Karthik’s Pre-Freestyle Guide

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Ever wonder how to prepare before going up on stage? Everybody does it differently. Some throwers meditate by listening to calming music, others speak to their closest friends, while some just don't do anything at all. 

Today, the lovely Karthik Devaraj from Team "alternatives" Singapore shares his pre-freestyle routine. Karthik has built up a reputation for somehow always managing to go clean—probably 9/10 times. So he definitely knows a thing or two.

Presenting Karthik's guide!

Karthik’s Pre-Freestyle Guide (AC Venue Edition — Alcohol Wipe Version)

Essentials to Pack in Your Yoyo Bag

• Alcohol wipes (2–3 per contest)
• Microfiber cloth
• Extra strings (pre-stretched)
• Optional: baby powder / grip enhancer
• Spare yoyo (warmed up, not for stage)
  
  

1. 60–30 Minutes Before: Settle In & Hydrate

• Arrive early and acclimate to the AC environment — let your body cool down from outside heat.
• Drink water lightly, avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks.
• Keep physical activity minimal to avoid sweaty palms.

2. 30–15 Minutes Before: Wash & Reset

• Wash hands thoroughly with lukewarm water and soap to remove sweat, oils, and dirt.
• Dry completely, especially between fingers and fingertips.

3. 15–5 Minutes Before: Alcohol Wipe & String Prep

• Use 1 alcohol wipe to clean your hands — palms, fingers, and in between.
• Let hands air dry fully (takes ~30 seconds).
• Do not apply lotion after the wipe — this is your “performance grip” phase.
  
  

Change to contest string:

• Pre-stretch and test it with a few tricks to ensure good feel and tension.
• Use your “performance yoyo” from here onward.

4. 5–1 Minute Before Stage: Final Touches

• Wipe hands again if you feel moisture returning — keep a spare wipe or a dry microfiber cloth in your back pocket.
• Check string tension, finger loop fit, and your grip.
• Breathe and focus — steady nerves = steady hands.

Optional: For Extra Sweat Protection

• Lightly dust palms with baby powder or cornstarch if prone to re-sweating (apply before alcohol wipe stage if needed).
• Use Dry Hands or Gorilla Gold cloth if you prefer a very dry, tack-free grip — test before contest day.

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Curious what it does?