The below is a list of book related to various aspects of martial arts that I have read over the last several years with my comments and my ratings along with descriptions usually taken from the book’s back cover when applicable or from Amazon.com Editorial Reviews (source is noted).
The following are the new books added to this review since my last book review posting in June 2011:
• The Anatomy of Martial Arts: An Illustrated Guide to the Muscles Used for Each Strike, Kick, and Throw by Norman Link and Lily Chou
• A Killing Art - The Untold History of Tae Kwon Do by Alex Gillis
• Shotokan's Secret-Expanded Edition: The Hidden Truth Behind Karate's Fighting Origins by Bruce D. Clayton
• Warrior Wisdom: Ageless Wisdom for the Modern Warrior by Bohdi Sanders
My Ratings:
Excellent – Would highly recommend
Very Good – Would recommend
Good - Might recommend unless found another book on same subject that was better
Not Very Good – Would not recommend
I, also, do not expect everyone to agree with my ratings or comments and welcome anyone’s thoughts or own comments if you get the chance to read them. I am also always looking for suggestions for books related to martial arts, so please pass on your recommendations as well.
While I do not advocate learning martial arts only through books, books can provide insight and new thoughts or echo one’s own current thinking related to the study of martial arts and can be valuable in your study and growth as a martial artist.
The books are listed in alphabetical order.
1. Advanced Tae Kwon Do by Scott Shaw
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Taekwondo is defined as a hard-style system of the martial arts with penetrating kicks, punches, and forceful linear attacks. In Advanced Taekwondo, Scott Shaw presents an in-depth look at the complete art of Taekwondo—from the underlying philosophies that drive the techniques and strategies to advice on mastering basic and advanced techniques fundamental to the art.
o My Comments: I picked this up because the first couple of chapters highlighted the energy side of the art form and I was intrigued. The book has a lot of good concepts and principles, but a lot of the book has tactics and concepts that are not the Han Moo Kwan style: the forms in it are ITF style, there are a lot of variations of kicks that are more for competitions, and there is a chapter strictly on competition. I found some useful information, but found Loren Christensen’s books more useful overall when looking for drills and training exercises.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: no customer ratings at this time (1/2/07)
2. The Anatomy of Martial Arts: An Illustrated Guide to the Muscles Used for Each Strike, Kick, and Throw by Norman Link and Lily Chou
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
With detailed anatomical drawings, this book precisely illustrates the inner workings of your body during key martial arts moves. Its color drawings, helpful photos and clear text make it easy to identify the specific muscles you need to train for maximum speed, power and accuracy. More than just an anatomy book, each section is accompanied by exercises and stretches to strengthen muscles, prevent injury and improve form.
o My Comments: Very good reference material to show the various muscles used in martial arts kicks and strikes and exercises to strengthen those muscles and/or gain more flexibility. Note that the techniques shown her are not always exact to Han Moo Kwan.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: : 4.5 out of 5 stars (15 reviewers as of 7/9/11)
3. The Art of Peace by Morihei Ueshiba
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
The real way of the warrior is based on compassion, wisdom, fearlessness, and love of nature. So taught the great Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969), founder of the Japanese martial art of Aikido. Aikido is a disciple Ueshiba called the “Art of Peace.” It offers a nonviolent way to victory in the face of conflict, and he believed that Aikido principles could be applied to all the challenges we face in life—in personal and business relationships, as well as in our interactions with society. These succinct and pithy teachings are drawn from his talks and writings. The collection is compiled by the renowned modern Aikidoist John Stevens, a disciple of Ueshiba.
o My Comments: There is a lot of wisdom and antidotes here that are expresses the ultimate aim for martial arts – to never have to use it.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: : 4.5 out of 5 stars (36 reviewers as of 4/25/10)
4. The Art of War by Sun Tzu
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Widely regarded as "The Oldest Military Treatise in the World," this landmark work covers principles of strategy, tactics, maneuvering, communication, and supplies; the use of terrain, fire, and the seasons of the year; the classification and utilization of spies; the treatment of soldiers, including captives, all have a modern ring to them.
o My Comments: Classic book regarding strategy. One of those books that might take several readings to fully comprehend and understand its full magnitude.
o My Rating: Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (263 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
5. Be Like Water: Practical Wisdom from the Martial Arts by Joseph Cardillo
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
For anyone interested in deepening their quality of life, karate expert Joseph Cardillo delivers an inspiring and essential guide to the spiritual wisdom of the martial arts. Contrary to what many might think, self-defense is not the main purpose of martial arts training. 'See with Your Skin; Find Your Range; Be Like Water' are just some of the wise messages at the heart of all martial art practices that help seasoned warriors, Buddhist monks, even kung fu champions like Bruce Lee maintain their trademark calm in the face of chaos. Now, in 16 easy-to-read chapters, Joseph Cardillo outlines a variety of disciplines from Korea, China, and Japan, and provides narrative examples for how they translate into spiritual well being. Complete with reflective exercises, BE LIKEWATER is a well-grounded, step-by-step approach to applying the warrior mind-set to life's daily challenges.
o My Comments: This book really highlights how the energy and spiritual side of martial arts can also be applied in every day life. Each chapter talks about specific aspects and Joseph Cardillo does a great job showing how these principles he applies to his martial arts as well as to every day life. For an introduction to the spiritual side to martial arts, I still think Joe Hyams’ “Zen in the Martial Arts” book is the best place to start, but this book is very good as well and provides more details on the spiritual side and how to put it in practice. I will also state up front that the use of energy as described by Joseph Cardillo does not always match exactly that of the Han Moo Kwan philosophy. However, I am a firm believer that the more we can apply energy and experience energy (whether it is life or in the dojang) the easier it will be to tint it to the HMK style when practicing HMK.
o My Rating: Very Good to Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (3 reviewers as of 10/1/07)
6. Becoming a Complete Martial Artist: Error Detection in Self-Defense and the Martial Arts by Marc MacYoung and Tris Sutrisno
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Self-Defense: Error Detection in the Martial Arts is a graduate-level course in the most important strategic principles of self-defense from the legendary Tristan Sutrisno and the indefatigable Marc MacYoung. Not a manual for beginners or dilettantes, but a key to the highest level of tactical self-defense, this volume concentrates not on a catalog of specific defenses for specific situations but on teaching situational awareness and understanding of the wide range of opportunities, possibilities, and options available to the skilled defender, in any situation. The key presented here is error detection-developing the ability to understand instantly the flaws and vulnerabilities in an aggressor's attack or posture (after a thorough exploration of one's own habitual defensive response patterns in dealing with attacks). With a strong grasp of the mechanics of error detection, the martial artist will be able to step up to a new awareness and a vastly enhanced ability to use an existing arsenal of skills to greater advantage. Sutrisno and MacYoung bring over sixty years of combined experience to their teaching, and Self-Defense is the fruit of their long study.
o My Comments: The book has some very good information and a lot of information compliments what we already present and talk about in class. The biggest issue I had with this book is the lack of illustrations. Sometimes the points the authors are trying to make are hard to truly grasp without any photos or illustrations.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (4 reviewers as of 6/29/08)
7. Book of Five Rings: The Classic Guide to Strategy by Miyamoto Musashi
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Here is one of the most insightful texts on the subtle arts of confrontation and victory to emerge from Asian culture. Written not only for martial artists but for leaders in all professions, the book analyzes the process of struggle and mastery over conflict that underlies every level of human interaction. The Book of Five Rings —which has become a well-known classic among American business people, studied for its insights into the Japanese approach to business strategy—was composed in 1643 by the famed duelist and undefeated samurai Miyamoto Musashi. Unlike previous editions of The Book of Five Rings, Thomas Cleary's is an accessible translation, free of jargon, with an introduction that presents the spiritual background of the warrior tradition. Along with Musashi's text, Cleary translates another important Japanese classic on leadership and strategy: The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War by Yagyu Munenori, which highlights the ethical and spiritual insights of Taoism and Zen as they apply to the way of the warrior.
o My Comments: As with the Art of War, Classic book regarding strategy. One of those books that might take several readings to fully comprehend and understand its full magnitude.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (104 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
8. The Bible of Karate Bubishi by Patrick McCarthy
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description) No other classic work has had as dramatic an impact on the shaping and development of karate as The Bubishi. Treasured for centuries by karate’s top masters, studied, applied, and plagarized, The Bubishi is a classic Chinese work on philosophy, strategy, medicine, and technique as they relate to the martial arts. Referred to as 'the bible of karate' by the famous master Miyagi Chojun, for hundreds of years The Bubishi was a secret text passed from master to student in China and later in Okinawa. Now made available to the world in paperback, incorporate its eternal insights into your martial arts training.
o My Comments: This book provides much insight into the history of martial arts and the true essence of martial arts - both intent and philosophy. Many of the chapters have limited information and some chapters may have limited usage to modern day usage (such as the herbal medicine sections). The true importance in my mind is to learn and recognize that this type of information – the healing side – was as much a part of the martial arts as the “death touch” is important for all persons of today who strive to be a complete martial artist to recognize – that being a martial artist is more than learning to kick and punch.
o My Rating: Very Good to Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (20 reviewers as of 4/22/08)
9. Bunkai-Jutsu by Iain Abernethy
o Description (Back Cover) ‘Bunkai-Jutsu’ is the analysis of the karate katas and their application in real combat. It is also the title of this pioneering book by Iain Abernethy. The fighting applications of the karate katas (forms) is one of the most fascinating and sadly – misunderstood – aspects of karate practice. Bunkai-Jutsu provides the reader with the information they need to unlock the ‘secrets’ of kata and to begin practicing karate as the complete and realistic combat art that it was intended to be.
The ground-breaking and often controversial book provides a detailed analysis of the combative concepts and principles upon which the katas are based. This book is essential reading for all those who want to understand the meaning of kata.
o My Comments: This is an excellent book to describe the applications of techniques and combinations within the forms. The forms described herein are very similar to those taught in Han Moo Kwan. The discussions, applications, and theories described within this book match very closely to the combative philosophy of Han Moo Kwan. The book also describes more grappling and joint lock techniques then practiced with Han Moo Kwan, but overall is an excellent resource to open one’s mind and possibilities of potential applications and uses embedded in the forms. This book offers insights too allow students to broaden their perspectives and intent of the art form. This book has very similar information as to “The Way of Kata: A Comprehensive Guide for Deciphering Martial Applications” by Lawrence Kane. While I found Way of the Kata to also be a excellent book, if I were to choose only one, I found this book to be have more insights overall.
o My Rating: Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (5 reviewers as of 4/22/08)
10. Bubishi: Martial Art Spirit Revised Edition by George Alexander
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description) Secret Karate text of the Masters finally revealed!! Includes: White Crane knock out and killing techniques, 48 secret techniques of Kenpo, pressure points, herbal medicine and secrets of the Death Touch (Dim Mak).
o My Comments: This book has some of the very same information in The Bible of Karate Bubishi by Patrick McCarthy. Each book contains almost the identical information although ordered differently and focusing on different areas in more or less depth. In general, I think they compliment each other, but if only could recommend one, I’d probably recommend The Bible of Karate Bubishi (and it may be because I read it first).
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (4 reviewers as of 4/22/08)
11. Bushido: The Soul of Japan by Inazo Nitobé
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description) Chivalry is a flower no less indigenous to the soil of Japan than its emblem, the cherry blossom; nor is it a dried-up specimen of an antique virtue preserved in the herbarium of our history. It is still a living object of power and beauty among us; and if it assumes no tangible shape or form, it not the less scents the moral atmosphere, and makes us aware that we are still under its potent spell. The conditions of society which brought it forth and nourished it have long disappeared; but as those far-off stars which once were and are not, still continue to shed their rays upon us, so the light of chivalry, which was a child of feudalism, still illuminates our moral path, surviving its mother institution. It is a pleasure to me to reflect upon this subject in the language of Burke, who uttered the well-known touching eulogy over the neglected bier of its European prototype.
o My Comments: This book provides good insight into the code of the samurai. This code has a many similarities to the code of any martial artists and understanding some of the history and rationale behind the code provide insightful
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4 out of 4 stars (16 reviewers as of 9/27/08)
12. Comprehensive Asian Fighting Arts (Bushido--The Way of the Warrior) by Donn F. Draeger and Robert W. Smith
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
Fighting arts are as old as man himself and as varied as his languages. In Asia they developed to a degree of effectiveness probably unsurpassed elsewhere in the world. This book explains the relationships between fighting arts, assesses their strengths and weaknesses, and presents new material about hitherto unknown fighting methods. Written by two of the best-known and most widely published authorities in the field, it covers fighting methods and techniques found in eleven Asian countries-fighting techniques that range from the artful Chinese tai-chi and Burmese bando to Japanese jujutsu and the lethal pentjak-silat of Indonesia.
Documentation of these has been supplemented with a wealth of fascinating anecdotes. The reader learns of the daring exploits of the Japanese ninja, of Gama, perhaps the greatest of the great Indian wrestlers, of the Indonesian "trance" fighters-and hundreds of other tales that serve to illustrate some of the most deadly fighting systems that the world has known.
The volume is illustrated with over two hundred photographs and drawings, many of them depicting combat styles and techniques that have never been seen in the West.
o My Comments: This is the type of book I would expect for historical information on martial arts. The book constrains information from all over Asia on the martial arts practiced and its history in that country and culture. It does not go into too much detail on the implentation of the art form as in other books. The biggest drawback is the book was published in 1969 with first paperback in 1981. Therefore, the information does not include information from the last 40 years.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (11 reviewers as of 4/17/09)
13. The Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do: (Shorin-Ryu) by Shoshin Nagamine
o Description (Back Cover)
A rich source on the technique and philosophy of traditional Okinawan karate. “The Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do” presents the teachings of legendary karate master Shoshin Nagamine, world famous as the founder of the Matsubayashi school of Shorin-ryu karate-do. First published in 1976, this timeless work has long been a treasured reference source for martial artists around the world.
A systematic treatment of the technical aspects of karate-do using over 1,000 photographs to document eighteen classic karate kata (preset forms) and seven yakusoku kumite (prearranged partner exercises), as well as basic techniques, this book is a precise and easily accessible pictorial guide to performance and perfection of traditional karate. The only book in English with photos of one of the great prewar masters demonstrating the proper execution of Okinawan karate, “The Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do” is a bridge between karate’s legendary past and the practitioners of today. This ingenious and imaginative text explains the historic landmarks in the development of the style, vividly outlines its leading forms and techniques, and recalls note Okinawan karate men of the past, including the author’s teachers Ankichi Arakaki, Choki Motobu, and Chotoku Kyan.
o My Comments: Good reference book of techniques and applications of techniques used in karate which have a lot of similarity to Tae Kwon Do. Good illustrations as well. The write-ups were not quite as detailed as that of “Tae Kwon Do: Secrets of Korean Karate” by Sihak Henry Cho. What this book contains that Cho’s book does not is some history and perspective from a karate master on his views of karate. In addition, this book contains pictures stepping through karate kata (forms), many which are similar to the Han Moo Kwan style. What is lacks in the section on kata is any description. It is a good reference book, but I’d buy Cho’s book, Tae Kwon Do Classic Forms by Ted Hillson, or Karate-Do Kyohan: The Master Text by Gichin Funakoshi before this one only because they others have more detailed descriptions. This book, though, enhances the others in my opinion.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (29 reviewers as of 12/22/07)
14. Far Beyond Defensive Tactics by Loren W. Christensen
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
This book shows cops how to use proven defensive tactics to stay alive and uninjured, including how to disarm attackers, deal with drunk or drugged subjects, protect their guns, fend off multiple attackers and more.
o My Comments: For martial artists this is a good book, but probably not the best we can find. Mainly because this is written more for police officers who are more limited in what they can do to protect themselves and appropriating/ defending from suspects than a civilian is in a self-defense situation. However, having said that, there is some good information in here on defense from weapons (guns and knives) from a police officer’s perspective and “how to create” a witness.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (12 reviewers as of 12/28/08)
15. Fighter's Fact Book: Over 400 Concepts, Principles, and Drills to Make You a Better Fighter by Loren W. Christensen
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
With over 35 years experience in the ring, on the mat and in the street, Loren Christensen understands the daily challenges faced by martial artists. In Fighters Fact Book he has put together a collection of over 400 tips, drills, principles, concepts and exercises to give you the edge no matter what style of martial art you practice. Discover quick and innovative ways to improve your punching, kicking, sparring and self-defense skills plus dozens of tips to work those hard to improve areas like speed, power and flexibility.
If you’re feeling stuck or bored in your martial arts routine, Loren’s down-to-earth, in-your-face-style will get you up and training with a fire you haven’t felt in years. With hundreds of training methods drawn from his vast experience, research and interviews with top instructors around the country, Loren has put together an essential reference for every martial arts student and instructor.
o My Comments: Very good reference book for drills and exercises. Compared with Ultimate Fitness Through Martial Arts by Sang H. Kim this reference book has more drill/exercises that are specific to use for training inside the dojang. I have already incorporated several of the drills found in this book out in the club. Not all drills are in-line with the Han Moo Kwan style, but a large number of the drills can be used directly or adapted.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (29 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
16. Fighter's Fact Book 2: Street Fighting Essentials by Loren W. Christensen
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
You will fight how you train. This is the theme of Fighter's Fact Book 2: Street Fighting Essentials and when you've mastered the skills taught in the book, you will truly be ready to defend yourself in some of the most desperate situations imaginable. Nearly a dozen veteran instructors of street oriented martial arts have come together with Loren Christensen to teach you how to defend yourself against multiple attackers, violent dogs, knives, close quarter attacks, and attackers impervious to pain. Then they show you how to make your street techniques fast and explosive, and how to prepare yourself mentally to use extreme force. The skills taught here are not for the faint hearted. These are hardcore techniques intended to save your life or the life of a loved one.
o My Comments: This book is easy to read and gets to the point of techniques one would use on the street and augment martial arts training to include no nonsense brutal techniques that may be required in a street fight when your life is on the line. The book includes some interesting scenarios and how one may practice them.
o My Rating: Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (3 reviewers as of 7/8/07)
17. The Gift of Fear by Gavin De Becker
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews)
Each hour, 75 women are raped in the United States, and every few seconds, a woman is beaten. Each day, 400 Americans suffer shooting injuries, and another 1,100 face criminals armed with guns. Author Gavin de Becker says victims of violent behavior usually feel a sense of fear before any threat or violence takes place. They may distrust the fear, or it may impel them to some action that saves their lives. A leading expert on predicting violent behavior, de Becker believes we can all learn to recognize these signals of the "universal code of violence," and use them as tools to help us survive. The book teaches how to identify the warning signals of a potential attacker and recommends strategies for dealing with the problem before it becomes life threatening. The case studies are gripping and suspenseful, and include tactics for dealing with similar situations.
o My Comments: Very good book. Good examples of how people trusted their instincts and survived or did not. The real examples are good examples to go over in your head and play our how you would react under different scenarios (alone, with a group, night, day, etc)
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (273 reviewers as of 6/29/08)
18. Hidden Karate: The True Bunkai For Heian Katas And Naihanchi by Gennosuke Higaki
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews)
Hidden Karate -The True Bunkai For The Heian Katas And Naihanchi- 100 years have passed since Karate was first introduced to the public. It has since then become a common word all over the world. Today, it is said that 40 million people practice karate throughout the world. While karate itself is well known,karate bunkai (explanations for use) is sometimes used incorrectly. This book took 313rd place at bookstores at the beginning of sale, and serves as a best seller in Japan. This book is extremely helpful to all people who train karate. More than 1,000 detailed pictures of bunkai allow readers to clearly understand the secret meaning of the karate kata. Chapter 1 What Is Karate? Chapter 2 Problems Facing Karate Chapter 3 Questions Facing Karate Chapter 4 Consideration Of Kata Chapter 5 Hidden Karate Chapter 6 Combat Techniques Of Karate Chapter 7 Oral Instruction of Bunkai For Kata Chapter 8 bunkai For Kata
o My Comments: Good book. What this book has over Bunkai-Jutsu by Iain Abernethy or The Way of Kata by Lawrence Kane is a step by step description of the bunkai. What the other two have over this book and what I think is more useful is general applications and a philosophy to bunkai that allows for many interpretations and applications as opposed to one and one only.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (10 reviewers as of 1/1/2010)
19. Instructing the Martial Arts by Charles Ralph, Jr. Heck
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Publisher Comments)
"Instructor Teaching the Martial Arts" is the only book to teach critical business survival skills to the experienced martial artist. It is a no-nonsense guide that covers lesson planning, teaching, evaluating students and schools, and running a successful business.
o My Comments: This book gives good examples and details on various aspects of instructing: Learning Process, Teaching Process, Human Behavior, Teaching Methods, Instructor Qualities, Instructional Techniques, etc. Overall, I thought this book was very good. With more examples and in-depth in certain areas, I might have found it better than Kane’s book. For those that do not enjoy Kane’s style of writing, this may be a better choice to get similar information.
o My Rating: Very Good to Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: Not rated as of 8/6/08
20. Instructor: Teaching the Martial Arts by Robert George Sprackland
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Publisher Comments)
"Instructor Teaching the Martial Arts" is the only book to teach critical business survival skills to the experienced martial artist. It is a no-nonsense guide that covers lesson planning, teaching, evaluating students and schools, and running a successful business.
o My Comments
Book has some good information related to instruction and especially instruction in the martial arts. The information is mostly relevant to our Club style. The book, unfortunately, does not go into depth into any of its points and just discusses it at a top level. It also does not include figures or illustrations to help the point. The books does have some insights into starting a school which can some good information, but not necessarily very relevant to our Club style..
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (3 reviewers as of 8/6/08)
21. Intuitive Body: Aikido As a Clairsentient Practice by Wendy Palmer
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
"Discipline is freedom," writes Wendy Palmer. She encourages readers to cultivate a new rapport with their bodies through stories, Eastern wisdom, and her own experiences. "A useful, inspiring book for anyone exploring . . . embodied movement, energetic meditation, and intuitive knowledge." - Yoga Journal
o My Comments
Book was good, but a little too esoteric for me. If very much into the spiritual aspects of martial arts, you may truly enjoy this book.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (9 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
22. Karate-Do Kyohan: The Master Text by Gichin Funakoshi
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Nineteen kata ("forms") of karate-the art of self-defense without weapons-are presented here in complete detail. They are the ones selected by the great master and teacher, Gichin Funakoshi, to give comprehensive training in Karate-do, the way of karate. Fully illustrated demonstrations by the translator cover not only every technique of the kata but also the fundamentals and applications: how to make a fist; the correct form of the open hand; preliminary training in blocking, striking and kicking; the seven stances; and sparring. The author presents, besides kata that he himself originated, beginning and advanced kata from both the Shorei school and the Shorin school, the former remarkable for their forcefulness and development of strength, the latter characterized by their gracefulness and lightning swiftness. This book, the most comprehensive and authoritative ever published, was being revised by the author shortly before his death in 1957, at the age of eighty-eight, and is translated for the first time. Through his advice on both practical and spiritual aspects of training, the master guides the student from techniques to the Way of karate. Complementing the English edition are illustrations of National Treasures from Kofuku-ji and Todai-ji temples in Nara and Master Funakoshi's calligraphy. Karate, whose value for the well-rounded development of strength, coordination and agility is scientifically validated, can be practiced at any time and in any place, for any length of time, by men and women of all ages, and requires no special equipment. It also fosters the development of spiritual qualities: courage, courtesy, integrity, humility and self-control. Gichin Funakoshi's karate books, the first published in 1922, are landmarks, for the development of this martial art in Okinawa was shrouded in secrecy, and almost no records of its early history, dating back more than a thousand years to the Shao-lin Temple in Hunan Province, China, exist. Karate-do Kyohan is a book that lives up to its title: it is in truth the master text for karate instruction at all levels and in all aspects of technique and character development.
o My Comments: Very good reference book of techniques and applications of techniques used in karate which have a lot of similarity to Tae Kwon Do. Good illustrations as well. This book contains pictures stepping through karate kata (forms), many which are similar to the Han Moo Kwan style. It contains mostly the mechanics of the moves, but at times describes some possible applications which are worth experimenting with. This book also contains some good training information, information on vital points and effective targets and other useful reference material.
o My Rating: Very Good to Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (35 reviewers as of 12/22/07)
23. Karate-Do My Way of Life by Gichin Funakoshi
o Description (Back Cover)
Life story of the father of modern Karate. Through this volume the follower of Karate-do will gain greater insight into the master’s own way of living and thinking, and a sharper understanding of the art of self-defense.
o My Comments: Good book to understanding the thinking of one of the masters of martial arts. Good insights into the history and philosophy.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (38 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
24. Ki in Aikido by C.M. Shifflett
o Description (Back Cover)
Ki, the force behind the Japanese martial art of Aikido, is a strange concept to many westerners. Aikidoists think of ki as the universal spirit present in all things, but this seemingly exotic concept has much in common with the Hebrew ruach and Greek pneuma meaning “smoke”, “wind”, or “spirit”.
Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, founded by Koichi Tohei in 1974, emphasizes coordination of mind and body to produce inner strength and stability. It differs from other styles of Aikido primarily in the formalized study of ki development and ki testing which provide an unusual opportunity to actually test, measure, and evaluate concepts of mind and sprit which otherwise must be dismissed as “flaky New Age weirdness” or accepted on faith, despite secret doubts or fears.
Although it is impossible to test the mind directly, state of mind can be revealed through the body by way of ki testing which serves as a highly sensitive biofeedback tool. This book presents step-by-step instruction and detailed illustrations of ki exercises and testing techniques.
o My Comments: Book contains good over of Ki and some interesting exercises to experience Ki. The exercises are, as expected, geared towards Aikido which focuses Ki much differently than HMK. However, the ideas and exercises are very good and many can be adjusted for HMK.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (11 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
25. Ki in Daily Life by Koichi Tohei
o Description (portions of the Back Cover)
Technology today touches nearly every part of our lives. Though even more impressive development if machines, the process continues. Computers put men pout of work; pushing a single button is enough to start a nuclear war.
Gradually, though, the world has begun to remember that man for whom the machines must work, and not the other way around. We recognize now that science, for all its achievements, has done little to help us understand ourselves or realize our potential.
There is no sense in waiting for science to do it for us. Each of us must now take it upon himself to understand his true nature and strength. The Chinese classic “Saikontan” says that we stand like beggars at the gate, forgetting the infinite power given to us by the universe. Instead of shrinking from this potential, we should be thankful for it. We should strive to manifest it and help others do that same.
The author regards his Four Basic Principles to Unify Mind and Body as having been given to him by the universe to spread the way of the universe. There have been many who have grasped unification of mind and body. Very few, however, could teach it. Fewer still could teach how to teach it. Those who learn the four basic principles as explained in this book have come to understand not only how to unify their own minds and bodies, but also how to teach it to others.
The author, founder of the Ki Society International, presents the philosophical groundwork and specific disciplines by which the individual may attune himself or herself with the ki-life energy of the universe – and thrive in health and harmony, without fatigue or depression.
o My Comments: This book contains a great introduction to energy and energy drills use in Aikido. It has a lot of similar information on similar drills as provided in Ki in Aikido by C.M. Shifflett. In addition to the drills and breathing mediations, it provides insights into Ki in daily life (sleeping, eating, etc.). As in the other book, the exercises are geared towards Aikido which focuses Ki differently than HMK. However, the ideas and information are very good and many can be adjusted for HMK. If I picked one book between this one and Ki in Aikido by C.M. Shifflett, I’d probably pick the one by Shifflett since it has more diagrams and more examples of drills.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (13 reviewers as of 10/1/07)
26. A Killing Art - The Untold History of Tae Kwon Do by Alex Gillis
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
Obscure documents, Korean-language books, and in-depth interviews with tae kwon do pioneers tell the tale of the origin of the most popular martial art. In 1938, tae kwon do began at the end of a poker game in a tiny village in a remote corner of what is now North Korea by Choi Hong-Hi, who began the martial art, and his nemesis, Kim Un-Yong, who developed the Olympic style and became one of the most powerful, controversial men in sports. The story follows Choi from the 1938 poker game where he fought for his life, through high-class geisha houses where the art was named, and into the Vietnam War where the martial art evolved into a killing art. The techniques cut across all realms—from the late 1960s when tae kwon do–trained Korean CIA agents kidnapped people in the United States and Europe to the 1970s when Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, and other Hollywood stars mastered the art’s new kicks. Tae kwon do is also a martial art for the 21st century, one of merciless techniques, indomitable men, and justice pumped on steroids.
o My Comments: I found this book fairly easy to read (although the author tends to bounce around versus topics instead of a linear timeline so some of the information relative to other sections can be a little confusing at times) and I found it to be a fairly interesting read. I was not disturbed by some of the history of modern Tae Kwon Do and appreciated the honesty of it (especially the fact that modern Tae Kwon Do was not an ancient Korean martial arts, but did in fact trace to Karate). Based on this author’s research, the art form was more about power and prestige than really promoting the martial art spirit, and this helps me to better understand how Tae Kwon Do lost its way and became more sport oriented than a martial art. The books also helped me understand better the differences between WTF and ITF. Overall, I think it is a good book for advanced students to read who are interested in the history of art forms, and especially Tae Kwon Do.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (22 reviewers as of 8/27/11)
27. KODO: Ancient Ways: Lessons in the Spiritual Life of the Warrior/Martial Artist (Literary Links to the Orient) by Kensho Furuya
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Forty-one of the best articles of the popular Ancient Ways column in Martial Arts Training magazine are brought together. 150 illustrations, 40 never before published photos. A 6th dan in aikido and 6th dan kyoshi master instructor in iaido, Kensho Furuya is the resident chief instructor of the Aikido Center of Los Angeles.
o My Comments: While I enjoyed this book in many ways, it only reinforced other books and really did not add new insights. This is a compilation of various articles written in a martial arts magazine. Because of that, several of the articles are very similar with not a lot of new information and the stories and antidotes used from the masters of the past seem to be repeated several times, so reading it straight through at times seemed liked it was just repeating itself. I did, though, enjoy the stories the concepts and thoughts, while not new to me since I had read them in other books, reinforced those same thoughts that to be a true martial artist you need to embrace it as a way of life and not just a time to practice a couple times of week.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (30 reviewers as of 11/15/07)
28. Law and Martial Arts by Carl Brown
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Carl Brown—attorney, author and black belt judo instructor—describes the legal policies that can protect or indict an individual who uses martial arts techniques in self-defense. Topics include assault and battery, the law and self-defense, martial arts weapons, state laws and a table of cases.
o My Comments: For the most part, I was very disappointed and this was not what I was hoping for. I was hoping for examples and thoughts on the law for martial arts when used in self-defense situations. Brown did not really present any of these cases, which either leads me to believe (1) the true martial artists that practice their skills strictly for self-defense do not or have not had law suits against them (criminally or civilly) and/or (2) true martial artists do not get into alterations. Many of the cases Brown presents in the book are very old. Some of the cases are absurd. He cites cases where a person who has practiced martial arts was involved – and the crime was usually one they initiated (such as robbery or rape). First off, I would not consider any of these people martial artists, since they are not using their skills in the way it was intended. These are just people who happen to know techniques taught in martial arts, so I disagreed wholeheartedly with his using those examples and citing those persons as martial artists. Brown does cite some relevant cases, but then does not tell the outcome of those cases. I also did not understand his point on Ninjas at all. He explains how Ninjas were trained assassins and are trained to kill and then goes on to state if called or act like a Ninja this can be used against you in trial. Seems common sense to me that if you act and dress the part of an assassin that you may be called that in a trial (and probably should be expected to). I was also disappointed on his section of the law in states and martial arts weapons. Seems it was taken verbatim out of the law books with all the legalese language. Would have been nice if tit was written so a layman could understand easily. Brown does present and provide some good examples on what is considered excessive force. Brown also does ask some interesting questions and brings up some interesting thoughts such as should a martial artists announce to an attacker they are trained so the attacker is aware and understands what he is getting into. He also believes that someday martial artists may be considered deadly weapons. He does believe that martial arts training can and will be brought out in trial, but that belt rank should be of consideration, which is a valid point in my book. I might recommend this book to someone totally uninformed and ignorant; and for that reason alone have rated it Not Very Good to Good, else it would have just been Not Very Good.
o My Rating: Not Very Good to Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars (3 reviewers as of 11/14/07)
29. Leading from Within: Martial Arts Skills for Dynamic Business and Management by Robert Pater
o Description (Editorial Review Product Description)
How to become a more effective leader by applying martial arts techniques to the demands of today's workplace.
Learn the techniques taught to executives at Boeing, Intel, Hewlett-Packard, GTE, and other major corporations.
Improve your concentration, self-control, intuitive judgment, and influence over others. Shows how to encourage dedication and improve focus in group members.
Self-discipline and leading effectively: these are the simple and practical principles behind many martial arts techniques that have been used for centuries in combat and in personal development. Those who have integrated these same techniques into their style have excelled in the business arena, many with the help of Robert Pater, a consultant to American Express, Boeing, Intel, and many other Fortune 500 companies. In Leading from Within Pater shows how by using martial arts concepts we can maintain inner calm, influence others by controlling ourselves, develop intuitive judgment, sustain concentration on goals, react quickly to change, and turn minimum effort into maximum gains.
o My Comments: I felt overall this was a good book. I thought his principles were sound on how martial arts principles can be used in the business world. At times I felt it was somewhat drawn out and repetitious. I would have also liked more examples and practical application and less theory.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (3 reviewers as of 1/3/11)
30. Living the Martial Way : A Manual for the Way a Modern Warrior Should Think by Forrest E. Morgan
o Description (excerpts from the Back Cover)
Living the Martial Way is a concise manual for training in warriorship. Unique among martial arts books, it provides systematic step-by-step approach to applying the warrior mind-set to your martial training and daily life. It combines a knowledge of fighting with an exploration of the culture of the Warrior – The Martial Way. In Living the Martial Way he teaches the reader not only how to fight, but also when to fight and why.
o My Comments: Morgan’s viewpoint is very much about combat and using the martial arts to defend oneself. Morgan has a very direct style and very opinionated and how to train and what the martial arts is about. I did not always agree with his thoughts and statements, but he had some good points and ideas. Overall I enjoyed the book and would recommend it.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (92 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
31. Martial Arts America: A Western Approach to Eastern Arts by Bob Orlando
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
This broad survey of martial arts traditions and their evolution to modern Western practice challenging the purpose and effectiveness of many martial arts activities and training methods used in the U.S. today. By focusing on the most effective and relevant way for Americans to pursue the various martial arts, Orlando's useful insights penetrate a subject too often shrouded in mysticism and marketing hype.
o My Comments: Most of the reviews on Amazon are very positive on this book. I did not share the same appreciation of the book. While I appreciate the fact he brings out concepts (like practicing barefoot and if it really still applies), I felt that most of the book was a bash on the Eastern style of teachings and not an appreciation what could be learned from that regardless of your nations. And for the most part he states unless there is a need, certain traditions are worthless in modern day martial arts. He then backs off at times like he is unsure. I was not sure his point of view on some subjects. I felt it was very subjective with little facts or true understanding.
o My Rating: Not Very Good to Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (17 reviewers as of 7/21/10)
32. Martial Arts Instruction: Applying Educational Theory and Communication Techniques In the Dojo by Lawrence A. Kane
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews From the Publisher)
While the old adage, "those who can't do, teach" is not entirely true, all too often "those who can do" cannot teach effectively. This book is unique in that it offers a holistic approach to teaching martial arts; incorporating elements of educational theory and communication techniques typically overlooked in budo. Teachers will improve their abilities to motivate, educate, and retain students, while students interested in the martial arts will develop a better understanding of what instructional methods best suit their needs. The author's approach balances the reality that martial arts instructors are responsible for ensuring the safety of practitioners who learn potentially deadly techniques with the truism that if their classes are not enjoyable and productive, no one will participate in them.
o My Comments
Excellent book on what to look for in good classes, how to organize good classes, how to teach across all learning styles, and examples on various teaching styles.
o My Rating: Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (11 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
33. Martial Arts Madness: A User's Guide to the Esoteric Martial Arts by Glenn Morris
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
In a series of short, witty essays, jujitsu and chi kung teacher Glenn Morris looks at the vaulted self-importance and sense of indestructibility that the practice of martial arts can engender in its adherents. "Martial Arts Madness" is for adventurous souls who enjoy experimenting with the unknown.
o My Comments: I picked this book up from the library because it looked interesting. I did not realize that this was part of a trilogy of sorts and is considered the third book. Most of my issues with this book are the chapters seem to be a hodgepodge of information and antidotes and it was harm for me to follow from one to another at times. He uses a lot of Japanese terms and does not always define them and there is no glossary so I had to infer a lot of its meaning based on content. The last issue I had was the end seemed to be a lot of students and friends telling how great the author was through e-mail and letter correspondences, and not sure the point of it. There were some interesting mediations and interesting connections of spirituality with martial arts which I enjoyed, but overall, I was not thrilled with the book. If I ever read the other two books in the series, this one may make more sense and I will update my comments at that time.
o My Rating: Not Very Good to Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (8 reviewers as of 1/12/09)
34. Martial Arts Teachers on Teaching by Carol A. Wiley
o Description (from Back Cover)
Teaching is an art. Effective martial arts teachers must not only be competent practitioners but must also develop the communication and interpersonal skills of any good teacher. In this collection, twenty-six experienced martial arts teachers discuss the process of learning and teaching a martial art, from the “nuts and bolts” of teaching techniques to the philosophical underpinnings of training.
o My Comments: While I found majority of the essays interesting, many were not applicable to how our Club operates. Many of the stories revolved around teaching kids, people who had been abused or attacked. Many were written from one’s point of view on getting respected in the martial arts community. For overall, teaching instruction I would recommend Kane’s book over this one.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (2 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
35. The Martial Spirit by Herman Kauz
o Description (Publisher’s Note)
The emphasis is on mental training and the philosophical, psychological, and spiritual elements of the martial arts in this comparison of the various martial-arts systems and mind-body principles, covering such topics as self-defense, exercise, meditation, philosophical foundations, forms of practice, and more.
o My Comments: Has some initial good information about martial arts in general, but tends to be very negative. Is also contradictory at times. Book is also outdated in several areas. Author tends to start mantras sometimes unrelated to spirituality or martial arts.
o My Rating: Not Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 3 out of 5 stars (2 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
36. Meditations on Violence: A Comparison of Martial Arts Training & Real World Violence by Rory Miller
o Description (Product Description)
Veteran correction officer Sergeant Rory Miller distills what he has learned from jail house brawls, tactical operations and ambushes to explore the differences between martial arts and the subject martial arts were designed to deal with: Violence. Miller explores the complexity of violence, critical thinking, and the mind of the predator. He offers martial arts training guidance and resources, discusses how to overcome personal fears, and how to deal with the aftermath of violent encounters.
o My Comments: This book does a very good job at highlighting the flaws in martial arts training – many things that we have discussed in classes. It describes real-world encounters and key aspects of those encounters and those flaws in the training and while he does not provide a lot of advice on how to correct the flaws (which to me is the one drawback to the book), it provides good observations and advice. From my perceptive Section 6 really pulls it all together and asks one to looks at themselves and asks themselves critical questions about encountering violence and how you might react.
o My Rating: Very Good to Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (53 reviewers as of 5/10/09)
37. Okinawan Karate Teachers, Styles and Secret Techniques by Mark Bishop
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
Written by a well-known figure in the Martial Artsl arts community noted for his outspokenness, this book is an engaging and rich text, certain to provoke and please. Okinawan Karate, long sought after by connoisseurs of Okinawan Martial Artsl arts, is the definitive survey and examination of traditional Martial Artsl arts of the island. With detailed lineage charts of most of the major Okinawan Martial Artsl arts systems, sequential photographs displaying the distinctive techniques of his subjects, solid reportage, and frank quotes from his interview subjects, Okinawan Karate is a complete and encyclopedic source of information.
o My Comments: This books focuses mainly on the teaches and styles, it does provide insights into masters and the Eastern style of teaching marital arts that I found interesting and in-line with what I know and have heard about Mr. Kim’ philosophy. I wished there were more “secrets” that were shared, but all inall I found the book interesting. I found it very useful in my research of the lineage of the Han Moo Kwan martial arts. I would recommend it to those interested in the history of the arts.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (27 reviewers as of 11/21/09)
38. Okinawan Kempo by Choki Motobu
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
The original version of 'Okinawan Kempo' was first written by Choki Motobu in 1926. He did so at the request of his Japanese friends and because this was the same year that he became famous in Japan when he accepted an open challenge from a Russian fighter and won. The subsequent publicity of his victory in the biggest newspaper in Japan made Choki Motobu a living legend. This book teaches fighting combinations as well as a brief history of karate as Choki Motobu knew it. It also shares with its readers several old revival techniques, old medical treatments and Chinese Herbal remedies. The photos of the original book were of a very poor quality and although we have restored them as best as we could, there are still flaws.
o My Comments: The fact that this book was written in 1926 and is one of the first published books of any kind on the history and background of Karate makes it fairly an important book from a historical perspective. However, the book does not contain that much detail and while it contains some interesting information, depending on what you are looking for, other books have more detail on the history as well as detail of the art form.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars (3 reviewers as of 10/23/09)
39. On the Warrior’s Path: Philosophy, Fighting and the Martial Arts Mythology by Daniele Bolelli
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
From the "chop-sockey" kung-fu epics on the big screen to practices like tae kwon do at local community centers, the martial arts have become a major phenomenon in Western culture. In On the Warrior’s Path, author Daniele Bolelli examines the central figure in this trend: the warrior. Bolelli, himself a martial artist, looks at every facet of the warrior lifestyle, from the unbreakable tenacity of the Japanese swordsman to the contemplative practices of the mysterious warrior monks of China. Drawing from both classical and popular sources of warrior culture, Bolelli shows what it takes to inhabit this singular role, along the way making surprising connections between martial arts and psychedelic culture, basketball, American Indian society, surfing, Star Wars, and more.
o My Comments: Bolelli style is very easy to read. His has great insights into the essence of martial arts – as a way of life that can enrich every aspect of it. He added some sections to the original that tend to make it a little choppy in the flow, but the material is good. The information on Bruce Lee and Jeet Kune Do is interesting, but not sure it totally added to his points. Overall, I enjoyed the book.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (12 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
40. The Overlook Martial Arts Handbook by David Mitchell
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
An ideal introduction and comprehensive survey for both the novice and the experienced martial artist, this highly readable and complete martial arts handbook covers Karate, Kendo, Kung Fu, Judo, and Aikido, as well as the lesser known disciplines of Budo, Hapkido, and the Thai martial arts. 150 line drawings.
o My Comments: In general, has some good information on the history and basics of some of the more common martial arts known. The author describes some techniques within several of the arts which is good and bad. Good in that it gives the reader more sense of what some of the various forms of the martial arts are about, but bad at times because the write-up are detailed and complex and hard to follow. The author does have strong opinions on which martial arts are more effective and what is the best school of various types of arts that seems inappropriate and beyond what the book should be about. The book, in my opinion, would be better if kept to straight facts, and the editorials left out. In addition, the author spends 20 or less pages on most martial arts and sometimes 1-2 pages but 60 on Karate with a lot of detail on how to perform techniques. It would have been nice to have more consistent details about the other martial arts and include more martial arts then having this detail. I will be looking for a better martial arts encyclopedia.
o My Rating: Not Very Good to Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: No Reviewers as of 1/12/09
41. A Path to Liberation: A Spiritual and Philosophical Approach to the Martial Arts by Herman Kauz
o Description (from Amazon.com Editorial Reviews From Library Journal)
With a Zen rather than a "how-to-break-boards" approach, here is a short but thought-provoking exploration of the mental and spiritual components of martial arts. Using his previous book ( Martial Spirit , LJ 3/1/78) as a springboard, Kauz advances from the introduction of martial arts philosophies to how students may improve meditation skills and assess teachers, dojos (schools), and styles. When students utilize a mind, spirit, and body approach, self-discovery can accompany physical improvement. This book is for the student looking beyond fighting skills or self-defense. If you have more than two martial arts schools in your area, buy this book.
o My Comments: Summary is good – rest of book does not focus on what he writes in the summary. Has some initial good information about martial arts in general, but tends to be very negative. Is also contradictory at times. Focuses on the negative aspects and does not bring full light to the spirituality of the martial arts.
o My Rating: Not Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 3 out of 5 stars (2 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
42. The Power of Internal Martial Arts: Combat Secrets of Ba Gua, Tai Chi, and Hsing-I by Bruce Frantzis
o Description (from Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
This book's primary focus is on the detailed descriptions of the three main internal boxing methods (Hsing I, Ba Gua, and Tai Chi), as well as many substyles. In-depth comparisons and analyses of the different arts in regard to their methods of movement, principles and philosophies, use of force and energy, body mechanics, and some practical applications, are also described. Frantzis also includes "Personal Odyssey" sections where he recounts many of his interesting encounters with famous martial arts masters. This feature recalls Robert W. Smith's Chinese Boxing: Masters and Methods, from a previous generation of martial arts books. To make this book as accessible to beginners as possible, there are five appendices covering the different styles of tai chi (such as Yang, Chen, Wu, Tung, Hou, and Sun), a history of Ba Gua, energy anatomy of the human body, a summary of Mr. Frantzis's training and lineage, a chapter on Chinese terminology and transliteration, and an extensive glossary.
o My Comments: This book is not quite what I expected. I agree there was very detailed information related to these three internal marital arts, but without diagram or pictures or other familiarity with the styles it was very hard to follow. The information of the masters and the various styles were interesting and allowed me more overall knowledge related to the martial arts and its history. I was not a big fan of Frantzis’ style of writing. Most of the time he was more about trying to show off who he knew, studied with, and his own personal judgment of the various martial arts. I found him somewhat egotistical, which is supposed to be a trait a true martial artist strives not to be. I rated this NOT VERY GOOD to GOOD only for the general information and history of these internal arts and I have not read another book that contained this information to date. Most of his information on healing arts and spirituality of martial arts is (in my opinion) a blush of the subject and not depth and way too dramatic in his presentation of the material. I only suggested good as a rating because of the history and information on the masters of these internal martial arts. If I find another book that has the history detail, I’d down grade this to only NOT VERY GOOD.
o My Rating: Not Very Good to Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars (51 reviewers as of 8/6/08)
43. See Sally kick ass: a woman's guide to personal safety by Fred Vogt
o Description (from Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
How to stay safe, but if necessary, how to kick ass!! See Sally Kick Ass: A Woman's Guide to Personal Safety is the girl's answer on how to be safe in today's world. This book provides over 650 helpful safety suggestions to incorporate into your everyday life. While the book focuses primarily on prevention, it acknowledges things happen and therefore teaches self-defense techniques that are direct and highly effective. There are over 130 pictures illustrating how to defend yourself and how to stop an attacker in his tracks. Women of all ages will find useful tips in this comprehensive book, but it should be required reading for every teenage girl.
o My Comments: If interested in more preventative and awareness tips, this books has some very good information. Tips include a variety of situations: when alone, with your family, on foreign travel, etc. The only down-side for me is many of the self-defense applications I believe are not realistic for women with limited training.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (12 reviewers as of 2/7/2010)
44. Shotokan's Secret-Expanded Edition: The Hidden Truth Behind Karate's Fighting Origins by Bruce D. Clayton
o Description (from Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
Beginning with a thorough historical analysis of its 19th-century origins, the lore behind the art of Shotokan karate is dissected in this revised handbook. Describing how this style was invented by the world’s only unarmed bodyguards in Okinawa, this account depicts the impossible odds these men endured in order to protect their king and avoid a costly bloodbath. Featuring five chapters of new material and a striking array of illustrations depicting the Heian katas, this overview demonstrates how each kata contains a precise lesson outlining the necessary skills to meet a specific threat. Going beyond the bare-handed application and revealing a more innovative, holistic approach to an ancient style of self-defense, this reference is ideal for martial arts historians and practitioners alike.
o My Comments: I found the historical information regarding the life on Okinawan during the time Okinawan Karate was founded very interesting. So from a historical perspective it was interesting. I found his theory on the applications of the kata interesting, but and while it has some merit, think it is too limited, prescribed, and confined.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (67 reviewers as of 8/27/2011)
45. Solo Training: The Martial Artist's Guide to Training Alone by Loren Christensen
o Description (from Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Loren Christensen shows you over 300 ways you can add variety to your daily martial arts training routine. Whether you’re a student looking for fun new solo drills to spice up your home training or an instructor in search of new ways to pump up your classes, you won’t be disappointed. This incredible collection of drills, techniques and exercises will take your workouts to the next level. Learn to:
• Organize your solo workouts to the get maximum results from even the shortest training session
• Improve your speed and power with dozens of inside tips and tricks
• Beat boredom and get excited about your solo training sessions
• Become a well rounded fighter by adding essential skills that your instructor may not be teaching you
• Safely experiment with new techniques to find your ideal personal style of training
• Get an edge on your opponents with training methods that will make you unstoppable in the ring or on the street
Not only will you learn enough new training strategies and methods to keep you busy for years, but Loren Christensen’s no-nonsense writing style will get you up and moving even on the days you rather skip your solo workout. Packed with solid advice and kick-butt motivation, this book will become your favorite training partner.
o My Comments: Good reference book for drills and exercises. Compared with Ultimate Fitness Through Martial Arts by Sang H. Kim this reference book has more drill/exercises that are specific to use for training inside the dojang. This book has repeats a lot of the drills and exercises in the Fighter’s Fact Book which is also better organized. I have incorporated several of the drills found in this book out in the club. Not all drills are in-line with the Han Moo Kwan style, but a large number of the drills can be used directly or adapted. If I were to only buy on book of the three filled with drills and exercises, I’d pick the Fighter’s Fact Book.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (26 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
46. The Spirit of Aikido by Kisshomaru Ueshiba
o Description (Back Cover)
Aikido – a modern Japanese martial art unique in its synthesis of classic forms with a well-defined spiritual base – offers a key to the art of living naturally and unselfishly in a complicated world. The book explains it in reference to the founder’s philosophy of the mind-and-action. In addition, the history of aikido prewar development is described, with a consideration of its international role.
o My Comments
Good overview of the history and philosophy of Aikido. If interested in the foundation and basis of Aikido, this is excellent.
o My Rating: Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (8 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
47. Strong on Defense by Sanford Strong
o Description (portion of the Back Cover)
Despite what we know about today’s random violence, when it comes to violent crime most of us still tell ourselves, “It can’t happen to me.” But that mental wall-that unwillingness to face reality-can be your single greatest obstacle to surviving a violent crime. It’s been proved again and again, survival in a criminal assault demands immediate action, and in order to be able to react immediately and control your fear, you need to have survival decisions in place ahead of time. This crucial concept is what Sanford Strong, a twenty-year veteran of the San Diego Police Department and expert on defense and survival techniques, calls a mindset.
o My Comments: Sanford Strong gives no nonsense advice on how to prepare for and the dos and don’ts when encountering violent crime. While most of it sounds like common sense, the statistics and real-life scenarios drive home the fact you need to have made up your mind regarding a scenario before it happens so you can just react and not think in a real situation because there is no time to hesitate. The real life examples and discussion on what the people in the scenario did right and wrong also drive home Sanford’s advice.
o My Rating: Very Good to Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (34 reviewers as of 12/22/07)
48. Surviving Armed Assaults: A Martial Artists Guide to Weapons, Street Violence, and Countervailing Force by Lawrence Kane
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
This groundbreaking book teaches essential survival skills that can keep you safe on the street, covering awareness, avoidance, de-escalation, countervailing force, armed conflict, aftermath of violence, and weapon features/functions. A variety of scenarios help readers internalize this knowledge. Experienced martial artists, street-savvy professionals, and everyone in-between can benefit from this information.
o My Comments: Book contains a lot of good information on street assaults with weapons. The avoidance and de-escalation sections have very good information to try to get out of the incident without having to fight. The only drawback is there is not a lot of detailed advice on how to win the fight if it led to that, but the concepts and ideals are very good.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (12 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
49. Tae Kwon Do Classic Forms by Ted Hillson
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Forms are the central curriculum of Tae Kwon Do. Developing a repertoire of effective techniques to battle multiple opponents is essential to becoming a true martial artist.
Inside these covers are detailed descriptions for 21 classic Tae Kwon Do forms--fully illustrated, move by move. The author analyzes various actions, reactions, and combinations for their purpose and intention.
o My Comments: Very good reference material. While many of the forms are dissimilar to Han Moo Kwan, some of the forms are very similar and some of the techniques within other forms are similar as well. Book brought me insights regarding Tae Kwon Do forms and some possible insights into Han Moo Kwan forms and their applications.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (7 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
50. Tae Kwon Do: Secrets of Korean Karate by Sihak Henry Cho
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
In this classic volume, illustrated with nearly 1,000 photographs, the author explains when, where, why, and how to best apply the deadly techniques of Tae Kwon Do. This book gives pinpoint explanations of the advantages and disadvantages of each move, analyzing them step by step from offensive, defensive, and counterattacking perspectives. The techniques presented are applicable to any martial arts system, making this book of interest not only to practitioners of Tae Kwon Do but also of karate and kung fu.
o My Comments: Excellent reference book of techniques and applications of techniques used in Tae Kwon Do. Very well illustrated.
o My Rating: Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (4 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
51. Tales of Okinawa's Great Masters by Shoshin Nagamine (Author), Patrick McCarthy (Translator)
o Description (Portions of the Back Cover)
Tales of Okinawa's Great Masters features accurate historical accounts, as well as popular legends, of many great masters of karate and tegumi (Okinawan wrestling), including: Ankichi Arakaki, Gichin Funkakoshi, Kanryo Higonna, Anko Itosu, Chotoku Kyan, and Choki Motobu)
o My Comments: The stories and insights into some of the founders of Okinawan martial arts are very insightful. Gives one an understanding of the drive and changes made over time to promote the art form which one might believe is applicable to Tae Kwon Do in some ways as well. It was interesting to read the stories and antidotes related to these Masters, but not sure I was as wowed as some of the reviewers on Amazon. Many of the reviewers , though, seemed to be practitioners to karate and that might have made some of the difference.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (10 reviewers as of 10/1/07)
52. Tang Soo Do – The Ultimate Guide to the Korean Martial Art by Kamg Uk Lee
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
This is the most complete reference guide to the Korean art of Tang Soo Do (Moo Duk Kwan) ever published. It covers the 19 forms from white belt to black belt (fourth dan master grade), explaining in step-by-step detail the various moves and techniques of each form. This guide also includes the complete lineage of the Moo Duk Kwan, which is the world's most popular style of Tang So Doo. The author, Grandmaster Kang Uk Lee, is the president and chief technical advisor of the international Tang Soo Do association.
o My Comments: Good reference material. While many of the forms are dissimilar to Han Moo Kwan, some of the forms are very similar and some of the techniques within other forms are similar as well. Compared to Hillson’s book, the two have some overlap in the forms and forms that are dissimilar. Overall, I think Hillson’s book was an overall better reference, but this book also brought other insights to me regarding Tae Kwon Do forms and some possible insights into Han Moo Kwan forms and their applications.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars (15 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
53. Tao of Jeet Kune Do by Bruce Lee
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
This is Bruce Lee’s treatise on his martial art, jeet kune do. This international best seller includes the philosophy of jeet kune do, mental and physical training, martial qualities, attack, and strategy. BEST SELLER!
o My Comments: Not easy to read. It contains a lot of anecdotes, comments, and illustrations. Book is a collection of Bruce Lee’s notes. However, a careful study can bring about a deeper insight and understanding from a master of the arts.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (146 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
54. Teaching Martial Arts by Tony Gummerson
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
A guide for those martial arts practitioners interested in coaching. It covers such topics as the role of the coach, lesson plans and training diaries, introducing new techniques, and feedback and assessment.
o My Comments: This book provides very good information on how to be a more effective coach/instructor. It does contain some information up front on teaching children that is not applicable to our Club. However, it describes and provides data that validates many things we have experienced at the club relatively to ability to retain information, how long it takes to adequately learn information, aging process and how in martial arts, overall skills continues even though fitness declines with age. The information n lessons plans and training and very good and again matches our experience at the Club. Of the data presented, I wish the source of the data was provided. I also wish he went into more detail in some area. Overall, I believe this book enhances the other martial arts instruction books I have read to date.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (1 reviewer as of 4/17/09)
55. Teaching Martial Arts – The Way of the Master by Sang H. Kim
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
In the last seven years, Teaching Martial Arts has become the classic text for martial arts instructors. Turtle Press is pleased to release this revised, updated and expanded second edition.
In a revolutionary approach, Sang H. Kim Ph.D has blended his extensive knowledge of martial art training with modern and classical teaching methodology to create a system of teaching martial arts for the 21st century. This book is filled with practical information to help you lead your students from white belt to black belt and beyond including detailed methods for:
* planning classes at every skill level * motivating students * organizing seminars * preparing for competitions * planning demonstrations * reducing dropouts
o My Comments: Book presents some good top-level information and some good overview. For our club much of it is not applicable, such as demonstrations, teaching young children. The material did not have the depth as Kane’s book. For instructor’s just starting out, I would recommend this as introductory information to instructing.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (9 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
56. Training the Samurai Mind: A Bushido Sourcebook by Thomas Cleary
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Product Description)
Through the ages, the samurai have been associated with honor, fearlessness, calm, decisive action, strategic thinking, and martial prowess. Their ethos is known as bushido, the Way of the Warrior-Knight.
Here, premier translator Thomas Cleary presents a rich collection of writings on bushido by warriors, scholars, political advisors, and educators from the fifteenth century through the nineteenth century that provide a comprehensive, historically rich view of samurai life and philosophy. Training the Samurai Mind gives an insider's view of the samurai world: the moral and psychological development of the warrior, the ethical standards they were meant to uphold, their training in both martial arts and strategy, and the enormous role that the traditions of Shintoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism had in influencing samurai ideals.
The writings deal with a broad range of subjects—from military strategy and political science, to personal discipline and character development. Cleary introduces each piece, putting it into historical context, and presents biographical information about the authors. This is an essential read for anyone interested in military history and samurai history, and for martial artists who want to understand strategy.
o My Comments: Overall, I enjoyed the book. Each chapter was writings from a different person. There were chapters I enjoyed more than others. The ones dealing with character development or martial arts/warfare strategy I enjoyed more than those dealing with Japanese history and political issues. There were some themes that many of the authors had in common especially dealing with character development and leadership which led me to believe this is those areas that were emphasized in the Samurai training. From the perspective of understanding the code of the Samurai, I enjoyed more the Bushido: The Soul of Japan by Inazo Nitobé.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (4 reviewers as of 1/31/09)
57. The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate: The Spiritual Legacy of the Master by Gichin Funakoshi
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Review)
"Whether or not you practice the martial arts, they make a great deal of sense, and will take you far, as a philosophy of life." -BookLoons Reviews
"While focused on the practice and application of martial arts, this book's "pursuit of the way" has myriad applications for less physical forms of combat, work-related or otherwise" -Publishers Weekly
"Filled with philosophical musings, fascinating historical episodes, and advice for anyone seeking a better way." -Rafu Shimpo
"The Master insists on a training that involves both mind and body, to create a karate-do, a karate way." -Asian Week
o My Comments: Very good short descriptions of principles that a master of the arts thought were the keys to share with his students to really understand the true essence of martial arts. Many of these thoughts are based on quotes from other masters such as Sun Tzu and are mentioned in other Funakoshi books. For a short succinct book focusing on these principles, this is a good concise book.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (12 reviewers as of 12/28/08)
58. Ultimate Fitness Through Martial Arts by Sang H. Kim
o Description (Amazon.com From the Inside Flap Editorial Review)
Ultimate Fitness through Martial Arts is a one-stop reference for martial arts students, instructors and coaches that includes over 200 new and traditional martial arts exercises, games and drills for developing speed, power, flexibility, timing, coordination, agility, balance, and mental strength.
*Variations for individuals, partners and groups
* Detailed explanations of fitness concepts
* Injury prevention
* Diet and nutrition
* Beginner, intermediate and black belt workout plans
* Exercise cautions
* Martial arts applications for all exercises
* Instructor guidelines
*Organized for easy reference
* over 200 photos
o My Comments: Book presents some good information on various exercises to improve all aspects of martial arts training. I was hoping for more drill/exercises that were specific to use for training inside the dojang. About half the drills are oriented to more generic exercises, such as wind sprints, jumping rope, etc. Overall a good reference source.
o My Rating: Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (5 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
59. The Warrior Is Silent: Martial Arts and the Spiritual Path by Scott Shaw
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews From Publisher’s Weekly)
Shaw, the only American ever to be promoted to the rank of Black Belt in the Korean martial art of Hapkido by the Korea Hapkido Foundation, explores the spiritual discipline that is the foundation of martial arts practice. Shaw contends that martial arts is a method of "understanding and interacting with the unceasing energy of the universe, known as ki." Through a series of stages of meditation and practice, the martial artist is able to attain oneness with ki as well as to attain the status of an enlightened being who is "at war with no one." Shaw traces the historical development of the martial arts through their various incarnations in Japan, China and Korea. His historical scheme is especially valuable for its examination of the intersection of spiritual and martial arts disciplines in ancient China, Japan and Korea. Shaw then recommends practices that will help martial artists develop a mind awakened to the interaction of the physical and non-physical worlds, as well as techniques of meditation that enable the martial artist to understand ki and form a "conscious link between mind, body, and the spiritual energy of the universe." Shaw also includes techniques for refining the physical disciplines of the martial arts. Accompanying illustrations depict the various spiritual and physical techniques that Shaw recommends. Shaw's manual is an easy-to-read introduction to recognizing and developing the spiritual depth of the martial arts.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
o My Comments: Shaw had some interesting insights into the history of martial arts and how it relates to spirituality. He speaks and talks of meditation, how to use ki, how to develop ki. Overall I thought it was good. I wish he had more insights into the why and more details, but for an overview it was good.
o My Rating: Very Good to Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (6 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
60. Warrior Wisdom: Ageless Wisdom for the Modern Warrior by Bohdi Sanders
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Review Product Description)
Warrior Wisdom: Ageless Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, WINNER in the 2010 Indie Excellence Book Awards, is the first book by Dr. Bohdi Sanders. It is also the first book of the highly acclaimed Warrior Wisdom series.
What does it really mean to be a true warrior in every area of your life? What would your life be like if you worked every day to make your life a life of excellence? AWARD WINNING AUTHOR, Dr. Bohdi Sanders answers these very questions in each and every volume of his insightful and enlightened Warrior Wisdom series.
The AWARD WINNING BOOK, Warrior Wisdom: Ageless Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, delves into the lifestyle of the warrior and what it means to be a true warrior and live a life of excellence in today's society. Warrior Wisdom contains his insightful commentary of over 160 enlightened topics from wise men throughout the world, and spanning the ages. This is the first volume in his very engaging and insightful series, Warrior Wisdom. In this book, warrior traits such as honor, integrity, justice, respect, filial duty, physical training, mental training, duty to your fellow man, and much more are examined.
Dr. Sanders discusses just exactly what it takes to walk the path of the warrior, in short, easy to understand commentaries that accompany each of the enlightened quotes featured in this book. The wisdom contained in each volume in the Warrior Wisdom series is not just for martial artists, law enforcement personnel, or military men and women; it is for anyone who seeks to live a live of character, honor, and integrity, which is ultimately what the warrior lifestyle is all about. The Warrior Wisdom series are truly books which have the ability to motivate you to live a life of excellence and transform your life
o My Comments: The book contains some excellent quotes and relates them to living the warrior way. I enjoyed the quotes and Dr. Sanders interpretations to martial arts and the essence of martial arts. My only complaint is that many of these quotes boil down to a dozen or two main concepts that get repeated over and over again.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (46 reviewers as of 7/9/11)
61. The Way of Kata: A Comprehensive Guide for Deciphering Martial Applications by Lawrence Kane
o Description (Amazon.com From the Back Cover)
THE PRINCIPLES FOR UNDERSTANDING KATA WERE LARGELY UNKNOWN - UNTIL NOW
The ancient masters developed kata, or "formal exercises," as fault-tolerant methods to preserve their unique, combat-proven fighting systems. Unfortunately, they deployed a two-track system of instruction where an ‘outer circle’ of students unknowingly received modified forms with critical details or important principles omitted. Only the select ‘inner circle’ that had gained a master’s trust and respect would be taught okuden waza, the powerful hidden applications of kata.
The theory of deciphering kata applications (kaisai no genri) was once a great mystery revealed only to trusted disciples of the ancient masters in order to protect the secrets of their systems. Even today, while the basic movements of kata are widely known, advanced practical applications and sophisticated techniques frequently remain hidden from the casual observer. The principles and rules for understanding kata are largely unknown.
This groundbreaking book unveils these methods, not only teaching you how to analyze your kata to understand what it is trying to tell you, but also helping you to utilize your fighting techniques more effectively—both in self-defense and in tournament applications.
•Fifteen general principles to identify effective techniques
• Twelve discrete rules for deciphering martial applications
• Comprehensive insights into kata history, strategy and tactics
• Vital physiological considerations
• Well organized materials for easy reference and comprehensive understanding
serious practitioner of traditional karate, tae kwon do, or kung-fu"
o My Comments: Great information related to background of forms, and deciphering the applications within a form. Although Kane background is karate – majority of his comments are applicable to Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do
o My Rating: Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (16 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
62. Way of the Peaceful Warrior: A Book That Changes Lives by Dan Millman
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews)
During his junior year at the University of California, Dan Millman first stumbled upon his mentor (nicknamed Socrates) at an all-night gas station. At the time, Millman hoped to become a world-champion gymnast. "To survive the lessons ahead, you're going to need far more energy than ever before," Socrates warned him that night. "You must cleanse your body of tension, free your mind of stagnant knowledge, and open your heart to the energy of true emotion." From there, the unpredictable Socrates proceeded to teach Millman the "way of the peaceful warrior." At first Socrates shattered every preconceived notion that Millman had about academics, athletics, and achievement. But eventually Millman stopped resisting the lessons, and began to try on a whole new ideology--one that valued being conscious over being smart, and strength in spirit over strength in body. Although the character of the cigarette-smoking Socrates seems like a fictional, modern-day Merlin, Millman asserts that he is based on an actual person. Certain male readers especially appreciate the coming-of-age theme, the haunting love story with the elusive woman Joy, and the challenging of Western beliefs about masculine power and success.
o My Comments: The book is more about the mindset and spiritual side of a martial artist than the art form itself. The story was interesting and the characters were enjoyable. Whether it is based on actual events or not, the spirit of a true warrior is brought to life in an enjoyable read.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (232 reviewers as of 12/1/07)
63. Zen in the Art of Archery by Eugen Herrigel
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews)
So many books have been written about the meditation side of Zen and the everyday, chop wood/carry water side of Zen. But few books have approached Zen the way that most Japanese actually do--through ritualized arts of discipline and beauty--and perhaps that is why Eugen Herrigel's Zen in the Art of Archery is still popular so long after it first publication in 1953. Herrigel, a philosophy professor, spent six years studying archery and flower-arranging in Japan, practicing every day, and struggling with foreign notions such as "eyes that hear and ears that see." In a short, pithy narrative, he brings the heart of Zen to perfect clarity--intuition, imitation, practice, practice, practice, then, boom, wondrous spontaneity fusing self and art, mind, body, and spirit. Herrigel writes with an attention to subtle profundity and relates it with a simple artistry that itself carries the signature of Zen.
o My Comments: This book is another example how an “art” is used to obtain a state beyond just the skills – the ability to combine mind, body, and spirit. This book contains fewer stories than Hyams book and more philosophy so I do not recommend it unless you have read other books to date on the subject of Zen & the arts. One particular item I did resonate with in this book was that we get in the way of our own self getting into touch with the energy side because we think too much. “You think that what you do not do yourself does not happen”. We focus too much on short term targets and not the long term target.
o My Rating: Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (60 reviewers as of 12/7/08)
64. Zen in the Martial Arts by Joe Hyams
o Description (Amazon.com Editorial Reviews Book Description)
Under the guidance of such celebrated masters as Ed Parker and the immortal Bruce Lee, Joe Hyams vividly recounts his more than 25 years of experience in the martial arts. In his illuminating story, Hyams reveals to you how the daily application of Zen principles not only developed his physical expertise but gave him the mental discipline to control his personal problems-self-image, work pressure, competition. Indeed, mastering the spiritual goals in martial arts can dramatically alter the quality of your life-enriching your relationships with people, as well as helping you make use of all your abilities.
o My Comments: Enjoyed the stories. Not preachy, just related stories and how martial arts influenced his life; how lessons learned from martial arts applied to other aspects of his life
o My Rating: Excellent
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (91 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
65. The Zen Way To The Martial Arts by Taisen Deshimaru
o Description (from Back Cover)
At last: a book on the martial arts from a true Zen master. Taisen Deshimaru was born in Japan of an old samurai family, and he received from the Great Master Kodo Sawaki the Transmission of Mind to Mind when Sawaki died. Deshimaru-Roshi went to France and taught as a missionary general of the Soto Zen School until his death in 1982. In Europe, he learned how to make Oriental concepts understandable to the Western mind. One of the results of that experience was this book: a series of lessons, question-and-answer sessions, and koans (riddles or anecdotes that point out general principles) that provide practical wisdom for all students of the martial arts – kendo, aikido, iai-do, judo, or archery – as well as the general reader interested in Zen.
o My Comments: The way it was set up, it is not very easy to read – the Q&A type style. I needed to read it more than once to fully grasp and pull in. Part of it is language. For a more Western style of writing and understanding of Zen, I would start with Hyams book.
o My Rating: Good to Very Good
o Amazon Customer Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (12 reviewers as of 5/7/07)
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Teaching and Learning the Art Form Within A Club Environment - - Chief Instructor's Blog February 2012
The Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club is an organization charged with the responsibility of maintaining a fighting art as it was initially taught by Mr. Kim, staying true to both its application and intent.
Combining a club atmosphere with the teaching and learning of a potentially deadly fighting art requires the instructors to maintain the right balance of attitude, creating an environment which promotes a friendly exchange of ideas while modeling the necessary intensity. Over time, the club setting tends to foster close friendships which further enhance the spirit of the club. This often results in club members socializing outside of class.
The Art Form:
There were many forms of Tae Kwon Do developed in Korea, promoted through a variety of schools called “Kwans”. Han Moo Kwan is one of nine original families within Tae Kwon Do, and has a somewhat colorful background. The Han Moo Kwan philosophy and strategies are based on an honorable fighting art with its origins dating back hundred of years. According to Mr. Kim, it was selected as a primary form taught to the military, and was forced to go underground when Korea experienced times of political change.
Our Han Moo Kwan retains the traditional style and philosophy taught to Mr. Kim in the 1950s, before the unification of the Kwans (schools) into the World TaeKwonDo Federation (WTF). Unlike WTF, which markets its training toward younger students desiring to achieve through competition (sport), this form addresses the needs of the adult who wishes to practice a power form designed for personal combat. This fighting art is used strictly for self-defense using only bare hands and feet, no weaponry, to fend off attackers.
The physical (body) aspect of our training provides the student with an aerobic and anaerobic workout. Other benefits include increased flexibility, improved balance, and strength training. The mental (mind) aspect of the art form teaches power and focus. Other benefits include stress reduction and increased self-confidence. The discipline of blending these body-mind skills is based on a respect for oneself and others.
The strategies of the Han Moo Kwan art form is close the distance, perform simple, straightforward techniques, strike or block for damage to end altercation quickly, be grounded, and extend energy. The most common tactics used to execute the strategies are linear strikes, kicks, and blocks.
The Chief Instructor reports directly to the Club President, and is responsible to the Board Of Directors for maintaining the integrity of the art form.
The Club Atmosphere:
The club atmosphere was developed and set by Mr. Kim and Bob Rainie. They intentionally dropped most of the formalities found in traditional Korean Tae Kwon Do schools. They also made sure that the club had a social side, so that it was not just a martial arts studio. Mr. Kim suggested dropping the use of Korean terminology and constant bowing so the club workouts would be more like friends getting together than students working under an instructor.
The Club is a non-profit organization. All class instructors are black belts and receive no money for instruction but are “paid” in different ways. Part of this approach revolves around “giving back” to the community which is in-line with Mr. Kim’s philosophy about sharing the art form. In our case, individuals reaching the rank of black belt are expected to give back to those members just starting out.
To help facilitate a club atmosphere, events are planned throughout the year such as picnics in the summer for club members to interact in a relaxed, social environment. Also after students are awarded their new rank, they are treated to a celebration dinner.
Club Officers from the beginning have been essential in running and building the Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club. The Club Officers are the liaisons with the corporate sponsor, Han Moo Kwan Association Board Of Directors and the community. They are the forerunners in promoting and ensuring longevity of the Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club and art form.
Although the art form is often seen as “harsh”, the club retains its underlying goal of building community. Studied by men and women, the young and not so young, a strong sense of camaraderie develops among club members.
Regards,
Kelly
“Show up. Work out.” ~ Mr. Ui Jung Kim (1941-1999), 6th Degree Black Belt, Founder of the Han Moo Kwan Club, Sunnyvale, CA
References
1. http://www.hanmookwan.org/about_us.htm
Combining a club atmosphere with the teaching and learning of a potentially deadly fighting art requires the instructors to maintain the right balance of attitude, creating an environment which promotes a friendly exchange of ideas while modeling the necessary intensity. Over time, the club setting tends to foster close friendships which further enhance the spirit of the club. This often results in club members socializing outside of class.
The Art Form:
There were many forms of Tae Kwon Do developed in Korea, promoted through a variety of schools called “Kwans”. Han Moo Kwan is one of nine original families within Tae Kwon Do, and has a somewhat colorful background. The Han Moo Kwan philosophy and strategies are based on an honorable fighting art with its origins dating back hundred of years. According to Mr. Kim, it was selected as a primary form taught to the military, and was forced to go underground when Korea experienced times of political change.
Our Han Moo Kwan retains the traditional style and philosophy taught to Mr. Kim in the 1950s, before the unification of the Kwans (schools) into the World TaeKwonDo Federation (WTF). Unlike WTF, which markets its training toward younger students desiring to achieve through competition (sport), this form addresses the needs of the adult who wishes to practice a power form designed for personal combat. This fighting art is used strictly for self-defense using only bare hands and feet, no weaponry, to fend off attackers.
The physical (body) aspect of our training provides the student with an aerobic and anaerobic workout. Other benefits include increased flexibility, improved balance, and strength training. The mental (mind) aspect of the art form teaches power and focus. Other benefits include stress reduction and increased self-confidence. The discipline of blending these body-mind skills is based on a respect for oneself and others.
The strategies of the Han Moo Kwan art form is close the distance, perform simple, straightforward techniques, strike or block for damage to end altercation quickly, be grounded, and extend energy. The most common tactics used to execute the strategies are linear strikes, kicks, and blocks.
The Chief Instructor reports directly to the Club President, and is responsible to the Board Of Directors for maintaining the integrity of the art form.
The Club Atmosphere:
The club atmosphere was developed and set by Mr. Kim and Bob Rainie. They intentionally dropped most of the formalities found in traditional Korean Tae Kwon Do schools. They also made sure that the club had a social side, so that it was not just a martial arts studio. Mr. Kim suggested dropping the use of Korean terminology and constant bowing so the club workouts would be more like friends getting together than students working under an instructor.
The Club is a non-profit organization. All class instructors are black belts and receive no money for instruction but are “paid” in different ways. Part of this approach revolves around “giving back” to the community which is in-line with Mr. Kim’s philosophy about sharing the art form. In our case, individuals reaching the rank of black belt are expected to give back to those members just starting out.
To help facilitate a club atmosphere, events are planned throughout the year such as picnics in the summer for club members to interact in a relaxed, social environment. Also after students are awarded their new rank, they are treated to a celebration dinner.
Club Officers from the beginning have been essential in running and building the Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club. The Club Officers are the liaisons with the corporate sponsor, Han Moo Kwan Association Board Of Directors and the community. They are the forerunners in promoting and ensuring longevity of the Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club and art form.
Although the art form is often seen as “harsh”, the club retains its underlying goal of building community. Studied by men and women, the young and not so young, a strong sense of camaraderie develops among club members.
Regards,
Kelly
“Show up. Work out.” ~ Mr. Ui Jung Kim (1941-1999), 6th Degree Black Belt, Founder of the Han Moo Kwan Club, Sunnyvale, CA
References
1. http://www.hanmookwan.org/about_us.htm
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)