Combat sports and self-defence Books
Pitchstone Publishing The Gift of Violence
Book Synopsis
£17.95
Skyhorse Publishing The Crippler: Cage Fighting and My Life on the
Book SynopsisIt takes a certain kind of person to do whatever is necessary to make a living as a mixed martial arts fighter. And it takes another kind of person to stand out from all the rest as both a wild man and a rock star. Chris Leben, otherwise known as The Crippler,” is that kind of person.Leben’s reputation started when he appeared on the inaugural season of The Ultimate Fighter, a reality show and competition where hopeful fighters live together and vie for a UFC contract and a path to greatness. He quickly made a name for himself with his controversial and abrasive behavior. During his subsequent ten-year career in ultimate fighting, Leben became one of the most recognized figures in the sport, enthralling audiences around the world with his wild, head-first style of fighting as he took on some of the world’s best fighters, including Anderson Silva, Yoshihiro Akiyama, and Wanderlei Silva.But Leben’s success in the ring and international fame hid a troubled background. Abandoned by his father at a young age, Leben’s mother worked long hours to raise him and his two siblings, and Leben learned early he had to be tough to fend for himself. For most of his life, Leben struggled with alcohol and narcotics, and he was suspended by the UFC for nine months for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs. The Crippler is not just an exciting account of his rise to prominence within the UFC; it’s the incredible story of a renowned wild man dealing with his personal demons and learning that the toughest opponent is always yourself.Skyhorse Publishing, along with our Arcade, Good Books, Sports Publishing, and Yucca imprints, is proud to publish a broad range of biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs. Our list includes biographies on well-known historical figures like Benjamin Franklin, Nelson Mandela, and Alexander Graham Bell, as well as villains from history, such as Heinrich Himmler, John Wayne Gacy, and O. J. Simpson. We have also published survivor stories of World War II, memoirs about overcoming adversity, first-hand tales of adventure, and much more. While not every title we publish becomes a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are committed to books on subjects that are sometimes overlooked and to authors whose work might not otherwise find a home.Trade Review"Instead of whitewashing those personal failures into a hero's journey, Leben's book reads as a mix of war stories and regrets, an unvarnished look at the life behind a name that helped put MMA over to the reality-TV-watching public, and a confession." Vice"This book is a true testament to the battles faced inside and outside of the cage that no one else will talk about." Ed "Short Fuse" Herman, ten-year UFC veteran"I had a crazy life as a mixed martial artist. People everywhere ask me to tell them my now infamous stories. But Chris Leben took 'infamous' to a whole different level! This book is hilarious, heartfelt, and powerful. I love it!" Bas Rutten, former UFC heavyweight champion and King of Pancrase world champion"Chris Leben is one of the most colorful and forthright characters the UFC has ever seen, and The Cripplerwhile not always prettyis an incredible look behind the scenes at a legendary fighter who has admittedly battled his share of demons over the course of a very memorable career. Chris holds nothing back, and his brutal honesty makes it hard to put this book down." John Morgan, award-winning MMA reporter for MMAJunkie.com and USA Today[The Crippler] indulges readers, whether a fan of MMA or not, in the life of an individual’s struggle to teeter on extremes and, in the end, find their way closer to the fulcrum. . . . This book is well deserving of all five possible stars.” MMA Latest"Patinkin does an excellent job of capturing Leben’s voice. In very short order, the reader will find themselves hearing Leben’s raspy voice in their head as they read. . . . Leben’s memoir is a good read. It’s Chris Leben, warts and all." MMA Junkie"The brutal honesty about [Leben's] shortcomings makes for a frustrating yet empathetic story. . . . Many readers, even those outside the MMA fanbase, will find this personal account of a flawed fighter meaningful." Library Journal"Instead of whitewashing those personal failures into a hero's journey, Leben's book reads as a mix of war stories and regrets, an unvarnished look at the life behind a name that helped put MMA over to the reality-TV-watching public, and a confession." Vice"This book is a true testament to the battles faced inside and outside of the cage that no one else will talk about." Ed "Short Fuse" Herman, ten-year UFC veteran"I had a crazy life as a mixed martial artist. People everywhere ask me to tell them my now infamous stories. But Chris Leben took 'infamous' to a whole different level! This book is hilarious, heartfelt, and powerful. I love it!" Bas Rutten, former UFC heavyweight champion and King of Pancrase world champion"Chris Leben is one of the most colorful and forthright characters the UFC has ever seen, and The Cripplerwhile not always prettyis an incredible look behind the scenes at a legendary fighter who has admittedly battled his share of demons over the course of a very memorable career. Chris holds nothing back, and his brutal honesty makes it hard to put this book down." John Morgan, award-winning MMA reporter for MMAJunkie.com and USA Today[The Crippler] indulges readers, whether a fan of MMA or not, in the life of an individual’s struggle to teeter on extremes and, in the end, find their way closer to the fulcrum. . . . This book is well deserving of all five possible stars.” MMA Latest"Patinkin does an excellent job of capturing Leben’s voice. In very short order, the reader will find themselves hearing Leben’s raspy voice in their head as they read. . . . Leben’s memoir is a good read. It’s Chris Leben, warts and all." MMA Junkie"The brutal honesty about [Leben's] shortcomings makes for a frustrating yet empathetic story. . . . Many readers, even those outside the MMA fanbase, will find this personal account of a flawed fighter meaningful." Library Journal
£18.04
Permuted Press Funky: My Defiant Path Through the Wild World of
Book SynopsisA riveting memoir by former MMA champion and Olympic wrestler, Ben Askren, who cut a polarizing path through amateur wrestling and professional mixed martial arts as a firebrand figure who fans loved or hated—but could never keep down.“This is a wonderful and revealing look at one of the greatest American athletes of the last twenty years.” —Ariel Helwani? One of the most dominant college wrestlers in history, Ben Askren became a folk hero during the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, before going on to become a multiple time MMA champion and one of the sport’s biggest stars. Through it all, he emerged as a cult figure in combat sports. Here, in the pages of Funky, this record-breaking wrestler and polarizing UFC fighter shares how he came to dominate opponents while blazing a trail through competitors in unprecedented ways. Not blessed with natural athleticism, he revolutionized folkstyle wrestling by innovating his own technique, developing a scrambling, unorthodox style, which earned him the famous nickname, “Funky.” “While legendary wrestler Ben Askren’s memoir Funky is not a self-help book, it is one of the most helpful books you can read if you want to achieve more in life. Unlike the superficial portraits of success that most self-help books give, Funky explains in unvarnished detail the thoughtful persistence that is required—persistence that can take a long time to be rewarded, with plenty of setbacks along the way.” —Alex Epstein, philosopher, energy expert, bestselling author, and BJJ Black Belt What ensued was an improbable takeover of combat sports by a firebrand who defied tradition, becoming the University of Missouri’s first ever national champion while twice winning the prestigious Dan Hodge trophy. Now, Askren opens up about how he bucked convention, how he used his wrestling base to seize the world of cage-fighting, and how he eventually forced UFC president Dana White to end their decade-long public feud via a historic trade to give the fans what they wanted: Ben Askren in the UFC. Love him or hate him, win or lose, Ben Askren showed what determination means by staying true to one of his earliest revelations on the mats: “I was never going to let anybody outwork me.” “Whether you are an elite level athlete or the furthest thing from it, Funky is an inspiring read for all.” —Laura Sanko, broadcast analyst and reporterTrade Review“Ben Askren as a competitor at the highest levels in both wrestling and MMA is a one-of-a-kind story any sports fan should know. What Funky does is lay down the details of his story with the clarity of a man who never holds anything back. He talks about how he had to fail to succeed through the process, and ultimately innovate his style to dominate the competition. Those who believe in the ‘where there's a will there’s a way’ credo will find the greatest example within these pages.” -- Charlie Lee, creator of Litecoin“Whether you are an elite level athlete or the furthest thing from it, Funky is an inspiring read for all. Every page of Ben Askren’s journey is told with refreshing honesty, which, if you know Ben, is no surprise. This book is for anyone who believes that pure talent or natural athletic prowess is the main factor in achieving greatness or that success is a straight line to the top, Funky will prove you wrong in the best way possible.” -- Laura Sanko, broadcast analyst and reporter“While legendary wrestler Ben Askren’s memoir Funky is not a self-help book, it is one of the most helpful books you can read if you want to achieve more in life. Unlike the superficial portraits of success that most self-help books give, Funky explains in unvarnished detail the thoughtful persistence that is required—persistence that can take a long time to be rewarded, with plenty of setbacks along the way. Funky also gives readers the gifts of Ben’s fascinating and proven approaches to mindset—approaches that helped him defeat far more athletically gifted opponents, and to be one of the great innovators in wrestling history. I am grateful to Ben for taking decades of elite achievement and hard-earned lessons, and condensing them into a book that’s both fun to read and easy to learn from.” -- Alex Epstein, philosopher, energy expert, bestselling author, and BJJ Black Belt“Reading Funky was fantastic—what a ride. I thought I knew Ben, but after reading the book I can now say I know Ben Askren. It was everything you’d expect from a champion like him: Fun, informative and well written. His is a one-of-a-kind story.” -- Daniel Cormier, former UFC and Strikeforce champion, US Olympian“This is a wonderful and revealing look at one of the greatest American athletes of the last twenty years. From wrestling to MMA, very few have enjoyed success quite like Ben Askren has. The best part? He did it his way. Unapologetically. Even when most have advised against it. I have immense respect for the approach he took to life and fighting, and that comes through in these pages. This book is honest, and I’d expect nothing less from Ben Askren.” -- Ariel Helwani
£19.00
Permuted Press Hendo: The American Athlete
Book SynopsisA riveting memoir by the first MMA double champion and two-time Olympic wrestler who cut a polarizing path as a firebrand figure and went on to become a legend.“Dan Henderson is a savage. He came from a pure, wrestling background with very little striking training, and he went and became one of the most dangerous, one-punch knockout artists in the history of the sport.” —Joe Rogan Dan “Hendo” Henderson was the first fighter in MMA history to become a double champion, winning championships in PRIDE Fighting Championships and Strikeforce. He faced the biggest names in MMA, on his unparalleled run through the early days of MMA through its remarkable rise in popularity, squaring off against the likes of Fedor Emelianenko, Anderson Silva, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Wanderlei Silva, Michael Bisping, Vitor Belfort, and Renzo Gracie. Henderson’s first fight against Mauricio “Shogun” Rua in 2011 is considered one of the greatest fights in UFC history. In this no-holds-barred look back on his life, Henderson provides context and insight into the biggest fights of his career, while reflecting on the wholly unique upbringing that shaped him into the warrior he needed to be to win. With his trademark humor, he sheds light on his two trips to the Olympics, his transformative time training in Europe and Russia, and his up-and-down relationship with Dana White. Hendo: The American Athlete is a thrilling window into the life and mind of a true legend. There will never be another fighter like Hendo.Trade Review“Dan Henderson is a savage. He came from a pure, wrestling background with very little striking training, and he went and became one of the most dangerous, one-punch knockout artists in the history of the sport.” -- Joe Rogan“A transparent look inside the heart of a champion. Truly made in America.” -- Toby Keith“Hendo is an American Icon. His story, his fights, and his life have been like no other in sports. He's the man everybody rooted for and kids wanted to be like. You’re gonna love Hendo's journey and won’t want to put it down—the ups and downs, dreams fulfilled and some not achieved. Enjoy the deepest look inside the fight game and the story of one of the greatest wrestlers and MMA fighters of all time. He's what heroes are made of!” -- Gary Levox, Rascal Flatts
£22.50
BenBella Books The Tao of the Side Hustle: A Buddhist Martial
Book Synopsis
£17.99
University of South Carolina Press Fighting for Honor: The History of African
Book SynopsisThe presence of African influence and tradition in the Americas has long been recognized in art, music, language, agriculture, and religion. T. J. Desch Obi explores another cultural continuity that is as old as eighteenth-century slave settlements in South America and as contemporary as hip-hop culture. In this thorough survey of the history of African martial arts techniques, Obi maps the translation of numerous physical combat techniques across three continents and several centuries to illustrate how these practices evolved over time and are still recognizable in American culture today. Some of these art traditions were part of African military training while others were for self-defense and spiritual discipline.Grounded in historical and cultural anthropological methodologies, Obi's investigation traces the influence of well-delineated African traditions on long-observed but misunderstood African and African American cultural activities in North America, Brazil, and the Caribbean. He links the Brazilian martial art capoeira to reports of slave activities recorded in colonial and antebellum North America. Likewise Obi connects images of the kalenda African stick-fighting techniques to the Haitian Revolution. Throughout the study Obi examines the ties between physical mastery of these arts and changing perceptions of honor.Including forty-five illustrations, this rich history of the arrival and dissemination of African martial arts in the Atlantic world offers a new vantage for furthering our understanding of the powerful influence of enslaved populations on our collective social history.
£23.36
Basic Health Publications Prepare for Combat: Strength Training for the
Book SynopsisTraditionally, the martial arts community believed that engaging in weight training was detrimental to the performance of the art, that it would hinder one's flexibility, speed, and agility. To be effective fighters, martial artists had to be quick and light on their feet like Bruce Lee and other slim and small, but powerful fighters. They maintained that karate was all about good techniques and proper timing and that muscle size has little to do with it. After all, the art of self-defense lies in the premise that smaller, weaker people can defend themselves effectively against larger, stronger opponents. While it's true that good technique and proper timing are essential, there's no reason to believe that muscular fitness will hinder a martial artist's effectiveness. In fact, just the opposite is true: with increased strength comes the enhanced ability to defend oneself. A well-designed weight-training routine--in addition to regular martial arts practice--will make practitioners stronger, not slower. In some cases, it can even improve their speed. Fortunately, the attitude toward weight training in the martial arts community has changed--largely due to an abundance of scientific data showing the positive effects of weight training for all kinds of sports. Today's athletes have much to gain by using weights to improve their performance. For martial artists, these gains include increased strength, increased resistance to fatigue, and even decreased risk of injury. In this book, veteran martial artist and fitness expert Mikhail Krupnik shows readers how to design a weight-training program to fit their individual needs and goals. From all-important safety issues, determining one's levelof fitness, and setting goals, to specific exercises, sample routines, and even proper nutrition--he covers everything martial artists need to know to enhance their performance with weight training.
£14.39
University Press of Florida Capoeira Connections: A Memoir in Motion
Book SynopsisThis book is freely available in an open access edition thanks to TOME (Toward an Open Monograph Ecosystem)—a collaboration of the Association of American Universities, the Association of University Presses, and the Association of Research Libraries—and the generous support of Duke University. A portrait of the game of capoeira and its practice across borders.Originating in the Black Atlantic world as a fusion of dance and martial art, capoeira was a marginalized practice for much of its history.Today it is globally popular. This ethnographic memoir weaves together the history of capoeira, recent transformations in the practice, and personal insights from author Katya Wesolowski’s thirty years of experience as a capoeirista.Capoeira Connections follows Wesolowski’s journey from novice to instructor while drawing on her decades of research as an anthropologist in Brazil, Angola, Europe, and the United States. In a story of local practice and global flow, Wesolowski offers an intimate portrait of the game and what it means in people’s lives. She reveals camaraderie and conviviality in the capoeira ring as well as tensions and ruptures involving race, gender, and competing claims over how this artful play should be practiced. Capoeira brings people together and yet is never free of histories of struggle, and these too play out in the game’s encounters.In her at once clear-sighted and hopeful analysis, Wesolowski ultimately argues that capoeira offers opportunities for connection, dialogue, and collaboration in a world that is increasingly fractured. In doing so, capoeira can transform lives, create social spheres, and shape mobile futures.Publication of this work made possible by a Sustaining the Humanities through the American Rescue Plan grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities.
£29.71
Sports Publishing LLC Champions of the Octagon: One-on-One with MMA and
Book SynopsisLearn the stories, history, and strategy of the sport's greatest champions—in their own words! Mixed martial arts (MMA) has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. With Dana White helping bring Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to prominence and respectability, as well as Conor McGregor becoming one of the sport’s biggest stars, fans are skipping the squared circle for the Octagon.In Champions of the Octagon, writer Fiaz Rafiq interviews many of the greatest MMA and UFC champions of all-time, including Georges St-Pierre, Holly Holm, Daniel Cormier, Joanna Jedrzejczyk, Randy Couture, and many others. Readers will learn of their upbringings, their introductions to the sport, and how they worked their way to be the best ever.Spending decades covering the sport and building relationships with those who have fought in the Octagon, Rafiq shares never-before-seen interviews and intimate stories from these greats. Learn from Royce Gracie how his family helped bring Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to America, Anderson Silva on challenging boxing champion Roy Jones Jr., BJ Penn on how he got introduced to MMA, Brock Lesnar on using his skills from WWE and bringing them to UFC, Alexander Volkanovski on a quest to dominate his division, Holly Holm on dethroning Ronda Rousey, and so much more.From the early days of the sport and its rich history to today’s stars and the future of MMA, Champions of the Octagon pulls back the curtain on their lives and careers. Including interviews from thirty-six UFC champions (seventeen Hall of Famers), hear never-before-told stories from the fighters who helped build the sport to what it is today.
£18.00
Createspace Independent Publishing Platform Jujutsu & Judo in the West: Uke Becomes Tori
Book Synopsis
£12.56
Createspace Independent Publishing Platform Laoshi's Legacy: Emergence from Shadow
Book Synopsis
£10.40
Authorhouse Lee's Street Jiu Jitsu Training Techniques Vol.1
Book Synopsis
£18.95
ECW Press,Canada The Ultimate Guide To Preventing And Treating Mma
Book Synopsis
£18.69
ECW Press,Canada Sisterhood Of The Squared Circle
Book SynopsisDocumenting the rise of women's wrestling from sideshow to WWE main event
£16.19
ECW Press,Canada Mad Dog: The Maurice Vachon Story
Book SynopsisThe true story of one of pro wrestling's most charismatic, feared, and beloved icons
£14.39
ECW Press,Canada Self Help: Life Lessons from the Bizarre
Book SynopsisProfessional wrestler Al Snow delivers highlights from his onscreen antics and never-before-heard tales from the road in this high-flying memoir spanning 30 years in the ring.
£17.09
Harry Barnes Prepper: How to Prepare for Recession and
Book Synopsis
£17.06
Meyer & Meyer Sport (UK) Ltd Krav Maga: A Comprehensive Guide for Individuals,
Book SynopsisThe self-defense system "Krav Maga," initially developed for the Israeli army and practiced in areas of war and conflict, is booming worldwide. The prompt use of these techniques and its effectiveness have led to its success and international spread. Carsten Draheim is the best known instructor in German-speaking countries. As a civilian, he teaches members of police and military units and also ordinary people in daily self-defense training. Besides, he is the owner of Krav Maga Institute which is one of the biggest providers worldwide with more than 1,700 students and teaching modules per year. The author presents all of his broad experience and knowledge in this supplement to Krav Maga lessons. The foreword was written by Nick Hein, a well-known German mixed-martial artist, who is signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). It also contains comments by Mike Diehl, a former member of the German Special Commando Forces (KSK) and instructor at the training center for the Division of Special Operations of the German army. This book decodes the system of Krav Maga and explains its elements instead of limiting itself to the presentation of techniques. In doing so, it provides valuable instructions for teaching this modern system of self-defense. If you want to know about the focus of modern teaching of self-defense in the military, the police or the civil sector, this book is the perfect starting point!
£19.51
Meyer & Meyer Sport (UK) Ltd Krav Maga - Combat Mindset & Fighting Stress: How
Book SynopsisOriginally developed as an elite fighting tactic for the Israel Defence Forces, today Krav Maga has become a popular self-defence method, appealing to government units, martial artists, and even the average person. This innovative Krav Maga book depicts cutting-edge techniques and training methods, covering the core topics that are applicable in a variety of professional and personal situations—in particular the combat mindset and fighting stress. This book gives the reader techniques to perform under all stressful conditions. Originally tailored for law enforcement and military personnel, its methods can also be used by all martial artists, combative sports athletes, and anyone learning self-defence techniques. Written by Master Eyal Yanilov, the successor of Krav Maga’s founder, Imi Sde-Or, this book covers all the core topics of Krav Maga that have been proven to be successful in professional and personal situations.
£19.12
Meyer & Meyer Sport (UK) Ltd Fencing With the Smallsword
Book Synopsis
£15.26
Amber Books Ltd Unarmed Combat: Hand-to-Hand Fighting Skills from
Book SynopsisWith the aid of superb line artworks, Unarmed Combat demonstrates to the reader how special forces soldiers are taught to excel in hand-to-hand fighting: how they maximise bodyweight, and the use of various strikes, throws, locks and constrictions to defeat opponents. It explains how different martial arts have been combined by military units to create hand-to-hand combat systems for defence against multiple assailants, for fighting on the ground, for dealing with edged and impact weapons, what works against attackers with firearms and – more importantly – what doesn’t. With tips and techniques from unarmed combat experts, the book is divided into two main sections. The first covers the mental preparation needed to be ready to defend yourself. The second covers the physical techniques needed to defend yourself, and if necessary, strike back to temporarily incapacitate your attacker and escape. With more than 300 easy-to-follow artworks and handy pull-out lists of key information, Unarmed Combat is the definitive guide for anyone wanting to be ready for anything - it could save your life.Table of ContentsIntroduction PREPARATION 1. The Threat 2. Win Without Fighting 3. Training to Win TOOLS OF THE TRADE 4. The Basics 5. Unarmed Combat Training 6. Your Body’s Weapons 7. Striking and Grappling Methods 8. Locks, Controls and Chokes IN ACTION 9. Tactics 10. Defeating Unarmed Attacks 11. Defeating Hand-Held Weapon Attacks 12. Defeating Firearm Threats 13. Fighting on the Ground 14. Fighting Under Adverse Conditions Final Notes Index
£13.49
Rowman & Littlefield International Martial Arts Studies: Disrupting Disciplinary
Book SynopsisThe phrase “martial arts studies” is increasingly circulating as a term to describe a new field of interest. But many academic fields including history, philosophy, anthropology, and Area studies already engage with martial arts in their own particular way. Therefore, is there really such a thing as a unique field of martial arts studies? Martial Arts Studies is the first book to engage directly with these questions. It assesses the multiplicity and heterogeneity of possible approaches to martial arts studies, exploring orientations and limitations of existing approaches. It makes a case for constructing the field of martial arts studies in terms of key coordinates from post-structuralism, cultural studies, media studies, and post-colonialism. By using these anti-disciplinary approaches to disrupt the approaches of other disciplines, Martial Arts Studies proposes a field that both emerges out of and differs from its many disciplinary locations.Trade ReviewWhat happens when a first rate scholar and long-time martial arts practitioner turns his attention to an orphan discipline? First, the field can never be considered marginal again; second, the founding fathers of martial arts studies will be challenged to step up their game to the next level; and finally, readers will get a crash course in the language and concepts of post-modern scholarship, allowing them to follow the ongoing debates in martial arts studies, where landing one good accusation of Orientalism, sexism or essentialism is like a flying roundhouse kick to the head. For those who seek a deeper knowledge of the role of martial arts in contemporary culture, and hence a deeper self-knowledge, they will find no better inspiration than Paul Bowman's Martial Arts Studies. -- Douglas Wile, Author of Lost T'ai-chi Classics from the Late Ch'ing Dynasty and T'ai Chi's Ancestors.Following Nietzsche, Paul Bowman likes philosophising ‘with the hammer’. I think what he wields as a writer is more like a magic wand. Whisking received ideas of discipline, institution, tradition, body, nation, narration, media, theory and reality out of their usual academic slots, Bowman sends them spinning into the air to meet dreams, a visionary politics of culture and deep learning in martial arts. The result is intoxicating, a rush of energy from page to page. In Martial Arts Studies, impossible combinations take sparkling new shape and thinking is free to begin again. -- Meaghan Morris, Professor of Gender and Cultural Studies, University of SydneyOccasionally, a book is published that makes the ‘expert’ reviewer wish that he or she might have had the chance to read it before ever publishing anything on the topic at hand. Martial Arts Studies is just such a book ... Paul Bowman has done a wonderful job of both delightfully entangling us in the object of study and disrupting perhaps too comfortable relationships with the boundaries of our respective disciplines. * Martial Arts Studies *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments / Preface and Note on the Text / 1. Martial Arts Studies as an Academic Field / 2. Writing Martial Arts Studies: Body, History, (Trans)Nation and Narration / 3. The Reality of Martial Arts / 4. Martial Arts and Cultural Politics Mediated: Disrupting Political Theory / 5. Conclusion: Orders of Discourse / Bibliography / Index
£90.90
Rowman & Littlefield International Martial Arts Studies: Disrupting Disciplinary
Book SynopsisThe phrase “martial arts studies” is increasingly circulating as a term to describe a new field of interest. But many academic fields including history, philosophy, anthropology, and Area studies already engage with martial arts in their own particular way. Therefore, is there really such a thing as a unique field of martial arts studies? Martial Arts Studies is the first book to engage directly with these questions. It assesses the multiplicity and heterogeneity of possible approaches to martial arts studies, exploring orientations and limitations of existing approaches. It makes a case for constructing the field of martial arts studies in terms of key coordinates from post-structuralism, cultural studies, media studies, and post-colonialism. By using these anti-disciplinary approaches to disrupt the approaches of other disciplines, Martial Arts Studies proposes a field that both emerges out of and differs from its many disciplinary locations.Trade ReviewWhat happens when a first rate scholar and long-time martial arts practitioner turns his attention to an orphan discipline? First, the field can never be considered marginal again; second, the founding fathers of martial arts studies will be challenged to step up their game to the next level; and finally, readers will get a crash course in the language and concepts of post-modern scholarship, allowing them to follow the ongoing debates in martial arts studies, where landing one good accusation of Orientalism, sexism or essentialism is like a flying roundhouse kick to the head. For those who seek a deeper knowledge of the role of martial arts in contemporary culture, and hence a deeper self-knowledge, they will find no better inspiration than Paul Bowman's Martial Arts Studies. -- Douglas Wile, Author of Lost T'ai-chi Classics from the Late Ch'ing Dynasty and T'ai Chi's Ancestors.Following Nietzsche, Paul Bowman likes philosophising ‘with the hammer’. I think what he wields as a writer is more like a magic wand. Whisking received ideas of discipline, institution, tradition, body, nation, narration, media, theory and reality out of their usual academic slots, Bowman sends them spinning into the air to meet dreams, a visionary politics of culture and deep learning in martial arts. The result is intoxicating, a rush of energy from page to page. In Martial Arts Studies, impossible combinations take sparkling new shape and thinking is free to begin again. -- Meaghan Morris, Professor of Gender and Cultural Studies, University of SydneyOccasionally, a book is published that makes the ‘expert’ reviewer wish that he or she might have had the chance to read it before ever publishing anything on the topic at hand. Martial Arts Studies is just such a book ... Paul Bowman has done a wonderful job of both delightfully entangling us in the object of study and disrupting perhaps too comfortable relationships with the boundaries of our respective disciplines. * Martial Arts Studies *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments / Preface and Note on the Text / 1. Martial Arts Studies as an Academic Field / 2. Writing Martial Arts Studies: Body, History, (Trans)Nation and Narration / 3. The Reality of Martial Arts / 4. Martial Arts and Cultural Politics Mediated: Disrupting Political Theory / 5. Conclusion: Orders of Discourse / Bibliography / Index
£34.20
Rowman & Littlefield International The Virtual Ninja Manifesto: Fighting Games,
Book SynopsisNavigating between society's moral panics about the influence of violent videogames and philosophical texts about self-cultivation in the martial arts, The Virtual Ninja Manifesto asks whether the figure of the 'virtual ninja' can emerge as an aspirational figure in the twenty-first century. Engaging with the literature around embodied cognition, Zen philosophy and techno-Orientalism it argues that virtual martial arts can be reconstructed as vehicles for moral cultivation and self-transformation. It argues that the kind of training required to master videogames approximates the kind of training described in Zen literature on the martial arts. Arguing that shift from the actual dōjō to a digital dōjō represents only a change in the technological means of practice, it offers a new manifesto for gamers to signify their gaming practice. Moving beyond perennial debates about the role of violence in videogames and the manipulation of moral choices in gamic environments it explores the possibility that games promote and assess spiritual development.Trade ReviewOften misunderstood, marginalized, and mistreated, we, the gamers, train to acquire strategic thinking and analytical skills while making life-time friendship through fighting games. Goto-Jones uncovers this kind of engagement as the practice of pure discipline. This eye-opening and ground-breaking study is deeply significant to us, the gamers, revealing the connections between what we have gained through those experiences and the martial arts. As a gamer-philosopher, Professor Goto-Jones exposes the wonders of fighting games from an academic standpoint with unusual insight and passion. I completely agree that Street Fighter has made me the “better person” that I am today. Now kids have a legitimate reason to argue with their parents. -- Daigo 'The Beast' UmeharaBy turns playful and profound, The Virtual Ninja Manifesto sticks to the pragmatic question: what sort of truths do we make playing video games? Demonstrating that the truths of video games cannot be judged in isolation from the benefits they produce for individuals in their everyday lives, Chris Goto-Jones overturns everything you thought you knew about video games but to forge a new path: this is everything you are already doing with video games but were too afraid to know! -- Tom Lamarre, Professor, McGill UniversityThere’s been a lot of talk about competitive gaming as ‘eSport' lately, but the connection between videogames and sports has always been rhetorical more than material. Goto-Jones offers a creative and smart correction, thanks to Street Fighter: maybe mastery in competitive games can be re-interpreted as mastery in the martial arts, rather than expertise in sports. Anyone who’s interested in contemporary competitive gaming, from CounterStrike to WarCraft, Street Fighter to League of Legends, needs to read this book. -- Ian Bogost, Professor, Georgia Institute of TechnologyThis magnificent book does what I thought was impossible: it makes virtual ninja real. For aren’t fighting games spaces of deep learning and transformation, the training grounds for a prosthetic selfhood that is both virtual and real? Isn't synthetic violence a mode of personal cultivation that deserves respect? Chris Goto-Jones succeeds with his own 'miraculous reversal play,' bringing the virtual worlds of ninja into a contemporary, living public sphere, and offering a deep meditation — both philosophical and spiritual — on the timeless desire to face worthy opponents. For all you would-be ninja, this is a must-read gem. -- Ian Condry, Professor, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyTable of ContentsIntroduction: (Video)games and violence/1. Violence and Self-Cultivation: Embodied Orientalism/2. Digital Embodiment and the Dōjō/3. The Virtual Ninja Manifesto/4. From Techno-Orientalism to Gamic Orientalism/Conclusion: Videogames and Emancipation/Bibliography/Index
£90.00
Rowman & Littlefield International The Virtual Ninja Manifesto: Fighting Games,
Book SynopsisNavigating between society's moral panics about the influence of violent videogames and philosophical texts about self-cultivation in the martial arts, The Virtual Ninja Manifesto asks whether the figure of the 'virtual ninja' can emerge as an aspirational figure in the twenty-first century. Engaging with the literature around embodied cognition, Zen philosophy and techno-Orientalism it argues that virtual martial arts can be reconstructed as vehicles for moral cultivation and self-transformation. It argues that the kind of training required to master videogames approximates the kind of training described in Zen literature on the martial arts. Arguing that shift from the actual dōjō to a digital dōjō represents only a change in the technological means of practice, it offers a new manifesto for gamers to signify their gaming practice. Moving beyond perennial debates about the role of violence in videogames and the manipulation of moral choices in gamic environments it explores the possibility that games promote and assess spiritual development.Trade ReviewOften misunderstood, marginalized, and mistreated, we, the gamers, train to acquire strategic thinking and analytical skills while making life-time friendship through fighting games. Goto-Jones uncovers this kind of engagement as the practice of pure discipline. This eye-opening and ground-breaking study is deeply significant to us, the gamers, revealing the connections between what we have gained through those experiences and the martial arts. As a gamer-philosopher, Professor Goto-Jones exposes the wonders of fighting games from an academic standpoint with unusual insight and passion. I completely agree that Street Fighter has made me the “better person” that I am today. Now kids have a legitimate reason to argue with their parents. -- Daigo 'The Beast' UmeharaBy turns playful and profound, The Virtual Ninja Manifesto sticks to the pragmatic question: what sort of truths do we make playing video games? Demonstrating that the truths of video games cannot be judged in isolation from the benefits they produce for individuals in their everyday lives, Chris Goto-Jones overturns everything you thought you knew about video games but to forge a new path: this is everything you are already doing with video games but were too afraid to know! -- Tom Lamarre, Professor, McGill UniversityThere’s been a lot of talk about competitive gaming as ‘eSport' lately, but the connection between videogames and sports has always been rhetorical more than material. Goto-Jones offers a creative and smart correction, thanks to Street Fighter: maybe mastery in competitive games can be re-interpreted as mastery in the martial arts, rather than expertise in sports. Anyone who’s interested in contemporary competitive gaming, from CounterStrike to WarCraft, Street Fighter to League of Legends, needs to read this book. -- Ian Bogost, Professor, Georgia Institute of TechnologyThis magnificent book does what I thought was impossible: it makes virtual ninja real. For aren’t fighting games spaces of deep learning and transformation, the training grounds for a prosthetic selfhood that is both virtual and real? Isn't synthetic violence a mode of personal cultivation that deserves respect? Chris Goto-Jones succeeds with his own 'miraculous reversal play,' bringing the virtual worlds of ninja into a contemporary, living public sphere, and offering a deep meditation — both philosophical and spiritual — on the timeless desire to face worthy opponents. For all you would-be ninja, this is a must-read gem. -- Ian Condry, Professor, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyTable of ContentsIntroduction: (Video)games and violence/1. Violence and Self-Cultivation: Embodied Orientalism/2. Digital Embodiment and the Dōjō/3. The Virtual Ninja Manifesto/4. From Techno-Orientalism to Gamic Orientalism/Conclusion: Videogames and Emancipation/Bibliography/Index
£31.50
The Crowood Press Ltd Filipino Martial Arts: Exploring the Depths
Book SynopsisThe indigenous martial arts of the Philippines archipelago are known by a variety of names including Arnis, Arnis de Mano, Eskrima or Escrima, and are widely respected for the development of combat-effective defensive strategies and skills. The Filipino martial arts are fast and dynamic and utilise a diverse range of training methods to augment the journey towards achieving advance abilities in defending against weapons-based or empty-hand encounters. Supplemented by over 320 colour photographs, this exciting book explores the fundamental, intermediate and advanced techniques of double and single stick categories that are standard across many systems of the Filipino martial arts.
£15.29
Jessica Kingsley Publishers Yi Jin Jing: Tendon-Muscle Strengthening Qigong
Book SynopsisQigong is an aspect of traditional Chinese medicine that involves coordinating breathing patterns with physical postures to maintain health and well-being. Yi Jin Jing/ Tendon-Muscle Strengthening Exercises is an accessible, fully-illustrated guide to a particular qigong exercise that focuses on turning and flexing the spine.Based on the twelve traditional routines of Yi Jin Jing, the exercises covered in the book feature soft, extended, even movements that invigorate the limbs and internal organs. In particular, practice of the Yi Jin Jing exercises improves flexibility, balance and muscular strength, and has a beneficial effect on the respiratory system. Each routine is described step-by-step and is illustrated with photographs and key points. The authors also point out common mistakes and offer advice on how to correct these.Complemented by an appendix of acupuncture points and accompanied by online material, this book will be of interest to Qigong and Tai Chi practitioners at all levels, students of martial arts and anyone interested in Chinese culture.Trade ReviewThis is a beautiful sequence of exercises attractively filmed and clearly taught... The book provides a convenient source of information to refer to and very clear illustrations of the postures together with arrows showing the directions of the movements. -- Tai Chi Finder LimitedWith these books the Chinese Health Qiqong Association have come close to providing everyone with their own personal qigong instructor. -- Tai Chi Finder LimitedAfter introducing the history of Yi Jin Jing, some principles of the practice are explained and some practice tips are given. Then, the book goes through a step-by-step description of each twelve practices. After each practice, the key points are highlighted, common mistakes are given and how to correct them and the benefits of thhe practice is explained. -- Medical Qigong Education CentreTable of ContentsPreface. 1. Origins and Development. 2. Characteristics. 3. Practice Tips. 4. Step-by-Step Descriptions of the Routines. Section 1. Hand and Foot Forms. Basic Hand Forms. Basic Stances. Section 2. The Exercises Illustrated. Ready Position. Routine 1. Wei Tuo Presenting the Pestle 1. Routine 2. Wei Tuo Presenting the Pestle 2. Routine 3. Wei Tuo Presenting the Pestle 3. Routine 4. Plucking a Star and Exchanging a Star Cluster. Routine 5. Pulling Nine Cows by Their Tails. Routine 6. Displaying Paw-Style Palms Like a White Crane Spreading Its Wings. Routine 7. Nine Ghosts Drawing Swords. Routine 8. Three Plates Falling on the Floor. Routine 9. Black Dragon Displaying Its Claws. Routine 10. Tiger Springing on Its Prey. Routine 11. Bowing Down in Salutation. Routine 12. Swinging the Tail. Closing Form. Appendix: Acupuncture Points Mentioned in This Book.
£18.04
John Blake Publishing Ltd The Guv'nor Revealed: The Untold Story of Lenny
Book SynopsisLenny McLean - an infamous name, but forever a legend. He is arguably one of the most notorious and feared prize-fighters this country has ever produced. Not only was he a mountain of a man and a true fighter, feared on the streets of gangland London and outside the clubs whose doors he manned in the heart of the capital, he was also an old-school East Ender, who took pride in operating on a gentleman's code despite the often-dangerous world he lived in. His life was cut all-too-short, just as it was taking a new, previously unimaginable direction after his role in Guy Ritchie's Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels but he remains loved by those who knew him. The Guv'nor Revealed uncovers parts of Lenny McLean's life not previously explored, with shared memories from his close friends, family and various other acquaintances who crossed his path one way or another during his lifetime. Lenny McLean was one of a kind; infamous for his brute strength but also loved for his protective heart. Collated from years of interviews, Lee Wortley and Anthony Thomas bring you an array of thrilling, and often touching and amusing, testimonies from those closest to him and a new insight into the life of The Guv'nor.
£8.54
John Blake Publishing Ltd Prizefighter - The Searing Autobiography of
Book Synopsis'You can get a couple of years for beating the shit out of another bloke or a couple of grand. I chose to do the latter.'Decca's story is that of a bullied boy with an impossible dream. Of solvent abuse, violence, drug addiction, depression, boxing, bare-knuckle fighting but - ultimately - redemption.It begins on a council estate in Carlisle where, as the victim of cruel bullies, a young Decca anaesthetised himself from the pain and humiliation by sniffing solvents. In his mid-teens the fear fell away to be replaced by fury, as the bullies soon discovered to their cost. Memories of that frightened boy fuelled a rage that forged a fearsome street-fighter and future champion.Working on the doors attracted more trouble but further enhanced his growing reputation. At the age of nineteen, life was good until the love of his life left him. Depression set in and prevailed. For almost ten years, he fell prey to a rampant cocaine habit, which provoked his demons, making him unpredictable and dangerous to be around. Serious jail time seemed inevitable.Out of sheer desperation, his dad arranged Decca's first unlicensed boxing match. He won and became instantly hooked. Having gotten fit, hungry, and off the drugs, he was lured into the bloody arena of bare-knuckle fighting. Many brutal undefeated fights followed, as did two BKB heavyweight titles. A chance meeting with renowned boxing promoter, Ricky English led to Decca's shot at the iconic 'Guv'nor' title. The rest, as they say, is history.
£8.54
Rowman & Littlefield International Mythologies of Martial Arts
Book SynopsisWhat do martial arts signify today? What do they mean for East-West cross cultural exchanges? How does the representation of martial arts in popular culture impact on the wide world? What is authentic practice? What does it all mean? From Kung Fu to Jiujitsu and from Bruce Lee to The Karate Kid, Mythologies of Martial Arts explores the key myths and ideologies in martial arts in contemporary popular culture. The book combines the author’s practical, professional and academic experience of martial arts to offer new insights into this complex, contradictory world. Inspired by the work of Roland Barthes in Mythologies, the book focusses on the signs, signifiers and practices of martial arts globally. Bringing together cultural studies, film studies, media studies, postcolonial studies with the emerging field of martial arts studies the book explores the broader significance of martial arts in global culture. Using an accessible yet theoretically sophisticated style the book is ideal for students, scholars and anyone interested in any type of martial art.Trade ReviewBowman provides a fascinating insight for those interested in cultural studies to begin thinking about how martial arts in general have been situated in American society.... Bowman masterfully enters this discussion, raising much needed debate, and doing it in a way that demands readers be serious about the field of cultural studies. Dividing the book into separate chapters, all of which deal with a specific set of questions, documents, and arguments, this text would fit well into any advanced graduate reading seminar, either as a complete text or with select chapters serving as standalone essays. Likewise, this work is bound to raise the interest of cultural studies scholars as treats its subject with intelligence, and focus. One can hardly ask for anything more when reading a book. * Sport in American History *Professor Paul Bowman’s latest book sets a new standard for exploring the cultural, sociological and ideological criticism of the martial arts within modern society. * Chinese Martial Arts Studies *This wide-ranging, provocative, and entertaining collection of essays should interest all thoughtful martial artists. Whether exploring the phenomenology of kicking, legends surrounding Bruce Lee, machismo and sexism in martial arts culture, or debates over “traditional” vs. “realistic” approaches to fighting, Bowman prompts us to let down our guard and to interrogate the myriad mythologies that inform the martial arts world. -- Michael Molasky, Professor of Asian Cultural Studies, Waseda University, TokyoAddressed to academics and martial artists alike, Bowman’s Mythologies of Martial Arts offers a series of lively and accessible but incisive, surprising, and always provocative analyses of the martial arts and their cultural significance. Bowman challenges received thinking in all its guises, in a must-read book for anyone intellectually serious about the martial arts. -- Luke White, Senior Lecturer in Visual Culture and Fine Art, Middlesex University, UKFollowing in the spirit of Roland Barthes’ Mythologies (1957), Paul Bowman has set a new standard for the exploration of cultural, social and ideological criticism within martial arts studies. Whether investigating the intricacies of history, identity or humor, each chapter sheds much needed light on the global appeal of these fighting systems. Accessible yet profound in turns, this work is sure to be a classic. -- Benjamin N. Judkins, Visiting Scholar, Cornell University East Asia Program and co-author of The Creation of Wing Chun: A Social History of the Southern Chinese Martial ArtsTable of ContentsAcknowledgements/ Introduction/ 1. Wrestling Myth/ 2. The Status of Martial Arts in the West: From the Kung Fu Craze to Master Ken/ 3. Cross-Cultural Desire in Western Eastern Martial Arts/ 4. The Circulation of Qi in Media and Culture/ 5. Myths of Martial Arts History, Authority and Authenticity/ 6. On Kicking, Kung Fu, and Knowing Your Lineage/ 7. Enter the Ethnicity/ 8. Wong Jack Man versus Bruce Lee Mythology/ 9. The Gender of Martial Arts Studies/ 10. Everybody was Action Film Fighting/ 11. The Weird and the Wonderful in Martial Arts Today/ 12. Martial Arts Myth Today/ Bibliography/ Index
£107.10
Rowman & Littlefield International Mythologies of Martial Arts
Book SynopsisWhat do martial arts signify today? What do they mean for East-West cross cultural exchanges? How does the representation of martial arts in popular culture impact on the wide world? What is authentic practice? What does it all mean? From Kung Fu to Jiujitsu and from Bruce Lee to The Karate Kid, Mythologies of Martial Arts explores the key myths and ideologies in martial arts in contemporary popular culture. The book combines the author’s practical, professional and academic experience of martial arts to offer new insights into this complex, contradictory world. Inspired by the work of Roland Barthes in Mythologies, the book focusses on the signs, signifiers and practices of martial arts globally. Bringing together cultural studies, film studies, media studies, postcolonial studies with the emerging field of martial arts studies the book explores the broader significance of martial arts in global culture. Using an accessible yet theoretically sophisticated style the book is ideal for students, scholars and anyone interested in any type of martial art.Trade ReviewBowman provides a fascinating insight for those interested in cultural studies to begin thinking about how martial arts in general have been situated in American society.... Bowman masterfully enters this discussion, raising much needed debate, and doing it in a way that demands readers be serious about the field of cultural studies. Dividing the book into separate chapters, all of which deal with a specific set of questions, documents, and arguments, this text would fit well into any advanced graduate reading seminar, either as a complete text or with select chapters serving as standalone essays. Likewise, this work is bound to raise the interest of cultural studies scholars as treats its subject with intelligence, and focus. One can hardly ask for anything more when reading a book. * Sport in American History *Professor Paul Bowman’s latest book sets a new standard for exploring the cultural, sociological and ideological criticism of the martial arts within modern society. * Chinese Martial Arts Studies *This wide-ranging, provocative, and entertaining collection of essays should interest all thoughtful martial artists. Whether exploring the phenomenology of kicking, legends surrounding Bruce Lee, machismo and sexism in martial arts culture, or debates over “traditional” vs. “realistic” approaches to fighting, Bowman prompts us to let down our guard and to interrogate the myriad mythologies that inform the martial arts world. -- Michael Molasky, Professor of Asian Cultural Studies, Waseda University, TokyoAddressed to academics and martial artists alike, Bowman’s Mythologies of Martial Arts offers a series of lively and accessible but incisive, surprising, and always provocative analyses of the martial arts and their cultural significance. Bowman challenges received thinking in all its guises, in a must-read book for anyone intellectually serious about the martial arts. -- Luke White, Senior Lecturer in Visual Culture and Fine Art, Middlesex University, UKFollowing in the spirit of Roland Barthes’ Mythologies (1957), Paul Bowman has set a new standard for the exploration of cultural, social and ideological criticism within martial arts studies. Whether investigating the intricacies of history, identity or humor, each chapter sheds much needed light on the global appeal of these fighting systems. Accessible yet profound in turns, this work is sure to be a classic. -- Benjamin N. Judkins, Visiting Scholar, Cornell University East Asia Program and co-author of The Creation of Wing Chun: A Social History of the Southern Chinese Martial ArtsTable of ContentsAcknowledgements/ Introduction/ 1. Wrestling Myth/ 2. The Status of Martial Arts in the West: From the Kung Fu Craze to Master Ken/ 3. Cross-Cultural Desire in Western Eastern Martial Arts/ 4. The Circulation of Qi in Media and Culture/ 5. Myths of Martial Arts History, Authority and Authenticity/ 6. On Kicking, Kung Fu, and Knowing Your Lineage/ 7. Enter the Ethnicity/ 8. Wong Jack Man versus Bruce Lee Mythology/ 9. The Gender of Martial Arts Studies/ 10. Everybody was Action Film Fighting/ 11. The Weird and the Wonderful in Martial Arts Today/ 12. Martial Arts Myth Today/ Bibliography/ Index
£36.90
Independently Published Grappling and Throwing from the Near and Far East
Book Synopsis
£13.46
Amber Books Extreme Fitness
£26.99
Octopus Publishing Group The Throws and Takedowns of Sombo Russian
Book SynopsisGround fighting is taking the martial arts world by storm, but how do you get to the ground safely and end in a prone position? What are the dangers of throwing and taking an opponent over? In this book on throwing and take-down techniques of Sambo, the author teaches how to control vertical grappling and destroy an assailant with a demolishing throw. Including the original "blow before throw" techniques banned from sport grappling at the beginning of the century.
£9.49
Octopus Publishing Group Dead or Alive: The Choice is Yours - The
Book SynopsisOne of the few real self-protection guides on the market today, this book will teach you first and foremost how to avoid violent situations. But should you find yourself in one, it will also show you how to control yourself and your emotions so you can function on a physical level to defend yourself.
£17.09
Octopus Publishing Group Three Second Fighter: Sniper Option
Book SynopsisA self-defence book aimed to train you to read the body language and ritual of attack and so "stop" your attacker in his tracks by using various tactics. Also covered are "ambush attacks" and "match fighting", with guidelines on how to distinguish and train realistically for action.
£9.49
Kaminn Media Ltd Fighting Buddha: Martial Arts, Buddhism, Kicking
Book Synopsis
£9.89
arima publishing Learning Wing Chun Kung Fu
£18.63
Jessica Kingsley Publishers Eternal Spring: Taijiquan, Qi Gong, and the
Book SynopsisThe traditional arts of Taijiquan and Qi Gong are sophisticated expressions of Chinese martial. health and spiritual culture. Rooted in China's ancient past they are still practised by many people in China today to achieve good health, mental well-being and a long and active life; commonly called `Eternal Spring'.This book, written for a Western audience, explains the essential theories and strategies of Taijiquan and Qi Gong in an insightful and accessible way. It expounds their value in our daily lives as a most effective means of combating the stresses, strains and illnesses that are now so much a part of our modern lifestyle and positions these two disciplines as the most comprehensive strategies for health, happiness and rejuvenation currently available. Michael W. Acton guides the reader through core concepts with an insight and wisdom borne out of many years of practice, study and teaching.This book will be of use to anyone who is already on this path or who is interested in self-development, health and well-being or the fascinating philosophy and ideas that underpin these traditional Chinese disciplines.Trade ReviewAs a traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner myself, I highly recommend this book for those who want to understand the relation between Traditional Chinese Medicine and the arts of qigong and taijiquan... In conclusion, this is a book which is well worth reading for anyone seriously interested in qigong and/or taijiquan. -- Ken Morgan, Medical Qigong Education CentreAfter reading the first few chapters, I stood in the middle of my living-room for five minutes with Acton's words to guide me and suddenly, as I began to actually FEEL the subtle currents of energy move within me, I began, at long last, to understand what Qi Gong is really all about. -- GreenSpiritThe Traditional arts of Taijiquan and Qi Gong are sophisticated expressions of Chinese martial arts, health and spiritual culture. This book explains the essential theories of these disciplines. The book is useful to anyone already on this path or who is interested in self development,health and well being or the fascinating philosophy and ideas that underpin these traditional Chinese disciplines. -- Yoga Mind Body Spirit, September 2009If you've heard about the health-giving benefits of the ancient Chinese martial arts Tajiquan and Qi Gong, but did'nt know where to start, Michael Acton has provided a perfect guide for the Western reader. -- Australlian Natural HealthThis book, written for a Western audience, explains the essential theories and strategies for Taijiquan and Qi Gong in an accessible way. Michael W Acton, guides the reader through core concepts with an insight borne out of many years of practice, study and teaching. -- ICBN Institute for Complementary and Natural MedicineTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. To the Reader. Preface. Introduction. 1. Qi Gong and Taijiquan. 2. Nourishing Life and Eternal Spring. 3. Self Cultivation and the Natural State. 4. Essence, Energy and Spirit. 5. An Ordinary Life. 6. Body, Breath and Mind. 7. Stillness and Movement. 8. The Small Universe. 9. Disharmony, Thieves, Hooligans, Influences and Common Sense. 10. Cultivating Energy. 11. Mobilizing Energy. 12. Taiji Boxing. 13. So Where Are You Now? 14. Experience Qi Gong.
£18.89
Jessica Kingsley Publishers Bagua Daoyin: A Unique Branch of Daoist Learning,
Book SynopsisThe beautiful, complex movements of Bagua require a lifetime to master fully, but can be practised with significant physical and mental health benefit at any level. In this highly illustrated guide, Master He, a fifth generation practitioner, introduces the ancient Daoist principles on which Bagua is based, its place within the Chinese martial arts, and the approach to life it nurtures. Many pages of photographs illustrate a programme of sequences, showing the beauty of the movements, and the positions and transitions the practitioner is aiming for.Bagua Daoyin supports and trains the body and the mind to promote balance and harmony. The external movements are echoed in the internal body, which promotes the flow of energy that leads to greatly improved health, a tranquil and focused mind, and increased longevity. Practitioners quickly report reduced stress levels and increased enjoyment of life.This fully illustrated introduction to Bagua Daoyin will be essential reading for Bagua, Xingyi and Taiji practitioners at all levels, dancers, and indeed anyone interested in improving their physical and mental wellbeing.Trade ReviewI would recommend anyone interested in martial arts in general to take a look at the very interesting perspective that the author expresses on his art in this book. -- East-West Taoist Association NewsletterTable of ContentsForeword, Paul Alexander. Preface - The Treasure that Belongs to You. 1. Bagua, Bagua Quan and Bagua Daoyin. 2. Bagua Daoyin, the Guiding Principle of Bagua. 3. Interview with Master He Jinghan. 4. Paying for Life with Life - the Master's Apprentice Years. 5. Understanding Intuitively. 6. Things You Ought to Avoid when Exercising. 7. Give me Fast Food, Nothing Else will Do - The Contemporary Concept of Health. 8. To Love Others You Must First Love Yourself: To Love Yourself You Must Love Your Body. 9. Finding Your Centre. 10. Opening Up the Body's Unobstructed Space. 11. Don't Use Your Feet Just to Walk - Teaching You to Make Your Body as Light as a Swallow. 12. Relax, Do Not Collapse. 13. The Sexual Function is the Natural Manifestation of Bodily Health. 14. Menopause - Grasp Your Second Youth. 15. Everything Comes from the Body - Entering Tranquillity through Movement. 16. The Song of Martial Arts - the Form. 17. Shape, Potential Force and Spirit in Posture. 18. Between Yin and Yang. 19. Sixiang Quan. 20. The Melody of the Flow - Bazhang Quan. 21. A Master's Confession. 22. A Brief Account of the Life of Master Gong Baozhai 23. About the Author.
£17.31
Jessica Kingsley Publishers Tàijí Jiàn 32-Posture Sword Form
Book SynopsisThe Sword Form is an important aspect of the popular Chinese martial art, Tàijíquan. The 32-Posture Sword Form, from the point of view of the physical movements only, is not complex, but there is a significant amount of other information, relating to the applications, that is open to interpretation. Written by an experienced teacher of Tàijíquan, this book provides a detailed description of the Jian (the sword), its parts and how it should be held. Using photographs and illustrations, the author gives step-by-step instructions for the main 13 applications including sword strokes, stances and footwork techniques.This book contains a wealth of information on Sword Form technique and is an ideal resource for students of martial arts, experienced practitioners or anyone interested in learning about Tàijíquan.Trade ReviewJames Drewe is one of the most sucessful and well organised tai chi teachers I have ever met and this is reflected in the quality of the book. -- Tai Chi FinderTable of ContentsContents: Introduction. 1. Chinese Weapons. 2. The Jiàn. 3. A Brief History of the Jiàn 4. Blade Construction. 5. Parts of the Jiàn 6. The Balance of the Sword. 7. Holding the Sword. 8. Performing Taiji & Taiji Sword 9. Two-Person Sword Routines. 10. Traditional & Modern. 11. The Sword Metaphysically. 12. Intention. 13. Development of the 32-Posture Form. 14. The 13 Applications. 15. Sword Strokes. 16. Stances. 17. Footwork Techniques. 18. Leg Movements. 19. The 32-Posture Sword Form in Competition. 20. Music for the 32-Posture. 21. The Sword-Fingers. 22. Definitions of Terms Used. 23. The 32-Posture Taiji Sword Form. 24. Footprint Map of the Form. 25. Breakdown of the Form. 26. Beyond the Basics. Acknowledgements.
£17.09
Jessica Kingsley Publishers XinYi WuDao: Heart-Mind - The Dao of Martial Arts
Book SynopsisIn his unprecedented account of the way of martial arts, Master Zhongxian Wu explores WuDao through systematic instruction of select practices from the legendary Dai Family Style XinYi Martial Arts School. Traditional Chinese martial arts embody the richness and depth of Daoist philosophy, and their disciplined practice is an effective way to experience healing, internal alchemy and spiritual transformation. XinYi martial arts, as with all traditional Chinese martial arts, build strength and stamina, and involve a process of inner cultivation that can bring practitioners closer to the Dao. The author examines and interprets the connections between Daoist numerology, the spirit of classical Chinese martial arts, and internal alchemy practices. With extensive reference to the classic texts, the book provides unique and considered guidance that will inspire and empower practitioners of all levels.An authentic insight into the spiritual world of classical Chinese martial arts, this book is essential reading for practitioners of martial arts, NeiDan (internal alchemy), XinYi, Xingyi Quan, Taiji Quan, Bagua Zhang, Qigong and Chinese medicine, as well as anyone interested in traditional Chinese culture.Trade Review“'A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,' says LaoZi in the DaoDeJing. In this illuminating book on XinYi WuDao ('The Dao of the Martial Arts'), Master Wu guides us, step-by-step, on a journey into the heart of the ultimate martial art– the art beyond fighting. Through the inner alchemy of the Three Treasures of Life– our bodies of flesh, energy, and spirit –we learn how to martial these precious resources in a way that benefits self and other as one.Thanks to the kindness of his mentor, Grandmaster Zhao ShouRong, Master Wu shares with us, for the first time in English print, ancient secrets of the way of the martial heart handed down in China in an unbroken lineage from master to disciple. Whether your interest lies primarily in the practice or the philosophy, you will discover within these pages precious gems of wisdom and power that will enrich your life.” -- Daniel Reid, best-selling author of The Tao of Health, Sex, and Longevity and The Tao of Detox and a leading expert of Eastern philosophy and medicine“As an aikido practitioner, I found lineage holder Master Zhongxian Wu's latest book, XinYi WuDao, very fascinating. Providing an in depth explanation of the links between Daoism and Chinese martial arts, Master Wu shows his deep dedication and unique knowledge of these two ancient traditions. There are many similar links that can be made between aikido and its philosophy, which makes this book a fantastic source of inspiration for all aikido practitioners.” -- Jan Nevelius Shihan (6th Dan Aikikai Tokyo), Chinese medicine practitioner and author“Dai Family XinYi is a rare martial art in China. It is so hidden that many practitioners have never even seen the practice. In this book, Master Wu reveals many techniques that have never been made available to the public. He explains the Dao theories in a very easy to understand way, as well as the basic form and the movements of WuXing Quan Mu and BaGua XinJing. He also describes the principles, breath and visualization in detail for each movement. This is a very valuable book for readers to trace back the origin and hidden treasure of the powerful Xingyi Quan.” -- Master C S Tang, senior Xingyi Quan, Bagua Quan and Yi Quan expert and researcher, and author of The Mysterious Power of Xingyi Quan and The Complete Book of YiquanTable of ContentsForeword. Introduction: The Art of Peace. 1. Dao. Daoist Philosophy and DanWu. 2. WuJi HunYuan. The Essence of Daoist Alchemical Martial Arts. 3. Taiji LianYi. The Secret of Dragon Body. 4. SanCai SiXiang. The Way of Circle and Square. 5. WuXing QuanMu. The Mother Form of XinYi. 6. LiuHe XinYi. Advanced Approach. 7. BaGua XinJing. Achieve Enlightenment. Afterword.
£19.94
Jessica Kingsley Publishers The Complete Book of Yiquan
Book SynopsisWith detailed photographs and clear instruction for practice, this is the first book comprehensively to cover the history, development and training methods of this rarely taught esoteric internal martial art. The deceptively simple postures and movements of Yiquan are highly effective for achieving results for both health and combat, making it very appealing to martial artists, and Master Tang here reveals the secrets of a martial art still surrounded in mystery. He also provides a history of the origins and lineage of the Yiquan tradition, as well as detailed information on the stances and movements, weapons, and programs, grading and teaching.This complete guide to Yiquan will be essential for anyone interested in Yiquan or oriental martial and internal arts more generally.Trade ReviewThis book is clearly the fruit of many decades of intensive research and practice under the old generation of Yi Chuan masters. It gives very lucid, detailed descriptions of the entire training system, as well as revealing the previously hidden theories and training concepts which give this system the essence it is famous for. Extensive photos of both the author and many old masters bring the text to life. This work is a remarkable achievement in the field of Chinese martial arts. -- Alex Kozma, author of Warrior Guards the Mountain: The Internal Martial Traditions of China, Japan and South East AsiaTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Disclaimer. Foreword. Introduction. 1. History of Yiquan. 1.1. Origin. 1.2. Development. 1.3. Establishments. 1.4. Anecdote of Wang. 1.5. Bruce Lee and Yiquan. 2. My way of Yiquan. 3. Wang's valuable words. 4. System and Theories. 5. Quick Start – Liang's 3 Treasures. 5.1. Stance. 5.2. Dun Yao. 5.3. Tuo Yao and Cuo Yao. 5.4. Prostration. 6. Zhan Zhang - Static Stances. 6.1. Before practice. 6.2. Postures. 6.3. Effects. 7. Shi Li – Test Strength. 7.1. Test Strength Format. 7.2. 10 Combat Test Strength. 8. Mo Ca Bu – Footwork. 9. Fa Li – Emit Strength. 9.1. Fixed step Emit Strength. 9.2. Moving step Emit Strength. 10. Fa Sheng – Emit Sound. 11. Tui Shou - Push Hand. 12. Shan Cao – Punch. 13. Duan Shou – Combat free sparring. 14. Advanced Techniques. 14.1. Advanced Stances. 14.2. Big Step Stances. 14.3. Fist Stances. 15. Fist Dance. 16. Yiquan Weapons. 17. Special Features. 18. Arranging Programs and Grading. 19. Conclusion.
£31.34
Jessica Kingsley Publishers The Essence of Taijiquan Push-Hands and Fighting
Book SynopsisTraditionally shrouded in mystery and taught only to the closest students, the secrets of Taijiquan push-hands and fighting technique from the Chen style are revealed in this book. Master Wang Fengming, an eleventh generation practitioner of Chen-style Taijiquan, provides detailed information about the famous internal fighting techniques and reveals inside knowledge essential to the remarkable results achieved by the Chinese masters. The book features: - effective ways of cultivating Taiji internal power - variety of joint-locking techniques and counter techniques - 13 postures of Taiji explained - leg work, including stances and kicking techniques - unique silk-reeling exercises - rarely revealed vital point striking - 7 styles of push-hands training - 20 kinds of Taiji energy explained and demonstrated.This comprehensive book is a major contribution to the literature on push-hands techniques in the West.Table of Contents1. Introduction. 2. Theory of Taijiquan Push-Hands and Fighting Technique. 3. Main Points of Taijiquan Push-Hands and Fighting Technique. 4. Silk-Reeling Exercises for All Parts of the Body. 5. Exercises of Taiji Neigong. 6. The Thirteen Postures of Taijiquan. 7. Seven Training Methods for Taiji Push-Hands and Fighting Technique. 8. Essence of Taiji Energies. 9. Seizing and Joint Locking Techniques and Counter Techniques. 10. Leg Techniques. 11. Vital Point Striking. 12. Anecdotes of Grandmasters.
£29.44
Oratia Media Warrior Kids: Warrior Training for Children
Book Synopsis"Warrior Kids" is a pioneering programme that over the past 17 years has empowered thousands of children across New Zealand, many of them from challenged backgrounds. Focusing on bringing out the warrior within, the programme draws upon Maori concepts of the warrior and Eastern martial arts in a non-aggressive way designed to instil confidence, respect and self-control, leading children to become masters of their lives. This book features the complete ten sessions of the in-school programme in a format that instructors can apply to their own work with young people.
£29.74
Turtle Press,U.S. Combat Strategy: Junsado, the Way of the Warrior
Book SynopsisKnowing the physical skills of art is not enough. If you want the edge, you need strategy. In this book master strategist Hanho teaches you all there is to know about strategy in the martial arts. Regardless of style, you will see why this book is being called the authority on fighting strategy by some of the top martial artists in the world. Learn the keys to mastery including: distance control; direct attack; combinations; initiative attack; range fighting; mental conditioning; footwork; feinting; concealing; flexibility; adaptation; physical fitness; combat rhythm; timing; coupling force; hand skills; kicking; throws and takedowns; ground fighting; stance; terrain psychology; psyching-up; tactics; defensive principles; stamina; indirect attack; counterattack; circular force; efficiency; joint locks; evasion; parrying; guerrilla attacks and over 100 more.
£17.09
Turtle Press,U.S. Martial Arts After 40
£20.58
Tracks Publishing,U.S. No Holds Barred Fighting: The Ultimate Guide to
Book SynopsisThis instructional guide explains the origins of submission wrestling, the underlying fighting skill associated with such events as the Ultimate Fighting Championships and the King of the Cage. It explores its various offshoots and influences and features hundreds of photos to demonstrate techniques and training exercises. Rules and regulations regarding associated competitions, workout programs, and match etiquette are thoroughly discussed, and resources for further research are included. Full of self-defensive skills and tips that improve physical fitness, confidence, and mental toughness, this book starts the novice on the path to proper training and provides fundamental information for all skill levels.
£11.35
