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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Iron Palm Kung Fu (Tie Zhang Gong) is a traditional Shaolin and Taoist palm conditioning art. The Duanwei rank structure (1st to 5th Duan) measures progressive phases—from Ji Ben Gong bag striking (mung beans, gravel, steel shot) to explosive internal Fa Jin release and herbal Dit Da Jow conditioning.

1st Duan – Ji Ben Gong

一段Rank #1
Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Palm preparation striking bags with beans/rice, Dit Da Jow herbal liniment.

Symbolism & Meaning

Entry into the ancient Shaolin art of Iron Palm (Tie Zhang).

2nd Duan – Fen Jin

二段Rank #2
Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Transition to striking gravel and sand bags, internal Qigong breathing.

Symbolism & Meaning

Increasing bone density of forearms and wrists without nerve damage.

3rd Duan – Cuo Gu

三段Rank #3
Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Striking iron-shot bags. First breaking tests of bricks and stone.

Symbolism & Meaning

Ability to focus Fa Jin kinetic energy into a single impact point.

4th Duan – Dian Xue

四段Rank #4
Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Combat application of Iron Palm to vital human targets in real conflict.

Symbolism & Meaning

Merging external physical conditioning with precise anatomical sensitivity.

5th Duan – Tie Zhang Master (Grandmaster)

五段Rank #5
Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Highest master level. Breaking thick stone slabs with a casual whip strike.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Living legend controlling the invisible destructive power of Iron Palm.