Chinese Yo-Yo

The diabolo, also known as Chinese Yo-yo, empty bell, pulling bell, and wind bell, was created so long ago in ancient China that there was no known inventor. Originally, the Chinese Yo-yo was made of wood or bamboo. Today, as a result of modern technology, most Chinese Yo-yos are composed of two plastic wheels and a joining rod where the string pivots the yo-yo. With the weight evenly distributed, the performer can execute fantastic tricks while keeping the yo-yo spinning fast and without dropping. The Chinese Yo-yo can be used by people of any age for play or for moderate exercise. There are many wonderful tricks that can be performed using your hands, fingers, legs, neck, and even the waist. Individuals who practice the Chinese Yo-yo for fifteen minutes a day improve their coordination, flexibility, stamina, and strength, also build up a nimble body and a sharp mind. For many families, exercising with the Chinese Yo-yo is an opportunity for everyone to share enjoyable and healthy time together.

The Chinese Folk Workshop has two Chinese Yo-Yo teams that consist of a younger team and an older, more advanced team.  The older team consists of 14-18 year olds who have been doing the yoyo together for 7-8 years.  The have performed at many locales including the Boston Children's Museum, Rhode Island Dragon Boat Festival, First Night Boston, Double Ten Boston, and the National Folk Festival in Bangor, Maine.