The Catch-It Cone, a classic toy from the 1980s, continues to capture the attention of those looking for a fun, nostalgic way to improve their coordination skills. This simple toy, which allows you to launch a small ball high into the air and catch it in a cone, has proven to be not only a fantastic game for all ages but also a tool for building dexterity and even enhancing juggling routines. In this article, we’ll explore various tricks—from beginner moves to advanced techniques—that will help you make the most out of your Catch-It Cone.
What Is the Catch-It Cone?
The Catch-It Cone is a toy that consists of a plastic cone with a trigger mechanism. When you press the trigger, it propels a small colored ball into the air. The objective is simple but challenging: catch the ball as it falls back into the cone. The Catch-It Cone comes with two balls, so you can try single and double catches, adding a new level of complexity to the game.
Let’s jump into some exciting tricks, starting with beginner techniques and working up to advanced skills.
Beginner Tricks to Get Started
Mastering the basics is essential to developing your coordination with the Catch-It Cone. Here are some simple but effective tricks to try first.
1. Fire and Catch (Single Ball)
This is the most basic trick, and it’s perfect for getting a feel for the cone’s mechanics.
- How to Do It: Point the cone straight up, press the trigger to launch the ball, and catch it as it falls back down.
- Tips: Focus on your timing and positioning. Practice until the movement feels smooth and natural.
2. Multiplexing (Two Balls at Once)
Multiplexing, a term borrowed from juggling, involves launching and catching multiple objects at the same time.
- How to Do It: Load both balls into the cone, fire them both at once, and try to catch them simultaneously.
- Tips: Practicing this trick on a hard surface like a wooden floor allows any missed balls to bounce, giving you a second chance to catch them.
3. Off the Wall
This trick adds a fun element by incorporating a wall into the routine.
- How to Do It: Stand a short distance from a wall, fire the ball so that it bounces off the wall, and catch it on the rebound.
- Tips: Adjust your distance from the wall until you find the perfect spot for a comfortable catch.
4. Under the Leg
This move requires a bit of flexibility and is a great way to add flair to your routine.
- How to Do It: Position the cone under one of your legs, fire the ball upward, and catch it as you normally would.
- Tips: Try launching with one hand and catching with the same hand to make it more challenging.
5. Behind the Back
Once you’re comfortable with catching in front of you, try adding a twist.
- How to Do It: Fire the ball behind your back and then catch it as it comes back down.
- Tips: Practice this trick slowly to avoid missing the ball entirely.
Advanced Catch-It Cone Tricks
Ready to up your game? These advanced tricks require more precision and control but are sure to impress!
1. Flip-Catch
The Flip-Catch adds a juggling-style spin to the game.
- How to Do It: Launch the ball, then flip the cone end-over-end (like a juggling club), catch the cone, and then catch the ball.
- Tips: For higher launches, pull the cone upwards while pressing the trigger to give yourself more time for the flip.
2. Switch Hands
Switching hands mid-trick challenges your coordination and control.
- How to Do It: Fire the ball, pass the cone to your opposite hand, and then catch the ball with the other hand.
- Variations: You can pass the cone under your leg or behind your back before catching, which is called “vamping” in juggling terms.
3. Keepy-Uppy’s
Inspired by soccer juggling, this trick lets you keep the ball airborne before catching it.
- How to Do It: Fire the ball, then use different parts of your body—like your knee or elbow—to keep the ball up before catching it in the cone.
- Tips: Start by keeping the ball airborne with a simple kick from your knee to see how high it bounces.
Two Cone Challenges for Extra Fun
For the ultimate Catch-It Cone experience, grab a second cone and try these double-cone tricks.
1. Catch in Both Cones
This trick is all about using both hands independently.
- How to Do It: Fire one ball from the first cone and catch it in the other cone.
- Tips: Start with a single ball and gradually work up to launching two balls and catching one in each cone.
2. Dual Launch and Catch
Double your fun by using both cones simultaneously.
- How to Do It: Place one ball in each cone, fire both cones at the same time, and try to catch both balls in their respective cones.
- Advanced Variation: Fire both cones at different times and catch each ball individually to improve timing.
3. Four Ball Catch Challenge
Take the game to its peak with a four-ball challenge.
- How to Do It: Load both cones with two balls, launch all four, and attempt to catch each ball.
- Tips: This trick requires practice and precision. Start with two balls and work your way up to four.
Tips for Mastering the Catch-It Cone
To get the best experience with your Catch-It Cone, consider these additional tips:
- Start Slow: For beginners, start with one ball to get the hang of timing and coordination before adding more complexity.
- Stay Focused: Many advanced tricks require quick reflexes and precision. Keep your eyes on the ball and be mindful of your movements.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Like juggling, mastering the Catch-It Cone takes time. Dedicate a few minutes each day to practice, and you’ll see improvement quickly.
- Experiment: Feel free to come up with your own tricks! The Catch-It Cone is all about creativity, so don’t hesitate to invent new moves and have fun with it.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Skill Toy for All Ages
The Catch-It Cone is more than just a toy from the 1980s; it’s a fun, challenging way to enhance your hand-eye coordination and develop new skills. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the basics or an experienced juggler adding flair to your routine, there’s a trick for everyone. So grab your Catch-It Cone, start with the basics, and work your way up to the advanced moves. Soon, you’ll be performing tricks that are as entertaining to watch as they are fun to master!
