We've had a number of questions from people asking to know the benefits of purchasing a PVC dummy vs. a traditional wooden dummy. We know that you're probably asking this, too, so here are our thoughts on PVC vs. Wood.

The primary purpose of a WC dummy is to teach "perfect" position relative to an opponent. The arms, leg(s), and body do this by acting as stops to keep you from over-stepping or over-shifting when you practice your techniques and form on the jong. This encompasses the primary guiding principle in Wing Chun which is "economy of motion," i.e., doing the most in the quickest time with the least amount of energy. The composition of the dummy is relevant only as to regarding tradition. In the past, the old masters only had wood to work with. In modern times, we have a variety of materials in which to construct our jongs to achieve the same results.

Additionally, the dummy should not be enshrined or restricted in use. It was specifically invented for students to play with. There is nothing sacred or magical about wood or dummies. It is an excellent learning tool created by the old masters to facilitate the knowledge of Wing Chun students in the art. In particular, a jong at home allows the student to practice and play without restriction, away from probing eyes.

There is no difference between a well-constructed PVC dummy, that is, one with a capped PVC body, wooden arms, and steel or wooden leg, and a traditional wooden dummy, except the weight, and that is easily remedied by adding fill to the hollow PVC body to make it heavier. Those who already have experience practicing on a wooden dummy may notice that the PVC dummy gives a different "feel" than that of its wooden counterpart, but only "if" you have already had some experience working out on a traditional wooden jong.

Adding additonal weight is easy. Any type of fill will do---sand, rocks, marbles, concrete, etc.---but concrete is the heaviest fill per inch, at about 2 lbs. per lineal inch, and it is easy to mix and pour.

The most obvious advantage in purchasing a PVC dummy is price. A PVC jong costs a great deal less than a traditional wooden dummy and you still get the same benefits -- and more. The optional lock wheels give it added mobility as well as a more interesting workout. By unlocking the wheels, you give the jong more mobility which will enhance your ability to practice advanced footwork and learn to "move" with your opponent. The paint option gives you the ability to change the standard white color to red, black or brown

Keep in mind that the primary function of the dummy is to help teach you Wing Chun without the necessity of having a live partner. It is in this manner that the Jong acts as a "second sifu," guiding you through the fabled "Wing Chun door."