A clear introduction to Taiji, a slow and rhythmical martial art, this visual guide shows how it can be used as a 'moving meditation' that bestows strength, vigour and longevity. The book focuses on helping people apply the principles of the Taiji practice by offering a short introduction to its history and philosophy, as well as a primer on its general practices as established by the International Wushu Federation. Divided into five chapters, it includes an easy-to-learn warm-up, stances, hand techniques, steps, breathing, basic moves and the four Forms that are usually learned to receive a black belt in the art. With a growing focus on alternative ways of improving general health and well-being, Taiji as Moving Meditation is the perfect guide for those wanting to enhance focus and peace of mind.

Through popular movies starring Bruce Lee and songs like the disco hit "Kung Fu Fighting," martial arts have found a central place in the Western cultural imagination. But what would 'martial arts' be without the explosion of media texts and images that brought it to a wide audience in the late 1960s and early 1970s? In this examination of the media history of what we now call martial arts, author Paul Bowman makes the bold case that the phenomenon of martial arts is chiefly an invention of media representations. Rather than passively taking up a preexisting history of martial arts practices-some of which, of course, predated the martial arts boom in popular culture-media images and narratives actively constructed martial arts. Grounded in a historical survey of the British media history of martial arts such as Bartitsu, jujutsu, judo, karate, tai chi, and MMA across a range of media, this book thoroughly recasts our understanding of the history of martial arts. By interweaving theories of key thinkers on historiography, such as Foucault and Hobsbawm, and Said's ideas on Orientalism with analyses of both mainstream and marginal media texts, Bowman arrives at the surprising insight that media representations created martial arts rather than the other way around. In this way, he not only deepens our understanding of martial arts but also demonstrates the productive power of media discourses.

The Ultimate Chinese Martial Art - The Science of the Weaving Stance Bagua 64 Forms and the Wellness Applications has three well integrated parts. Part One describes the cultural, historical and scientific background of the mysterious inner style martial art - Bagua Palm - which used to be taught in a small circle of the Royal families in China. Part Two gives a brief and yet detailed instructions on the techniques and step by step exercises of Bagua Palms with illustrations, including the example of the famous Weaving Stance Bagua 64 Forms. Part Three summarizes the wellness applications of the Bagua Palms as an inner style Chinese martial art.The aim of this book is to help all people on this planet to have a better understanding about wellness and the most effective way to achieve it. The book will thus ultimately make its way to the short list of books which truly leave their marks on the progress of human civilization. The less than sophisticated style of writing makes this book an easy and helpful reading for people from all walks of life.This book is not just about Chinese martial art. It is also about the link between Chinese culture and martial art. With practical instructions on the actual exercise, this book will benefit not just practitioners and trainers in Chinese martial art but effectively all people who read it. This book is not only going to be the martial art book of the year, but the martial art book of the 21st century.This is the first martial art book written by martial art practitioners who have thorough understanding of both physics and actual fighting, with a solid background in Chinese culture. All the three authors of the book have over 40 years of extensive experience each in Chinese martial art. In contrast to conventional Chinese martial art scripts, this book is written by three Chinese authors in plain and vivid English, which is both filled with true understanding of the unique part of Chinese culture and tuned to the cognitive habits of the westerners.

Aiki-Jujutsu: Mixed Martial Art of the Samurai is essential reading for practitioners and instructors of mixed martial arts, the traditional Asian martial arts and those who seek to learn more about the techniques, philosophy and history of the fighting arts of the Samurai. Using easy to follow, step-by-step photography and text, 10th Dan Cary Nemeroff demonstrates how to perform the throws, hand strikes, grappling/groundwork manoeuvres, blocks, break-falls, kicks and sword-disarming techniques of the complete Aiki-Jujutsu system, including Kempo-Jutsu, Aiki-Jutsu and Ju-Jutsu. It also provides a concise history of the concepts and systems surrounding Aiki-Jujutsu's development, such as Budo and Bujutsu, enabling the practitioner to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the art.

Master the art of Kendo-Japanese Swordsmanship with this illustrated and comprehensive martial arts guide. Kendo or the "Way of the Sword" holds a special place within the martial arts as one of the few practices tracing back directly to Japan's ancient samurai heritage. Modern students flock to kendo for physically-and mentally-challenging activity that combines traditional martial arts values with strenuous physical activity. Author Geoff Salmon has over 40 years of kendo experience gained in and outside of Japan. His goal in this kendo guide is to dispel many misconceptions about the sport and to make kendo training accessible and practical for anyone. His simple, straightforward writing style is especially helpful for beginning students and martial artists from other disciplines who wish to add kendo training to their repertoire. The core of this kendo book is a series of detailed instructional sequences demonstrating the basic kendo techniques. The author also presents the fundamental principles and philosophy that make kendo as much an exercise of the mind as of the sword. For many adherents, the goal is to train your mind to achieve a state of mushin (no-mind). Beyond that, this book also shows you how to win competitions and integrate kendo into your fitness routines. This is the first book to decidedly link the philosophical and mental elements of kendo to the physical techniques, thereby enabling readers to gain a holistic understanding of the martial art. It offers a comprehensive training program similar to those given by leading kendo teachers in Japan, past and present.

One of America's foremost experts on the Japanese martial arts shows that karate is not just a sport or a hobby - it's a lifetime study toward perfection of character. Dave Lowry illuminates the culture, philosophy, and practice of this popular martial art and covers myriad subjects of interest to karate practitioners of all ages and levels including: the relationship between students and teachers; cultivating the correct attitude during practice; the differences between karate in the East and West; and, whether a karate student really needs to study in Japan to perfect the art.He also covers: the meaning of rank and the black belt; detailed descriptions of kicks, punches, evasions, and techniques and the philosophical concepts that they manifest; what practice means and looks like as one ages; and, how the practice of karate aims toward cultivating character and spiritual development. After forty years studying karate and the budo arts, Lowry is an informative and reliable guide, highlighting aspects of the karate path that will surprise, entertain, and enlighten.

Finalist - 2006 Book of the Year Award by ForeWord Magazine Taekwondo, literally translated, can be defined as "foot, hand way" or "the way of smashing with hands and feet." Such descriptive nomenclature understandably implies a curriculum rich in self-defense. Too often, however, this is simply not the case. Given the current popularity of sport competition in the martial arts, many techniques of defensive value have been stripped away or forfeited altogether in favor of those certain to score in the ring. While the thirst for Olympic gold has clearly played a significant role in propelling taekwondo into the forefront, it should be remembered that this native Korean martial art contains over 3200 distinct self defense techniques. This book describes in detail, the history and evolution of Taekwondo from its ancient roots to modern day applications. Also included are exercises in "Ki" or internal energy development, meditation practice, and practical self-defense strategies. This work focuses on the traditional aspects of Taekwondo rather than on its sportive component.

The name 'Samurai' is synonymous with the ultimate warrior. With their elaborate armour, fierce swordsmanship and code of honour, the samurai have become iconic figures whose influence can still be felt today . From Kurosawa's epic Seven Samurai to the figure of Darth Vader in Star Wars, to Manga comics and video games, the figure of the fighting samurai still inspires us today. In John Man's new book we discover the truth behind the legend. From his birth in the shadow of the great volcano Sakurajima, to his glorious death by ritual suicide and disembowelment, Saigo Takamori was the ultimate Samurai leader. His fall brought about the end of hundreds of years of Samurai tradition and in many ways marks the birth of modern Japan. Saigo was a man trapped by paradox: a faithful servant to the emperor, and yet a leader of rebel troops; a mighty Samurai warrior, and also a master of Chinese poetry. His life, and ultimately his death, offer a window into the hundreds of years of culture and tradition that defined the samurai.

This unique book by Master Shi Ming and Siao Weijia explores the Chinese science of mind/body and the refinement of consciousness in the higher martial arts.

Qigong Massage, one of the oldest methods of healing, is built upon five thousand years of progress and a highly refined, solid theoretical foundation. Used to improve health, slow down aging, and treat many types of illnesses, Qigong massage is a wide and deep healing science, and the root of many other popular forms of massage therapy. This comprehensive text by world renowned Qigong scholar, Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming, presents the fundamental techniques and theory of Qigong massage that therapists can use to enhance their skills, and deepen their knowledge and application of Qi (energetic) healing. Not only for therapists! Novices will find the instruction and techniques in this book practical and useful for recovering from fatigue, aches & pains, tension and more. A special section on Self-Massage is presented to help those in need of massage treatment benefits, but who lack a partner or therapist. With over five hundred photographs and illustrations in this book, Dr. Yang will be your guide into the art and science of Chinese Qigong Massage.

A fun and accessible introduction to studying karate-designed specifically with the interests and capabilities of young martial artists in mind. First-time martial arts students are not just starting a program of physical and mental practice. They are entering a new world-one that not only has new rules, new goals, and even new clothing-but that also offers them lots of new opportunities for fun and accomplishment. Karate for Kids will help prepare kids to start learning about karate and help them practice at home. It includes thorough introductions to the history and philosophy of the techniques, what to expect in the first few classes, how to warm up and practice, and advice on setting goals. With over 75 full-color illustrations, including 40 clearly diagrammed karate exercises, along with lots of fun facts and informative sidebars written in kid-friendly, jargon-free language, this is the perfect introduction for the younger martial artist.

For all students of tai chi, the 3rd edition of the best-selling book Tai Chi Theory & Martial Power includes a new and modern easy-to-follow layout. Each technique is presented in large photographs with detailed instructions. Motion arrows are used on the photographs as an important aid in performing the movements correctly. Sections offer a brief history of Tai Chi, the role of qi in tai chi, and detailed instructions on how to generate amazing "natural" physical power.

This title presents the teachings of Motomichi Anno sensei, one of the few remaining direct students of Morihei Ueshiba, the legendary founder of Aikido. After a lifetime of practice and teaching in Japan, the United States, and Europe, Anno sensei's teachings convey Aikido's essential spirit of love, harmony, gratitude, and purification with simple authenticity and eloquence. Author and translator Linda Holiday brings to life the intimacy of this communication through translated discourses on the deep practice of Aikido and candid dialogues between Anno sensei and Western students.

This thoroughly revised edition of "Muay Thai: Advanced Thai Boxing Techniques "teaches intermediate Muay Thai fighters how to counter a wide range of opponents' attacks. Author Christoph Delp explains the rules and ceremonial procedures unique to Muay Thai competition, demonstrates historical and modern techniques, provides training tips, and details the benefits of training in Thailand--experiencing the art in its country of origin.
The primary focus of "Muay Thai""Counter Techniques" is on counter-tactics, or techniques used to counter an attack from one's opponent. 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 (as presented in Delp's earlier book "Muay Thai Basics"), each fighter will go on to learn a wide variety of secondary techniques and will adapt them to his or her individual fighting style. This edition includes new full-color photographs throughout in which many well-known Thai boxers--including champions like Saiyok Pumphanmuang, Kem Sitsongpeenong, and many others--demonstrate the most important techniques for competitive success. 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.

As well as setting forth the basic rules that must be put into practice when performing kata or applying techniques in kumite, this volume pinpoints the underlying physical and physiological principles of karate: source and concentration of power; stance, form, stability and technique; movement in all directions; basic and comprehensive aspects of training.

The inspirational teachings in this collection show that the real way of the warrior is based on compassion, wisdom, fearlessness, and love of nature. The teachings are drawn from the talks and writings of Morihei Ueshiba, founder of the popular Japanese martial art of Aikido, a mind-body discipline he called the "Art of Peace", which offers a non-violent way to victory in the face of conflict. Ueshiba believed that Aikido principles could be applied to all the challenges we face in life: in personal relationships, as we interact with society, and at work and in business.

Kurosaki Killed the Cat
John Jarvis began training in Kyokushin Karate in London during 1965 under Steve Arniel. He then trained for a year in 1967 in Tokyo under Masutatsu Oyama and qualified Third Dan. He became the branch chair for Australasia and the Pacific Islands. At this time he was promoted to Fifth Dan. John also trained at the Tokyo Riot Police School under Kuroda Sensi and achieved Second Dan in Iaido. He then trained at Rembukan Jodo Dojo under Shimizu Sensei and graduated Second Dan in Jodo and Tanjo. John changed Karate systems in 1974 to Okinawa Gojo Ryu and was graded Fifth Dan by Sensi Higaonna Morio. The author retired in 1987 as the most qualified martial arts teacher in Australia. He is presently a senior teacher and Dean at St. Patrick's College, Silverstream where he specializes in Religious Studies.

"Knife Throwing is the most authoritative guide on every aspect of the sport. From knives and knife throwing techniques to competition and advice, as well as profiles of pioneers and legends in the field, this book covers it all." --Bobby Branton, President of American Knife Thrower's Alliance (AKTA) Not only is knife throwing fun, it is also a great sport, entertainment, recreation and exercise. It can be a wonderful hobby, pastime, or even a profession, and the fundamentals are easy to learn. Anyone who can throw a stick, stone, or baseball can also learn how to throw a knife with skill and accuracy. All you need is a good knife-designed for the purpose, whether made to throw by the handle or blade, a target, and a small portion of the back yard for the throwing range. Few sports can provide so much recreation at so little cost. Knife throwing is a sport in which individual skills can be developed to a very high degree. Expert knife throwing, like great proficiency in any other sport, is developed by natural aptitude and instinct combined with that one magic ingredient: practice! In Knife Throwing by American Knife Thrower's Alliance founder, Harry McEvoy, demonstrates how to throw a knife successfully in chapters such as: It's Fun to Throw a KnifeChoice of WeaponsHow to Throw a KnifeHow to Develop "Pin-Point" AccuracyHow to Select a Throwing KnifeTargets: How and WhereTomahawks and BowiesSafety Measures, Rules, and Care of KnivesThe ProfessionalsHunting: A New Twist to an Old SportTales, Legends and People