How to Do Tricks With Nunchucks

Co-authored by John Graden

Last Updated: November 21, 2024

Nunchucks, or nunchaku, are a type of weapon that originated on Okinawa, an East Asian island. Most famous in Bruce Lee films, nunchucks are comprised of two sticks connected with a cord or chain. You too can master this unusual skill, which will give you an insight into martial arts, keep you relatively fit, and impress others.

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Go to a quality martial arts site and get foam or rubber training nunchucks with a cord. Do not buy a set of wooden, metal or hard acrylic nunchucks for your first pair
Nunchaku; Karate Weapons of Self Defence is a helpful intermediate guide for individuals who are experienced in martial arts. However, you may want to invest in a book that is aimed at a beginner's level.

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Focus on basic moves. These moves are more beneficial for beginners. As Bruce Lee said, "I do not fear the man who has practiced 1000 moves once, but I fear the man who has practiced one move 1000 times." So practice!
Watch Bruce Lee's "Fist of Fury," paying close attention to the scene in the karate dojo. Go on YouTube and search for "nunchaku" and/or "nunchuck tricks". Even if the techniques are too advanced for you, seeing them in action will help you get a feel for how nunchucks are used.
They should be soft, not hard", as you might expect
Now you have "the feel", you can spin them faster, do a figure 8, and pass them under your legs, over your shoulder and under your arms.
Try to replicate a few of the moves you've seen on the Internet. Naturally, take it slow for your first time around. Work your way up the ladder, as many of these complex tricks are simply basic techniques used in an unusual way. More often than not, advanced moves are just basic steps executed with brilliant speed and impeccable timing. It can be difficult to remember to start off, but persevere and you will learn quickly.

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Question

Is it okay to make nunchucks?

TheThinkingPanda Zhao

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As long as you don't bring them into public, they are legal to make/own in the U.S.

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I just knocked the crap out my face.

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This happens. Keep trying and work on technique prior to speed. Keep working at it and looking bad with your nunchucks will become second nature, no face-hitting involved.

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Can I defeat a person with a gun using nunchucks?

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Yes! While the person is distracted, whip out your nunchucks and hit the hand holding the gun to disarm him.

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Tips

Try two pairs at once. See what you can do!

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If you want to use a second pair, purchase one of the same type as the first, so they are the same weight, length and in balance.

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Passing is relatively easy in that you swing the nunchucks so that the free end travels round your body or body parts, to be caught by the free hand. Use your imagination.

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Warnings

Be aware that, unless they are used properly, nunchucks can and will seriously injure others, if not yourself. Take care when showing off your tricks.

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Wooden, acrylic or steel nunchucks may be illegal in some states or countries. Check before buying.

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Be sensible. Don't try to do completely insane tricks you see someone do on a video game. They are almost impossible and should not be attempted for fear of cracking your head open.

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As stated above, nunchucks are essentially ancient, deadly weapons. This article in no way gives you the right to go around the streets beating people up! Although using your nunchucks is fun, they are still a tool of the martial arts and should be treated how you would treat any other weapon or martial art: With respect.

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Things You'll Need

Foam or rubber nunchucks.
A large space to practice
A friend present in case of an accident
The common sense not to show off - maintain self discipline

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