How to Master Pogo Stick Jumping

Ensure the pogo stick is in excellent working order. If you notice any squeaking when you press down, missing parts, or signs of damage, avoid using it. A malfunctioning pogo stick could result in injury to you or others.

Ensure you're within the recommended weight limit. The typical weight limit is around 143 lbs. Most pogo sticks list the weight limit either in the instructions or directly on the stick. Exceeding this limit can affect how high you can jump and pose a safety risk. Also, wear proper safety gear, as learning to use a pogo stick can be dangerous. Start on a hard outdoor surface with plenty of space (avoid grass, as the pogo stick will sink into the ground). Always wear a snug helmet and consider elbow pads (though knee pads may interfere with jumping).

Inspect the pogo stick for safety. Before you hop on, check for any loose parts. Make sure everything is securely fastened. You don’t want any crucial pieces coming off mid-jump.

Wear protective gear, including a helmet. Always prioritize safety when using a pogo stick, especially by wearing a helmet. You should also consider elbow and knee pads.

• Make sure to wear lace-up shoes with rubber soles. Never attempt to pogo barefoot or in sandals. Be sure your laces are securely tied and away from the springs.

Select the correct size pogo stick. If you're under 5'5", choose a 46-inch pogo stick. For those between 5'6" and 5'11", go with a 51-inch pogo stick. If you're 6' or taller, opt for a pogo stick that is at least 56 inches in height.

Avoid uneven surfaces like grass or dirt. Your pogo stick may get stuck, causing you to fall. Avoid using it in traffic or on busy streets. Stay aware of your surroundings, watching out for pedestrians, vehicles, bikers, skateboarders, and skaters.

Master the art of balancing. If balancing is tricky for you, try practicing off the pogo stick first. Using a balance board can help you improve your stability before you attempt to pogo. This way, you’ll learn to control the pogo stick once you get on it.

• Stand in a split position on the board and aim to keep it steady.
• Place one foot in front of the other, then gently rock the board back and forth, maintaining control.
• Shift your feet from side to side, tilting the board slowly and with control from one foot to the other.

Mount the pogo stick. Position the pogo stick so it faces outward. Keep it vertical, place one foot on the footrest, and hold the handlebars. With your other foot, step onto the pogo stick. Be careful not to put all your weight on one foot as you get on, or you may lose your balance.

• Grip the handlebars firmly with both hands.
• Press down firmly with one foot on the footrest.

Begin bouncing. As soon as both feet are on the pogo stick, start bouncing right away to maintain your balance. Jump towards the pedals, not away from your body. Keep your arms on the handlebars for stability. Keep the pogo stick close to you—pushing it forward may cause instability and potentially break the stick.

• Start with a few bounces, then dismount to get a feel for the pogo stick.
• As you push down with one foot, bring your other foot onto the second footrest.
• Once both feet are on the footrests, grip the handlebars tightly. To jump, crouch slightly and push down with your legs, then quickly pull up on the handlebars while standing straight up.
• Repeat this motion several times to get the hang of hopping. Lower your body close to the floor, then jerk upward on the handlebars.
• Don’t jump too high—staying low will help you maintain control and avoid falling. Aim for just enough height to bounce lightly off the ground.

Lean in the opposite direction of your fall. If you begin tipping over, shift your body in the opposite direction of your fall to regain balance. Be careful not to lean too far, as this could cause you to fall in the other direction or start spinning in circles.

Only attempt tricks you're ready for. You may have seen incredible pogo stick stunts performed online or by friends. Stick to what you're comfortable with and don't rush into anything you're not ready for. Master regular jumping first before attempting any advanced tricks.

Try jumping on one foot. Once you're comfortable controlling the pogo stick, try jumping with just one foot. Begin by jumping as you usually would. Once you find your rhythm, lift your non-dominant foot off the footrest (if you're right-footed, take off your left foot). Lean towards the side without the foot on the stick to help center your balance.

Attempt jumping without using your hands. To jump with no hands, begin jumping as you normally would. Use your knees to grip the pogo stick, and slowly release your hands from the handlebars. Continue jumping while keeping the pogo stick steady with your knees, using them to push the stick upward.

• Once you're comfortable jumping without hands, have someone toss you a basketball. You can try shooting the ball into a hoop while bouncing on the pogo stick.

Take care of your pogo stick and yourself while using it.

• Avoid leaving it in extreme weather conditions like rain or snow, as this can cause rust and other damage.
• Never leave it unattended. It may be stolen.
• Keep it clean! Dirt and grime buildup can slow the pogo stick down and make hopping more difficult.
• If any parts start to come loose, like the rubber base, stop using it immediately. Fix or replace the part, or consider replacing the pogo stick altogether. A missing part can be hazardous.
• Only attempt tricks once you are highly skilled at using the pogo stick, have someone with you for emergency assistance, and wear appropriate safety gear (including a helmet).
• Avoid using the pogo stick in risky places, such as near traffic, edges, stairs, or around skateboards.
• Do not use the pogo stick near small children, as they could be injured by it.
• Do not attempt to go up or down stairs. You’re likely to fall and hurt yourself.
• Store your pogo stick in an environment with a temperature close to room temperature.

• If you feel unsteady while using the pogo stick, try riding near grass or soft ground. This way, you can safely fall onto the grass if needed.
• Some people find it easier to get on the pogo stick with both feet at the same time instead of one.
• If you're having trouble balancing, simply step off and try again.

• Always wear safety gear to protect yourself in case of a fall.
• Do not attempt to use the pogo stick inside the house. If the floor is weak or unstable, you could fall through and risk serious injury or even death.
• If you feel dizzy, stop and take a 5-minute break.
• Always use the pogo stick on a firm surface.
• Ensure you have plenty of space to move around safely.