18 Bronzeman Iron Dummy Training with Luciano Sifu
Shao-Lin 18 Bronze-man method (Shao-Lin Shih-Pa Teng-Jen Fa)

The “Eighteen Bronze Man Method” or “Iron Dummy”, as it is sometimes called, is a southern shaolin system originating in Fukien province. It is unique in that all of the techniques, drills and forms are practiced on a mechanical training partner or “dummy.”

Originally made of wood and embedded into the ground, the modern version of this dummy is made of steel and is mounted on a plate steel base. This makes the dummy more dense, heavier and to some extent portable. The “Bronze-man” Dummy conditions the arms, strengthens the legs and is very effective in illustrating to the practitioner if their techniques are aligned properly. The ability to generate power from the legs and hips are aided tremendously with this apparatus.

There are 2 methods of training with the Iron Dummy; the original Chen method, and the Pai family method. The Chen method consists of skills, drills and forms from the 18 bronze man method. The Pai method consists of Pai family skills, drills and forms adapted to the 18 bronze man apparatus. If time permits, Luciano sifu will cover all three levels of Iron Dummy training.