Strategy is the craft of a warrior - Miyamoto Musashi Written around 1645, Miyamoto Musashi's Five Rings is a classic Japanese work on mastery in swordsmanship, leadership and conflict. Musashi was a swordsman, philosopher and strategist, and today his work remains of influence not only in the realm of martial arts but in the business world, too. Musashi's no-nonsense approach to the martial arts and combat includes eliminating technical flourishes, understanding that technique should simply be understood as defeating your opponent, and appreciating that the same qualities apply in both small- scale and large-scale conflicts. Repeatedly, he stresses the importance of learning through practice, rather than merely reading about them. Produced using beautiful traditional Chinese bookbinding techniques, Five Rings Illustrated is presented in an exquisite illustrated edition with a brand new modern translation.

Shihan Mark Kirton 6th Dan Jisushinkai Karate has been training continuously for over 35 years. The physical training has been beneficial because it has given me a positive mental attitude and a new found integrity, discipline and a sense of purpose which is as important to this Karate master as the self defence ability instilled in his students. It is my belief that martial arts should stand for a Truth, Integrity, Honour, Discipline and High Integritya . A martial art has to be applicable for the times we are living in because of the changes that occur in our society. This has led me to adapt my training and teaching to fit with the changes that are occurring in our modern society. A a realistica need for practical self defence is a must. Therefore a teacher or master must teach students in a truthful, realistic manner to prepare them for what could happen in a possible street attack or altercation. My journey has led me to learn many things and has given me a great insight into the make up of potential attackers and how to avoid potentially bad violent situations. I always try to instil in my students that try to avoid any confrontation at all cost, if you can walk away from a potential bad situation do it if need be run away if you have to your objective is to keep yourself safe so you can live your life as peaceably as possible. However sometimes things can go wrong and you have to engage and you have to rely on your possible self defence skills. a Remember: life is for livinga Shihan Mark Kirton 6th Dan