Learn to Juggle – 3 Ball Cascade

Posted by Toni | on December 18, 2007

If you are an absolute beginner at juggling, then you have come to the right place.

The 3 ball cascade is usually the first juggling pattern the neophyte will learn. It looks harder than it actually is.

This video tutorial does a good job of explaining how to learn this base pattern, as well as proper form.
The teacher is Jason Garfield, one of the most ~~angriest~~ passionate jugglers ever.

Garfield is also an advocate of proper form, and explains that in this video. Pay attention.

Our Tips for Learning the 3 Ball Cascade

Yes, you do have to learn 1 ball, then 2 balls, then 3 balls. Everyone learns at a different pace, but concentrate on getting each move down before moving on.
Personally, it took me a few hours to get just the 2 balls down solid. And solid is important — don’t try rushing, you’ll learn faster but will also end up with bad form and looking sloppy. I was doing 3 balls with 6-12 catches after a day, and had the pattern looking decent and solid after a week.
Take breaks. It’s ok to learn a little at a time.
If possible, start out with beanbags, Russian balls, or other balls that won’t bounce / roll away on you.

Alternative 3 Balls Cascade Tutorials:

Having a teacher is fantastic, having dozens of available teachers is what makes learning to juggle online unique and valuable. If you don’t fancy the above tutorial, or just want to have a few different perspectives have a look at these videos also teaching the 3 ball cascade:

Great tutorial and a fancy shirt.
Not as technical as the first tutorial, but it a good vid with some excellent tips — and it’s colorful