To start my research on how to handle the dikin, I first leaned into my small library of Filipino martial arts books, magazines and videos.  As I mentioned in my first article, I was surprised to have found two references to the dikin.  Unfortunately, I haven’t found any other references – yet.  I’m continuing to search for more books, magazines and videos to add to my FMA library.

Next, I turned to YouTube – and have not been successful in finding videos on how to hold the dikin using “dikin” in my keyword search.   When I use “rattan ring”, I was able to pull up many Asian martial art systems – Kung Fu, Wing Chun – that use a rattan ring as a normal part of their system.

I started watching the rattan ring videos and found a few that I may incorporate into my long term practice.

I liked the Rattan Ring Quick Start Guide, Rattan Ring Training, YouTube, Nov 27, 2022 which taught me various holding positions:

• Outside
• Inside
• Weave

and how to move from one holding position into another position.

• Shoot through – outside to inside
• Roll out – palms out to rotate from inside to outside
• Front/Back Door – outside to weave position

I’m trying to develop a warm up flow and like this video for showing how I can handle the ring at shoulder and head level – Beginning Wing Chun Ring Exercises, Paul Schnoor Fundamental Wing Chun, YouTube, Feb 23, 2021.

I liked these two YouTube videos for showing me how the rattan ring can help my mano y mano (hand to hand or empty-hand training: 

• Rattan Ring for Boxing – Beginner’s Guide, WukongWilson, YouTube, Oct 4, 2025.
• Urban Combat JKD- Wing Chun Training, Emil Martirossian, YouTube, Mar 19, 2018.

Initial notes in regards to practicing with a rattan ring:

• Remove watch and bracelets first.
• Doing the roll out with palms up to move from inside to outside – be careful as you can hit yourself (face).  
• I’m going to want to use sand paper to polish the rattan ring – especially before I start picking up splinters.
• I’m wondering if I should purchase a rattan ring that is slightly smaller than 16”.