WCI Review - Sam Chan - Instructor Series: Wooden Dummy Lesson Plans

This video by Sifu Sam Chan focuses on the Wooden Dummy form and is part of an instructor series. Filmed in a traditional, old-school style, it runs for less than 40 minutes.

No background information about Sifu Chan is provided, but a quick online search reveals he was a student of the late Ip Ching. As was typical for instructional videos of that era, the presentation is stripped down to the essentials.

There is no narration. Viewers are expected to learn by closely observing the dummy form, drills and applications. Occasional subtitles offer brief pointers on practising the form and associated drills.

The video opens with Sifu Chan demonstrating the complete Wooden Dummy form. His version is relatively long, featuring more repetitions than the standard Ip Man form, though the movements are essentially the same. His form consists of seven sections.

After the full demonstration, the video moves on to the applications and drills – the more dynamic part of the presentation. The form is broken down section by section, with corresponding drills and applications shown for each. The logical structure makes the video easy to follow and enjoyable to watch.

The applications and drills are not explained verbally: only brief subtitles provide guidance. An experienced Wing Chun practitioner would easily grasp the material, though beginners might find it less accessible. However, the video appears intended for those training to become instructors.

Overall, I found this to be an enjoyable video – short, sweet and easy to watch. I particularly appreciated the drills using focus mitts. Sifu Chan incorporated mitts into several drills, along with the Wooden Dummy and a heavy punching bag. It is always refreshing to see older Sifus adopting modern training methods while preserving the traditional essence of their style.

The video concludes with Sifu Chan demonstrating the Air Dummy form – essentially the Wooden Dummy form performed without the dummy. Through subtitles, Sifu Chan explains the importance of practising the Air Dummy form, as it encourages greater precision.

As the Wooden Dummy does not perfectly mirror the human body, practising without it can lead to more accurate and realistic movements.

Sam Chan - Instructor Series: Wooden Dummy Lesson Plans
Language: English
Running Time: Approx. 40 min.
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