Finalist 2008 IP's Book AwardThe Tai Chi Book is a detailed guide for students who've learned a Tai Chi form and want to know more. It also introduces beginners to the principles behind great Tai Chi, and answers common questions that all of us have.The Tai Chi Book shows you how to use Tai Chi to gain strength in your bones, muscles and vital organs, how to improve your balance and flexibility, and how to achieve remarkable vitality.The author also introduces complex elements of Tai Chi, including ways to develop the relaxed strength known as sung, how to cultivate and feel Chi, how to train mindfulness, and a helpful chapter on being a student.In addition, the author explores the debate over Tai Chi breathing patterns, explains in detail proper body alignment, and tells why Pushing Hands is more important than you might think.The Tai Chi Book is your guide to the fullest health benefits of Tai Chi and to higher levels of skill and ability.Like two books in one basic and advanced Tai Chi training.Find out how to choose and relate to a teacher.Develop remarkable vitality and longevity.Includes the Cheng Man-ch'ing short form.More than one hundred photos and illustrations."

Treasured for centuries by karate's top masters, the Bubishi is a classic Chinese work on philosophy, strategy, medicine, and technique as they relate to the martial arts. Referred to as the "bible of karate" by famous master Chojun Miyagi, for hundreds of years the Bubishi was a secret text passed from master to student in China and later in Okinawa. All of karate's legendary masters have studied it, applied its teachings, or copied passages from it. No other classic work has had as dramatic an impact on the shaping and development of karate as the Bubishi. Karate historian and authority Patrick McCarthy spent over ten years researching and studying the Bubishi and the arts associated with it. The first English translation of this remarkable martial arts manual includes numerous explanations and notes. McCarthy's work also includes groundbreaking research on Okinawan and Chinese history, as well as the fighting and healing traditions that developed in those countries, making it a goldmine for researchers and practitioners alike. For the final word on the true origins and spirit of classic Okinawan martial arts, one need look no further. This karate book is one of the best karate training supplements available. This new paperback edition includes additional commentary from the translator, as well as a new foreword.

The popularity of Taekwondo is ever increasing. This is apparent in the tens of millions of practitioners worldwide, and by the inclusion of Taekwondo in the summer Olympic Games. With all its popularity, it is paramount that the art be handed down in a clear, knowledgeable, and sustainable way - this book does just that. Originally published in 1983, this authoritative work has been the guide for thousands of Taekwondo Black Belts as they advanced in their training. Whether your training is for self-defense, forms competition, or for preparation for Olympic Games, this newly revised edition provides beginner/intermediate to advance level training to assist you on your journey in Taekwondo. The most popular part of this book is the Nine black belt forms which are required by the World Taekwondo Federation for promotion in ranking. Additional sections include the history, philosophy, and science of Taekwondo, along with an updated schedule of the official competition rules. Contents include: -History, Philosophy, and Meditation -Hand and Foot Techniques -Sparring Techniques -Self-defense Techniques -Breaking Techniques -Nine Black Belt Forms - required for promotion by the World Taekwondo Federation, and used in sanctioned international Taekwondo competitions. -Eight Taegeuk Forms - required for promotion of all color belts and 1st dan black belt, and used in sanctioned international Taekwondo competitions. -Rules and regulations of the World Taekwondo Federation including sparring and poomsae competitions.

Renowned budo (martial arts) and ninja grandmaster Hatsumi explains how Japanese sword fighting embodies the essence of budo and the spirit of the samurai. For centuries, sword masters like Miyamoto Musashi have been revered, and have fascinated and inspired people everywhere. Now, in his definitive work, Masaaki Hatsumi, the world's most famous living budo and ninja grandmaster, shares his vast knowledge of Japanese sword fighting as it's been practiced through the ages: its history, techniques, styles, and core philosophies, along with the deepest secrets of this venerable martial art.

Fire Dragon Meridian Qigong is a traditional Chinese internal alchemy method that embodies the spirit of the rising dragon, an auspicious symbol of transformation in Chinese culture. The form works directly on the acupuncture meridians, releasing areas of stagnation and bringing the physical and emotional body into a balanced state of well-being. This Qigong form implements special visualization and breathing techniques in addition to movements that imitate sparks arising from a bonfire and swirling upward like a spiraling dragon. Stoking our 'inner fire' melts away the 'ice', or the areas of blockage and disease, opens our energetic pathways and allows the smooth flow of Qi in our meridians. The Fire Dragon practice follows the traditional internal alchemy process, where Jing (essence) transforms to Qi (vital energy), Qi transforms to Shen (spirit), and Shen returns to Emptiness. Fire Dragon Meridian Qigong is a key Qigong form for those seeking healing from cancer and other significant health challenges, and is the practice the authors turned to in order to transform the grief over their son's death. The book provides background information and a detailed description of the form itself, illustrated with calligraphy, meridian drawings, and photographs throughout.

The shinobi, or ninja, is one of the most widely recognized figures in the world of espionage--and also one of the most misrepresented. What do we really know about the historical shinobi, his tactics, and his role in medieval Japanese society? In "Secret Traditions of the Shinobi, " these questions--and many more--are answered. Translated into English for the very first time, this widely sought-after collection of historical documents brings to light the secret practices, techniques, philosophies, and lifestyles of the shinobi.
Included are:
- the "Shinobi Hiden, "or "Secret Ninja Tradition," a documentation of techniques commonly attributed to one of the best-known ninja masters, Hattori Hanzo;
- the "Koka Ryu Ninjutsu Densho, "a small but important work from the Edo period that reveals the realm of ninja magic and spells;
- the three shinobi scrolls of the "Gunpo Jiyoshu, " a manual enthusiastically promoted by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa shogun of Japan;
- one hundred poems written between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries--making them the oldest collection of written ninjutsu information in the world; and
- seventy historical black-and-white illustrations depicting ninja tools and weapons.
"Secret Traditions of the Shinobi" will enthrall martial artists eager to learn the real skills of the shinobi, as well as anyone interested in this exciting period of Japanese history and espionage.

THE CHINESE "LORD OF THE RINGS" - NOW IN ENGLISH FOR THE FIRST TIME. THE SERIES EVERY CHINESE READER HAS BEEN ENJOYING FOR DECADES - 100 MILLION COPIES SOLD. "Jin Yong's work, in the Chinese-speaking world, has a cultural currency roughly equal to that of "Harry Potter" and "Star Wars" combined" Nick Frisch, New Yorker "Like every fairy tale you're ever loved, imbued with jokes and epic grandeur. Prepare to be swept along." Jamie Buxton, Daily Mail In the Jin capital of Zhongdu, Guo Jing learns the truth of his father's death and finds he is now betrothed, against his will, to two women. Neither of them is his sweetheart Lotus Huang. Torn between following his heart and fulfilling his filial duty, he journeys through the country of his parents with Lotus, encountering mysterious martial heroes and becoming drawn into the struggle for the supreme martial text, the Nine Yin Manual. But his past is catching up with him. The widow of an evil man he accidentally killed as a child has tracked him down, intent on revenge. Meanwhile, his true parentage at last revealed, Yang Kang, the young prince Guo Jing must face in the Garden of the Eight Drunken Immortals, is forced to choose his destiny. Will he continue to enjoy the life of wealth and privilege afforded to him by the invader of his homeland, or give up all he has known to avenge his parents? Translated from the Chinese by Gigi Chang

What 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.

Millions 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.

Qigong (Chi Kung), the Chinese study of life energy, is an ancient fitness and healing practice. This book presents two complete sets of simple, invigorating Qigong exercises that improve the flow of Qi (Chi) in your body, tone and stretch the major muscle groups, increase your energy, and help you relax. Unlike many Western exercises that center on mindless repetition and aggressive movements, Qigong is an effective fitness alternative that involves the mind as much as the body. You will learn to gently focus your attention on Qi, breathing, posture, and simple, revitalizing movements. This book also explains the basic concepts of Qigong and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Today, thousands of people throughout China practice Qigong every day to stay fit, and more and more Westerners are discovering the value of this timeless practice. * Enjoy improved health and increased energy.* Relieve mental and physical stress.* Discover this refreshing alternative to Western exercise.* Includes more than 250 photographs to help you practice.

If you are a typical student of Taekwond-Do, or any other other martial art that practises semi-free, continuous sparring, then this book is for you. Written specifically for club-level martial artists, Effective Taekwon-Do Sparring bridges the gap between the wider Taekwon-Do syllabus and the particular demands of sparring. In order to do this, the authors go right back to basics. The fundamentals of stance, movement and defence are analysed in detail and significantly adapted for the sparring arena. Core attacking techniques are reviewed and, if necessary, modified in order to improve their effectiveness in typical sparring scenarios. Finally, basic elements of sparring strategy such as assessing opponents, creating openings, effective combinations and counter-attacks are examined.

The kata in this volume are at the advanced level and may be selected for examination above the grade of shodan.
In Unsu, there are constant transformations, signified by the name meaning "Cloud Hands." All parts of the body are used as weapons, with feints and provocations leading to unique combination techniques and multi-directional kicks.
Sochin is characterized by a certain solemnity and imperturbability. Using a very stable stance, muscular power is built up slowly in many movements, instantaneously in others, leading to a keen sense of timing for continuous attacks.
Nijushiho offers training in the unique back-hand block (haishu uke). It requires integration of varying strengths and speed, and mastery can be seen in a smooth and unbroken flow of movements.

Exploring the authentic art of chuan fa, this three-part DVD series includes Shaolin animal techniques. It includes exercises practiced by the original Shaolin monks, as described in 1,500-year-old manuscripts. It also contains interviews with Steve DeMasco, recounting his life, training, and experiences.

Chi Nei Tsang is a Taoist visceral manipulation body-work and massage which emphasizes moving chi energy to the abdominal organs. Developed by Taoist Master Mantak Chia as part of his Healing Tao System, it works on internal dysfunctions and energy blocks using the breathing exercises of chi-kung, therapeutic manipulations, and meditation. Students learn how to recycle negative energy, recognize personal patterns of tension, and use simple manipulations to restore vitality to parts of the body.

Budo is the spiritual way of the martial arts that all practitioners must follow if they are to be true martial artists. In this book, Masaaki Hatsumi explores the very essence of Budo, and demonstrates an array of important techniques relating to this essence, explaining how the concept of Budo transcends any one combat technique and is at the core of all the many martial arts developed in Japan.
The author also reveals secret techniques and the hidden principles of the martial arts, and elucidates the words of his master, Toshitsugu Takamatsu, on Budo and life. Including many photos, works of calligraphy, illustrations, and documents on the martial arts and their role in Japanese culture, The Essence of Budo will resonate with practitioners of all martial traditions including judo, Aikido, karatedo, kendo, kenjutsu, jujutsu, and other fighting sports.

How can a Martial Art enhance the quality of life? The Heart of Taekwondo (Korean martial art of self-defense) incorporates the themes, Patterns, Power and Promotion. Patterns (sets of physical exercises) must be performed with power in order to achieve promotion. For generations this criterion has remained at the 'Heart of Taekwondo' practice. The arrangement of 'Taegeuk' and 'Black Belt' patterns are illustrated with over 450 photographs. Taekwondo offers practitioners the opportunity to enjoy an excellent quality of life and, to live longer. The benefits of physical exercise, appropriate dietary intake and rest are discussed with the aid of charts and diagrams. The Author, Grandmaster Mark Biddlecombe, one of the highest ranked Taekwondo Instructors in the United Kingdom, shares his experiences, thoughts and ideas. Subjective and objective data are used to explain how Taekwondo has transformed from part of Korea's culture to one of the most popular martial arts in the world, and an Olympic Sport. The Heart of Taekwondo provides information for the novice and advanced practitioner. Within the book, subjects that have never before been written about have been discussed. Information regarding Taekwondo philosophy and specific techniques that have historically been shrouded in mystery is revealed. The secrets are out 'Eat well, Move more, Rest well, Live longer'.

HEALTH / MARTIAL ARTS Most Westerners believe that a daily physical exercise program helps slow the aging process. Yet those whose bodies appear most physically fit on the outside often enjoy only the same life span as the average nonathletic person. It is the internal organs and glands that nourish every function of the body, and it is the bone marrow that nourishes and rejuvenates the organs and glands through the production of blood. By focusing only on the muscles without cultivating the internal organs, bones, and blood, the Western fitness regimen can ultimately exhaust the internal system. In Bone Marrow Nei Kung, Master Mantak Chia reveals the ancient mental and physical Taoist techniques used to "regrow" bone marrow, strengthen the bones, and rejuvenate the organs and glands. An advanced practice of Iron Shirt Chi Kung, Bone Marrow Nei Kung was developed as a way to attain the "steel body" coveted in the fields of Chinese medicine and martial arts. This method of absorbing energy into the bones revives the bone marrow and reverses the effects of aging through the techniques of bone breathing, bone compression, and sexual energy massage, which stimulates the hormonal production that helps prevent osteoporosis. Also included is extensive information on chi weight lifting and the practice of "hitting" to detoxify the body. A student of several Taoist masters, MANTAK CHIA founded the Universal Healing Tao System in 1979 and has taught and certified tens of thousands of students and instructors from all over the world. He is the director of the Tao Garden Integrative Medicine Health Spa and Resort training center in northern Thailand and is the author of twenty-six books, includingthe bestselling Sexual Reflexology.

Wing Chun (Ving Tsun) kung fu is one of the most admired and practical martial systems in the world; Alan Gibson is one of the foremost authors in the method and presents us here, with an investigation through the form and function of this very popular Chinese art. This is a comprehensive and functional reference that gets right to the heart of Wing Chun. The Works is an updated collection of Alan's pragmatic, Why Wing Chun Works series of books, packed with exiting new writing, philosophy, diagrams and photography, all laid out in a straightforward manner. Written in his familiar, easy reading style, Alan's friendly coaching voice is constantly backed up with concise and dependable information from respected experts. We are taken on an elegant journey through all six Wing Chun forms and each one is discussed in detail through concepts, application and training effect. In 1998 Alan published 250 copies of his first book, Why Wing Chun Works, he has been consistently updating and improving his learning resources ever since. His books are now published internationally and two have been translated into German and Russian. This book is a celebration of twenty years of Alan's organisation The Wing Chun Federation; as well as being an updating and consolidation of some of his most popular written work. This volume is one that any fan of the martial arts will surely benefit from reading and one that they really cannot do without.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is an international phenomenon, with a fascinatingly diverse and complex history that stems from fighting sports around the world. In Mixed Martial Arts: A History from Ancient Fighting Sports to the UFC, L.A. Jennings explores the vast global history of martial arts-including Asian martial arts, African fighting sports, European pugilism and wrestling, and the fighting styles of North, Central, and South Americas-and how they gave rise to the modern sport of MMA. Jennings shares some of the most famous moments in fighting history alongside stories of the fighters themselves, such as the infamous 1976 fight between Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki. When the Ultimate Fighting Championship premiered in 1993, it introduced the world to the controversial "cage fighting" at a scale never seen before. With the assistance of technological innovations and globalization, MMA has become the fastest growing sport on earth, the culmination of thousands of years of fighting for sport. Featuring fascinating stories and photographs of fighters from around the world, Mixed Martial Arts reveals the long and captivating history of this often-misunderstood sport.

Shaolin Monastery at Mount Song is considered the epicentre of the Chan school of Buddhism. It is also well known for its martial arts tradition and has long been regarded as a special cultural heritage site and an important symbol of the Chinese nation. This book is the first scholarly work in English to comprehensively examine the full history of Shaolin Monastery from 496 to 2016. More importantly, it offers a clear grasp of the origins and development of Chan Buddhism through an examination of Shaolin, and highlights the role of Shaolin and Shaolin kung fu in the construction of a national identity among the Chinese people in the past two centuries.

An authoritative text supporting the newcomer to karate with all they need to know, up to black belt level. Packed with photographs detailing techniques and kata (the combinations of techniques students need to master to progress through the belts) this book is designed to take the student step by step through the progression of Shotokan Karate, taking each belt in turn. Photographs and clear instructions take you step by step through the kata. Karate is a martial art that focuses on the application of strikes using predominantly the hands and feet. It originated in Japan and has become popular throughout the world. There are many styles of karate but the most widely practised outside of Japan is Shotokan Karate. Training in karate is normally divided into three sections: the basic technique; kata, or sequencing of techniques to imaginary opponents; and kumite, the sparring done with an opponent. In total there are ten gradings to be passed in order to get a black belt - this, on average takes a student four years to attain. This book covers all the training needed to attain a black belt. This new edition includes brand new material on partner work, more grading tips to help you avoid making common mistakes, and new footwork diagrams to help you understand the movements better. An indispensable guide.