Monster Kendama Guide
Airplane reverses the familiar spike relationship: you hold the tama and land the ken's spike into the hole. It is often the first major tama-grip trick and a foundation for jump-in and j-stick style movements.
Set the tama and ken
Hold the tama with the hole facing upward and fingers clear of the opening. Let the ken hang still below. The big cup should face roughly toward you, creating a readable starting orientation.
Pull the spike into the hole
Bend your knees and lift the tama smoothly. The ken should rise with minimal rotation. Guide the tama hole under the spike, then lower your body as the spike enters.
Move the hole to the spike instead of chasing the hole with a swinging ken.
Control rotation
If the ken flips past the hole, the pull is too sharp or angled. If it never reaches the tama, use a slightly stronger knee extension. Start from stillness so every attempt has the same timing.
Progress safely
Practice low airplanes over a clear floor. Once consistent, add a gentle earth-turn-style exit or learn one-turn airplane with small increments rather than immediately throwing a fast rotation.
Frequently asked questions
Which grip is used for airplane?
Tama grip, with the ball in your hand and the ken hanging below.
Where should the tama hole face?
Upward and visible, with your fingers away from its edge.
Why does the ken rotate sideways?
The starting hang may be twisted or your pull may be traveling sideways.