A method for operating a spindle (2) of a two-for-one twisting or cabling machine, in which an outer yarn (5) is drawn off a first feed package (7) and the spindle (2) rotates in a yarn balloon (B), wherein the spindle (2) comprises a device (6) for influencing the balloon yarn tension of an outer yarn (5), which is connected to a control circuit (18), and has a spindle pot (19) for receiving a second feed package (15), a yarn deflection device (20), a balancing system (9) for forming a twisting or cabling point as well as a spooling and winding device (12). The drive of the yarn balloon (B) is performed via a fixed throw-off point (21) on the yarn deflection device (20).