The Chinese YoYo, also known as Tzuh-ling, empty bell, pulling bell and wind bell, was created so long ago that there is no known inventor. Originally, the Chinese YoYo was made of wood or bamboo. Reference to the "empty bell" was first found in annals of the Ming Dynasty between 1386 and 1644 AD. The bamboo or empty bell, commonly known today as the Chinese yo-yo, was originally made of two rounds, wooden ends connected in the middle by a horizontal piece of wood. This simple toy was nevertheless an integral part of ancient Chinese culture. Performers of the Chinese yo-yo could often be found in the ongoing street entertainment of Chinese festivals. The yo-yo was also an especially popular pastime in the northern parts of China during the springtime. Since then, the yo-yo has survived hundreds of years with a few minor changes in appearance; for example, the modern-day yo-yo is now usually made of plastic, not wood. Despite these superficial changes, the yo-yo remains a popular toy today, and has not only evolved into a distinctive performance art but also serves as a unique reminder of Chinese heritage.
It is interesting that the Chinese YoYo can be used by people of any age for play or moderate exercise. There are many wonderful tricks that can be performed by using your hands, fingers, legs, neck and even the waist. Individuals who use the Chinese YoYo for fifteen minutes a day improve their coordination, flexibility, stamina and strength, resulting in a nimble body and a sharp mind. For many families, exercising with the Chinese YoYo is an opportunity for everyone to share time together in an enjoyable and healthy activity. In street in Beijing, you can see people of all age playing YoYo.
