Review – Keith R Kernspecht – The Myth of the Wooden Dummy

Review – Keith R Kernspecht – The Myth of the Wooden Dummy

Quick Summary:

This video presents the wooden dummy form and applications differently, than you would find in other productions of the same type. Yet the Muk Yan Jong form, shows as one would expect, a straightforward demo of the forms sequence. Each training section taught includes the familiar techniques or “Hands” of classic Wing Chun applications. The “Chi Gert” techniques demonstrated show how they’re setup for their execution. Less Wing Chun terminology is used or said describing “Hands.” This is not a video teaching the specialized terms associated with technique. However, its intent focuses on specific applications stemming from the forms sequence showing a sense of flow and control in their implementation. One will discover a difference in how techniques are demonstrated with a real display of competence in Wing Chun skill. This video goes beyond the usual lockstep approach… such as “when he does this, I will counter with this” technique. Perhaps, an interest to some, this video shows how to deal with a grappler or wrestler’s attack; an essential skill for any Wing Chun practitioner to have. There are also, appropriate impromptu or “free hand” fighting situations demonstrated by Grand master Kernspecht and his students.

Comments on Production:

As a forty-eight minute production, this video provides lots of learning potential for anyone interested in the Wing Chun System. Overhead and side views of the Muk Yan Jong’s empty hand techniques provide further detail in learning the form. For closer study a breakdown of applications are shown at normal speed and in slow-motion. Consideration was also taken to minimize background distractions, which is a must for careful observation and learning. One could easily miss subtleties’ expressed in technique, when there’s unnecessary background clutter, which may tend to move the eyes away from important detail.

Review Comments:

Review - Keith R Kernspecht - The Myth of the Wooden DummyThis training video is awesome! As a Wing Chun training video it provides for the experienced practitioner, a side of Chi Sau practice not often shown. It’s a graceful display of Wing Chun technique, expressed with inherent power, swiftness and agility. But how, does one acquire the level of skill attributed to a masterful expression of Wing Chun Skill? The video cannot teach you everything, this is why you must have the right teacher…and just seeing the techniques, is not enough! So what else, is needed in one’s training to achieve the kind of excellent skill provided in this video. It cannot totally teach one this essential skill. Obviously, the question should be, “What is it that Grandmaster Keith R Kernspecht, is able to provide for his students, that others cannot or chose not too”?! The answer, is partly in teaching students from the beginning, how to develop flexibility and appropriate structure. The kind of structure, I’m speaking of, is dynamic and exhibits flexibility. One must be able to change instantly and at the right moment with force. Possessing the feel or sensitivity with proper movement and structure is the key to successful application of technique. This is not easily accomplished without the right preparation; some fortunately possess it naturally, however, that being true, it must be cultivated. Grandmaster Kernspecht, certainly has it and has wisely incorporated his experience in teaching his students martial arts…he has through the years, learned how to blend his skills and knowledge in the art of Wing Chun!

Review Specifications:
Reviewer: George Hernandez
Presentation Title: The Myth of the Wooden Dummy
Presenters: Dr. Prof. Keith R Kernspecht
Date: 5/23/2015

Technical Specifications:
Language: English
Format: DVD or Digital Download
DVD Format: NTSC Region 0
Resolution (download only): 720p
Running Time: 41:28 minutes

Ratings (1-5 scale):
Sound Quality: 5
Video Quality: 5
Total Production Score: 10

Subject/Instruction Rating
Subject matter: 5
Instruction Quality: 5
Total Subject/Instruction Rating: 10

Reviewers Rating: 5
Total Score: 25/25= 100%

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