This is a karate book aimed specifically at children. It is all too easy to permanently damage a young person's body by trying to make him or her train in the same way as an adult. This book, aimed at the 10-14 year age group, shows how children can train and learn safely and successfully, on their own terms and at their own speed. As well as covering all the moves, blocks, kicks and punches, the book answers questions about the history and traditions of karate, the grading system, what to wear and diet. Aspects of the sport such as self-defence, sportsmanship and the control of fear are included, as well as advice on rules and competitions. This book should help every junior karate fan to form good and lasting habits to take him into adulthood.

In the practice of karate, throughout the world and all levels, there is one sure constant - the Kata. These formal sequences of karate techniques form the basis of all proper practice, and their range in degree of difficulty means that they can be taught throughout a student's career. This new edition, which first appeared as two separate volumes, covers the first thirteen Shotokan Kata:Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yondan, Heian Godan, Tekki Shodan, Bassai-Dai, Empi, Sochin, Jion, Hangetsu and Nijushiho. Fully illustrated with photographs of each move, the accompanying text explains each sequence fully and clearly with a thorough investigationof the Kata's 'bunkai' or application. The authors concentrate not only on physical conditioning, but also on the correct mental and spiritual attitude. Complete with an exploration of the historical background and development of the Kata, this book will prove indispensable to all students of karate.