An elderly man's unique workout with a traditional oil extraction hammer sparked debate in northern China.

The bizarre video was filmed in Harbin City in Heilongjiang Province on June 21.

The man in his 80s, named Geng Guolai, practised a traditional martial arts method known as "Youchui Guanding," a discipline he has faithfully upheld for over 40 years.

This ancient technique involves using a specialised tool called an "oil hammer," historically used for oil extraction, which features a spherical iron head. Practitioners repeatedly strike their heads with this hammer to enhance resilience and overall physical prowess.

Despite ongoing debates about its safety and efficacy, Geng remains unwavering in his daily practice. He credits decades of training not only for improving his physical health but also for boosting his mental well-being, serving as an inspiration to younger generations.

While medical experts caution against the potential risks associated with the workout method, acknowledging its historical significance within martial arts, they emphasise the importance of adopting safe and scientifically validated fitness practices.

In light of modern advancements, there is a call among martial arts communities to integrate traditional methods with contemporary knowledge, ensuring fitness routines are both culturally rich and safe for practitioners.

The video was provided by local media with permission.

近日，黑龙江哈尔滨，一位八旬老人的独特健身方式引发关注。经了解，这位老人叫耿国来，他用的是传统武术中的“油锤灌顶”方法进行锻炼，并且已坚持四十多年。

“油锤灌顶”是一种古老且极具挑战性的武术训练方法。“油锤”是古时用于榨油的器具，其长度大约有三市尺。它的木柄被铁皮包裹，而一端则是一个半球形的“锤”。这个“锤”的形状特殊，类似于半个铁球，被称为“油锤”。“油锤灌顶”是一种硬功，可以解释为铁头功的一种。练习者需用特制的油锤不断敲打重击头顶，以此锻炼头部的抗击打能力和提高身体素质。

虽然，这种锻炼方式的安全性和科学性一直备受争议，耿国来老人却对此深信不疑，并坚持每天练习。他表示，通过多年的锻炼，他不仅感觉身体更加健康，而且精神状态也大为改善。老人的坚韧和毅力，让许多年轻人也自愧不如。

对此，医学专家表示，虽然老人的行为可能暂时未造成明显伤害，但“油锤灌顶”仍然存在很大的安全隐患。专家建议，公众在选择健身方式时，应注重科学性和安全性，避免盲目模仿高风险行为。

同时，武术界人士也指出，“油锤灌顶”作为传统武术的一种训练方法，有其存在的历史和文化价值。然而，在现代社会中，人们应该更加理性地看待这种传统锻炼方式，结合现代科学知识进行合理改进和创新。