Product Description
Karate is the most widely recognized of the martial arts and today enjoys much support throughout the world. This handy guide offers a host of valuable pointers on how to get started, and covers all the most important elements that will assist both prospective and experienced karateka in refining their skills and knowledge.

Written by a foremost karate instructor with many years of experience, this book provides practical step-by-step instructions, with useful advice on training techniques and maneuvers, from punches and kicks to blocks, combinations, and defensive moves.

Complemented by precise, full-color photography in a step-by-step format, the explanatory text offers definitive insights into the functions of and principles behind karate training.

Beginners are introduced to the basic elements of karate and self-defense, while intermediate and experienced karateka are provided with knowledge that will allow them to hone their existing fighting skills.

Indispensable information on training techniques and the varied styles, and specific guidelines on motivation and attitude for the student make this convenient reference a useful guide for both the novice and experienced karateka. ... Read more

Product Description
Karate is an exciting and rewarding holistic pursuit practiced by millions around the world. Whether you are an existing or prospective student of martial arts, there is always something new to learn. I have hopefully provided a good starting point, as this guide details karate history, various techniques, combat principles, and philosophy. Also included are details on my own creation, the new style Mizuumi ryu Karate. ... Read more

Product Description
Cole Richards has been training in karate for four years. He's on the brink of advancing to his next belt level, but as he prepares for his test, new challenges come his way. First, his dojo announces a "create-your-own kata" contest to take place the same day as his belt test. Now he's torn between practicing for the test and making up a series of moves that will knock his sensei's socks off. But before he even begins with either challenge, he lands in trouble with a group of local teens -- and then with his best friends, too! How will Cole handle the mounting pressure?



With themes of jealousy, competition, and bullying, Matt Christopher brings together important life lessons and the thrill of karate. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A useful research manual
A great resource for those interested in Karatein general and GojuRyuin particular!

Goju Ryu Opus Volume 1-4
This is a description of the four-volume series by Goju Ryu Karate mavin Morio Higaonna.In it he details the complete Goju Ryu syllabus as passed down to his teachers, Ei'ichi Miyazato and Anichi Miyagi.Miyazato and A. Miyagi in turn learned directly from the founder of Goju Ryu Karate, Chojun Miyagi, a distinguished student of Kanryo Higaonna who learned martial arts in Fukien Province and also on Okinawa.This is simply the best series of books out there on Goju Ryu in any language!The photography is incredible, all techniques are shown with stop-motion photography, and there are many transitional photographs showing the complete execution of every technique.This series is the "bible" of Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate-do.I'm going to give you a break down by volume since all four seem to get put together here...

Volume 1: Fundamental Techniques
Higaonna demonstrates Miyagi's original Junbi Undo (warm up), completely goes over all topics such as stances, traditional exercise routine with the chiishi (stone weights) shown in 187 photographs, Nigiri Game (gripping Jars) shown in 109 photographs, how to train on the Makiwara, how to construct a Makiwara, training with the Ishisashi (stone padlocks) is a sequence shown in 118 photographs, also covered are tan (barbell), tetsu geta (iron sandals), tou (bamboo bundle), jari bako (sand training), and an implement unique to Goju Ryu, the kongo ken.The depth with which all of these are explained and covered is phenomenal!

Next is the section on fundamental technique with complete coverage of stance work, striking and kicking.Then a treatis on Kore-ate (2 man forearm training).For those who believe that all karate is stiff and unbending, this book may change your mind.There is a section on tai-sabaki (movement, and a special treat in the last chapter--the COMPLETE SANCHIN as passed down from Kanryo Higaonna to Chojun Miyagi to Anichi Miyagi to Morio Higaonna.This is the original turning Sanchin Kanryo Higaonna brought back from Fukien Province in China.Researchers believe this particular sanchin came either from White Crane style, or from Fujian Tiger Gung Fu.Morio Higaonna demonstrates the complete for in the traditional (for men at least) shirtless manner.162 photographs with complete description illustrate this Foundational form of the Goju Ryu Karate School.

Volume 2: Performances of the Kata
Higaonna goes over the charicteristics of Okinawan Goju-ryu, and then the demonstration of the first kata, the Chojun Miyagi Sanchin (different from the Kanryo Higaonna Sanchin in the first book).Included after this are in-depth renderings of kata Gekisai-dai Ichi, Gekisai-dai-ni, Saifa, Seiyunchin, Shisochin, and Sanseiru.Bunkai is shown separately in successive volumes....

Volume 3: Applications of the Kata Part I
Opens with an introductory note from Xing Yang-ling, Morio Higaonna on Bunkai, and then the remainder of the Goju Ryu Karate Kata syllabus: Sepai, Kururunfa, Sesan, Sanseiru, Suparinpei, and Miyagi's personal kata thought to have been influenced by Fukien Crane, Tensho Kata.This volume ends with the inclusion of the complete Bunkai (applications) for kata Gekisai-dai Ichi and Gekisai-dai Ni.

Volume 4: Applications of the Kata Part II
Contains the complete bunkai of Goju-ryu karate founder Miyagi Chojun for the 8 main kata of Goju: Saifa, Seiunchin, Shisochin, Sanseiru, Sepai, Kururunfa, Sesan, Suparinpei.Also includes sections on Iri Kumite, Shiai Kumite, and Yakusoku Kumite.Finishes off with Historical accounts of Kanryu Higaonna and Chojun Miyagi.

A phenomenal series, the Karate World and Goju folks everywhere NEED this to be back in print again.Higaonna's effort is really in a class by itself.

A great book that shows how to do it
A really excellent book that shows a beginner exactly what he needs to know in terms of stances, blocks, punching techniques etc. I bought this book after 2 or 3 lessons at my dojo.I felt confused by the blocking andstrikes movements, my arms where all over the place.The book identifieseack block and strike in a series of pictures that help to pin point eachstep involved. This book is well worth the price.

Owen Evans, UK

A well thumbed manual I turn to time and again
I think this book is absolutely great.As someone new to karate (3 months practice),I find the series of pictures for each kata excellent.By viewing the pictures closely, you can observe the individual details of thestances and postures etc. as a kata is performed. I find I am foreverreaching for the book as I practice the katas at home. Money wellspent.

Owen Evans, UK

A must for any karate-ka!
The 5 volumes of Higaonna Sensei's traditional karate-do is the mostextensive and well researched manual I've ever read. Each volume containsstep by step bunkai of each kata as well as thoroughly researched historyof Chojun Miyagi Sensei and of karate itself. Each move is described injapanese terminology plain and simple.Having just joined okinawangoju-ryu from Shotokan, and currently san kyu, this book is a must for anykarate-ka. The detailed step by step kata pictures actually help you inyour kata when you need to know certain moves or are learning new ones. Ihighly recommend these manuals. ... Read more

Product Description
A guide to the philosophy and techniques of the martial art of karate. It contains advice on discipline, fitness, training exercises and competition karate and is illustrated with 1000 black and white photographs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Japanese Karate 101
When I took up Karate as a kid in the 1970's there was not alot out there but the Oyama books were just coming in to the U.S. about this time and his books were the first to give me a real insight into the intensity of Japanes Karate and especially my own system of Go Ju Ryu.This is certaintly a hard style training and I was glad to have studied it as much as many at the time were turning up their noses at hard style systems for softer style martial arts systems that looked pretty but rarely survived contact for long at tournaments against this ultra hard no nonsense system.This book back in the 1970's was known as "Mas Oyama's essential karate," and I have come to see how timeless his system was and the man behind it. If you enjoy this book and have a kid in karate make sure you get them The Kumite dvd I have also reviewed.

same book but different tiles from the authentic author
this is the same book previously titled "essential karate". i do owned the 2 books but this version "complete karate course" was on my martial arts library while the "essential karate" was on my own living room so that when i want to review some techniques i can look at them. great book from a great teacher. a five star rating for grandmaster oyama.

Recommended reading for all students of Kyokushin
The title of this book sounds really promising, Mas Oyama's Complete Karate Course, but I would actually prefer to use the word Complement instead of Complete. It's a really good book and is definitively mandatory reading for any student of Kyokushin, even if the previous title of this book (Mas Oyama's Essential Karate) more reflects what it's about. This book explains the importance of the basics of Kyokushin, and it gets understandable what makes this style so special and different from the more traditional Okinawa styles. The reader gets information and valuable points about techniques, training, taming for blocking, punching, and kicking. This book is recommended reading for all students of Kyokushin.

Mas Oyama's Complete Karate Course - For Beginners
Any beginner student of karate and specially Kyokushin Karate can complement his initial studies with the use of this book.It is well illustrated and shows in good detail, the basic positions, punches, kicks and blocks the Kyokushin way.However it is not a substitute for actual classroom practice and learning.I definetely recommended for those who are taking their first steps in Kyokushin Kay Kan Karate.

Truly Inspiring!
Definitely a must-have for all karate-ka!This book was the first to give me a real insight into the intensity of the spirit of karate-do.I'm glad I read this one early on in my training; it helped me understand intensitymuch better durring my early years than I probably would have otherwise. If you practice kyokushin, then This book is a definite help if you like topractice your techniques on your own time, and I would also heartillyrecommend this book for those who aren't from the kyokushin school.(Imyself am not from their school, but I still found this book extremelyhelpful.) I first read this book a few years ago (then known as "MasOyama's essential karate," and I still come back to read it again andagain frequently. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

sehr gutes Buch

Obwohl ich nicht aus dem Uechi Ryu stamme, halte ich dieses Buch für eines der besten Lehrbücher der Kampfkunst die es gibt. Mr. Mattson hat meine vollste Hochachtung für diese gelungene und nützliche Arbeit.

Rare Book, Rare Style, Rare Quality
The depth of this book, first and foremost, not just on the physical movements, but on the philosophy of Karate, is phenomenal.Mr. Mattson, though young when he wrote this book, had an incredible grasp on the essence of Karate-Do, and of his style.Though not a practitioner of Uechi-ryu Karate and therefore unfit for an indepth judgement, his skill is obviously there.He shows, step by step and in great detail (including diagrams), the movements of two of the three main Kata: Sanchin and Seisan.Before the forms he outlines basic hand strikes, leg strikes, blocks and stances, as well as warm ups and drills.After each kata, however, he delves even deeper, while showing a generous amount of applications (Bunkai, I believe it is usually called in Karate).The stories/legends of great teachers at the end - which are my favorite part of all martial arts primers - is what adds a real aesthetic value to the whole book.Another good book on another Okinawan style of Karate is Shoshin Nagamine's "The Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do".

Great piece of work! Enjoyed it a lot, as well as learned a few things too!

Down Memory Lane with Karate in the Early Years in the U.S.
This is a blast from the past. The author did it right. He went to Okinawa and studied with the best folks he could find and listened to every word he heard and believed it all.

He then enlisted a great photographer (the black and white photos are neat) and put together a neat book.

The upside; he sets out a traditional style of karate (Ueichi-ryu) in good detail, and recites exactly the stories he heard at the dojo after training. This book could not be more sincere. And there is a lot of good information in it.

The downside; he wrote this book a long time ago, when he was a shodan (first degree) black belt. Now he's a ninth degree black belt in this style. Therefore his style isn't as mature as it would become. He also, at the time of this book, bought every story he heard about the style hook, line and sinker. The book is therefore exclusively that of an advocate, with no critical balance.

The book is primarily of historical value at this point; there is better scholarship that this on the history of his style, and there is better instruction in technique than this. But this sets out beautifully the awe and wonder of a karate student who is exposed to a legitimate style at a time when karate was as exotic as the far side of Neptune.

So read this for historical value, and for the sincerity of the author, and for the nifty photographs.

Necessary Text for Uechi-Ryu Beginners
I usually do not recommend a book for martial arts study.A few I have found contain the basics that can help a beginner.This is one.Though Mr. Mattson may blush at his form now--he was a 1st degree and he is now a9th degree--it is sufficient to help a student in self-study.

I wouldrecommend a student use this book to help their study under the guidence ofa teacher.

It was a facinating look at the world of karate.
I used this book as the primary reference book while doing research for a children's book that I wrote several years ago.Encyclopedias and other karate books just weren't as definitive as Mr. Mattson's. It was fantastic. Thank you for all the illustrations and directions.I thought so highlyof this book, that a brief description and thank you is included on myacknowledgment page. It is now several years later and I am finally goingto start my own training at a local school. ... Read more

Product Description
Martial artists require a unique physical training program, one that ensures that powerful attacking and rapid counterattacking techniques can be used in self-defense performed over the full course of any contest or practice. In Fitness for Full-Contact Fighters, trainer, author, and fighter Christoph Delp presents a fitness training program expertly tailored to the martial arts. The book, amply illustrated with spectacular photographs from renowned photographers, details the basics of martial arts fitness training and offers an in-depth description of its various elements: flexibility, stamina, and power. The exercises are described in detail and presented step-by-step by leading martial artists. The book focuses on planning and monitoring one’s training and includes complete training programs as well as extensive advice on the proper diet. With this guide, martial artists at all skill levels, from newcomers to those at an advanced level, vastly improve their ability to perform in training and competition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

good book
knew most of the things in this book, thought it would be different.good for a begginer or someone who wants to jsut read up on info regarding stretches and exercises for the martial artist

Basic, Basic, Basic!
Allow me to start off by stating emphatically that this is not a bad book at all, it's just simply a very well done book on nothing more than basics, basics, basics! If you are new to the martial arts and training, then this would be a great book for you to own, but if you have any experience at all, then you will probably find this book of little use to you.

The layout and format are very well done and the photographs are in color and printed on glossy paper, always a plus. The author covers such fitness areas as; stretching, dieting, weight training, aerobics, etc. However, these areas are not really gone over with any great detail and as I said before, are pretty basic in nature. This book would be of a greater benefit to someone who was involved in kickboxing, more so that any other martial art, and that is exactly what the title implies.

Here are some additional books on training that you may want to check out as well.

Practical Programming for Strength Training

Starting Strength (2nd edition)

Ultimate Flexibility: A Complete Guide to Stretching for Martial Arts

Fighter's Fact Book: Over 400 Concepts, Principles, and Drills to Make You a Better Fighter

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

Timing in the Fighting Arts: Your Guide to Winning in the Ring and Surviving on the Street

Just to name a few!

Shawn Kovacich
Martial Artist/Author of the Achieving Kicking Excellence series.

Only basic knowledge on both fitness and stretching
Purchased this book from other book store. I also have a quick reading to finish the book, found out only basic knowledge on both fitness and stretching. Pictures attached are helpful. I only refer to remind me on certain muscle group to both train up and stretching.

Nice pictures and dissapointing contents
I read this book very fast, the reason was that the ideas and contents of the book were so basic and to be honest, nothing interesting for me. I was looking for advanced tips and contents which I couldn`t find them in the book. Howver, It `s a nice reference book for your library. ... Read more

Product Description
Beginners Guide To Shotokan Karate. This is with out a doubt the most popular style of Traditional Japanese Karate in the world today with over 336 pages chocked full of information there must be a reason that this is the 10th Edition of this work. Taught by Master Instructor John van Weenan this is the perfect book for the new student of traditional Shotokan Karate. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

It's sill a masterpiece!!
"Beginner to Black belt" (up to 4th kyu anyway) by John was my first ever book on karate & when I look back now over the years and compare it with the "Hundreds" of other books I have about karate, martial arts & Shotokan in particular, I have to admit he was the leader in this type of book.

It's a pity he didn't manage to get around to finishing Volumes 2 & 3 of his Advanced Kata books, I can't remember the reason he gave me when I wrote to him as to why.

His senior student Sahota however has done a wonderful job in taking over where John left off in his two seminal works on the subject.

DON'T FORGET, John was the first to display the kata in such a way with such clarity through its pictures and description - EVER! The fact that it's still so popular on the high street shop bookshelves only goes to prove its success.

Even though it only goes up to 4th kyu, it's PACKED full of basic (Kihon) information & sparring (Kumite) that fills the void many other so-called karate books leave.

In the last sections you have suggested syllabuses', large self-defence techniques (for men & women), glossaries & terminology.

Despite its initial shortfall, it's still a MASSIVE & highly successful book written by a longstanding professional on the subject, who is still highly respected by all.

Beginner's Bible
This is a high quality book with an excellent photographic layout clearly showing each move with intermediate shots and a short explanatory text.Includes photos of the application of some techniques.I've had my copyfor almost ten years, and I still occasionally pull it out for a look over. If you're looking for a reference book for the basic Shotokan katas, Ihaven't seen one better than this. ... Read more

Product Description
The three advanced kata in this book are a challenge to the performer's level of maturity. From the smooth and flowing movements of Gojushiho Dai through the transformations in the equally long Gojushiho Sho to the serene and mellow Meikyo kata, both the techniques learned in the basic kata and more sophisticated tactics call on the deepest reserves of balance, coordination, timing and technical skill.

Here is a list of all volumes in this series:
Vol. 1: Comprehensive
Vol. 2: Fundamentals
Vol. 3: Kumite 1
Vol. 4: Kumite 2
Vol. 5: Heian, Tekki
Vol. 6: Bassai, Kanku
Vol. 7: Jutte, Hangetsu, Empi
Vol. 8: Gankaku, Jion
Vol. 9: Bassai Sho, Kanku Sho, Chinte
Vol.10: Unsu, Sochin, Nijushiho
Vol. 11: Gojushiho Dai, Gojushiho Sho, Meikyo ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Simply the Best
The Best Karate Series are the definitive books for learning the art of Shotokan karate. They have been around for many years and still none have surpassed their excellence. They are very helpful for the beginner and the advanced student alike. I have read them all and have found that each book in the series is excellent. Although you can't learn a martial art from a book alone, these books are an excellent supplement to your training and are very helpful in learning the finer points of the art of Shotokan. Each book in this series sets the standard for books on Shotokan training. There are simply none better, at least none better that I have found, and I read a lot of martial arts books. I highly recommend these books for anyone who is interested in improving their karate or who is interested in Shotokan. They are simply the best! Highly recommended. 5 Stars.

Bohdi Sanders, Shotokan Blackbelt and author of Warrior Wisdom: The Warrior's Path

A great guide for advanced Shotokan Karate students.
The late Masatoshi Nakayama wrote these "Best Karate" series so that all Shotokan students could better understand the role kata played in the art. This volume includes three advanced black belt katas.They include Gojushio Dai, Gojushio Sho and Meikyo.In the Shotokan curriculum these katas are usually not learned until the student has many years of practice.They are challenging katas even for advanced students.Like all the books in this series, the photographs are clear and the techniques shown are done by advanced black belts.It should be emphasized, that it is very difficult, if not impossible, to learn how to perform these katas from the book alone.The value of this book can be best appreciated when it is used in conjunction with actual practice with a Shotokan instructor.Rating:4 Stars.Very good book.Joseph J. Truncale (Bushi Satori Ryu-Author: Samurai Aerobics, Wakizashi Jutsu)

The best book in the field of Shotokan Karate
I think that the BEST KARATE series constitute a very important aid for the correct performance of the Kata to the Shotokan Karateka. They go through all techniques in detail with explicite photos and they give in parallel the name in japanese, fact which is helpfull to the serious reader in order to understand how to perform them correctly. This series should be purchased by every karateka who wants to work seriously in the field of Karate do. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Book Review
This is a great book to be used as a supplement to ones martial arts training. I would strongly recomend this book for any martial arts enthusiast or someone that is just interested in Tae Kwon Do.

A Tae Kwon Do Book Worth Obtaining, Reading, and Pondering
Duk-sung Son is one of the original students of Chung Do Kwan founder Won-kuk Lee, who studied karate in Japan during the Japanese occupation of Korea.Originally published in 1968, this is the "old school" tae kwon do Chung Do Kwan pretty much as Son learned it from Lee in Korea, prior to the changes made to the art directed at making it much different from Japanese karate and more sport oriented.

The level of detail in this volume makes it worth obtaining.It was clearly written for university level students (I believe Son taught at a New York University for many years).Eschewing simple explanations and redundancy, Son presents detailed descriptions of techniques, skills, and common mistakes.Son himself posed as the model for all of the photographs, and indeed one can see from various photos his incredible physique.This text is a complete beginning through intermediate course for Chung Do Kwan Tae Kwon Do, covering all materials up to black belt level.The chapters are as follows:

1.Introductory

2.What is Tae Kwon Do?

3.The Fundamentals of Tae Kwon Do

4.Warming Up Exercises

5.Basic Blows, Kicks, and Blocks

6.Forms

7.Three-Step Sparring

8.Practical Applications

9.Free-Style Fighting

10. Other Exercises and Breaking

11. Conclusion

~Index

The chapters "what is tae kwon do?" and those on sparring illustrate the influence of Korean culture as well as similarities to Japanese style karate.The chapter on forms (hyung) includes the two basic forms Son devised himself (Kuk Mu 1 & Kuk Mu 2), the five Pyung Ahn Hyung, Chul Gi 1 (Naihanchi Chodan), and Pal Sek (Bassai).

Son offers no easy solutions, and does not cloak his advice in the mists of myth.This is martial arts for martial art's sake, devoid of salesmanship and window dressing, before the days of 4-year-old black belts, when martial artists were known as people who pushed and worked.Son tells us:

"Although Tae Kwon Do does not have a philosophy per se, its philosophy, if it has onem is most closely akin to that of zen if, in fact it is not the same thing." (302)

Also recommended is Son's sequel, "Black Belt Korean Karate".

Important TKD book
This book surprised me. I was not expecting much from it and bought it only because I found if for a great price.Other reviewers have talked about the pictures and how good they are, but they fail to mention the text. This is well written with very precise explanations of how moves are done. Explanations of how strikes and kicks are performed with the reasoning why.The book also explains the common mistakes made and the outcome of those.All and all a good addition to anyone's TaeKwonDo library or a good general martial arts library.I only wished they had explained the more traditional forms.

Very clear and complete
This is an excellent book on Chung Do Kwon Style TKD ! The pictures are clear and very well planned - each movement is shown from start to end, stage by stage and the pictures were taken with foot-placing lines drawn on the floor, so it is easy to see where you have to step. Clearly, the author knew what he wanted: to teach you each aspect of the art.
Even for a WTF TKD student like me, this book is most invaluable, although the names of the stances, attacks and defenses are a little different from what I'm used to.

Great Reference for Chung Do Kwon Style TKD
Having studied Chung Do Kwon for twenty years (receiving my Black Belt from Grandmaster Son himself), I find this book invaluable!Now an instructor myself, it is a wonderful tool to aid in the instruction of Basics & Hyungs, showing excellent breakdown of each move.The history section could be have a bit more meat to it, but for someone interested in the technical aspects of this style it is a MUST HAVE! ... Read more

Product Description
What a kick!Here is the first-ever book-and-belt set that teaches all the right moves for beginning and intermediate students.

Written by Michael J. Dunphy, a sixth-degree black belt and USA Karate Federation hall-of-famer, The Kids' Karate Book features clear, safe, basic instruction in karate and tae kwon do.Here are the stances, the blocks, the punches - including backfist, hammerfist, swordhand, and ridgehand.And the kicks - front kick, side kick, flying kick, hook, wheel, and axe.There are breathing exercises, drills, even a section on the four "c's" - courage, commitment, courtesy, and confidence.Black-and-white, step-by-step photographs clearly break down each move and are shot by Joe Smithberger, a photographer and black belt, using real karate students as models.

Included with the book is a classic white cotton beginner's belt - an obi to loop around the waist twice.Put it on and begin to feel not just the power, but the grace, discipline, fitness, and, irrepressible enthusiasm of karate kids.Amazon.com Review
Kiai! That's what your favorite karate kid will be yelling once presentedwith this inspiring karate kit. Kiai, meaning "spirited yell," is theJapanese word used to help karate students breathe properly while they'repracticing their high blocks and hammerfist strikes. Karate champion and7th degree black belt Michael J. Dunphy explains this and the rest of theyin and yang of becoming a karate or tae kwon do master in this practicaland engaging book. Each page features photos of children demonstratingeverything from how to tie a karate belt, or obi, to the correctform for punching a clean hole through newspaper. Karate is meant to trainyour mind and spirit as well as your body, and the book teaches not onlythe moves, but the importance of discipline, courtesy, and other valuesnecessary to becoming a master of this martial art. While it may be hardfor kids to maintain a long-term commitment to karate or tae kwon do usingonly The Kids' Karate Book, a final chapter offers tips andresources for going further with the practice. Packaged with a white cottonobi to tie on before each session, this is a great introduction to adiscipline sure to build confidence as well as muscles! (Ages 6 and older)--Maria Dolan ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Superb Resource for Young Novices
Extremely well done and presented, this book offers unique introduction and insight into the martial arts World for aspiring young enthusiasts and their parents. The no nonsense information is presented in a very specialway that kids can relate to and others can learn from quickly. The manypictures are very clear and feature not only techniques in good form butalso historical and some martial arts celebrity shots that everyone willappreciate. The drills that are presented are challenging and on thecutting edge as far as developmental tools and will improve the quality ofmartial arts performance overall by novices and advanced practitioners. Thedrills are excellent models that all instructors will want to have accessto. ... Read more

Product Description
Born in Kagoshima Prefecture in 1910, Gogen Yamaguchi wenton to become world famous as 'The Cat.' A determined man, best knownfor his long black hair, who practiced his katas in the snow and underwaterfalls, Gogen Yamaguchi made his mark in the martial arts world.

This book is filled with over 1200 line drawings carefully explained indetail by the author. Beginning with the basics of Goju Ryu, moving onto two-man sparring and self defense for women, these 300 plus pagesthoroughly express the author's passion and love for his chosen style.

Initially written as a textbook for his students to help them understandtheir style, the text still holds up today as an ideal guidance book forthe student of Goju Ryu. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Awesome
This is a great book, BUT, I think it takes some previous training and not a white belt level to comprehend the hidden golden nuggets that Yamaguchi Sensei hid in here...
It's all there as if he wrote a letter to you and had it handed down the line to you.
For a Goju person , this is a MUST buy ! I study Okinawan Goju, but to get lessons from a MASTER like Yamaguchi Sensei,...so worth it !
Do yourself the favor and just pull the trigger and buy it !
Thank you Yamaguchi Sensei for leaving such a treasure behind for us ! And thank you to the publisher for making it available so economically !

Easy to read
An easy to read and a fundamental book to all seeking to learn Japanese Goju-Ryu.

Inspired
The tale of the foundations of the fighting style known as Goju-Ryu, and the efforts of those who spread this unique and effective fighting system around the world.From its roots, to the man known infamously as "the cat" and up through the ages to where it is now, this book has it all!

Important book to karatecas
There are a lot of essential informations in this book, which are often left aside in karate classes. This book is of vital importance to those who really study Karate-do.
However, the pictures in the book are of poor quality, and so appears to be the translation. The text is not fluent especially when compared to Funakoshi's Karate-do Kyohan.

Goju Ryu Karate Do Kyohan
Product was in pretty good condition and arrived within a reasonable time. Overall quite satisfied with the purchase. ... Read more

Product Description
It is said that the original martial arts masters would only give their "secrets" to the most trusted students-and never to Westerners. From the perspective of acupoint strikes it is easy to see why these claims originated: the masters knew that Westerners could not understand the underlying concepts. Until now.Veteran martial artist Cliff Field has been a physician for nearly 30 years and has used acupuncture in his practice for nearly that long. His background in both Eastern and Western medicine, as well as his years studying karate, gives him a unique insight into how strikes to specific points on the human body can cause unexpected-even lethal-damage.In this book, Field gives you a deep understanding of human anatomy, physiology, physics, biomechanics, and energetics-the flow of chi through the meridians-as it pertains to martial arts techniques. This easy-to-understand examination of karate from both a Western medical perspective and an Eastern energetic perspective demonstrates how to attack the body at its weakest points, both anatomically and energetically ... Read more

Product Description
Karate is not just a sport or a hobby—it’s a lifetime study toward perfection of character. Here, Dave Lowry, one of the best-known writers on the Japanese martial arts, illuminates the complete path of karate including practice, philosophy, and culture. He 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
   • Whether a karate student really needs to study in Japan to perfect the art
   • 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
   • 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. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Not worth reading
A very negative approach to karate. the author is in love with his own legend and looks down at most other karate approaches outside his own. The first karate book that i have not been able to complete.

Different approach to Karate!
This book does not cover the technique and application of Karate like most other books do. It covers experiences and ideas many Karateka associate with Karate and tries to give realistic meanings and explanations to them. Some of the interesting topics discussed are the meaning of a black belt, hitting stuff, choosing your sensei, going to Japan to learn, and quitting Karate.

The language is so interesting and simple that it feels like it came out of someone's blog. I think this book is a collection of articles written on Karate by Dave Lowry, however I am not sure if this is entirely true.

Insiders perspective
I'm one of those guys that always wanted to take karate when I was a kid.As an adult I studied karate for about six months before moving half way across the country.In that time I managed to advance to "great-white-belt-wonder" (so I didn't really get far!)But I really enjoyed it and would like to get back into it.The Karate Way ismotivation to get back to it sooner than later.

Lowry's book does a fantastic job of putting martial training into perspective; he fully understands the dedication it takes to become a true martial arts great, and how to temper that level of training with the realities of life, work, family, and other pursuits.His book had something to offer me - the beginner.It made me think about what I will look for when I get back into the martial arts, as in how much abuse will my body take as I get older, what to look for in a sensei, and how much time might be appropriate to continued self-improvement.I suspect this book would offer even more the the advanced karateka, from answering questions about why you are there in the first place, to where you are going, to your responsibility as a representative of karate.

Whether you are a black belt, or have only considered training in karate, this book is likely to have something for you.

great book
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.I recommend reading it from front to back (including the intro) and not skipping around.It's a great read.

Loved this book.
I have read and reviewed many of this author's previous books and I have never been disappointed.This book is no exception. As a student and instructor of Shotokan Karate for more than forty years, and having reviewed numerous karate books for various publications in the past, I found this book book informative and interesting.The author knows his subject from personal experience, which is the best teacher.When he writes about being "a serious karate student" I found myself nodding my head in agreement. He captures the intense and focused "zen in motion" feeling of karate practice in this volume.This book should be read by all serious karate students because it contains nuggets of wisdom and advice we can all relate to in our training.I highly recommend this book. JJT
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Customer Reviews (2)

Good book on Kata bunkai
The purpose of this book is to give a practical explanation of the Shotokan Kata bunkai. It provides illustrations of practical techniques from the Shotokan Katas that can be applied in self defence situations.

Even though the bunkai was good, I didn't like the way the Kata techniques were illustrated in this book. The stances weren't good and some techniques did not look correct. Coming from a Shotokan Karate school, I can tell when the technique of the Kata is performed correctly or not, and few weren't performed correctly in this book.

On the other hand, I liked the Kata techniques that were translated into throws. For example I loved the fact that two moves in Hein Godan can actually be interpreted as 2 Judo throws, which are Morote Seo Nagi and Ogoshi. However me having some Judo background, I know for a fact that the throws weren't performed correctly in the book, but its ok as long as it provided a practical application for the Kata techniques.

Despite some of the criticims I provided above, I believe the book is a must for every Shotokan Karateka. Many senseis do not provide such good interpretation of Kata. This book will provide it, however always remember that there is no definite explanation of the Kata because it was kept a secret for centuries with very little revelation of the true applications.

Best book around on Bunkai yet!
A good Shotokan beginner's book with LOTS of clear colour pictures showing the first six kata's in the Shotokan canon up to Heian Godan.

A good compliment & natural progression from Ashley's first two titles -"Shotokan" & "Secret Karate". There are some very small mistakes in techniques though (eg. Yondan).

It begins with a good general history of karate & its development, with details of its key founders & ancient masters. Vital pressure points covered (again). As for the bunkai (application of kata moves) there are some strange & sometimes awkward moves. Some are new, some are advanced but many don't accurately follow the moves of the kata (ie. Oyo Bunkai).

However they do give a good interpretation of how throws can be incorporated. A good book overall & worth reading, as there are very few good books covering this subject.

Despite the style & interpretations used, it's still one of the BEST books on Bunkai I've seen for a very long time. ... Read more

Product Description

Easy-to-use guide on advanced levels of the world's most popular martial art.

The Advanced Shotokan Karate Bible is an authoritative, illustrated training guide and companion book to The Shotokan Karate Bible: Beginner to Black Belt. It concentrates on the black belt level and rankings beyond it, dispelling common misconceptions about earning a black belt.

More than 400 crisp color photographs plus concise text outline the author's advanced syllabus. Organized progressively by black belt degree, the book features:

• Kata (sequencing) and kumite (sparring) -- shown step-by-step in double-page spreads
• Outlines of the requirements for achieving each new level
• Useful progress and technique summary tables
• Tips on taking grading examinations, training and development
• Etiquette and sparring safety tips.

The Advanced Shotokan Karate Bible is a brightly illustrated and clearly written guide that will attract and benefit the millions of students of the sport.

Customer Reviews (2)

DISAPPOINTING
Just what the Shotokan community needed, another lackluster book. When the word "Advanced " is in the title I expect just that, a treatise that is advanced. There are at least 5 other books that cover the subject that this book does, and sorry to say, most of them are better.They are also done but people who are well known. Don't waste the money. Sorry but this is my opinion. (I am not a kid but a 60 year practioner and 3rd Dan inShotokan)

This Is Primarily A Basic Book On Shotokan Black Belt Kata!
Well I guess I should start off this review by informing the reader that this book is not an "Advanced Shotokan Karate Bible" as the title implies, it is primarily a book demonstrating the necessary katas or forms that one needs to learn to advance through the black belt ranks. Had the title been different, like say for example; Shotokan Karate: Advanced Forms for Black Belt and Beyond, that would have been a much better title and would have been more in-line with the actual content of the book.

There is really little more than a few pages of history and such at the beginning of this book and really could have been eliminated from the book and those pages used to make the kata section even that much better.

I really liked the fact that a lot of effort was used to have each movement in each form demonstrated so clearly with the background material from each photograph carefully removed to showcase the individual demonstrating each movement. This was well done and I give high regards for that. However, there were quite a few things lacking from the layout and format in this section.

There were no footwork or illustrations of overhead patterns used to show the direction of movement between moves and the explanations were very brief and could have used more detail. The author did show the applications of one or two moves in each kata at the end, but it would have been nice to have seen even more, which could have been done if the focus of this book would have been solely on the advanced katas.

This is an okay book and not horrible by any means, but it could have been so much better.

If you want to learn some advanced katas, I would recommend the following books as one of the best sources to do so.

Best Karate, Vol.6: Bassai, Kanku (Best Karate)

Best Karate, Vol.7: Jutte, Hangetsu, Empi (Best Karate)

Best Karate, Vol.8: Gankaku, Jion (Best Karate)

Best Karate, Vol.9: Bassai Sho,Kanku, Sho, Chinte (Best Karate)

Best Karate, Vol.10: Unsu, Sochin, Nijushiho (Best Karate)

Best Karate, Vol.11: Gojushiho Dai, Gojushiho Sho, Meikyo (Best Karate)

Shawn Kovacich
Martial Artist/Author of the Achieving Kicking Excellence series. ... Read more

Product Description
Grrrrrlpower!

After a bullying incident at school, Mary Leary’s young heroine joins a karate class. But karate, she learns, is not simply a method of self-defense. It also helps develop confidence and concentration. "To be sure enough of oneself to avoid a fight – that is what karate is about," her teacher, the sensei, tells her. So begins a firsthand look at what being a karate student is really like, from the special uniform and classroom to the rigorous exercises and practice sessions. Becoming a karate girl takes dedication and hard work.

With pictures and text brimming with sass and spunky style, Mary Leary charts the course of a girl getting ready to face new challenges – at the dojo and on the sidewalk after school.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

great boook
Great book for any girl doing martial arts or other activities that may seem like they are only for boys. ... Read more

Product Description
"Budo is the way to cut oneself from one’s first step to the point one can reach. To cut oneself means to face our own mind directly, honestly, strictly; to polish the mind by cutting away cowardliness, selfishness, ugliness, and weakness. To have the mind’s eye, me must have a strong mind. At the same time, it is absolutely necessary to be very humble."
-From the Foreword ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

The Essential Meaning of Karate-do
I don't know how this book came to be in my "Recommended for you" list, but I am so glad that I bought it. I had to go to the American site to check out it's customer reviews & after reading the book I felt compelled to leave some. I sincerely hope that I do it and Thomas White some justice.

A nice small book yes, but not an easy one to get on with & digest immediately as it is quite philosophical in nature. This may put some readers off. It's certainly a very thought provoking and deeply meaningful book, full of short allegories that obviously stem from the authors many years as a hard working student and proponent of karate.

Any one who has studied the martial arts for some years and devoted even a moderate amount of effort to it, will recognise the many pearls of wisdom that lie amongst it's pages.

I was nicely surprised to find on one page hidden right at the very back of the book a karate lineage of the author which shows Thomas's karate lineage through his own famous instructor Master Tsutomu Ohshima, through Grand Master Gichin Funakoshi way back to it's origins in China (QED?).

Included are short & poignant extracts from various religious texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, the Rig Veda & the Tao Te Ching to name but a few.

I will have to read it a few more times yet to get a fuller flavour it's meanings but the initial and basic thread of the book is that karate is not just about kicking & punching, nor is it intended as a weekend recreational sport, but more importantly as a way of life, to be used thoughtfully in and outside of the dojo and that the biggest enemy to anyone is oneself.

Although first published over 20 years ago, it's message is timeless and worth using for meditating upon.

Best understanding yet
Thissmall volume does more to explain the understanding of the benefits of a martial art than many larger books. From the very begining the simple and clear journey of one man to understand himself by following a way makes this a welcome addition to any serious student's library.

which self do you defend?
Sometimes the mental side of the martial arts gets lost in training.Mr. White's book attempts to put back some of the earliest lessons of the martial arts.It is one book that should be reread the longer you train.My copy is now falling apart, but after first reading it some ten years ago I am still learning from this small book.

Karate Do in Poetry
As a 16 year practitioner of the martial arts I found Thomas White's words to be inspiring.He has captured the essence of budo training in what normally must be read between the lines of technical manuals - The non-physical elements of Karate Do that are always assumed to be there, but most cannot explain...because no technical manual can guide one to the spirit of the arts.Thomas White has created a wonderful book that describes these mystic elements in what is the only literary form that could capture such an essence - poetry.Sometimes direct to the point, other times more abstract, but always with purpose. All passages reflect the experiences of this humble man on his journey toward self perfection through the martial arts.I have brought this book out countless times to share appropriate quotes and passages with my students. Buy this book.Share in the journey.

Good book for personalrenewal of the spiritual Karate.
As stated in the title, this is one mans journey for understanding through Karate. The book is an excellant rendition of the thoughts and awakenings felt by some one deciding to take the journey for understanding through a Martial Discipline. Beginners in Karate may have some difficulty in grasping the content, but beginner and teacher alike can enjoy the shared feelings of gained knowledge. For further study I suggest; Nicol's Moving Zen or Jay Gluck's Zen Combat, although both are more technique extensive, the end is the same. ... Read more