAL ISSUES OF THE NUNCHAKU
Be always careful and avoid getting in legal troubles. If you have further questions visit your local police
station, or law agent, so you can practice with no problems. If you know the law in another country, please let
me know.
Africa:
1) No info
America:
1) Brazil: Nunchakus are legal
2) Canada: The possession of a nunchaku is illegal.
3) Chile: You can buy Nunchakus only for use in your home or in a dojo. You can only transport them with a
Martial Arts certificate.
4) USA: Personal possession is illegal in Arizona, California, Massachusetts, and New York. The rest of the
states are legal to possess them.
Asia:
1) China: Nunchakus are legal
2) India: Nunchakus are legal
3) Indonesia: Nunchakus are legal
4) Korea: Nunchakus are legal
5) Philippines: Nunchakus are legal
6) Vietnam: Nunchakus are legal
Europe:
1) Austria: Nunchakus are legal
2) Belgium: Nunchakus are illegal
3) France: You can buy and own, but you can’t carry them in public
4) Germany: The possession of a nunchaku is illegal.
5) Great Britain: Legal, but you need to talk with your local police officer of you want to use them in public.
6) Hungary: Illegal, but you can use them in a dojo.
7) Israel: Nunchakus are legal
8) Italy: Legal, but to carry it in public is just to go to a dojo
9) Lithuania: Nunchakus are illegal
10) Netherlands: Nunchakus are illegal, but foam nunchakus are legal
11) Norway: The possession of a nunchaku is illegal.
12) Poland: Nunchakus are illegal, but foam nunchakus are legal
13) Romania: Nunchakus are illegal
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14) Russia: The possession of a nunchaku is illegal.
15) Spain: The possession of a nunchaku is illegal.
16) Sweden: Nunchakus are illegal
17) Switzerland: Nunchakus are illegal, but foam nunchakus are legal
18) Ukraine: Nunchakus are illegal
Oceania
1) Australia: New South Whales can only be owned with a permit. The other zones it seems okay.
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TYPES OF NUNCHAKUS
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TYPES OF NUNCHAKUS
There are many types of nunchakus, and people choose between them by how they feel with them. Some
people like of one kind and others like another. The best recommendation is to try as many types of
nunchakus as you can, so you can choose the one you like most.
Here is a video I made a while ago, showing the nunchakus I have:
http://nunchakututorials.com/articles/types-of-nunchakus/
CONNECTION LINK
The connection link of your nunchaku is how the sticks are attached one to the other. There are many types of
connectors, the most common ones being rope and chain.
The video in the link below point some differences between chain and cord nunchaku, and also talks about
some security tips for your chucks
Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/articles/about-chain-and-cord-nunchaku/
NUNCHAKUS WITH ROPE AS CONNECTION LINK
Pros About the Cord Nunchaku: Cons About the Cord Nunchaku:
They don’t make too much noise, you can swing them without all your neighbors knowing you are using your nunchakus
The rope fries very easy
They tend to be lighter (it will depend of the wood, but generally speaking, they’re lighter)
The weight in the top is lighter than the chain nunchaku
You will notice if they will start to break… with chain they can break with no warning.
The rope last a lot less than a chain
They look a lot better than chain! They can break with a high pressure trap.
You can adjust the length of the rope, for your needs They look more like toys rather than a real nunchaku
They look more classic than chain nunchakus The ninja turtles used chain, how dare you use rope!
It is very easy to change the rope. What is the use of having a nunchaku if they don’t look like a real one?
You can tie them with different methods.
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NUNCHAKUS WITH CHAIN AS CONNECTION LINK
Attached with bolts Ball Bearings Swivels U swivel Welded chain to iron pipes (I made those with a friend’s help)
Pros about chain nunchaku Cons about chain nunchaku
They really look like a nunchaku, not a toy. More weight? no thanks!
They are heavier (normally) so you will have more power in the spins
I can’t see the damage it has? Cool, I can expect any time a flying stick
The chain won’t break so easy…. its steel we are talking here!
Ball bearings? Did you know they can explode anytime?
It will be easier to keep the flow, because of the extra weight
They do make noise, not so good, when you are spinning indoors at midnight
They make a nice sound, and if it has a ring, a awesome sound!
If they fall, they would make greater noise!
You don’t need to lose your time re stringing the nunchaku Beware of falling chain nunchaku, if you are barefoot
Chain won’t fry with the use The ball bearings may damage and makes scratches to the wood if they are drop
Now you can be a perfect ninja turtle! (With real chain nunchaku!)
They look more awesome than rope
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STICK MATERIAL
Foam
Usually foam nunchakus are recommended for learning how to use a nunchaku. I don’t like them very much, because they are too light.
Graphite I have never tried one of this before, but from comments of other people, graphite is a very good material to spin with.
Magazine
This was an idea I have, to use a magazine as a nunchaku, and the result are a lot better than anyone can expect. They can be very strong and with good weight.
Metal
Metals nunchaku are cool too, but the problem with them is that they can bend with a drop on a hard surface, so be carefull with them.
Plastic
I have never used a plastic or acrillic nunchaku myself, but for what I have heard, they aren’t so strong, and tend to break with impacts
Wood
Wood nunchaku are the most popular nunchaku, and some stores sell nunchakus with exotic woods, and are awesome! If you can, buy one!
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DIMENSION AND WEIGHT
The "normal" value shown here is the value that is most common. Is not the right value, you should find the
dimension you like the most.
http://nunchakututorials.com/articles/myths-about-the-cord-or-chain-dimension-of-a-nunchaku/
From 0 to 3 cm Very short
From 3 to 6 cm Short
From 6 to 9 cm Normal
From 9 to 15 cm Long
Over 15 cm Very Long
From 0 to 22 cm Short
From 22 to 30 cm Normal
From 30 to 35 cm Long
Over 35 cm Very long
From 0 to 150 grs Very light
From 151 to 200 grs Light
From 201 to 300 grs Normal
From 301 to 400 grs Heavy
Over 400 grs Very heavy
Connector
Lenght
Stick Lenght
Total Weight
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SHAPE
GEOMETRICAL SHAPE
Round Nunchaku
Octagon Nunchaku
Square Nunchaku
DISTRIBUTION OF THE MASS
Tapered: The diameter of the stick increase from the top of the nunchaku (near the link) to the bottom or tail of the nunchaku. Here the mass is bigger in the end of the stick
Non Tapered: The diameter is fixed in all the length of the stick. Here the mass is uniform along the stick
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SPECIFIC USES
Fire nunchaku
Hide-a-chuck
LED nunchaku
Police nunchaku
Telescopic nunchaku
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DO IT YOURSELF
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DO IT YOURSELF
Name Materials Tutorial’s link Picture
100% Rope nunchaku
Rope http://nunchakututorials.com/freechaku/how-to-make-nunchucks-or-nunchaku-very-easy-2/
Dowel foam nunchaku
Dowel, paracord, foam, tape, drill, sandpaper
http://nunchakututorials.com/articles/how-to-make-foam-nunchaku-with-dowel/
Glow nunchaku
Transparent hose, cord, led wand or similar, something to make holes in the hose
http://nunchakututorials.com/freechaku/how-to-make-a-glow-nunchaku-tutorial-home-made-2/
Magazine Nunchaku
2 magazines, tape, drill (for the holes), cord
http://nunchakututorials.com/freechaku/how-to-make-nunchucks-anywhere-with-stuff-found-at-home/
PVC foam nunchaku
PVC, paracord, foam, tape, drill, sandpaper
http://nunchakututorials.com/articles/how-to-make-a-foam-nunchaku-with-pvc/
Wooden Nunchaku with rope
Dowel, paracord, wax or oil, saw, drill, sandpaper, rasp, lighter to fry the cord
http://nunchakututorials.com/freechaku/how-to-make-nunchucks-wooden-with-cord-link/
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TYING THE NUNCHAKU
Different alternatives for tying your nunchaku!
1) Single String: http://nunchakututorials.com/freechaku/nunchaku-tying-guide-single-string/
2) Double String: http://nunchakututorials.com/freechaku/nunchaku-tying-guide-double-string/
3) Triple String: http://nunchakututorials.com/freechaku/nunchaku-tying-guide-triple-string/
4) Four String: http://nunchakututorials.com/freechaku/nunchaku-tying-guide-four-string/
5) Airport Loop: http://nunchakututorials.com/freechaku/nunchaku-tying-guide-airport-loop/
WHAT TYPE OF STRING TO USE
When you want to replace the string or cord of your nunchaku, you may wonder which kind of string is the
best for the nunchuck. In order to find the best cord, it must have some properties:
1) It has to be strong, and should resist a lot of force.
2) It must resist the friction when you swing your nunchaku.
3) It should be smooth, so you can do finger tricks more easy.
Try to avoid twisted cord… just go with braided cord, because with long use the twisted cord can untwist.
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With that in mind, I have tested many cords, and here are my insights about them:
Even though, my advice to you is to test… test as much as you can, and if you find something good, let me
know so I can test it too.
Here is a picture of the first time I change from nylon to paracord:
Cotton Nylon Paracord 550
My first home made nunchaku was made with cotton braided rope. It
wasn’t too strong, but resisted very well the friction. It wasn’t too smooth
either.
Then I jump from cotton to nylon, but the nylon I was using wasn’t smooth, even though the friction resistance and the strong of the string were
great
Paracord is made of nylon, so it should be in the above category… I don’t know why, but the feeling is totally different to other nylons I have used before, this is why I’m putting it in a different category. This is the connector I’m using now. The friction resistance and strength of this cord are great, and it is the smoothest cord I have ever had. I totally recommend using paracord to string your nunchaku; it is the best connection I have found.
27 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
MOVES & TRICKS CLASSIFICATION
28 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
GRIPS
When you hold one or 2 sticks with your hand, you are gripping the nunchaku
Front grip: The nunchaku’s connector is near your thumb
Back grip: The nunchaku’s connector is near you pinky finger
Head grip: Here you grip your nunchaku near the link or connector of the nunchaku
Body grip: In this grip you hold your nunchaku in the middle of the stick
Tail grip: Here the grip is in the end of the stick, the farthest away from the connector of the nunchaku
29 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
PIVOT POINT
The pivot point is the point where the nunchaku spins around. For example, if you make a big circle with your
arm full extended, the pivot point will be the shoulder, because the nunchaku is spinning around the shoulder,
making it a pivot point.
Another way to understand the pivot point is to imagine a spinning nunchaku, and then freeze a moment in
the spinning. Then make it do a half rotation without altering the course it had, and make it freeze again. You
will have two “freeze” nunchakus, and the middle point between them is the pivot point.
The pictures below were taken using a led nunchaku, with only the free stick lighted up. The lights you see are
created by the pattern of the free stick.
Pivot point Description Picture
Shoulder pivot point.
This is achieved when you do a big circle with your arm full extended. Notice how the nunchaku creates a big circle around the shoulder
Elbow pivot point. For this one, the only thing moving is the elbow, creating a smaller circle than with the shoulder as pivot point.
Tail of the stick being hold In this one, I use a tail front grip, using the tail of the nunchaku as pivot point.
30 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
Head of the stick being hold In this one, the nunchaku was spinning with the tip of the holding stick moving.
Double pivot point: shoulder and head of the stick being hold.
If you use two pivot points, you create an effect called flowers. The number of petals that the flower has depends in the number of revolutions you do with the smallest pivot point. In this case the big pivot point was a shoulder pivot point and the smaller one was a head of the stick picot point.
31 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
PLANES
The planes are a flat surface on which a straight line joining any two points on it would wholly lie. Image that
when you are holding the nunchaku, you are inside a cube. The walls of the cube will be the planes at where
you can swing the nunchaku. So you have different planes where to swing the nunchaku. There are also more
planes than the 6 planes that can generate a cube, for example the core plane, which is a plane between the
near and far plane (walls).
The terminology can be plane or walls, so saying front plane or front wall mean the same.
Back plane: Is the opposite wall to the front plane. Is behind your body
Core plane: This plane is a vertical plane that cuts your body in two. If you clap your hands in front of your nose, you will have this plane between your palms. It is between the near and far wall
Far armpit: is a plane between the core plane and the far wall
32 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
Far wall: Is the wall at the opposite side of the near wall.
Floor: is the plane that is more near the floor.
Front plane: is the wall that is in front of your body.
Near armpit: is a plane between the core plane and the near wall
33 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
Near wall: is the nearest wall to the side where you are holding the nunchaku
Roof: Is the plane above your head
Table plane: This plane is between the roof and floor planes, so it's parallel to them.
34 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
AERIALS
An Aerial is done when you release the nunchaku and it fly in midair, with a moment without any contact, and
then you catch it again
The catch of the nunchaku is a very important part, because you have two options:
1) To keep the flow
2) To break the flow
If you decide to keep the flow, the direction of the free stick, this is the opposite stick that you catch, can’t
change after the grab, so the transition between midair movement and the move after to catch the nunchaku
is as smooth as it can be, and it gives a view of continuous flow
If you decide to break the flow, you should do it with a purpose, if not the catch will look unnatural, and not so
pleasant to the viewer.
Check the following video for a first approach to aerials, and to know more about a smooth catch:
http://nunchakututorials.com/articles/aerials-basics-and-theory-in-nunchaku/
VERTICAL AERIALS
UNDER THE ARM (UTA)
1) UTA Near Arm
a) Downspin
i) Dolphin aerial: this aerial consist in swinging the nunchaku downwards, at the side of your body,
and then throwing it into the air behind your shoulder, and catching it again in front of your
shoulder. So with these forces, the nunchaku will make a kind of parabolic pattern around your
shoulder.
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/dolphin-aerial/
(2) Can be link with:
(a) Rolls
(i) Dolphin aerial to the wheel: This is an advanced trick in which you will need an excellent
control of the nunchaku in midair, and a perfect timing to catch the nunchaku by the
chain or cord with just two fingers to keep the rotation of the nunchaku, with thus
performing the wheel.
1. Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/the-wheel-from-a-
dolphin-aerial-nunchaku/
b) Upspin
i) Inverse dolphin aerial: This is the reverse form of the dolphin aerial. This aerial is a lot more
difficult than the dolphin aerial, so first learn the dolphin aerial well, so you know how to control
35 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
the nunchaku in midair. A tip for doing this aerial is to add an upwards force with your shoulder, so
the nunchaku will have a rising force.
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/inverse-dolphin-aerial/
2) UTA Far Arm: this is a basic aerial, which will help you to develop coordination and control with aerials.
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/under-the-arm-aerial/
UNDER THE LEG (UTL)
The nunchaku will be release after being passed under the leg
1) UTL Far Leg: The nunchaku goes under the opposite leg of the hand that is holding the nunchaku
a) Outspin
i) Outspin UTFL aerial
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/outspin-under-the-far-leg-
aerial/
b) Inspin
i) Inspin UTFL aerial
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/inspin-under-the-far-leg-
aerial/
2) UTL Near Leg: The nunchaku goes under the leg in the same side of the hand that is holding the nunchaku
a) Outspin
i) Outspin UTNL aerial
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/outspin-under-the-near-leg-
aerial/
b) Inspin
i) Inspin UTNL aerial
ii) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/inspin-under-the-near-leg-
aerial/
3) Can can aerial
a) Can can from far leg
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/can-can-aerial-from-far-leg/
b) Can can from near leg
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/can-can-aerial-from-the-near-leg/
BETWEEN THE LEGS
1) Between the legs aerial: the tricky part of this aerial is that you can’t lift your feet from the ground, so the
control and timing must be perfect, because you can hit yourself easily.
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/between-the-legs-aerial/
BEHIND THE BACK
36 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
1) Aerial with 360° body rotation: This aerial is done, while your body spins 360 degrees, so you catch it back,
after the turn. This can be really tricky to calculate, but with some practice, and good aerial control, can be
done with no problems.
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/aerial-with-360-body-rotation/
2) Inspin
a) Behind the back aerial
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/behind-the-back-nunchaku-
aerial/
b) Behind the back UTA aerial
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/behind-the-back-under-the-arm-
aerial/
FRONT PLANE
1) Outspin
a) Front aerial
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/front-aerial/
HORIZONTAL
37 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
BOUNCES
A nunchaku bounce is done when the nunchaku makes contact with a part of the body, and after the contact it will
move quickly away from the zone. A bounce should not damage or give you any pain when correctly done.
HORIZONTAL BOUNCES
1) Shoulder / arm
a) Horizontal Shoulder Bounce
i) Slow motion video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/beginner-lot/horizontal-
shoulder-bounce/
ii) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/horizontal-arm-bounce-nunchaku/
2) Leg
a) Frontal kick leg bounce
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/frontal-kick-leg-bounce-nunchaku/
b) Knee bounce
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/knee-nunchaku-bounce/
c) Frontal foot kick bounce
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/frontal-kick-foot-bounce-nunchaku/
3) Hip
a) Hip bounce
i) Can be link with:
(1) Hip bounce to fingersping
(a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/nunchaku-finger-spin-from-
a-bounce/
VERTICAL BOUNCES
1) Downspin
a) Leg
i) Leg bounce
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/leg-nunchaku-bounce/
b) Shoulder / arm
i) Shoulder bounce
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/nunchaku-shoulder-bounce/
(2) Can be link with:
(a) Shoulder bounce to downspin wheel
(i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/the-wheel-from-an-
arm-bounce/
(ii) Slow Motion video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/advanced-
lot/downspin-wheel-from-an-arm-bounce/
38 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
DIAGONAL BOUNCES
OTHER BOUNCES
1) Combos
a) Triangular bounce combo
i) Single nunchaku
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/triangular-bounce-combo/
ii) Double Nunchaku
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/double-nunchaku/doubles-nunchaku-triangular-
bounce/
b) Double leg combo
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/double-leg-bounce-nunchaku-
combo/
39 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
PASSES
You do a pass with your nunchaku, when you exchange the nunchaku from the holding hand to the free hand. Normally
each hand holds a different stick for a moment
VERTICAL PASSES
SHOULDER
1) UpSpin
a) Upspin shoulder pass
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/shoulder-pass-nunchaku/
ii) Slow motion video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/beginner-lot/upspin-shoulder-
pass/
iii) Can be linked with
(1) Aerials
(a) Inverse dolphin aerial
(b) Under the leg aerial (inside near leg)
(2) Bounces
(a) Bounce to inside near feet
(b) Bounce to inside near knee
(c) Bounce to outside far feet
(d) Bounce to outside far knee
(3) Passes
(4) Rolls
(a) Wristroll
(b) Finger spins
(i) Thumb spin
(5) Swings
(a) Figure 8
(i) Downspin figure 8 (it needs body rotation)
(ii) Downspin figure 8 wristrolls (it needs body rotation)
(iii) Upspin figure 8
(iv) Upspin figure 8 wristrolls
(b) Circular swings
(i) Upspin vertical circular swing
b) One shoulder pass
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/one-shoulder-pass/
2) DownSpin
a) Reverse shoulder pass
40 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/shoulder-pass-reverse-nunchaku/
UNDER THE LEG (UTL)
1) Downspin
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/downwards-between-the-legs-pass/
2) Upspin
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/upwards-between-the-legs-pass/
FRONT PLANE
1) Twister
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/twister/
CORE PLANE
1) Palm pass
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/palm-pass/
HORIZONTAL PASSES
NECK
1) Near Neck
2) Far Neck
WAIST
1) Near Waist
a) Back Pass
i) Slow motion video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/intermediate-lot/back-waist-
pass-slow-motion/
ii) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/waist-pass-behind-the-back/
b) Front pass
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/frontal-waist-pass-nunchaku/
2) Far Waist
DIAGONAL PASSES
BACK PASS
1) Starting Position
a) Neck/Shoulder
41 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
i) Near Neck/Shoulder
(1) Upspin Diagonal Back Pass
(a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/diagonal-upspin-back-pass/
(b) Slow motion video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/beginner-lot/upspin-
front-to-front-back-pass/
ii) Far Neck/Shoulder
(1) Upspin
(a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/diagonal-back-pass-
nunchaku/
b) Waist
i) Near waist
(1) Upspin behind the back pass
(a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/upwards-behind-the-
back-pass/
ONE HAND PASSES (OHP)
These are consider as rolls, even though the name is "passes"
VERTICAL OHP
1) Arm
a) Inspin
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/wristroll-in-the-opposite-hand/
HORIZONTAL OHP
1) Neck
a) Neck roll 360 OHP
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/neck-roll-360-nunchaku/
DIAGONAL OHP
1) Neck
a) Far Neck
i) The windy scarf
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/the-windy-scarf/
OTHER
DOUBLE PLANES
42 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
1) Horizontal to vertical plane
a) Plane changer bounce pass
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/plane-changer-bounce-pass/
UNDER THE FOOT CHANGE OF DIRECTION
1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/under-the-leg-change-of-direction/
43 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
ROLLS
A Nunchaku Roll is done when the nunchaku travels around a part of the body, and there isn't hand contact to
help the rotation
FINGERSPIN
ONE FINGER
1) Vertical
a) Downspin
i) Index Finger Spin
b) Outspin
i) Fingerspin for beginners
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/finger-spin-for-beginners/
2) Diagonal
a) Outspin
TWO FINGERS
The Wheel: Rotate the nunchaku with the connector as pivot point. You will be using fingers from each hand,
usually the same finger in each hand. Check this video for an introduction to the wheel:
http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/the-wheel-explanation/
1) Vertical
a) Downspin Wheel
i) From a stop position
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/the-wheel-downwards/
(2) Slow motion video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/advanced-lot/downwards-
wheel-from-a-stop-position/
(3) Can be linked with:
(a) Downspin wheel to finger spin
(i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/finger-spin-from-the-
wheel/
ii) Under the leg Wheel
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/under-the-leg-wheel/
b) Upspin Wheel
i) From a Stop Position
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/the-wheel-upwards/
2) Horizontal
a) Horizontal Wheel
44 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/the-wheel-horizontally/
3) Diagonal
WRISTROLLS
There have been many arguments of what is a wristroll and what is a handroll in freestyle nunchaku, but in
this site, I will call both moves as wristrolls, to avoid any misunderstanding. Of course you can call the moves
whatever you want, the important thing here is that you know the move!
Theory: Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/articles/wristroll-and-handroll-theory/
VERTICAL
1) Front plane
a) Outspin
i) Backgrip to backgrip
(1) Slow motion video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/intermediate-lot/back-to-
back-front-plane-outspin-wristroll/
(2) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/wristroll-nunchaku-tutorial/
ii) Backgrip to frontgrip
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/back-to-front-outspin-
wristroll/
iii) Frontgrip to frontgrip
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/front-to-front-outspin-
wristroll/
iv) Frontgrip to backgrip
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/front-to-back-outspin-
wristroll/
b) Inspin
i) Backgrip to backgrip
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/back-to-back-inspin-
wristroll/
ii) Backgrip to frontgrip
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/back-to-front-inspin-
wristroll/
iii) Frontgrip to backgrip
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/front-to-back-inspin-
wristroll/
2) Combos
45 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
a) Outspin
i) Stop and go wristroll combo
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/stop-and-go-outspin-
wristroll/
b) Inspin
i) Stop and go Wristroll combo
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/stop-and-go-inspin-wristroll/
c) Downspin
i) Front to back & back to front wristroll
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/wristroll-in-a-figure-8/
HORIZONTAL
1) Table plane
a) Inspin
i) Frontgrip to frontgrip
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/front-to-front-wristroll-
nunchaku/
b) Combos
i) Front to back & back to front
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/horizontal-wristroll/
DIAGONAL
ONE HAND PASSES (OHP)
46 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
STALLS
A Stall is done when one hand is holding a stick of the nunchaku, and the other stick is caught by another part
of the body (appart from the other hand)
VERTICAL
1) Upspin
a) Armpit stall
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/armpit-nunchaku-catch/
2) Downspin
a) Frontal strike
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/frontal-nunchaku-strike/
HORIZONTAL
1) Farspin
a) Horizontal strike
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/horizontal-armpit-nunchaku-
strike/
2) Combo
a) Armpit stall to aerial
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/armpit-aerial-nunchaku-combo/
47 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
STANCES
How you are standing with your nunchaku
1) Switch of nunchaku stance
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/switch-of-nunchaku-stance/
2) Travelling around the body
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/nunchaku-travelling-around-your-body/
48 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
SWINGS
When you swing your nunchaku, the holding had will not release it and the nunchaku will not get in contact
with anything
STRAIGHT SWINGS
1) Vertical
2) Horizontal
3) Diagonal
CIRCULAR SWING
VERTICAL
1) Frontgrip
a) Core Plane
i) Upspin
ii) Downspin
(1) Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/beginner-lot/frontgrip-downspin-
coreplane-circular-swing/
2) Backgrip
a) Near Wall Plane
i) Upspin
(1) Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/beginner-lot/backgrip-near-wall-upspin-
circular-swing/
ii) Downspin
(1) Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/beginner-lot/backgrip-downspin-near-
wall-circular-swing/
HORIZONTAL
1) Frontgrip
a) Tableplane
i) Nearspin
ii) Farspin
2) Backgrip
a) Tableplane
i) Farspin
(1) Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/beginner-lot/backgrip-table-plane-
farspin-circular-swing/
49 “The Freestyle Nunchaku E-book” by JMVICUNA & http://nunchakututorials.com Version 1.0
(2) Can be linked with
(a) Bounces
(i) Hip
(ii) Knee
(iii) Feet
(b) Passes
(i) Behind the back pass
(c) Aerial
(i) Horizontal aerial
(d) Wristroll
(i) Horizontal wristroll
ii) Nearspin
(1) Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/beginner-lot/backgrip-table-plane-
nearspin-circular-swing/
DIAGONAL
FIGURE 8 (F8)
VERTICAL
1) Backgrip
a) Upspin
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/figure-8-backgrip-upwards/
b) Downspin
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/figure-8-backgrip-downwards/
2) Frontgrip
a) Upspin
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/reverse-nunchaku-figure-8/
b) Downspin
i) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/figure-8-nunchaku/
ii) Can be link with:
(1) Downspin figure 8 to the wheel
(a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/the-wheel-from-a-figure-
8/
(b) Slow Motion Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/library-of-tricks/advanced-lot/the-
wheel-from-a-downspin-figure-8/
iii)
HORIZONTAL
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1) Backgrip
a) Nearspin
b) Farspin
2) Frontgrip
a) Nearspin
b) Farspin
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SWITCHES
A switch is an exchange of the stick you are holding, from one hand to the other. It is different from a pass,
because in a pass you take the free stick with the other hand
BEHIND THE BACK
1) Behind the back hand switch
a) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/intermediate-tut/behind-the-back-hand-switch/
b) Can be linked with
i) Can can
(1) Tutorial: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/advanced-tut/can-can-aerial-combo/
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TRAINING
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BEGINNERS
NUNCHAKU 101
If it is your first time with a nunchaku in your hands, you should view this video. It shows the basic concepts
and things you should learn about freestyle nunchaku, so take a look at it right now!
Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/freestyle-nunchaku-101/
LEARNING TIPS
Do you want to learn freestyle nunchaku? Then here are some tips you should do in order to get better at it:
1) Don’t pay too much attention to names… In the end what matters here is your freestyle!
2) Always try to reverse moves you have learned.
3) If you are really struggling with a move, try something else.
4) Practice with music for a change.
5) Don’t be big headed about your skills or people will think you are a fool.
6) Use a 50/50 approach if you are going to practice for 1 hour, do 30 minutes of stuff you love and 30
minutes of stuff you don’t.
7) Respect the nunchaku… you never know when a lose swing will hit the back of your head.
8) Have fun!
KNOWING THE RANGE OF YOUR NUNCHAKU
This is an introductory video, which explains the range that the nunchaku have. You must know very well the
range of your chuck, because if you don’t, you can hit yourself.
To develop the “feel” of the range of your nunchaku, you need to just practice, and with time you will know
exactly the distance were you can swing it.
Video: http://nunchakututorials.com/articles/knowing-the-range-of-your-nunchaku/
INTERMEDIATE
ADVANCED
NUNCHAKU SPEED
Many times, people think that the only way to use a nunchaku is with the max speed you can put into it, but
that’s quite wrong! In freestyle nunchaku, you first need to know how to do what you are trying to do, and
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after that, you can add speed to the nunchaku trick or move. Like in anything you do with your body, you first
need to learn what you are doing, and after you got a good foundation, you can move forward.
But why is better learning the basic trick first and then add speed, and not learn the trick with max speed?
Why you shouldn’t try a new move with high speed:
1) You don’t know how to do the trick well enough, so it’s probably that you will fail a lot of times. But a
mistake at high speed can cause a lot more damage than a mistake at low speed. You can injure yourself or
others by learning at high speed.
2) There’s a high chance that you will get the trick done wrong, and your body will learn it wrong, and that
will be really difficult to change.
3) You will fail a lot more times, increasing the time of learning, and you will be wasting time when you could
be learning something new.
So, I should never do my tricks at high speed? Of course you should do nunchaku moves with high speed if you
like them, but you should know when to train with speed. Remember that speed is not the only aspect of
freestyle nunchaku; you should also mix with creativity, improvisation, smoothness, entertainment, fun, etc…
so keep a balance.
Always be careful when you are using high speed. Look around the zone you are freestyling, so you don’t hit
anything/anyone. Check the nunchaku before using them, so there won’t be any flying nunchaku stick around.
When to train with speed:
1) Once you have a good control over the nunchaku
2) Once you feel confident with the nunchaku
3) If you don’t have confidence or you lack control, you will end dropping the nunchuck a lot and probably
injury yourself or someone or breaking something, so be careful!
CONTROLLING YOUR NUNCHAKU
In freestyle, you need to know lots of moves and tricks to do with your chuck. This is in order to put them in
your freestyle session, so it won’t look boring, and you will be able to show your creative linking them up and
creating unique patterns and flows, with your body and your nunchuck.
But, to do this, you need to have good control over your nunchaku, so you should train how to control it too.
The workouts to gain more control over your nunchaku are very short, the longest is 2 minutes, so if you
choose one (or more) and you do them once a day, in no time you will get results.
The key for having a better control is to do, whichever routine you choose, once a day, until you feel that you
have a good control during your freestyle. If you want to do more than one routine per day, then do not do it
one after the other… give your body time to rest, and to learn. While you sleep, you “archive” in your brain the
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things you did during the day, so remember this, and be constant, but don’t do the same routine in the same
day.
Side Spins: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/controlling-your-nunchaku-1-side-spin/
Front Spins: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/controlling-your-nunchaku-2-front-spins/
Side Figure 8: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/controlling-your-nunchaku-3-figure-8/
Front Figure 8: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/controlling-your-nunchaku-4-front-figure-8/
Figure 8 with wristrolls: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/controlling-your-nunchaku-5-figure-8-with-wristrolls/
Wristrolls: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/controlling-your-nunchaku-6-wristrolls/
Aerial Challenge: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/controlling-your-nunchaku-7-aerial-challenge/
Passes variations: http://nunchakututorials.com/tutorials/beginner-tut/controlling-your-nunchaku-8-passes-variations-for-control/