How to Get Started with Slinky Tricks: The Energy Beam
What Is the Energy Beam?
The Energy Beam is a mesmerizing slinky trick where you create a rhythmic motion that sends the Slinky’s coils flowing back and forth between your hands. It’s simple yet impressive and a must-learn for building more advanced tricks.
What You Need
You can use almost any slinky to perform the Energy Beam. However, I recommend starting with a plastic slinky like the one I’m using. Metal slinkies can bend out of shape if you pull too hard, which can be frustrating for beginners. I recommend the Spectra Spring, it has thick coils that prevent it from easily getting tangled.
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Grip the Slinky Correctly
Hold about three coils in each hand.
For slinkies with thinner coils, you might need to grab a bit more.
Create a slight separation between the coils you’re holding and those you’re not. Use your thumbs or fingers to achieve this.
Ensure your grip prevents the Slinky’s coils from slipping through your fingers as they move back and forth.
2. Find the Natural Rhythm
Start by holding the slinky with your palms facing upwards.
Gently move your hands back and forth to transfer the coils from one side to the other.
Adjust your speed until you find the Slinky’s natural rhythm. A slinky with more coils will move slower, while one with fewer coils will move faster.
3. Key Techniques for the Energy Beam
Keep Your Palms Up
Always keep your palms facing upwards. Avoid tilting or flipping your hands, as this can disrupt the motion.
Use a Pull, Not a Push
Although it might look like you’re pushing the slinky, the motion is actually a quick pull downward. This pull sends the coils rushing to one hand, and as they bounce back, you repeat the pull in the opposite direction.
Think of it like you’re on a swing: you “boost” the slinky at just the right moment to keep its momentum going.
Quick Pull, Slow Rise
After pulling downward, slowly raise your hand back up. Avoid quickly pushing the slinky upward, as this can cancel out the pull’s effect.
Practice: “Quick pull, slow rise. Quick pull, slow rise.”
4. Gradually Increase the Distance
Begin with your hands close together.
Once you feel in control, slowly move your hands farther apart while maintaining the rhythm.
If the slinky falls flat or gets out of control, don’t worry! Simply bring your hands close together and restart.
5. Adjust for Larger Movements
As your hands move farther apart, angle your pulls slightly downward and away rather than straight down. This helps maintain the energy and rhythm over a longer distance.
Practice Tips
Start Small: Keep movements minimal until you feel comfortable.
Don’t Rush: Spend time mastering each step before moving on to larger hand movements.
Listen to Your Wrists: If your wrists feel tired or sore, take a break and try again later. Overuse can lead to discomfort.
Set a Routine: Practice about 15 minutes a day to build muscle memory and control.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Slinky Out of Control: Slow down and focus on finding the natural rhythm.
Slinky Flopping: Ensure your pulls are timed correctly, adding energy when the coils reach their peak.
Fatigue: Take regular breaks and don’t overdo it.
Ready to Master the Energy Beam?
With consistent practice, you’ll have the Energy Beam mastered in no time! Once you’re comfortable, you can use this foundational trick as a stepping stone to more advanced slinky moves.