Sifu Protheroe has been a practitioner and advocate of the Rattan Ring for over 25 years. This DVD is an edited version of two, three-hour seminars on the ring.
Before I continue, it’s worth mentioning that the audio quality on this DVD is very poor, so much so that there is a statement on the introduction apologizing for this fact. As a total newbie to the Rattan Ring, I was very curious to learn what it is all about, so the brief history and the description of the ring was a welcome introduction to the DVD.
According to Ian, the purpose of the ring is to improve your flow. So, to start the seminar we get a demonstration of the first set, which incorporates Kwan Sau and Faat Sau. He then gets the students up to follow in slow motion.
I must admit when Ian demonstrates the sets at full speed it does look impressive, but it would have been nice for some footage from different angles. One problem I found was that there weren’t many references to actual combat; he does demonstrate a few ideas with a partner, but I would have liked to see more of this.
The rest of the DVD continues in the same format with Ian giving a demo of each set and the students following step by step. There are four sets in all, which cover various techniques like Taan Sau, Gaan Sau, Wu Sau and punching—there is plenty to learn here.
Unfortunately, it does get a bit boring, especially if you don’t have a Rattan Ring to follow along like the students. Maybe they could give one away free with each purchase?
If you do have a Rattan Ring, and want to learn how to use it, then this DVD could prove an essential purchase.
Buy at Rick Spain Wing Chun Footwork DVD at:
EverythingWingChun.com or Download it Digitally
Language: English
Running Time: Approx. 102 min.
Format: PAL
Region: 0
Number of Discs: 1
Availability: DVD & EWC Instant Access Download
Review by: James Woodcock
