I have a affinity for Chinese martial practices that are not form based. I like push hands and I will forever be in love with the practice ideas and methodologies of Wing Chun, also spelled Vin Tsun. Part of the Wing Chun practice program involves working with the famed wooden dummy. I made one a while back to practice and flush out new ideas. To be sure it is a world of difference than a training partner and having a full mat, but it does let you work subtle aspects of the arts without having to depend on a partner.
Here is a very basic introductory look to the link between Tomiki Aikido and wooden dummy work.
Conserving a Set of Japanese Armor
1 day ago
This is most excellent! I am definitely going to feature this in my weekly martial arts news. FYI check out
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I was taught roughly 1/3rd of the Wing Chun form a very long time ago. I have since used the device for Tae Kwon Do and Seven Star Praying Mantis Kung Fu.
I really like how you used it in Aikido!
FYI, Wing Chun does have a wooden dummy form, and it is rather comprehensive. So when WCers appear to be improvising on it, they are usually just changing the sequence of the standard movements.
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ReplyDeleteYes I know, I used to study wing chun. I guess I still do, just through a different lense.
Cool vid. Cool dummy.
ReplyDeleteYup, cool improvised dummy. I still plan to make one out of a Maple log I have stashed...
ReplyDeleteI 'discovered' the aiki/wing chun links a long time ago and still mix them to this day. I prefer to work around a fixed vertical pole that makes me move a bit more. I now have a proper wooden dummy but I have gotten so used to the pole I actually prefer it. Have to say though, the plastic pipe man is interesting... a good effort methinks. RMJA
ReplyDeleteThe dummy seems practical for what you are using it for. I'm interested in its construction, whether or not it is too light, how much (or little) effort is needed to move the arms and whether that effects the application of the techniques.
ReplyDeleteI've been training Wing Chun (Hung Fa Yi) for the last 2 years and have started incorporating many of the engagement strategies from it into my Aikido. It's amazing what a proper structure will do to improve your initial contact with uke.
ReplyDeleteI really like your "live" dummy as opposed to the more rigid wooden ones. I may try to make one myself. Thanks for the ideas and video. Nice job
Real interesting, loved, great dummy, nice ideas!!
ReplyDeleteincluding reasonable comments here... aikido
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