The Nunchaku Figure 8s: Upward, Downward, and Lateral

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The figure eight is a cornerstone of nunchaku freestyle, providing a foundation for countless advanced techniques. This guide combines three essential figure-eight movements: the Upward, Downward, and Lateral Figure 8s. Mastering these will significantly enhance your control, fluidity, and overall nunchaku skills.

Understanding the Core Principles

Regardless of the figure eight variation, several core principles remain consistent:

  • Control over Speed: Always prioritize precise control over how fast you're moving the nunchaku. Speed will naturally develop with mastery.

  • Wrist as Pivot: Your wrist is the primary joint driving these movements. Focus on subtle, controlled rotations.

  • Fluidity: Aim for smooth, continuous loops without jerky motions. The nunchaku should feel like it's flowing.

  • Body Awareness: Be mindful of the nunchaku's position relative to your body to avoid accidental strikes.

  • Practice with Both Hands: Developing ambidexterity is crucial for advanced techniques and overall proficiency.

Training Methods: The Six Grips

Joris vd Berg emphasizes applying "Training Method 1" to each figure-eight variation. This involves practicing the movement with six different grips, which builds comprehensive control and adaptability:

  1. 1st Grip: At the end of a nunchaku branch (positive grip).

  2. 2nd Grip: In the middle of a nunchaku branch (positive grip).

  3. 3rd Grip: Close to the rope (positive grip).

  4. 4th Grip: At the end of a nunchaku branch (negative grip).

  5. 5th Grip: In the middle of a nunchaku branch (negative grip).

  6. 6th Grip: Close to the rope (negative grip).

A "positive grip" means the rope is pointing towards your arm/body, while a "negative grip" means the rope is pointing away from you.

The Upward Figure 8 

The Upward Figure 8 creates a vertical figure-eight pattern, moving the nunchaku upwards and around.


Key Pointers:

  • Thumb on Top: For enhanced control, try placing your thumb on top of the nunchaku stick you are holding.

  • Outside to Inside: Focus on guiding the nunchaku from the outside of your body inward, creating a smooth arc.

  • Continuous Motion: Strive for a fluid, uninterrupted loop.

  • Start Slow: Begin with gentle, controlled movements before increasing speed.

The Downward Figure 8

The Downward Figure 8 is the inverse of the upward movement, creating an inverted vertical figure-eight pattern.


Key Pointers:

  • Outside to Inside (Downward): Similar to the Upward Figure 8, the movement flows from the outside towards your body, but with a downward trajectory.

  • Wrist as Primary Pivot: Your wrist is crucial for guiding the downward arc.

  • Elbow as Secondary Pivot: As you gain confidence, you can incorporate your elbow for a larger, more flowing motion.

  • Momentum Utilization: Allow the nunchaku's natural momentum to assist in the transition between the outside and inside movements.

The Lateral Figure 8 

The Lateral Figure 8, also known as the Sideward or Horizontal Figure 8, creates a figure-eight pattern on a horizontal plane, parallel to the floor.


Key Pointers:

  • Compact Movement: Especially when starting, keep the loops relatively small and close to your body to maintain control.

  • Forefinger Guidance: Use your index finger to help guide the nunchaku, providing more precise control.

  • Avoid Over-extension: A common beginner mistake is extending the arm too far. Keep the movement contained.

  • Visualize the Plane: Imagine the nunchaku moving on a flat, horizontal surface.

Practice Progression

  1. Individual Mastery: Practice each figure-eight variation individually until you feel comfortable and controlled.

  2. Apply All Grips: For each variation, systematically work through all six grips from Training Method 1. This is vital for developing versatile control.

  3. Practice Both Hands: Dedicate equal time to practicing with your non-dominant hand.

  4. Transitions: Once confident with individual movements and grips, begin practicing smooth transitions between the Upward, Downward, and Lateral Figure 8s.

By diligently applying these principles and practicing consistently, you'll build a strong foundation in nunchaku freestyle, setting yourself up for more complex and dynamic techniques.

What other nunchaku techniques are you interested in learning about?

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