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Fundamentals of Shuai Chiao

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Daniel Weng's "Fundamentals of Shuai Chiao" was the first book in English on this traditional Chinese method of wrestling (also spelled Shuai Jiao). Weng was a direct student of Chang Tung-sheng, famed practitioner and competitor as well as master teacher at the Police College in Taipei, Taiwan until his death in 1986.

Included in the introductory section is a translation of the "Song of Shuai Chiao", also shown in Chinese calligraphy, as well a numerous photographs of Master Chang Tung-sheng demonstrating the art. There is a thorough section on history, including information on Chang Tung-sheng's teachers, training and lineage.

The technical portion is illustrated with no-nonsense line ink drawings accompanied by very specific physical descriptions. While I think the drawings could have benefitted from the little drawn-in direction arrows one can so often see in works on Chinese martial arts, if you can read, you'll be o.k.! Most of the drawings are pretty self explanatory for anyone with about a year's experience in a grappling art such as wrestling, judo, jiu jitsu, etc.

Sections covered include charicteristics & techniques, basic forms, applications of basic forms and throwing techniques, basic hand techniques and approaching gestures, grabs and breaks, training methods, falls, warm-ups, postscript. Included at the end are more photos of Master Chang giving demonstrations, with Daniel Weng and Gene Chicoine.

Earlier editions give information on the International Shuai Chiao Association, while later editions refer to the demise of the aforementioned due to politics, and feature Weng's United States Shuai Chiao Association. Interesting and unique material!