Book Description
The ancient disciplines of the martial arts are not only used for self-defense but also contribute to a person's sense of harmony and well-being. With over 700 specially commissioned photographs drawing on the expertise of highly qualified practitioners, this book examines in detail the history and philosophy behind the martial arts and the etiquette and techniques of primary and more advanced moves. The book covers such arts as aikido, which is the ability to recognize the aggressor as a source of energy; tae-kwondo, known as the art of empty hand fighting concentrating on high kicking techniques; and ju-jitsu, one of the oldest martial arts combining the art of karate, aikido and judo bases. This book is the definitive reference guide for martial arts enthusiasts and active participants in the disciplines as well as for first-time seekers of this ancient art.

About the Author
Fay Goodman is internationally qualified in many martial arts, and is a leading exponent of shintoryu and iaido. She is one of the highest graded female martial artists in the world, and was awarded in 1995 the gold medal at the European Iaido championships.

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6 Reviews 5 star:  (4) 4 star:  (1) 3 star:  (1) 2 star:    (0) 1 star:    (0)           Average Customer Review (6 customer reviews)		Share your thoughts with other customers:
Most Helpful Customer Reviews   1 of 1 people found the following review helpful: GREAT, June 21, 1999 By  "johjnpaupln" (Somewhere) - See all my reviews It's great if you want to practice a martial art, but don't know which one. I am a 1st Dan black belt in Tae Kwon Do, and I found this book very informative, althought the section on TKD wasn't as accurate as it could've been. I also considered taking another martial art, so I wanted this book. It's a must read if you're looking to take a martial art but don't know which one.  Comment | Permalink | Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)   2 of 2 people found the following review helpful: Great book for novices seeking history, variety & pictures, April 10, 1999 By  PJ2629@prodigy.net (Chicago, USA) - See all my reviews This large-sized book contains exactly what novices and prospective students are looking for. It contains brief histories, philosophies, and explanations of various martial arts forms. It's an excellent source for someone trying to decide which art to pursue. The book summarizes 13 separate martial arts forms. Using bright color photos (and masters from each art), the book summarizes how each art is practiced, equipment used, grading, clothing, and levels of advancement. Using the book, I was able to select the art I wanted to pursue; without traveling to numerous schools. This book also allowed me to "test" the presentations given by prospective instructors. It's an excellent book!