Martial arts Books

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Book SynopsisIn order to master Taijiquan you must begin with the most fundamental steps, and systematically work up to the advanced levels, slowly building up your knowledge and technique as you go. This book explains the five levels of Taijiquan from complete beginner to highest level practitioner. Presenting a word for word translation, with commentary, of Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang's original Chinese text, Master Jan Silberstorff provides detailed guidance through each of the five levels. Readers will learn how to assess their current Taiijiquan ability and identify exactly what is needed to reach the next level and ultimately the highest goal - the perfection of Taiji, or reaching a complete state of being.This is an accessible and motivational book for all Taijiquan students and practitioners, as well as anyone wishing to gain a deeper understanding of the ancient art of Taijiquan.Trade ReviewChen has great knowledge of the art and the poetic Taijiquan classics, but chooses to explain the concepts in as practical term as possible. -- Australian Journal of Acupuncture and Chinese MedicineYou will find more practical and useful information crystallised into this one article than in many books, so by reading this you will save yourself both time and money. The Five Levels of Taijiquan is a route map for the study of taijiquan, and is suitable for people of all levels. -- Absolute Tai ChiRegardless of the style you practice, including qigong forms, you can apply the teachings here to good measure. I enjoyed the fact that the original Chinese of the master is included. The translations, by his German student, a taiji master in his own right, are clear and to the point. He also includes much supplementary material, to make the teachings more easily understandable. Another valuable contribution from the folks at Singing Dragon Press, who are becoming an important source of excellent material on the healing arts. -- The Empty VesselTaijiquan is a teaching of the Dao. The Dao is not far from man, but it is man who distances himself from the Dao. The Great Dao is without a gate. If you pursue it with insistence and perseverance and if you enter the depth step by step, you will finally reach it and enter it, just like fire ascending from water, just like a flower blossoming amidst the snow. Hence he who has the determination is indeed going to complete the task. -- Grandmaster Chen XiaowangJan Silberstorff's illuminating commentary on Chen Xiaowang's Five Levels of Taijiquan guides the Taijiquan student from the first step, through to the deepest levels of skill. A meticulous study that will engage the most advanced reader. -- David Gaffney & Davidine Siaw-Voon Sim, authors of Chen Style Taijiquan: The Source of Taiji Boxing and The Essence of Taijiquan, UKThe book that Jan Silberstorff has written is one of the most helpful guides to clearly evaluating a person's progress in learning the martial art of Taijiquan. Jan has provided a precise way of examining this process of moving from beginning to advanced levels of practice. He has included the original lectures by his teacher Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang, the 19th generation Gatekeeper of the original Taijiquan tradition. In these lectures Grandmaster Chen identifies the stages of development from being stiff and uncoordinated, struggling to learn the basic choreography to the requirements for the highest level of mastery. Jan has interpreted and made commentaries filled with examples that make the book entertaining as well as illuminating for the reader. This book provides practitioners of all styles of Taijiquan with concrete milestones based upon specific physical skills and their mental associations that enable a person to develop from beginning to advanced level. -- Bill Helm, 20th generation disciple of Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang, Daoist priest and founder of Daoist Sanctuary, San Diego, USAFor many, beyond the basic learning of movements and sequences of a Tai Chi form it is difficult to ascertain one's development, particularly once it goes beyond a year or two. The Five Levels of Taijiquan sets out clear, definitive guidelines on how best to evaluate and improve your progress. Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang and Jan Silbertorff set out a blueprint not only on how best to train but, more importantly, what progressive steps are necessary for effective achievement. -- Ronnie Robinson, Editor, Tai Chi Chuan & Oriental Arts magazine, UKTaijiquan Grandmaster, Chen Xiaowang, has often said that no language fully captures the richness of all that is Taiji - even Chinese. But here, in this landmark translation and analysis of Chen Xiaowang's text on the five levels of Taijiquan, Jan Silberstorff has captured the essence of Taijiquan's progressive training in English. Jan's uniquely insightful commentary and explication of an accurate translation of Chen Xiaowang's writing on the topic, marks a turning point in the scholarship of this sublime discipline. Imbued with a rare depth of view into authentic Chen family Taiiquan - the original martial art from which all styles of Taiji emanate - The Five Levels of Taijiquan makes a substantial contribution to the field, as the essential guide for any Taijiquan student's practice and progress in this ancient martial art. -- Stephan Berwick, Founder of True Tai Chi, Chinese martial arts instructor, and co-author of Taijiquan Hand & Sword, Taijiquan: Chen Taiji 38 Form and Applications and Tai Chi for Kids, Washington, DC, USAI was quite excited about reading this book before it arrived, and being only a thin volume, devoured it in a couple of sittings. Master Silberstorff has a clear and simple style, writing as someone who evidently practices what he preaches and knows his subject matter extremely well...The fact that the target audience for this book is so incredibly small enhances my respect for Master Silberstorff. He writes for the elite as only a true Master can. -- SpiritualiseI would venture it is not the sort of book to read cover-to-cover in one sitting, more the sort of book you can return to again and again. In summary, this short book is well worth reading. -- Tai Chi FinderTable of ContentsPreface. Introduction. Introductory Commentary to All 5 Levels. Level 1. Level 2. Level 3. Level 4. Level 5. About the Authors.

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Book SynopsisChinese Shamanic Cosmic Orbit Qigong is an advanced form of Qigong from one of China’s esoteric traditions. Never before written about in the West, this form offers great cumulative benefits from regular daily practice. Master Wu describes the practice in detail, including the meaning and significance of the Chinese names for each movement, with its shamanic roots, and provides the mantra, visualization, and mudra for each as well as explaining the therapeutic benefits and talismanic aspects. The book is fully illustrated, and there is a handy reference quick guide at the end showing the entire orbit.This unique book will be essential reading for advanced students and practitioners of Qigong and anyone interested in Daoism, or the ancient wisdom traditions of China.Trade ReviewZhongxian Wu's latest book, Chinese Shamanic Cosmic Orbit Qigong, successfully continues his previous explorations of the highly secret shamanic tradition of self-cultivation as practiced on Mt. Emei in Sichuan. He provides a comprehensive and very accessible introduction to the main concepts and principles, then outlines twelve distinct exercises that tend to focus on the internal guiding and activation of qi, supported by hand and arm movements as well as mental visualizations and specific breathing patterns. The exercises can be done one by one or in an integrated sequence. They offer a potent introduction to Daoist meditation and open a unique access to our internal energies. A great book for beginners and advanced practitioners alike. -- Livia Kohn, Ph.D., Professor Emerita of Religion and East Asian Studies, Boston UniversityTable of ContentsDedication. Acknowledgments. Introduction - Chinese Shamanic Qigong. 1. The Shamanic Root of Qigong. 2. Choose a Beneficial Qigong Form. 3. Wu (Chinese Shamanic) Cosmic Orbit Qigong. The Practice. 1. Yang Sheng Yuan Hai - Generating Your Vitality. 2. Xin Di Kuan Rong - Connecting with the Earth. 3. Xiu Zhuan Qian Kun - Communicating with the Heavens. 4. Cheng Tong Dao Zhen - Resonating with the Dao. 5. San Cai He Yi - Merging with the Universe. 6. Xiong Huai Wu Bian - Embracing Infinity. 7. Gui Gen Fu Ming - Returning to Your Root. 8. Wan Shen Chao Li - Cultivating Your Gratitude. 9. Qi Chong Zi Xiao - Uplifting Your Spirits. 10. Jin Guang Hui Zhao - Lightening Your Body. 11. Yue Lang Kun Lun - Awakening Your Inner Wisdom. 12. Qing Jing Wu Wei - Enjoying the Action-less. Appendix: Quick Review Chart of the Wu (Chinese Shamanic) Cosmic Orbit Qigong.

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Book SynopsisMillions of people worldwide practice t’ai chi, the most popular form of which was codified beginning in the 1960s by Cheng Man Ch’ing. In this scholarly yet practical book, Professor Cheng shows precisely how the postures and moves of t’ai chi work, with examples from anatomy and physics, both internally as energetic principles and externally on opponents. He clarifies the spheres, triangles, and centripetal and centrifugal forces within physical exchanges such as push-hands. Contrasting Western and Chinese techniques of healing, he also explores the relationships of organs to one another in pathology and the necessary dynamics of treatment. Professor Cheng explains how the practitioner may serve as his or her own doctor and, likewise, as the physician or trainer of an attacker. The martial arts, he says, are not a special case of unusual power, simply an aspect of adapting natural and cosmic law to circumstance. This edition of the classic text contains 13 major essays; oral secrets from Cheng’s teacher Yang Cheng’fu; a Q&A with commentary on martial arts classics; the author’s application and functions of each of the 37 postures of the short form, with the original photographs of him as a young man; two prefaces; and much more.

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Book SynopsisBruce Lee's daughter illuminates her father's most powerful life philosophies, and how we can apply his teachings to our daily lives'Empty your mind; be formless, shapeless like water'Bruce Lee is a cultural icon, world renowned for his martial arts and film legacy. But Lee was also a deeply philosophical thinker, believing that martial arts are more than just an exercise in physical discipline - they are a perfect metaphor for personal growth.In Be Water, My Friend, Shannon Lee shares previously untold stories from her father's life along with the concepts at the core of his teachings. Each chapter reveals a lesson from Bruce Lee, expanding on the foundation of his iconic 'be water' philosophy to reveal a path to an enlightened way of being.This is an inspirational call to action to consider our lives with new eyes and a testament to Lee's unique power to ignite our imaginations and transform our lives.'A slender, potent book twining her father's timeless philosophies of living with her own reflections' Maria PopovaTrade ReviewA slender, potent book twining her father's timeless philosophies of living with her own reflections -- Maria PopovaAn inspirational commemorative for Lee aficionados and those sharpening their personal-growth skills * Kirkus *This inspired guide will remind any reader that, while one cannot control external circumstance, how one responds is always a choice. * Publishers Weekly *An inspirational commemorative for Lee aficionados and those sharpening their personal-growth skills * Kirkus *This inspired guide will remind any reader that, while one cannot control external circumstance, how one responds is always a choice. * Publishers Weekly *

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Book Synopsis'A man who has attained mastery of an art reveals it in his every action.'--Samurai Maximum.Under the guidance of such celebrated masters as Ed Parker and the immortal Bruce Lee, Joe Hyams vividly recounts his more than 25 years of experience in the martial arts. In his illuminating story, Hyams reveals to you how the daily application of Zen principles not only developed his physical expertise but gave him the mental discipline to control his personal problems-self-image, work pressure, competition. Indeed, mastering the spiritual goals in martial arts can dramatically alter the quality of your life-enriching your relationships with people, as well as helping you make use of all your abilities.

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Book SynopsisThis thoroughly revised edition is designed for intermediate and advanced Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts fighters and trainers to enhance their counter tactics This in-depth explanation of Muay Thai counter-tactics is the ideal companion for martial arts practitioners looking to improve their technique. Muay Thai is a martial art with a variety of impressive techniques; every attack technique can be countered with a large number of variants. No two fighters will react to an attack in the same way, because while most Muay Thai fighters learn the same basic techniques each fighter will go on to learn a wide variety of secondary techniques and will adapt them to his or her individual fighting style. In addition to full-color photographs of such well-known Thai boxers as Saiyok Pumphanmuang and Kem Sitsongpeenong demonstrating techniques, this edition includes:• the rules and ceremonial procedures unique to Muay Thai competition• historical and modern techniques• training tips• information on the benefits of training in Thailand—experiencing the art in its country of origin Suitable for Thai boxers as well as mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters, Muay Thai Counter Techniques is a useful addition to the library of anyone seeking to add more techniques into their repertoire and take their training to the next level.

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Book SynopsisQigong is an aspect of traditional Chinese medicine that involves coordinating breathing patterns with physical postures to maintain health and well-being. Wu Qin Xi: Five-Animal Qigong Exercises is an accessible, fully-illustrated guide to a particular qigong exercise that imitates the movements of animals and birds.The book explores the development of the five-animal exercises from the work of Hua Tua, a leading physician of the Eastern Han Dynasty whose inspiration came from the observation of tigers, deer, bears, monkeys and birds. He came to the conclusion that wild creatures regularly performed certain exercises which can be replicated in order to build up the constitution and improve life skills. 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 content, 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 ReviewIn this well-illustrated, succinct, and easy to read manual, these qigong exercises are described in clear language and simple step-by-step pictures of each form are provided in the proper sequences... You will not go wrong by adding this and the other books in these series to your martial arts or qigong library, and you will be pleasantly surprised in all that you will learn from doing so. -- Journal of Asian Martial ArtsTaken together, and done properly, the movements described here comprise a system of exercise that emphasizes grace and strength. Each focuses on a different part of the body to coordinate breathing patterns with movement; each exercise is easy to do and quiets the mind as well as stabilizes the body. Includes full illustrations, instructions and explanations, including the important reasons why these exercises should be conducted together rather than "cafeteria style." Safe for all age groups and very useful to those who practice Tai Chi and martial arts. -- Booknews.comWith these books the Chinese Health Qigong Association have come close to providing everyone with their own personal qiqong instructor. -- Tai Chi Finder LimitedIn the book, after introducing the history of wu qin xi, some of the characteristics of the animal movements are explained and some practice tips are given. Then, the book goes through a step-by-step description of each of the ten practices(two for each animal). After each practice, the key points are highlighted, common mistakes are given, how to correct them and the benefits of the practice is explained. -- Medical Qigong Education CentreIn this well-illustrated, succinct, and easy to read manual, these qigong exercises are described in clear language and simple step-by-step pictures of each form are provided in the proper sequences. Additional online content comes with the book that breaks down each movement in the sequences, shows common mistakes, and then provides an uninterrupted full Five-Animal Qigong workout... You will not go wrong by adding this and the other books in this series to your martial arts or qigong library, and you will be pleasantly surprised in all that you will learn from doing so. -- Journal of Asian Martial ArtsTable of ContentsPreface. 1. Origins and Development. 2. Characteristics. 3. Practice Tips. 4. Step-by-Step Descriptions of the Routines. Section 1. Hand Forms, Stances and Maintenance of Balance. Basic Hand Forms. Basic Stances. Maintenance of Balance. Section 2. The Exercises Ilustrated. Ready Position: Adjusting the Breath. Tiger Exercise. Deer Exercise. Bear Exercise. Monkey Exercise. Bird Exercise. Winding-Down Exercise to Convey Qi to Dantian. Appendix: Acupuncture Points Mentioned in This Book.

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewShingo Fukushima, respected Kickboxing Historian from Japan, reflects on the book as: "... by far the best instructional book on the subject. The book would be a tremendous help for both the complete novice and seasoned pros alike. It just covers everything from the history to the fundamental techniques, training drills and how to design your own training schedule. What the book sets apart it from the classics from the yesteryear is the use of the high-definition photographs." -- Shingo FukushimaCurtis Bush, 5x World Champion and internationally renowned all-time great of the sport, simply calls our publication: "The best book on Full Contact Kickboxing!" -- Curtis BushA book like this will help any Instructor or student to change, modify or improve (or add new) training methods, as it doesn’t just cover the fighting aspect, but also the training. The book is laid out nicely, covers a great deal and whether you practice Kickboxing or not, it will enhance your Taekwon-do, as well as offer Taekwon-do (and of course Kickboxing) Instructors, new idea’s and routines for their Dojang or gym. -- Stuart Anslow, Totally Taekwondo Magazine * Totally Taekwondo Magazine *We are blown away! This book truly is a complete guide and covers all areas of our sport! The training routines and the insights into the mental & physical aspects are detailed & brilliant! We highly recommend adding this spectacular gem to your bookshelf! -- Sensei "Iron" Ron Murray, 3 Time World Champion Kickboxer & World Professional Martial Arts Hall Of Fame Member * Sensei "Iron" Ron Murray, 3 Time World Champion Kickboxer & World Professional Martial Arts Hall Of Fame Member *Full Contact Kickboxing is truly a one of a kind book. It breaks down the sport on a physical level, so that one can learn & improve technique, as well as on an emotional & spiritual level. You can learn the rich history of the sport that paved the way for the combat sports world. James the Dragon is a legend of the sport and his love & passion spills out on every page..." -- Sensei Kyle "Like Whoa" Murray, World Kickboxing Champion * Sensei Kyle "Like Whoa" Murray, World Kickboxing Champion *

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Book SynopsisNei Gong is the practice leading to attainment of real internal skill and transformation, and the philosophical art of change that runs through all Daoist practice. This book provides a unprecedented insight into the entire Nei Gong process, expanding upon the foundations laid in the author's previous widely read book, Daoist Nei Gong, to provide a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the practice. Going into unparalleled detail whilst remaining accessible, it explains the philosophy at the heart of Nei Gong , and the steps whereby transformation is achieved. A foundational knowledge of Chinese medicine will help the reader appreciate the explanation more deeply, but is not required for understanding. Essential reading for anyone seriously interested Qi Gong, Chinese martial arts, and the Daoist tradition, the book will also be an invaluable resource for practitioners of Chinese medicine, or advanced meditation.Trade ReviewI urge anyone interested in the internal arts to read this book. You won't get standard regurgitated descriptions of Qi or Qi gong. Nor will you get exotic tales of secret rituals in dark caverns. What you will get is a truly comprehensive sharing of profound information in an accessible format. Damo has not only dedicated his life to cultivating 'gong' but also to understanding the processes involved (somatically and intellectually) so that others can benefit. -- Dr Cindy Engel, Associate Lecturer, The Open University, U.KI really don't know of anyone else who has written about the nei gong process in the depth and detail in which Damo has. He clearly writes from a depth of experience in the nei gong tradition. He has a unique ability to explain nei gong in a clear and logical way that anyone can understand if prepared to make the effort. The diagrams in the books are especially helpful in making concepts clear. -- Kenneth Morgan * Medical Qigong Education Centre *Table of ContentsPreface; Foreword by Paul Mitchell; Acknowledgements; 1. Qi Gong, Nei Gong and Qi; 2. Health and Personal Evolution; 3. The Qi Gong Body; 4. Preparing the Body; 5. Regulation of Breath; 6. Regulating and Shaping the Mind; 7. The Nature of Jing; 8. Awakening the Energy Body; 9. Movement of the Yang Qi; 10. The Art of Qi Gong; 11. Attainment of Internal Vibration/Life; 12. The Stage of Qi to Shen; 13. Concluding Thoughts; Appendix 1 - Qi Gong Deviation; Glossary of Pinyin Terms; Boxed Out Text; About the Author

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Book SynopsisLong before Tai Chi and Qigong became household names in the West, an American sailor visiting Shanghai discovered a gentle Chinese exercise called Jiangan - The Chinese Health Wand. This exercise system is simple yet potent and involves the manipulation of a lightweight pole traditionally made of bamboo.Jiangan co-ordinates slow diaphragmatic breathing with graduated stretching and strengthening exercises to promote circulation and stimulate the cardiovascular system. This book offers a concise practical guide to Jiangan exercises, providing detailed instructions and illustrations while also exploring the Chinese philosophy behind the art. Although a gentle and meditative form of exercise, the book shows that Jiangan has the muscle-toning and weight-loss potential of more robust gym workouts and is an ideal daily exercise routine or warm-up for a range of sports and martial arts classes.This book will be a valuable resource for teachers and students of Tai Chi and Qigong, as well as anyone looking for a simple and effective way to improve health and fitness using Eastern health arts.Trade ReviewUsing a personable, reader-friendly style backed up by clear figures and illustrations, he communicates the materials effectively enough that one can begin practicing jingan merely by reading the book. That's quite an accomplishment!... This information should prove useful for students and teachers of the Chinese martial arts as well as most anyone interested in healthful, low-impact exercises. -- Foreword MagazineIt is always refreshing to deal with a different and unusual approach to Chinese hygienic exercise. Michael's knowledge of and skill in the mysteries of Chinese Health Wand make him unique in the Tai Chi community. His publishers are to be congratulated in making this rare material available to the public. I wish the book every success. -- Dan Docherty, Chairman of the Tai Chi Union for Great BritainWe have more and more need in these frenetic times for the wisdom of Chinese medicine. Michael shows very clearly how Jiangan exercises can be used to benefit ourselves. I regularly see, in my own practice, how people's health and vitality can be transformed by following such exercise regimes. I can wholeheartedly recommend this book for those who want to become more healthy and for those who want to maintain their health. -- Dr Stephen Gascoigne, medical doctor, acupuncturist, herbalist, UK and IrelandTable of Contents1. Discovering the "Chinese Wand Exercises" (Jiangan). 2. History. 3. The Gan Itself. 4. Philosophy. 5. Methodology. 6. Questions and Answers. 7. The 17 Exercises Routine. 8. Variations and Advanced Exercises. 9. Health Benefits. 10. Guide to Practice.

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Book SynopsisContinual improvement of technique is a crucial part of a kickboxing fighter's success. Good technique will turn a run-of-the-mill kick or punch into an effective attack against an opponent. Kickboxing Training Drills breaks down the key elements of kickboxing moves, and provides a reference guide that will allow fighters to examine and refine each element of their attack. It will help instructors and coaches hone a fighter's technical training to enable the student to perform to the best of their ability.

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Book SynopsisThe original purpose of iaido was to slay an opponent with one stroke of the sword upon unsheathing; today it is practiced as a martial art, one that improves concentration, develops strength and coordination, and cultivates awareness of an ancient culture and its traditions. This manual of Eishin-Ryu (or 'Pure Faith') iaido teaches the most widely practiced sword style, and is illustrated with step-by-step drawings to help students, from beginners to advanced, hone their forms and techniques. Introductory chapters explain the history and evolution of the art, the Japanese sword and related equipment, and the etiquette and code of the samurai, while an extensive glossary and bibliography are provided for further reference.

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Book SynopsisThis is the original classic about Short Form, the most popular and widespread form of T'ai Chi in the West. T'ai Chi Ch'uan is a must-read for every serious T'ai Chi student. This book is not meant to 'teach' T'ai Chi Ch'uan, but meant to expound upon its meaning to the earnest practitioner; to offer the layperson a glimpse into this ancient art; and to communicate the author's unique perceptions and experiences that only a lifetime of practice can cultivate. Taken in this context, this is a most valuable book.

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Book SynopsisAikido neutralizes aggression and renders attackers harmless. By controlling body position and harmonizing physical and mental powers anyone - regardless of size, strength, or weight - can fend off attacks using this sophisticated martial art. This text teaches how.Trade Review"…one of the best books on Aikido on the market. Not only for the beginner but for the advanced practitioner. It's well respected by most people in Aikido. If you're looking for a good, in-depth book, this is the one you'll want." --RyukyuBooks.com"…an outstanding introduction to the art of Aikido. Anyone starting out in aikido would do well to buy this book, read the beginning chapters of it and then review it from time to time. Great book!" --AikidoJournal.com"If you are a student of Aikido, this book should definitely be in your library. If you're not a student of Aikido, this book can still be a useful way to familiarize yourself with the art on a theoretical level. It's also an interesting resource for anyone who wants to do some serious thinking about their martial art. Anyone who has ambitions to write a book on their own martial art should read this one; this is how an art should be presented." --Examiner.com

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Book SynopsisFor so many around the world, it was in the cinema that they saw their first glimpse of martial arts. Through the films of Lau Kar Leung, among others, they came to appreciate the power and skill of many kung fu techniques. However devotees and practitioners of kung fu and Hung Kuen were aware of the much longer tradition of these arts and in particular, the contribution of both the Lam family and the Lau family.In 2009 the Hong Kong Government endeavoured to identify and recognize forms of intangible cultural heritage. It was this awareness of a vibrant part of Hong Kong history and culture which led to the creation of the Hong Kong Martial Arts Living Archive, and from this the exhibition, Lingnan Hung Kuen Across the Century: Kung Fu Narratives in Hong Kong Cinema and Community. In the exhibition and this companion book, the histories of the Lam and Lau families are traced, and their role in preserving and creating new stances and forms and bringing Hung Kuen to a wider audience through the medium of film. Using the latest technologies including 3D imagery, the work of past masters has been here brought back to life.Table of Contents 1. Legacy of Lam Family Hung Kuen 2. Lau Kar Leung's Hung Kuen Cinema: A Martial Arts Perspective 3. The Paradoxes of Tradition: Lau Kar Leung at Shaw Brothers 4. The Golden Age of Hand-Painted Movie Posters from Ghana, West Africa mid 1980s–1999 5. The Museological Re-enactment of Lingnan Hung Kuen

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Book SynopsisEvery action in Martial Arts and self defense aims at discovering the opponents' weak points, exploiting them and finally disabling him/her without injury or to bring him/her under control. Although our knowledge about the build-up of the human body has multiplied, in many books on the subject of Martial Arts an explanation concerning the effect of various striking and pressure techniques has reduced to mentioning merely "causes pain, paralyzes, death". Explanations are missing or are left in the realm of the esoteric. However it would be appreciated very much if the followers of Martial Arts delved more into the possible medical outcome of their actions.

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Book SynopsisRobert Charrette here brings together his experience as a martial artist and respected 14th century historian to take readers on a tour of Fiore's manuscripts, and into the mindset behind its creation. This is a tool-kit that reveals Fiore dei Liberi's brilliance as a fighter, and as a martial arts teacher. Illustrated in b&w throughout.Table of ContentsForeword Preface Acknowledgements Introduction The Weapons of Armizare The Four Openings The Protection of Armor Il Fior di Battaglia's Organization Stance The Way Four Steps Three Turns Masters & Scholars Interplay of Masters and Scholars Lessons of Abrazare Abrazare Guards Abrazare Plays Lessons of the Dagger Dagger Guards Dagger Plays Lessons of the Sword: Sword in One Hand Holding the Sword Sword in One Hand Guards Sword in One Hand Plays Lessons of the Sword: Sword in Two Hands Sword in Two Hands Guards Sword in Two Hands Guards Lessons of the Sword: Sword in Armor Sword in Armor Guards Sword in Armor Plays Lessons of the Axe Axe Guards Axe Plays The Axe is a Sword Lessons of the Spear Spear Guards and Plays Lessons of Mounted Combat Appendices Distribution of Imagery in Il Fior di Battaglia Glossary Learning from the Many Faces of Donna Master and Scholars Organization Charts

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Book SynopsisIn Black Belt Karate, Hirokazu Kanazawa, the most respected figure in the karate world, offers a systematic approach to basic karate, and provides an intensive training course. Karate is a martial art that can be practiced by anyone, regardless of age or gender, and can be undertaken at any time during a person's life. The training system employed in karate comprises three main areas: kihon (basics), kumite (sparring), and kata (forms). Using meticulously detailed explanations and illustrative photos, Kanazawa provides readers with an intensive self-study training courseTrade Review"A thoroughly "student friendly" and enthusiastically recommended addition to any personal or dojo martial arts reference collection." —The Midwest Book Review

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Book SynopsisAn anthology of the most influential writings on swordsmanship from the samurai era.There is perhaps no more potent symbol of the samurai era than the sword. By the seventeenth century in Japan, the art of swordsmanship had begun to take on an almost cult-like popularity. Swordsmanship was more than a mastery of technique; it was a path toward self-mastery. The Swordsman?s Handbook is the definitive collection of writings by men who saw the study of swordsmanship not only as essential to life and death, but as something that transcended life and death as well. Their teaching, that dealing with conflict is an art that requires grace and courage, speaks to us today with surprising immediacy and relevance. Included in this collection are writings by Kotada Yahei Toshitada, Takuan Soho, Yagyu Munenori, Miyamoto Musashi, Matsura Seizan, Issai Chozanshi, and Yamaoka Tesshu.

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Book SynopsisThe urge to forge one’s character by fighting, in daily life as well as on the mat, appeals to something deep within us. More than a collection of fighting techniques, martial arts constitute a path to developing body, spirit, and awareness. On the Warrior’s Path connects the martial arts with this larger perspective, merging subtle philosophies with no-holds-barred competition, Nietzsche with Bruce Lee, radical Taoism and Buddhism with the Star Wars Trilogy, traditional martial arts with basketball and American Indian culture. At the center of all these phenomena is the warrior. Though this archetype seems to manifest contradictory values, author Daniele Bolelli describes the heart of this tension: how the training of martial technique leads to a renunciation of violence, and how overcoming fear leads to a unique freedom. Aimed at students at any level or tradition of martial arts but also accessible to the armchair warrior, On the Warrior’s Path brings fresh insights to why martial arts remains an enduring and widespread art and discipline. Two new chapters in this second edition focus on spirituality in the martial arts and the author’s personal journey in the field.

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Book SynopsisIn Martial Maneuvers, Phillip Starr demonstrates that while the internal martial arts—Taijiquan, Bagua Zhang, and Xingyi Quan—might be considered ineffective for practical self-defense, they in fact have a long history of combat use. Starr argues that most teachers and practitioners of the internal arts have forgotten their rich martial heritage, focusing instead on their applicability for health or spiritual practices. Starr returns to the roots of the three major internal arts, demonstrating the combative principles upon which they were originally based.Martial Maneuvers often takes a lighthearted and humorous approach to what can often be challenging material, and provides training routines in easy-to-understand language. Numerous photos demonstrate the step-by-step implementation of fighting techniques, teaching readers how to apply them to their own chosen martial disciplines. While designed primarily for the internal martial artist, the techniques demonstrated in Martial Maneuvers can also benefit and enrich the training of a student of any discipline, including karate and kung fu.

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Book SynopsisThe first volume in a two-part series that explores the theory of Wing Chun—a style of kung fu and self-defense—from a technical, lifestyle, and philosophical perspective   Written by Wayne Belonoha—a certified Ving Tsun Instructor and National Certified Coach, 7th Level, Master Degree—The Wing Chun Compendium offers hundreds of tips and techniques specifically designed to help readers advance to the next stage.   The Wing Chun Compendium is divided into eight sections, including Theory, Techniques, Drills, Chi Sau (Sticky Hands), Forms, Pressure Points, Health and Fitness, and Terminology. Students of all levels will find tips for improving technique and gaining benefits from the book''s instruction in over twenty of the top skill-building drills and exercises, such as the Maai Sang Jong and Bong Guek (Sticky Legs) drills. Covering all three hand forms (Siu Nim Tau, Cham Kiu, and Biu Ji), it also provides a detailed examination of each movement and application and features an extensive terminology section that includes the Chinese characters and both Cantonese and Mandarin pronunciations for over two hundred of the most common wing chun terms. The compendium concludes with Grandmaster Sunny Tang''s special article, “Reflections of Siu Nim Tau After 30 Years.”

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Book SynopsisA step-by-step guide to Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, which combines fitness training, self-defense, and competitive sport In this hands-on manual, renowned trainer Christoph Delp presents the history of Muay Thai as well as the sport’s development, rules, and equipment. In the techniques section, he first details basic skills such as the correct starting position and footwork. Next he offers a complete list of all the attacking techniques and a selection of effective defensive and counterattacking strategies. All techniques are presented step-by-step by Thai champions from the famous Sor Vorapin gym in Bangkok, showing readers the fine details of each technique. The training section provides detailed information about the structure, content, and planning of training regimens. This includes historical training methods, a stretching program, and training schedules. Suitable as both a self-training guide and a supplement to club training, Muay Thai Basics offers authoritative instruction for Thai boxers and other martial arts enthusiasts.

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