General Books - Page 6

The Book of Five Rings (Shambhala Classics)

Miyamoto Musashi

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Subjects -> Business & Investing -> Management & Leadership -> Leadership
Subjects -> Business & Investing -> Management & Leadership -> Strategy & Competition
Subjects -> History -> Asia -> Japan

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 116 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

Here is one of the most insightful texts on the subtle arts of confrontation and victory to emerge from Asian culture. Written not only for martial artists but for leaders in all professions, the book analyzes the process of struggle and mastery over conflict that underlies every level of human interaction. The Book of Five Rings —which has become a well-known classic among American business people, studied for its insights into the Japanese approach to business strategy—was composed in 1643 by the famed duelist and undefeated samurai Miyamoto Musashi. Unlike previous editions of The Book of Five Rings, Thomas Cleary's is an accessible translation, free of jargon, with an introduction that presents the spiritual background of the warrior tradition. Along with Musashi's text, Cleary translates another important Japanese classic on leadership and strategy: The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War by Yagyu Munenori, which highlights the ethical and spiritual insights of Taoism and Zen as they apply to the way of the warrior.

Vital Point Strikes: The Art and Science of Striking Vital Targets for Self-defense and Combat Sports

Sang H. Kim

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 3 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

Vital Point Strikes is a guide to pressure point striking for the average martial artist. Sang H. Kim demystifies the lore of vital point striking and shows you realistic applications of vital point strikes for self-defense and combat sports. For those new to the concept of vital points, he begins by examining the Eastern theory of acupoints, meridians and ki (qi) and the Western scientific concepts of the nervous and circulatory systems, pain threshold and pain tolerance, and the relationship between pain and fear. This synthesis of accepted Eastern and Western theories helps the reader understand what makes vital point striking work and why it can be not only useful in fighting, but deadly. Based on this introduction, you ll learn about 202 vital points for use in fighting including the name, point number, location, involved nerves and blood vessels, applicable techniques, sample applications, and potential results for each point. The points are illustrated in detail on an anatomically correct human model, with English, Chinese, and Korean names as well as point numbers for easy reference. In addition to identifying the vital points, Sang H. Kim gives you detailed information about the type of techniques that work for vital point striking including a discussion of fighting zones and ranges, plexus strikes, stance and footwork, bodily weapons, striking directions and angles and dozens of applications for common empty hand, grappling, groundfighting, knife and gun attacks. Based on over thirty years experience in the martial arts and in-depth research, Sang H. Kim has created one of the most complete books available on the art and science of vital point striking.

The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate: The Spiritual Legacy of the Master

Gichin Funakoshi, Jotaro Takagi

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Subjects -> Nonfiction -> Philosophy -> Eastern -> General AAS
Subjects -> Religion & Spirituality -> Other Eastern Religions -> Eastern Philosophy

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 11 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Not exactly "by Funakoshi"!!! 3 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

Although the book is announced to be written by master G.Funakoshi, only a 10% of it was actually written by him, the other 90% are commentaries by G. Nakasone. Despite this the book is quite inspiring in the advanced study of karate.

For True Martial Artists & Real Warriors 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This is a great book on the real philosophy behind the martial arts. Although Master Funakoshi founded Shotokan karate, the principles in this book are universal throughout the world of martial arts. This should be required reading for every martial artist, and especially those who practice Shotokan karate. I have a lot of respect for Master Funakoshi from studying his life and therefore his writings carry a lot of weight with me. This book, although a short and easy read, is packed full of wisdom and should be a part of every martial artist's home library.

Bohdi Sanders, author of Warrior Wisdom: Ageless Wisdom for the Modern Warrior

Editorial Review:

Gichin Funakoshi, "the father of karate," once said that "the ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory nor defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants."

Best Aikido: The Fundamentals (Illustrated Japanese Classics)

Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Moriteru Ueshiba

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 9 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

At last, the complete and authoritative introduction to all the fundamentals of Aikido, coauthored by the two direct successors to the Founder of the martial art, Morihei Ueshiba. Coauthors Kisshomaru Ueshiba and Moriteru Ueshiba, son and grandson of the Founder, seek to carry on his legacy and to share with the millions of men and women around the world practicing Aikido today the most important techniques and principles of the art.
This book is the quintessential training aid for all Aikido practitioners-whether beginning or advanced-who wish to further their understanding of the forms and spirit of Aikido.
Underlying the forms, or physical techniques, are the spiritual principles of Aikido, which are based on the notion of ki, or "life force." Ki is the fundamental element to understanding Aikido. But as the authors explain, it cannot be learned merely by watching a demonstration or reading a book. Rather, one must come to experience it through practice, in unifying body and mind.
Best Aikido helps guide the practitioner to this goal. It offers step-by-step instruction that will complement knowledge learned in the dojo. The text is illustrated with a wealth of never-before-seen photographs that feature Aikido master Moriteru Ueshiba demonstrating the fundamental techniques of the art.
Best Aikido is authorized by the Aikikai Foundation, the central organization set up by Morihei Ueshiba.

The Fighter's Body: An Owner's Manual : Your Guide to Diet, Nutrition, Exercise and Excellence in the Martial Arts

Loren W. Christensen, Wim Demeere

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Subjects -> Health, Mind & Body -> Nutrition -> General
Subjects -> Health, Mind & Body -> Nutrition -> General AAS

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 22 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

You have an owner's manual for your car, your stereo and even your blender, so why not your body? "The Fighter's Body" is exactly that, an owner's manual for your body, the most complex piece of equipment you will ever own. As a martial artist, you have special needs. Have you ever wondered how that latest fad diet might affect your performance on the mat? Ever wanted to take off a few extra pounds? How about putting on muscle without slowing down? Make weight for a tournament? Lose 5 pounds fast? Eat better? Change weight classes? Confused about supplements, vitamins and protein shakes? Can't make sense of the food pyramid? Don't know where to start? Start here. Author Loren Christensen and personal trainer Wim Demeere combine their knowledge of martial arts, weight training, nutrition, diet and exercise to answer your questions and put you on the road to becoming the best martial arts athlete you can be.This book will answer your questions about important topics including: Why some diets are harmful for martial artists; how to calculate your protein needs for training; when and how to use supplements; how to eat at fast food places and not ruin your diet; why it's okay to splurge on 'Dirt Day'; how to safely make weight for a tournament; why HIIT training is essential to weight loss; what to eat on competition days; and, how to create a plan that works and stick to it.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu

Helio Gracie

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 15 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Helio the great! 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

This book is not the tell all to those looking for indepth look at BJJ and technique. It is a great table book to have for all BJJ guys that want a slice of history. Gracie JJ was created and molded by Helio and his bro Carlos to be used as a self defense art. It has taken shape today into a whole new beast. As beautiful as the art has become...this book touches on the self defense aspect of BJJ. There is a ton of stand up defense and a few chapter on the basic Gracie JJ techniques we all know and love..arm bar, triangle etc. Buy this book if you are a true fan..plain and simple!

Editorial Review:

GRACIE JIU-JITSU - THE MASTER TEXT THE DEFINITIVE TEXT ON BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU FROM GRAND MASTER HELIO GRACIE HIMSELF! This 8.5 x 11 inch 284 -page hardbound full color masterpiece is packed with over 1, 300 photos! This collector quality first edition will be one of the most sought-after books in the martial arts world for years to come. Get in on the ground floor and be one of the few to own the first edition of GRACIE JIU-JITSU - THE MASTER TEXT. In a clear and easy-to-follow format, Grand Master Helio Gracie addresses different aspects of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu method that bears his name. From the first page to the last, you'll get a simple break down of how to systematically progress and technically improve your mat game regardless of your background or grappling ability. Now over 90 years old, still training and teaching, Helio Gracie has left an enduring worldwide legacy that can only be found in GRACIE JIU-JITSU - THE MASTER TEXT

Gracie Submission Essentials: Grandmaster and Master Secrets of Finishing a Fight (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu series)

Helio Gracie, Royler Gracie, Kid Peligro

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Subjects -> Sports -> Individual Sports -> Martial Arts -> Judo
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Subjects -> Sports -> Individual Sports -> Martial Arts -> General AAS

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 10 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

No replacement for time on the mat, but a solid read - 4 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

A solid addition to the series - good fundamentals from the Grand Master Helio Gracie. Simple, yet effective techniques that are the foundation for any Brazilian Jiu Jitsu student. Royler takes it further with some great chokes. Good ideas to take to the mat.

Exactly what it says it is 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This book starts with a brief history and background on Helio and Royce, as well as their fight philosophy. There is a brief section on what makes someone a good BJJ practitioner and how to train techniques.

It then moves into what this book is all about BJJ submission essentials. It starts with Helio demonstrating a number of his favourite submissions before Royler takes up the rest of the book demonstrating a plethora of other submissions.

The book covers submissions from all situations and positions whether standing, mounted (top and side), guard, from the back or fighting from the bottom. All techniques are explained in great detail to ensure that the technique you're executing is correct. This is enhanced greatly by Kid Peligro's large, clear photos, which includes close ups of grips and multiple angles etc when necessary.

Basically, this book is exactly what it says on the cover - an explanation of BJJ submission techniques.

What this book is not - while it may be a useful reference book for a newer student it doesn't go into fundamentals of wrestling such as basic positioning, transitions between positions, or wrestling theory. Applying these techniques without any of those basics in a fight situation is almost impossible. These are however, covered in other Gracie BJJ books. As such this book is most useful for those who already have wrestling experience, though this doesn't necessarily have to be in BJJ.

Editorial Review:

Showcasing their favorite and most effective finishing moves, world-renowned jiu-jitsu experts Helio Gracie and son Royler Gracie share the submission techniques that have helped them win fights for more than three decades. Sections of the book break down each submission procedure, presenting important details on how to put devastating combinations together in order to make practitioners more polished competitors. Personal advice on physical and mental training, combined with a deeper understanding of a match's end game, enables readers to elevate their performance and emerge victorious.

Complete Bladesmith: Forging Your Way To Perfection

Jim Hrisoulas

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 18 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Good but dated information. 4 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

A great book for the beginner, but not to be taken as a metallurgical point of reference. Antiquated theories such as 'edge-packing' and other misconceptions are taught in this text. This is not a problem, assuming the reader does enough research - either before or after reading this book. It offers great explanations of techniques, complete with well-explained drawings, diagrams and pictures, as well as plenty of good information on intelligent shop layout, tool selection, etc.

Certainly worth owning, just BEWARE the dated information!

Complete Bladesmith: Forging Your Way To Perfection 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This book is about how to make knives by different materials, for example 1050 steel. It's a quite good book, especially for beginners with reasonable price. Highly recommended to all!

Editorial Review:

Looking for instructions in bladesmithing that'll put you on the cutting edge of the custom blade market? Then this definitive guide to forging world-class blades is for you. Written by a master bladesmith, this book tells you how to set up your forge, select your materials, fashion grips and hilts, grind edges and much more!

Martial Mechanics: Maximum Results with Minimum Effort in the Practice of the Martial Arts

Phillip Starr

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Subjects -> Sports -> General

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 13 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

Interest in a wide range of martial arts grows exponentially each year, but few practitioners understand the scientific forces that underlie these arts. The originators of ancient traditional systems intuitively grasped the body mechanics behind their disciplines, and thus were capable of generating uncanny striking force. Contemporary students, on the other hand, often fail to achieve the high levels of technical proficiency they desire because they are unaware of these laws and how they work in a martial arts context.

Drawing on the author’s decades of experience as both student and teacher, Martial Mechanics explains, in humorous, easy-to-understand language, how physics and kinesiology affect martial arts techniques and how readers can best utilize them to make them faster, more powerful, and hence more effective in actual combat. Featuring black-and-white photographs throughout, Martial Mechanics is written for both internal and external martial artists, mixed martial arts practitioners with an interest in competition or self-defense, students of kung fu, karate, taekwondo, muay thai boxing, kickboxing, wing chun, and more. Even many of the traditional grappling arts utilize certain striking techniques, and their disciples as well can improve their percussive skills with this practical guide.

Speed Training : How to Develop Your Maximum Speed for Martial Arts

Loren W. Christensen

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 18 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

You more than likely need this book 5 out of 5 stars.
6 of 7 people found this review helpful.

This is a very crafty book. What I liked is that author included some internal methods of helping your speed- things like relaxation meditation and so on. Mr. Christensen mostly uses karate for excercise examples but it's still a useful book for the practicioner of any style- a speed is a speed whether you practice Wing Chun or Karate. You WILL find some important/interesting info, whether you are a beginner or a vet.

Awesome Book 5 out of 5 stars.
6 of 6 people found this review helpful.

I recommend this book to any martial arts student that feels like they have plateaued on speed. The relaxation methods really work and the speed drills are fun and really make a difference. Buy this book, read it cover to cover and use the authors techniques to make yourself faster than you ever thought possible.

Editorial Review:

Speed is the most important asset a fighter can have. Find out from a top martial artist and police officer how to develop instantaneous reflexes and explosive speed for punching, kicking, grappling and police defensive tactics. Improve perception, polish timing and double your speed by using these sure-fire techniques.