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 25 Shoto-Kan Kata
ASIN: 096690480X
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Sugiyama Sensei's 25 Shotokan Kata Book
Comments: Sugiyama Sensei's 25 kata book is one of the most comprehensive book on Shotokan Katas on the market. It is very well illustrated and the explanations clear. This book definitely should be any student's library. No other book has all the system's katas in one text.
Kimio Nelson, 5th Dan Shotokan
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 Goju Ryu Karate Do Kyohan
ASIN: 0920129234
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Excellence Takes on Many Forms
Comments: This work is an incredible collector's item which belongs in every martial artist's library. This book is a foundation work of the basic moves and techniques...a mark in time that solidifies the fundamental concepts. Today we see growth and new directions taking wing in the Martial Arts and Goju Ryu Karate Do Kyohan provides a modern "Bubushi" or the root of Goju.
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 Wado Ryu Karate
ASIN: 0920129188
Customer's Rating: 4
Summary: Basic Wado-ryu
Comments: Wado-ryu by Hronori Otuska is a fair translation of the original book. It falters only in the precise meaning of martial terms. The material presented is that of a overview and does not cover technical details or the aspects of the art which distinguish Wado-ryu from other forms of Japanese Karate. There is no mention of Kihon Kumite kata or of teni, tengi, and tentai, the San-mi-ittai of Wado-ryu.
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 Karate-Do Kyohan: The Master Text
ASIN: 0870111906
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: The most complete text written by the founder of Shotokan.
Comments: Many shotokan students do not know of the existance of this book and rely only on books of Master Funakoshi's students or students of the following generations. The other book of Master Funakoshi "Karate-Do Nymon" is translated by Sensei John Teramoto, a Godan of Master Ohshima. The Kyohan exists also in French version translated as well by Master Ohshima.
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 Bruce Lee's Fighting Method : Basic Training (Volume 2)
ASIN: 0897500512
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: This is what I, as a martial artist, consider my Bible
Comments: This book is probably the most important book of this series. I am a martial artist who trains in the JKD philosophy. This is the book I look back to constantly, and I will always consider this the most important one in my martial arts library. The Basics are the MOST important aspect of your training. A great fighter must have a great foundation.
Don't buy this book expecting to become Bruce, to become great you must want to be great. What is covered in this book all of Bruce's student's teach. If you go to a Richard Bustillo, Tim Tacket, Chris Kent, or Dan Inosanto, chances are you'll be learning the stuff directly from this book.
The book covers basic exercises, stance, footwork, and ideas behind punching and kicking. DON'T expect this book to be the only "way". Don't expect this book to train you. It's only a book not a personal trainer. The exercises in the book are not "impossible" as one person commented. They are totally effective.
You should buy this book with an open mind. Don't just read this book, understand this book.
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 This is Self Defense (Kenpo Jujitsu) The Essential Guide For the Conceptual Martial Artist
ASIN: 0970589603
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: BEST OF THE BEST ,A INGENIOUS CONCEPTUAL APPROACH IT ROCKS!
Comments: It may be best to start with a few quotes from the many letters and autographed photos from the many martial arts legends in this book;
"Is a kowlageable work on martial arts literature and can be used as a guide to all martial arts systems"/ "Master Ricardo's book stress concepts and the evolution of the martial arts" Signed Prof.Sig Kufferath 10th dan Kodenkan Danzan-Ryu Headmaster .
"To Grandmaster Frank Ricardo,you have done well with the Small Circle System, Signed Prof. Wally Jay 3/15/00
"To Master Ricardo The Ultimate Warrior "Signed from Prof.Sig Kufferath 98"
"This book is a must read for any serious martial artist whether beginner or advanced practitioner. " Signed Grandmaster Ernesto Presas
There are quotes from Special Forces soldiers, Commanders , about how Professor Ricardo directly improved battlefeild survivabilty and mission capability. There are testimonials from Police Defensive Tacticts Instuctors,Kripalu Yoga teachers,T'ai chi masters and so many more. They all speak in harmony the one truth Professor Ricardos Conceptual guide is ingenous!
The back cover says it all; " In 1953, Honorable Great Grandmaster James M.Mittose asked; What is self Defense?" The quest for a definitive answer continues in this text this is self Defense (Kenpo JuJitsu), one thing for sure it can never be answered by the amassing of all the techniques,as the are infinite. but in the study of the concepts, the science's,the levels of transformations of life,physical,mental,and spiritual may be the Key!' Professor Frank R Ricardo Oct.7th 2000 .
The bottom line is the fact this book lives up to all of it! The best of the best it ROCKS!
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 Karate Jutsu: The Original Teachings of Gichin Funakoshi
ASIN: 4770026811
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: A MUST READ FOR TANG SOO DO STUDENTS
Comments: In reading the book you learn that the first book published was only done so in a very limited number and that drawings were used to illustrate the techniques within the book. When the later version in 1925 was published, Master Funakoshi himself posed for photographs which were used in place of the original drawings, allowing a much more detailed look at the techniques. The version I have, the modern English version, still has these same photos of Funakoshi performing the techniques. It was from Rentan Goshin Karate Jutsu that Funakoshi much later expanded into the Karate Do Kyohan and his students were photographed performing the techniques. However, if you want to see karate as it looked when men such as Won Kuk Lee and others were learning it in Japan, you must see the book Rentan Goshin Karate Jutsu. I can't begin to emphasize enough the importance of this work to the historical understanding of the development of Tang Soo Do. I personally believe this book was one of those that Hwang Kee found to study in the 1930's in Seoul. While the original Ryukyu Kempo Karate was not widely disseminated (if you can find a copy it will be in Japanese and will be worth a fortune), the Rentan Goshin Karate Jutsu was widely disseminated through many printings and could readily have been available even in Korea during the time period. For those of us who have seen and had a chance to work with some older members of the Moo Duk Kwan, a glance at Funakoshi in these photos immediately impacts upon you the closeness with our style and what karate was like when Funakoshi was teaching in Japan in the late 1920's. Keeping in mind that only a decade before the Japanese had no knowledge of Karate and that it is considered that Funakoshi demonstrated the populace style of karate extant on Okinawa at the turn of the last century, and you can see the root of Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan as far back as the late 1800's. For this reason alone if no other I can't imagine a Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan decendant NOT having Karate Jutsu in their library. It should be kept right alongside "Tang Soo Do/Soo Bahk Do, Vol. 1".
John Hancock
President
International Tangsoodo Alliance
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 Modern Taekwondo: The Official Training Manual
ASIN: 0806939893
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: For the serious taekwondo student, an excellent study tool.
Comments: Beginner to advanced students if your looking to excel in modern taekwondo, look no further this is the book to buy! All the forms (Taeqeuk, Palgwe and 1st-9th Degree) are in one place, with clear pictures and step by step instructions that are easy to use. Covers the philosophy and history of taekwondo as well as reviewing self-defense sparring, breaking and international tournament rules. Grand Master Soon Man Lee and Master Gaetane Ricke have done a outstanding job at creating a great training guide, hope to see more titles from them in the future.
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 The Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do: (Shorin-Ryu)
ASIN: 0804821100
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: The Bible of karate
Comments: This is the most important book you can own if you study Matsubayashi Ryu. It is very well written. Shows all 18 kata, kihons and yakusoku kumite. This book is not only good as a refresser but as a text book. I require that all my students purchase this book. I am a Shihan, 5th Degreee Black belt in Matsubayashi Ryu.
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 The Secrets of Okinawan Karate: Essence and Techniques
ASIN: 4770027591
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: The Secret Book
Comments: This is one of the best books on Okinawan Karate I have ever read! The author opens up a totally different dimension in the world of martial arts. I have never seen or read anything like this before! This book will be great for both advance students and a beginner. It offers so many details on Okinawan karate history and techniques that were lost long time ago. The book is easy to read and also it is full of detailed pictures that helped visualize techniques. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for the true secrets of Okinawan karate!
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 Kyusho-Jitsu: The Dillman Method of Pressure Point Fighting
ASIN: 0963199617
Customer's Rating: 3
Summary: Kyusho-Jitsu: Dillman Method Pressure Point Fighting
Comments: I have attended seminars by Dillman master instructors in the past and the book is a good reference to those training seminars. The author has done an exceptional amount of research and training, some of which is presented in this book. This subject of pressure point fighting is exteremly difficult to learn without the guidance of a competent instructor or training partner. The book serves as a guide to those already studying the martial arts; it is not for the novice or the self taught individual. That said, pressure point fighting as it is called is not the end all for self defense tactics. Pressure point techniques do serve a good purpose in ones arsenal of self defense tactics, but they are designed to supplement ones total fighting system. And as it has been said before, it is difficult to strike an exact pressure point during active hand to hand combat. Pressure point control holds and escape techniques play a more active role in ones self defense arsenal. So if you have experience in the martial arts or CQB this book will serve to support some of your training, with the use of a competent partner or instructor. Novices or individuals looking for the quick fix (which there are none) try another book.
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 Bruce Lee's Fighting Method : Self-Defense Techniques (Volume 1)
ASIN: 0897500504
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: bruce lee's superiority in a simple way!
Comments: before i became a orthomolecular-nutritionist, i practiced many years martial arts:jeet kune do (the method of bruce lee),thai-boxing,israeli krav-maga,ju-jitsu and boxing ,all of that for12 years.my experty was street fighting wich is the topic of this highly recommanded book. you can take it from me that this book is very practical even for proffesionals. bruce demonstrate the simplicity and effectiveness of street fighting in a veriety of situation that may cought you in the street such as:when someone is choking you from behind\or while getting or sitting in the car,against a knife\club attacks,in disadvantage positions like when you sit down on the ground,and a 2-3 attackers approaching at you.it is all cover with clear pictures and explanations,and much much more.it is true that it is not a replacement of a qualified instructor that can correct your errors while practicing,but it is one of the best books on self defence for the layperson,and not because it is the book of the greatest fighter,but because it is realy practical\effective\and easy to follow,and suitable against a dangerous attacker in the street.a very highly recommanded book(for woman as well as for man).
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 The Secrets of Tae Kwon Do: Principles and Techniques for Beginners
ASIN: 1570282021
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: THE OPERATIVE WORD IS "BEGINNERS"
Comments: I had been searching for a comprehensive easy to follow guide and I have found it in Jennifer Lawler's "The Secrets of Tae Kwon Do: Principles and Techniques for Beginners." The secret is that it is a quide for beginners. That's me!
As defined, Tae Kwon Do is a Korean martial arts of high kicks and spins. So it helps to have long legs. That's me! Already, that's two "that's me's" and I'm hooked.
I like the diciplines. Serve your lord with loyalty. Serve your parents with filial piety. Trust your friends. Never retreat from a battle. When taking life, be selective. I'm a lawyer. The last three diciplines apply in the courtroom just as easily as they do in martial arts.
I taught myself how to ski by reading a book. I never took a lesson in my life. I just read the book, went to the slopes, and skied.
With that new found confidence I thought the same of Tae Kwon Do. Get a book, practice, and then spin and kick. The book is great but you need coaching too. Because, as it turns out, Tae Kwon Do is much more difficult to learn than skiing is.
I think this is the best book of its kind on the market. For a beginner, like me, and for the intermediate that I hope to be some day. I recommend it.
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 Tae Kwon Do: The State of the Art
ASIN: 0767902149
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Best Yet
Comments: Taekwondo The State of the Art
Authors:Masters Sung Chul Whang; Jun Chul Whang; Brandon Saltz; Foreword and contribution by Master is comprehensive and deals with History, Philosophy, Warm ups; Stances; Steps and Footwork; Blocks; Hand strikes; Kicks; Sparring; and Poomse. The authors have chosen to use illustrations rather than photographs and the results are quite good. Korean terms are used throughout as part of the titles. Headings for almost all sections in the book and all the stances, kicks, strikes, blocks, etc. are included. As always, since English sounds don't always match Korean, the spelling is a crap shoot. Of particular note is the use of G instead of K for a palatal consonant in such Korean words as (Gyoroogi) (sparring) here versus Kyorugi in some other books.
Of all the books I've read, I like this one the best-so far. There is more detail and supporting discussion. As I read the material, I felt like I was being coached by someone who was not only very competent, but also someone who understood the problems of junior belt level students such as myself.
This book will appeal to the serious Taekwondo students no matter what reasons they have for taking Taekwondo. It is only missing discussion of self defense. However, there is a frank discussion in the philosophy chapter that addresses the authors' feelings about the thought processes of people in the discipline about the merits of sportized Taekwondo versus martial art. This is an important discussion and should be read by young Taekwondoists as they determine why they are taking TKD. [For the dedicated student, The Martial Artist's Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi interpreted by Stephen F. Kaufman, Hanshi 10th Dan, has even more relevant discussion.]
The book deals with stances, hand strikes and kicks and stresses the rationale behind each. It is detailed in its discussion and maintains the importance of the proper stances and striking technique. The extensive section on steps and footwork is the most comprehensive I've see so far. They discuss transitions from position to position. With these sections the authors build you carefully towards the sections on sparring and poomse(forms) Because of the lengthy build up, only the Taeguk patterns are shown. The authors acknowledge other patterns such as the Palgwe, but focus on the current WTF authorized patterns. The discussion on the patterns is excellent. If read with the preceding material in their book, a student can greatly increase their understanding of why they are doing things and how they may improve. [Please understand that no-one should feel they can learn Taekwondo properly without the instruction of a Master such as Master Seung. No book replaces an experienced teacher, but it offers some insights and additional information that may not come up in the classes very often.]
What makes this book especially appealing to someone like me, is the information about the Taeguk series-the Taeguk is the circle containing the um/yang symbols within the 8 sets of 3 bars. For the first time as a Taekwondo student, I could start to understand the significance. The authors have given us a brief but important opening into the discipline.
In addition, they have advanced an image of the ultimate state to which patterns should aspire. It demonstrates the purpose of each motion.
As a beginning, but serious TKD student, if I could only buy one book on Taekwondo, I would buy this one.
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 Shihan-Te: The Bunkai of Karate Kata
ASIN: 1886969884
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: a detailed, thinkers look into kata
Comments: I appreciate that the authors have gone deeper into the meaning of Kata; it gives the reader something to think about. Craig also gives some "goodies" not given in other books like it. It is a must read for martial artists.
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 Karate-Do: My Way of Life
ASIN: 0870114638
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Reading Into Technique
Comments: This autobiography of the Father of Modern Day Karate exposes the character behind the legend and may surprise the student raised in awe of a superior teacher. Using anectdotes of past masters and lessons in his own life, Funakoshi is able to explain the philosophy of karate clearly and concisely. Anyone attempting Shodan in Shotokan Karate should definately read this book so that they can read into the basic techniques and understand that karate's ultimate goal is tranquility and not to beat the hell out of anyone who confronts you!
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 Secrets of Shotokan Karate
ASIN: 0804832293
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Shotokan Revealed
Comments: The Secrets of Shotokan Karate by Robin L. Rielly Is a must have for those who want to get the most out Shotokan-ryu. Together with mister Rielly's Complete Shotokan Karate, ISBN 0-8048-2108-9, no more thorough grounding in Shotokan-ryu can be had. But if what you are looking for is a book for the beginner to learn the fundamentals I would suggest getting Hidetaka Nishiyama and Richard C. Brown's Karate: the Art of "Empty Hand" Fighting, ISBN 0-8048-1668-9.
The Secrets of Shotokan Karate details the methods for generating balance, stability, force, and speed. Explained are the principles of distancing, timing, hip and stance shifting, and strategy. Of special interest is the section on hip shifting for it is one of the more subtle connections Karate has with the Chinese arts of Taijiquan and Kung Fu. Separate chapters are devoted to Kumite and Kata. The chapter on Kumite includes helpful drills for mastering this aspect of the art. The chapter on Kata is especially enlightening in explaining what is meant by the "hidden meaning of Kata". Included in the Kata chapter is a detailed step-by-step explanation of Kanku Dai and its applications.
This book takes the Karate-ka from a mere practitioners of an exercise to the mastery of the techniques and principles required for the making of a martial artist.
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 Self-Defense Nerve Centers and Pressure Points for Karate, Jujitsu and Atemi-Waza
ASIN: 0874070295
Customer's Rating: 4
Summary: A gem of book !
Comments: If one surveys martial arts books they will quickly find that few books have been written that specifically deal with the subject of pressure points and nerve centers. Mr. Tegner weeds through the myths and heresay surrounding this subject and succeeds in presenting a realistic view of vital point striking. He avoids the hype (unlike the "death touch" books) and gives the reader an idea of what can be expected and accomplished from the exploitation of these anatomical targets in a very easy to understand format. (Let's face it, a 250lb man will certainly do more damage than a 120lb woman). Should be read by every martial artist
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 Advanced Pressure Point Fighting of Ryukyu Kempo: Dillman Theory for All Systems
ASIN: 0963199633
Customer's Rating: 2
Summary: Pressure Point Fighting
Comments: This is the second book in Mr. Dillman and Thomas' series on Pressure Point Fighting. It is much more in-depth than their first book, which the authors reference as laying the "foundations" of using Pressure Point Fighting techniques. This book covers significantly more material, and makes better use of charts and illustrations. Some of the theories presented by the authors on the basis of Pressure Point Strikes, as well as the reasons why Pressure Points work, are controversial within the Martial Arts and Medical community. The authors attempt to cover 78 of the 350+ classical Chinese acupoints (22 on the arms, 26 on the head, 13 on the torso, 10 on the legs and 7 on the back), and 7 "extra-ordinary" points (5 on the arms, one on the head, and one on the legs).
The authors have used a series of body photographs to illustrate the Traditional Chinese Medicine energy pathways and acupoint locations. While the illustrations are an improvement, in my opinion, over Mr. Dillman and Thomas' first book, there are a few problems too. Several of the photos have problems with incorrect lighting, occasional out of focus images and lack of detail in certain poses. As such, they are of varying degrees of usefulness. The authors have also elected to use a mixture of black dots and "bullseye" stickers, placed on the skin of the photo subject, to highlight pressure point locations.
The level of information given on each point is not consistently presented. In general, the authors give a description of the point location, and give what they believe is the anatomical structural association of the point (i.e., why it works in that area of the body). Then they usually (but not always) give a block of text marked "Method" in which they give some point activation instructions and occasionally discuss the results of the strike. This lack of discussion on the effects of the strike / rub / slap may leave some readers disappointed. For example, on page 98, they discuss hitting Small Intestine 16 (SI-16), by simply noting "...strike this point at about a 30 degree angle from the back to the front." No additional narrative is given regarding the martial effects of the strike, nor the effects to the body. This is concerning to me, since SI-16 is a very dangerous acupoint. If you strike straight into the point with sufficient force and intent, you can cause a knockout (KO). But there is also an extreme risk of producing emotional side effects. Additionally, with a slightly harder blow, this point has been known to be fatal! None of these issues or risks are discussed, nor are similar issues covered in the majority of the other points.
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 The Bible of Karate: Bubishi
ASIN: 0804820155
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: "Bubishi" is a must for all serious martial artists
Comments: Beyond the usual "how to" kick and punch manual, this first ever English translation of the Bubishi is a must for all serious martial artists. Prefaced by a comprehensive history of the origins and development of karate, this book will round out any karateka's library. Great for understanding "pressure points".
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 The Karate Way
ASIN: 0385327420
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Entertaining, Realistic and Educational
Comments: As a mother of three, I don't usually have or make the time to sit down and review a book. This one is different. It was as if I was reading the story of my son, Dillon. I found The Karate Way to be so realistic, entertaining and educational. Whomever doesn't totally enjoy this book, either has no children or does not appreciate the power of karate.
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 Best Karate: Heian, Tekki (Best Karate, 5)
ASIN: 0870113798
Customer's Rating: 4
Summary: masters
Comments: i think its also so good book but i dont know how bought this book
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 Okinawa Island of Karate
ASIN: 0963177508
Customer's Rating: 4
Summary: One of the best karate history books on Okinawa karate.
Comments: I have been searched high and low for a complete book on Okinawan karate history. This book is a great introductory to where and by whom the different styles of karate on Okinawa came from. The writing style needs some work, but the content is excellent.
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 History and Traditions of Okinawan Karate
ASIN: 0920129196
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 Kenpo Karate 101 : What the Beginner and the Black Belt Should Know
ASIN: 0967991609
Customer's Rating: 4
Summary: Excellent material for new students and old hands alike
Comments: I am 29 and on 30 Aug 00 started American Kenpo training at Curtis Abernathy's school in San Antonio, Texas. Previously, during 6 1/2 years in the Air Force, I studied in schools teaching Wah Lum kung fu, tae kwon do, modern arnis, and wing tsun, and dabbled in small circle jujitsu, ground fighting, and tai chi. (I tried a little shotokan karate and judo in college earlier.) American Kenpo, as presented by my current instructor and in Mr. Wedlake's book, is the most enjoyable system yet.
Mr. Wedlake roughly covers the following: - What is kenpo, and who was Ed Parker? - Set a goal, select a school, how to be a student - Class structure, student responsibilities, and how to practice - Kenpo techniques and cultural impact on the arts - Attitude/philosophy - The gi, belt, and testing - Women, children, and seniors - Street fighting, seminars, associations, competitions, and demos - Instructor footnotes and rules of motion
The book is short (157 pages) and can be read in two or three sittings. I was tempted to blast through it in one, but letting the lessons within sink in requires some time for reflection. The material mirrored much of what I've been learning in class, and helpfully illustrated and reinforced techniques and theories. As kenpo is a very logical system, it is suitable for the analysis presented in books like this. It is not a series of attack - response scenarios, like most martial arts books in my library. Rather, it explains the ideas behind kenpo and its associated practices, filling a gap left by some other authors.
Having been a student of Ed Parker Sr., Mr. Wedlake brings many personal stories to the book. He answers many "why" questions, such as why newly promoted students are struck in a good-natured manner upon receiving their belts. (I'm sure this will surprise non-martial artists. I first saw this aspect of kenpo in Jeff Speakman's movies.)
This volume is a must-read if you are a kenpo student. Serious practioners from other styles with any interest in kenpo will find it useful, too. I'm looking forward to your next book, Mr. Wedlake!
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 Tang Soo Do
ASIN: 0865681708
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: It is helping me to learn faster..
Comments: This book consists mostly of photographs of hand and foot techniques and of the forms. As a beginning student I find these very helpful, as when it comes time to practice at home I sometimes have forgotten the new things learned in the previous class. The verbal descriptions that go with the photos are clear. In addition, newer students will find the Korean/English, English/Korean glossary of terms helpful. The author has also included a brief (too brief) history of Tang Soo Do and a lineage chart, but for me these are not the strong points of the book. Also, I would have liked to see a little more about the philosophy behind this martial art; however, the photographic explanations of the moves make the book well worth the price.
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 Pressure-Point Fighting: A Guide to the Secret Heart of Asian Martial Arts
ASIN: 080483217X
Customer's Rating: 2
Summary: if you are a NOVICE Buy it, if not, Don't Buy
Comments: I have bought this book, because I wanted to extend my
knowledge about pressure points.
if you are a NOVICE in martial art, then this is a very good book for you because it explain in a celar and in detail,
how to do what and illustrate it with a photo.
But if you already have knowledge about this subject then don't throw your money away.
At the end of the book there is [Appendix A: Vital Points List],
which is a very nice to have, But it doesn't have any illustration that can tell you where to hit exactly.
How many of you know where is in the human buddy is the [philtru], or [windpipe] or [solar plexus].
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 Bo Karate: Weapon of Self Defense
ASIN: 0897500199
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Bo selecta
Comments: Basically an excellent introduction to bo staff techniques. Without a doubt the best book on the subject available for some one interested in actually getting started with the bo rather than reading about it.
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 Bruce Lee's Fighting Method: Advanced Techniques
ASIN: 0897500539
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Excellent Book!
Comments: Excellent book by Bruce Lee that shows advanced methods that go beyond the "Basic Training" and "Skills In Techniques" books. This book covers attacking and defensive moves and various ways to use what you should have learned in the previous two books. Techniques show ways of attacking with punches, kicks, etc. as well as more defenses and counters. Excellent book if you have already studied the previous two books. Other books I'd recommend based on his fighting style would be the rest of this series, as well as "The Bruce Lee Library" series by John Little. The "Tao Of Jeet Kune Do" is also an excellent book that includes his own personal notes and thoughts about his fighting art.
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 The Kung Fu Book of Caine: The Complete Guide to Tv's First Mystical Eastern Western
ASIN: 0804818266
Customer's Rating: 4
Summary: Kung Fu -- The Book of Caine
Comments: What a terrific way to re-live and reminisce about the great old days of the original Kung Fu TV show. The book gives a very interesting behind-the-scenes look at the creative and talented writers and actors who worked on the show, and follows with an episode-by-episode synopsis. The book, like the TV show, leaves you wanting more, so I can only hope that more will become available soon. In the meantime, the Book of Caine is a nice addition to any fan's collection.
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 Best Karate: Comprehensive (Best Karate, 1)
ASIN: 0870113178
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Excellent intro in Karate
Comments: The book is well illustrated, and gives an excellent introduction into the different stances and strikes found in Karate. More importantly, it is probably the only book that illustrates the "flow" of the moves, instead of just showing the ends of the move. Overall, the book is great for a Karate-ka who want to refine certain things in Karate. Finally, the price that Amazon sells it at is really hard to beat! Ron Przygodzki
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 Best Karate: Kumite 1 (Best Karate, 3)
ASIN: 0870113321
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 75 Down Blocks: Refiningkarate Techniques
ASIN: 0804832188
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 Kenpo Theory : "The Why"
ASIN: 0965267245
Customer's Rating: 4
Summary: The Why ISBN 0-9652672-4-5
Comments: This book is exactly its title "THE WHY" - The Kenpo Theory. As I would learn new techniques, the question behind the moves would always come into play. This book helps the student learn the sequence behind all of your moves.
Some of the subjects Lee explains are: Adjustment of Weapon According to Distance, Circular and Linear Motion, Covering Distance, Increasing Striking Potential, Motion Angular, Situation of Opportunity, Spontaneous Deception, The Blueprints of Kenpo, Torque Principle, Zones of Distance. I find that it is not enough to know the how. Without the why, your movements are just memorized.
Lee's ability to explain and demonstrate these theories makes this book a must for your Kenpo Karate collection. Its easy to understand and apply.
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 Barefoot Zen: The Shaolin Roots of Kung Fu and Karate
ASIN: 1578631424
Customer's Rating: 4
Summary: An Improvment on his previous book, Insightful and Enjoyable
Comments: Here Nathan Johnson presents his treatis for the relationship between Buddhist philosophy (primarily zen) and martial arts practice. He considers authenticity in forms, and examines meaning and concepts related to shaolin. I don't fully agree with all of his premises, such as the idea that it is more likely a form is "authentic" when its practitioners credit a Buddhist or Taoist creator (many forms were assigned mysterious origin to make the school or founder credible), has a Buddhist name or title (like Ji-on in shotokan), is simple in its movements, etc. However, Johnson is one of the first who has had the time and energy to research his topics, and formulate theories based upon the how and why, as opposed to simply regurgitating and not questioning older information (the tiresome old "sensei said it, so it is true!" routine).
Johnson also examines karate in the greater context of cultural relativity, pondering such oddities as the esoteric meaning of Sanchin kata ("Sanchin is a mandala..."), and tries his hand (well) at debunking many myths and mistaken notions common in karate and kung fu today. Johnson offers advnanced concepts. You don't have to buy all of his theories, but reading this book will definately encourage you to consider your forms and martial arts in general in a new light.
This second volume is also a great improvement upon the first, as Johnson explains all of the things that I felt were lacking in that book. He relates experiences, correspondences, and includes footnotes and a bibliography of sources, crediting quotes sources. Johnson again demonstrates the fundamental forms of Sanchin and Naihanchin with their applications as in his first book "Zen Shaolin Karate", but the reader has the opportunity to consider his ideas in a wider context. Throughout the time I spent reading this work, I was convinced that this is a highly personal effort, sincere and honest to its heart. Not a grain of arrogance or pretentiousness did I encounter in my reading. Johnson is not trying to force feed us, on the contrary I felt he was encouraging the same spirit of research and discovery among those who consider his words. A worthwhile read for the martial artist who is weary of the mundane and repetitive.
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 Chuck Norris: A Real-Life Reader Biography (Real-Life Reader Biography)
ASIN: 1883845912
Customer's Rating: 1
Summary: Where is the real Chuck Norris?
Comments: This book was written by a man that now peddles cigars and also owns part of several casinos in Las Vegas and even Moscow, Russia - and conflicts with "A Fistful of Kings", a recent book that was written by a former employee of his "enterprises". I don't know whether Mr. Norris is all PR or for real, but even his picture on the cover seems self serving.
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 Okinawa's Complete Karate System: Isshin Ryu
ASIN: 1886969914
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: Well Done
Comments: Its a well done book on not only the history of Isshinryu but Okinawan Karate as well. There are other books which deal with the subject more in depth but you'll be hard pressed to find them. As far as Isshinryu goes this is one of the best done to date. The author explores not only the systems founding and the linage of the system but also Soke SHimabuku's life as well. He explains the Hard/Soft elements of the system and even gives insight into how the kobudo weapons play a major role in not only armed combat but also unarmed as well. Over all its a book well worth reading. His other book: The FIghting Arts Their Evolution from Secret Socities to Modern Times is also one to read as well. It in many ways picks up where this left off and gives even further insight into the founding of the Okinwan systems.
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 Complete Book Of Karate Weapons
ASIN: 0873646290
Customer's Rating: 2
Summary: Basic Reveiw
Comments: The book is a basic manual on weapons. The book starts off strong with very good techniques with the knife (with the exception of attacking with them.) Mainly the self-defense applications. Dr. Gambordella coverage of the yawara, tonfa ad Jo is adequate. But his coverage from there on shows poor technique. From the basics of how to hold the nunchaku, Bo or sai are wrong.
If you where to hold the sai as is shown in combat or kumite, you would break your fingers. It appears that Dr. Gambordella is self taught with these last three weapons and has no practical experience.
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 Evolution of Kenpo
ASIN: 0965267229
Customer's Rating: 5
Summary: A very good book...
Comments: This book follows the same style of the Bachman book series. A lot of topics are discussed to expand your level of thinking and to expose you to new ideas. Some are gone into more indepth than others. The Chapter breakdowns are as follows: 1) Intellect to Application 2) Pyramids of Learning and Wisdom (my favorite chapter) 3) Kenpo fundamentals and Progressed Basics 4) The Basics of Motion 5) Kenpo's DNA 6) When, Where and Why 7) The Bladed Weapon - Utilization 8) Wavelengths and Movement 9) Closing Notes. The first five chapters are worth the puchase alone. Six,Seven and Eight cover knife concepts taking into account environment (weather) and distinguishes between crude, raw and clean motion in knife striking execution. There is also a good little section on target locations. If your looking for knife techinque sequences this is not the book, but if you what to know some concepts to take into account when creating or executing knife techniques this book might shed some light. Once again I enjoyed this book and feel that it can help expand the way we think of the Art.
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