by Dr. Einglebert

Created on: February 06, 2010

Juggling is a fantastic skill. It is relaxing and almost therapeutic at the same time as improving your hand - eye coordination. It takes very little time to begin juggling and within a few short days you will be able to juggle three balls comfortably. I like to juggle for a short while every morning which wakes me up and gets my brain in gear as well as being very enjoyable. 

To start juggling all you need is some balls (any small balls that fit snugly in your hand will do), your hands, and an enthusiastic mindset. Start by standing with feet shoulder width apart. Don't think too much about how you are standing, just make sure you are relaxed.

Start by throwing one ball from hand to hand. Don't skip this step because you think it is too easy. The ball should peak at about your own eye level. Try to make every one of your throws the same as the last one so that you are consistent. This is very important when you start throwing more balls. I find it helpful to stand facing a white wall or any plain background. It is easier to juggle when your eyes aren't distracted by things around you. Once you can comfortably throw one ball consistently, move on to the next step.

Hold one ball in each hand. Throw one ball in the same way as you practised in the first step. When it reaches it's peak height (around eye level) throw the other ball. Stop after two throws and do it again starting with the opposite hand. Remember to try to make every throw the same height. Keep doing this until you can do it almost every time without dropping a ball. Once you can, move on to the next step.

Finally, hold two balls in your dominant hand (probably the one you write with) and start the previous exercise but once you have thrown two balls carry on and throw a third and a fourth etc.. With a little practice you will be able to juggle indefinitely. Once you can there are many more tricks you can learn including juggling with more balls or with clubs.

Things to remember: 1) Practice is the most important thing - if you cant seem to get it just keep practising and with a little patience you will get it.  2) Don't worry if you keep dropping the balls - every time you make a mistake, you learn something. Just pick them up and try again.  3)  Don't give up - it is well worth putting in the time and effort to learn to juggle. It is a great thing to be able to do and you wont regret it.

I hope you have fun learning to juggle and have found this short introduction useful. There is so much to learn and so little time. So what are you waiting for? Happy juggling!

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