Martial arts directory - http://arkansaskarate.com

Editor's picks

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  Solo Training: The Martial Artist's Guide to Training Alone

  Book (Turtle Press)
  

  Rating (39 reviews):

  (4.1/5)

  

  repetition is the mother of skill

  There is no secret to skill in the martial arts. If you want to get better at something, you have to spend time practicing it. In Solo Training, Loren Christensen provides literally hundreds of solo drills and routines for practicing a wide variety of martial arts skills and developing the physical and mental attributes necessary to apply them effectively when it counts.Although many martial artists may be familiar with a large number of the drills and exercises in the book, I believe that everybody will find dozens of new ways to improve their solo training among the hundreds covered, or ways to make their solo training more interesting.If you're not doing extra training on your own outside of your classes, you should be - you lazy slacker. This book will help to get you started, and keep you motivated. Other books by Loren Christensen you should check out are The Fighter's Fact Book and The Way Alone. 5/5 Andrew Baye (FL, USA) - See all my reviews, June 3, 2003

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  A Must Have for Your Martial Arts Bookshelf

  This is easily the best martial arts book I have, and I own many. It ranks right up there with Christensen's Fighter's Fact Book. One reviewer said it didn't have a lot of pictures so he couldn't follow. I found the 70 pictures that are in it satisfactory, and his explanations to be absolutely clear. That reviewer may be happier with a picture book, not one that makes the reader think.Christensen is probably the funniest martial arts writer there is. His humor is as disarming as his information is right on and exactly what you want to know. He was an MP in Vietnam and a street cop in Portland, Oregon, so he knows what he is talking about, too. All of his martial arts books are aimed toward the street, meaning his stuff is practical. Solo Training has tons of information that will make your solo workout productive and a real leaning experience. Not only does he give the reader many drills and exercises, but he has provided a dozen complete workouts for you to follow. He shows... 5/5 Tom Luke - See all my reviews This review is from: Solo Training: The Martial Artist's Guide to Training Alone (Paperback) This is easily the best martial arts book I have, and I own many. It ranks right up there with Christensen's Fighter's Fact Book. One reviewer said it didn't have a lot of pictures so he couldn't follow. I found the 70 pictures that are in it satisfactory, and his explanations to be absolutely clear. That reviewer may be happier with a picture book, not one that makes the reader think.Christensen is probably the funniest martial arts writer there is. His humor is as disarming as his information is right on and exactly what you want to know. He was an MP in Vietnam and a street cop in Portland, Oregon, so he knows what he is talking about, too. All of his martial arts books are aimed toward the street, meaning his stuff is practical. Solo Training has tons of information that will make your solo workout productive and a real leaning experience. Not only does he give the reader many drills and exercises, but he has provided a dozen complete workouts for you to follow. He shows... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 18, 2001

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  Solid, practical advice

  Most practitioners think that training in the dojo is fun. Many feel that training by themselves bites. Not only is there no one to help you, there is also no one to motivate you. Regardless, while tandem drills (e.g., bunkai, kumite, randori) are pretty much impossible to do on your own, some things are best practiced outside of formal class, especially where you need to focus on improving deficiencies that may not be shared with the rest of the class. If you really want to progress, you need to be able to effectively train alone.Loren Christensen's excellent work provides numerous tips, techniques, and exercises to get the most out of your solo training. A common complaint that my new students relate is that they are afraid to train outside of class for fear of learning techniques incorrectly. They think that unlearning bad habits is far worse than doing nothing at all so they do not practice on their own. Believe me, with this fine text even beginners can benefit. There... 5/5 L. A. Kane (Seattle, WA USA) - See all my reviews, November 1, 2004

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  List Price: $19.95
  

  Notes: BRAND NEW FROM PUBLISHER! 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Tracking provided on most orders. Buy with Confidence! Millions of books sold!

  Condition: New

  ISBN13: 9781880336595

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  Rough Rider Black Foam Padded Nunchakus

  Sports (Fury)
  

  Rating (66 reviews):

  (4.5/5)

  

  Good Nunchaku

  I ordered 2 nunchaku. They arrived on time and matched the picture displayed. Both of my nunchaku were in good condition and didn't have any major concerns. However, there was a small dent in the foam at the bottom of one of my nunchaku. I can't seem to bend the foam back to fix the dent. Besides this small aesthetic issue, there were no problems with the nunchaku.They are fairly light (weight is towards the top, but not enough to create difficulties) and the swivel joint allows for smooth rotation. There are 7 links that make up the chain. The foam doesn't seem to be able to be moved. The hard plastic rod under the foam ends before the foam. The foam continues on for about 7-8 mm.I would recommend these foam nunchaku to anyone who wanted to learn. The golden dragon design is fairly light and will probably start to fade. The chain and diameter of the nunchaku isn't too big or too small in my opinion. One of my nunchaku was slightly longer than the other by... 5/5 ShadowAries (California) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Rough Rider Black Foam Padded Nunchakus (Misc.) I ordered 2 nunchaku. They arrived on time and matched the picture displayed. Both of my nunchaku were in good condition and didn't have any major concerns. However, there was a small dent in the foam at the bottom of one of my nunchaku. I can't seem to bend the foam back to fix the dent. Besides this small aesthetic issue, there were no problems with the nunchaku.They are fairly light (weight is towards the top, but not enough to create difficulties) and the swivel joint allows for smooth rotation. There are 7 links that make up the chain. The foam doesn't seem to be able to be moved. The hard plastic rod under the foam ends before the foam. The foam continues on for about 7-8 mm.I would recommend these foam nunchaku to anyone who wanted to learn. The golden dragon design is fairly light and will probably start to fade. The chain and diameter of the nunchaku isn't too big or too small in my opinion. One of my nunchaku was slightly longer than the other by... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , August 26, 2011

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  Excellent thing!

  I have some kids students who used to practice with nunchakus made of wood, but with the firsts strikes that they received by themselfs they start to used with scare and try to evoid the trainning. With this padded nunchakus (that also have a very professional aspect) this kids love the trainning seassons, are not scared at all ('cause there's not injuries) and develop an incredible habilities with them ('cause this are so much lighter) and you can generate an amazing speed with them... so, when they use the "real" ones again, it's so much easier to do the excercises and get a better control.You can also use this for martial art presentations, embus, videos, movies and you'll be an xtremme ninja!!! XD 5/5 Kabir Frank Suescun - See all my reviews, November 23, 2010

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  Exactly what I wanted

  Produced was exactly what I expected. Great for beginners just starting to learn how to use nunchakus. Padding is enough to protect from the inevitable self-inflicted strike to the head, back, etc. The chain with swivel joints allows for very smooth movement. 5/5 Rabbit - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Rough Rider Black Foam Padded Nunchakus (Misc.) Produced was exactly what I expected. Great for beginners just starting to learn how to use nunchakus. Padding is enough to protect from the inevitable self-inflicted strike to the head, back, etc. The chain with swivel joints allows for very smooth movement. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , July 17, 2011

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  12" Oveall Length Foam Trainers with Metal Chain

  Foam in .25" Thick and Extends Length of Each Handle

  Ideal for Full Force Training

  Look for the Fury Logo to Insure a Genuine Product

  Comfortable and Safe for All of Your Training Needs

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• 

  The Anatomy of Martial Arts: An Illustrated Guide to the Muscles Used for Each Strike, Kick, and Throw

  Book (Ulysses Press)
  

  Rating (45 reviews):

  (4.2/5)

  

  A MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR MARTIAL ARTS STUDENTS, TEACHERS, & COACHES

  Every serious martial arts student, teacher, and coach should have this book on his or her shelf. It is a fantastic resource that you will reference again and again.As a martial arts student myself, I will look up techniques I'm working on to help me understand how my body is functioning. The book's descriptions and illustrations assist me to visualize each technique into its component parts.As a coach and instructor, this book has changed the way I approach certain techniques with my athletes. The speed/power/accuracy descriptions and key exercises provided by the authors are valuable tools when I'm coaching both novice and elite athletes.I have been training in various martial arts for over 25 years and hold advanced black belt ranks in taekwondo and hapkido/yongmudo. I have also trained extensively in Brazilian jiujitsu and kendo, with some experience in judo and karate. Currently, I spend most of my time coaching competitive taekwondo... 5/5 Charles Thornton (Bethesda, Maryland, United States) - See all my reviews This review is from: The Anatomy of Martial Arts: An Illustrated Guide to the Muscles Used for Each Strike, Kick, and Throw (Paperback) Every serious martial arts student, teacher, and coach should have this book on his or her shelf. It is a fantastic resource that you will reference again and again.As a martial arts student myself, I will look up techniques I'm working on to help me understand how my body is functioning. The book's descriptions and illustrations assist me to visualize each technique into its component parts.As a coach and instructor, this book has changed the way I approach certain techniques with my athletes. The speed/power/accuracy descriptions and key exercises provided by the authors are valuable tools when I'm coaching both novice and elite athletes.I have been training in various martial arts for over 25 years and hold advanced black belt ranks in taekwondo and hapkido/yongmudo. I have also trained extensively in Brazilian jiujitsu and kendo, with some experience in judo and karate. Currently, I spend most of my time coaching competitive taekwondo... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , April 7, 2011

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  an easy read but not as complete as the knowledge from my sempai who is a trained Physio

  I started Shotokan Kaate when I was 17. I am 23 now. Been doing it regularly for 6 years. I should probably say first I was a lazy teenager who didn;t get much exercise outside of a quick walk. I didn't do sports. My joints were stiff. 6 years later I still am but have improved flexibility. If only I was told the correct way to stretch. Joint pains and problems are developing now.This is a good book. It is very broad as some reviewer say. It covers the general muscles that are used in a technique, but they could have broken them down further in steps as the technique is applied which muscles activate too and how it adds power. And when the wrong muscles are used (tense shoulders/ bent arm in a straight punch) they reduce power and speed.Of course it is a lot more accessible than a medical/university text or primer on physiotherapy, kinesiology, sports science, biology and biomechanics. That's why I bought it. Those other books are really expensive... 4/5 Mr. V. Lee - See all my reviews, April 22, 2011

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  Excellent reference book for martial artists

  Except for being a guide into muscle groups employed by diverse martial arts' techniques, this book also offers a general overview of common basic elements in different Martial Arts. Although intended for people who are already practicing them, it can be useful as a suggestion to use any of martial arts as an alternative training for fitness or any other training regimen.For those already involved in martial arts, this is a reference book, useful on several different levels. The first and the most obvious one is given by the book's title and the content, where text, photographs, and illustrations are finely in tune with each other, giving an insight into muscular point-counterpoint action that underlies all martial arts' techniques. In particular, the combination of photographs and illustrations with some occasional humorous detail makes them memorable and adds to the clarity of the whole. The Appendix 2, with alphabetized muscles' names and actions, as well as the... 5/5 Maja Grujic Stojkov - See all my reviews This review is from: The Anatomy of Martial Arts: An Illustrated Guide to the Muscles Used for Each Strike, Kick, and Throw (Paperback) Except for being a guide into muscle groups employed by diverse martial arts' techniques, this book also offers a general overview of common basic elements in different Martial Arts. Although intended for people who are already practicing them, it can be useful as a suggestion to use any of martial arts as an alternative training for fitness or any other training regimen.For those already involved in martial arts, this is a reference book, useful on several different levels. The first and the most obvious one is given by the book's title and the content, where text, photographs, and illustrations are finely in tune with each other, giving an insight into muscular point-counterpoint action that underlies all martial arts' techniques. In particular, the combination of photographs and illustrations with some occasional humorous detail makes them memorable and adds to the clarity of the whole. The Appendix 2, with alphabetized muscles' names and actions, as well as the... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , April 11, 2011

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  List Price: $16.95
  

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  Martial Arts 50 Movie Pack Collection

  DVD (Mill Creek Entertainment)
  

  Rating (44 reviews):

  (3.8/5)

  

  Craptacular!

  This collection is well worth every penny you'll spend on it, as long you enjoy this film genre. Personally, these movies evoke more laughter for me than most of the comedies being currently released. Some of the movies don't really qualify as martial arts movies - in particular, I'm referring to Black Cobra 1, 2, and 3 - three of the worst movies ever made. These movies, starring former NFL player Fred "The Hammer" Williamson would more appropriately be categorized as action movies, although there isn't a Hell of a lot of action in them. I digress. The point is that there are maybe 3 punches thrown in the entire first movie. It's definitely not a martial arts movie. Most of the movies in this collection, however, are exactly what you would expect. In particular, there are three movies, Ninja Death 1, 2, and 3 that are so awful that they border on greatness. I'm not a film student, so I couldn't tell you what the filming technique is called wherein the "actors" fight in... 5/5 Lo Wang - See all my reviews This review is from: Martial Arts 50 Movie Pack Collection (DVD) This collection is well worth every penny you'll spend on it, as long you enjoy this film genre. Personally, these movies evoke more laughter for me than most of the comedies being currently released. Some of the movies don't really qualify as martial arts movies - in particular, I'm referring to Black Cobra 1, 2, and 3 - three of the worst movies ever made. These movies, starring former NFL player Fred "The Hammer" Williamson would more appropriately be categorized as action movies, although there isn't a Hell of a lot of action in them. I digress. The point is that there are maybe 3 punches thrown in the entire first movie. It's definitely not a martial arts movie. Most of the movies in this collection, however, are exactly what you would expect. In particular, there are three movies, Ninja Death 1, 2, and 3 that are so awful that they border on greatness. I'm not a film student, so I couldn't tell you what the filming technique is called wherein the "actors" fight in... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , February 16, 2007

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  On a 1 to 10 scale, this collection rates : 4.8

  Some of the titles in MARTIAL ARTS 50 MOVIE PACK are so obscure, very little information could be gotten about them. A couple of selections here are from a long-forgotten American TV series. There's even a few spaghetti-karate films thrown into the mix. The majority however originate in the Far East: Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines.Lots of choreography went into the making of these movies; undoubtedly, there were a few unintentional injuries along the way, too. The action and pratfalls are non-stop and the plots mere window dressing for the foot-to-head combat scenes. For all martial arts fans these cinematic slugfests are sure-to-please.Overall rating was achieved by averaging out viewer polling on 42 of these titles. Based on a film resource website's 1 to 10 scoring system, the current rating for MARTIAL ARTS is: 4.8.The following alphabetized program list includes individual poll scores, original theatrical names (where indicated),... 3/5 Annie Van Auken (Planet Earth) - See all my reviews, April 16, 2007

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  YOU ARE DAM RIGHT IT DESERVES A 5/5, AND THESE ARE NOT MOVIES THAT ARE SO BAD THEY ARE GOOD, ALRIGHT MOST OF THEM ARE.

  I was looking through the list of movies surprised to see that all 20 movies that I bought in a 20 pack are in this 50 pack. And now I punching myself in the head this very momentttt because I REALLY WISH I WOULD HAVE JUST PAYED LIKE 20 DOLLARS OR WHATEVER IT WAS EXTRA BECUASE THERE WERE ONLY LIKE 3 GOOD MOVIES IN THE 20 PACK, BUT THERE IS LIKE 10 GOOD ONES IN THIS FREAKING 50 PACK.Let me go over what I am talking about.20 pack has ninja death 1, 50 pack actually has the sequels part 2 and 3.50 pack has guy with secret kungfu with meng fei, 20 pack doesn't.50 pack has a chow yunfat and a jackie chan movie, 20 pack doesn't.Now I'm 99% sure that the jackie and chow movies suck balls, but that is why you go exploring. In the 20 pack I found one of the greatest kungfu movies ever, shadow ninja, which is of course in the 50 pack, what the real name of it is I don't know, but I do know that I would buy it at like best buy for up... 5/5 morgoth "we lamas are traditional enemies of ... (omaha, NE) - See all my reviews This review is from: Martial Arts 50 Movie Pack Collection (DVD) I was looking through the list of movies surprised to see that all 20 movies that I bought in a 20 pack are in this 50 pack. And now I punching myself in the head this very momentttt because I REALLY WISH I WOULD HAVE JUST PAYED LIKE 20 DOLLARS OR WHATEVER IT WAS EXTRA BECUASE THERE WERE ONLY LIKE 3 GOOD MOVIES IN THE 20 PACK, BUT THERE IS LIKE 10 GOOD ONES IN THIS FREAKING 50 PACK.Let me go over what I am talking about.20 pack has ninja death 1, 50 pack actually has the sequels part 2 and 3.50 pack has guy with secret kungfu with meng fei, 20 pack doesn't.50 pack has a chow yunfat and a jackie chan movie, 20 pack doesn't.Now I'm 99% sure that the jackie and chow movies suck balls, but that is why you go exploring. In the 20 pack I found one of the greatest kungfu movies ever, shadow ninja, which is of course in the 50 pack, what the real name of it is I don't know, but I do know that I would buy it at like best buy for up... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 27, 2006

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  List Price: $29.98
  

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  Living the Martial Way : A Manual for the Way a Modern Warrior Should Think

  Book (Barricade Books)
  

  Rating (126 reviews):

  (4.6/5)

  

  A Must Read for Martial Artists

  'Living the Martial Way' is a valuable book that should be read by serious martial artists.The author explores a wide range of issues including the mental/'spiritual' aspects, history, philosophy, strategy/tactics, and many others. This work is particularly valuable to those who do not have the good fortune to have an instructor who is a traditionalist. Those martial artists who have such a teacher have undoubtedly gotten a dose of most of the best of this volume. Those without such a mentor will doubly benefit from Morgan's instruction.Here is the breakdown of this book as I see it:The Good----------------1. Lots of interesting history.2. Excellent material on the ethical principles, loyalty, honor, etc.3. Philosophical roots of the martial arts.4. The benefits of training, particularly as it applies to seeking ecellence in other areas of one's life.5. A good section on... 5/5 S. Peek (Rocky Mountains, USA) - See all my reviews, June 14, 2005

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  Outstanding

  This book is a masterpiece. It is a great guide for the martial artist and fills in many gaps in his or her training. For example, Morgan has a chapter on Honor. He is right when he states that we in the martial arts "world" hear the word "honor" often, but, never have its definition articulated to us. He gives a groundwork of tenets (obligation, justice, and courage)and builds a thesis as to why these tenets are important to martial artist of all belt ranks. Even though I think his tenets are incomplete, but neverless insightful; it is a great start, and he is the first to forcefully lay down such a well reasoned view.The book is full of training ideas and incorperating the martial arts into one's "everyday" life. I often refer to this book when I have not lived up to one of the tenets and strive to be a better martial artist and after reading this book, a better man. 5/5 K.H. - See all my reviews, July 24, 2000

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  Excellent Book & a must own by all serious Martial Artist

  This is a must read book and a book to be owned by anyone who considers themselves a warrior. I require its reading by all of my Black Belts and recommend it to all my students. This book explains in detail the essential elements of a true martial artist/warrior. It is not about the skill of fightinhg, yet more importantly about the moral and ethical obligation to self.This book should be required reading in all police and military academies. I think, it is one of the five major books regarding the martial arts. The Martial Way is one in which the practitioner can excell in life and the constant pursuit of excellence in all of life.The mind, body and spirit must be trained as one and function as one in all pursuits. This book will assist one greatly in acheiving the mental balance of the Martial Way. 5/5 Anthony Cataldo (Jupiter, Fl) - See all my reviews This review is from: Living the Martial Way : A Manual for the Way a Modern Warrior Should Think (Paperback) This is a must read book and a book to be owned by anyone who considers themselves a warrior. I require its reading by all of my Black Belts and recommend it to all my students. This book explains in detail the essential elements of a true martial artist/warrior. It is not about the skill of fightinhg, yet more importantly about the moral and ethical obligation to self.This book should be required reading in all police and military academies. I think, it is one of the five major books regarding the martial arts. The Martial Way is one in which the practitioner can excell in life and the constant pursuit of excellence in all of life.The mind, body and spirit must be trained as one and function as one in all pursuits. This book will assist one greatly in acheiving the mental balance of the Martial Way. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , November 18, 2002

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  List Price: $16.95
  

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  KidKraft Martial Arts Belt Holder

  Home (KidKraft)
  

  Rating (33 reviews):

  (4.4/5)

  

  Exactly what I needed for my son to see his progress.

  I bought this to hang in my sons room so that every time he receives a new belt we can place the old one on the Belt Holder so that he can see his progress more clearly. It is very solid made and we are very happy with it. I have read some of the other reviews and wonder if they plan on using this in a sparring class or to beat someone with as to how well they need this to hold up. It is only suppose to hang on the wall not from a ceiling fan and the child is not suppose to hang from it. My child loves it and to me it is very sold and the straps hold his belts perfect. 5/5 jlynn810 - See all my reviews = Durability:, June 27, 2012

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  belt holder

  This is a very nice belt holder for the price I got it for my 12yr olds kung fu belts . I hung it in his room he likes it . It is a nice way to display . I would buy it again . 5/5 Happy customer - See all my reviews = Durability:, February 15, 2012

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  works for us

  I was expecting a flimsy cheap thing. but it holds up well. I have it in my daughters room with a few of her belts on it. looks good, I have a few of her awards in frames around it wich motivates my daughter to do better and practice. its a constant reminder of what she has accomplished and that she "Can do it!" I will be ordering 2 more for my other daughters as well as they work up to new belts. I also like that it dont have the name on it but if I wanted to I can put the name on it myself with perminant marker or letter stickers.also its great that it holds all size belts. my daughter is in adult and it fits as well as the smaller kids belts. 1/5 Jen "mother of 4" (CT.) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: KidKraft Martial Arts Belt Holder (Toy) I was expecting a flimsy cheap thing. but it holds up well. I have it in my daughters room with a few of her belts on it. looks good, I have a few of her awards in frames around it wich motivates my daughter to do better and practice. its a constant reminder of what she has accomplished and that she "Can do it!" I will be ordering 2 more for my other daughters as well as they work up to new belts. I also like that it dont have the name on it but if I wanted to I can put the name on it myself with perminant marker or letter stickers.also its great that it holds all size belts. my daughter is in adult and it fits as well as the smaller kids belts. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 15, 2011

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  List Price: $29.00
  Price: $21.95
  You Save: $7.05 (24%)

  Sturdy construction

  Honey Finish

  Height 2.25"

  Holds up to 8 martial arts belts

  Length 27.25"

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  Zen in the Martial Arts

  Book (Bantam)
  

  Rating (146 reviews):

  (4.5/5)

  

  Great intro to Zen--in real life as well as martial arts

  First I'd like to address a couple of criticisms that I read here that this book is rather superficial and doesn't get into Zen concepts in depth. That's true, this book is really only an intro to Zen--if you're already knowledgeable then this book will probably be too basic. However, for the beginner there is no better place to start, and as someone else here observed, the quotes from Bruce Lee are almost worth the price of the book by themselves.Joe Hyams started his karate training back in 1952 with Ed Parker--a full ten years or more before the craze got started in America. He had the opportunity to train with such greats as Bruce Lee, Bong Soo Han, Ed Parker, and Jim Lau from the very beginning. Joe encountered many trials and tribulations, frustrations, and disappointments during his training, but he never gave up. One reason is he often had the opportunity to discuss his problems with the many great teachers he trained under, and they often offered their wisdom and insights... 5/5 magellan (Santa Clara, CA) - See all my reviews, June 17, 2003

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  Best book of it's class

  I bought this book as a kid at 16 just being introduced to martial arts. 20 years later, I can still say, after college and an adult life filled to overflow that this book, among the hundreds I have read that touch on similar subjects, is STILL the best book of it's class. It is modern, unlike Sun Tzu or Samurai literature, and that is the book's strength. Samurais did not have the tedium of modern life to contend with: boardroom meetings, petty office jobs that lend life no meaning, mindless commercialized, propagandized media buzzing all around us. Samurai did not live in our world of wasting time and energy on nothing. They had time to get dressed and take their time, breathe clean air, and be human, and that is what Zen in the Martial Arts attempts to do, restore that balence to a martial artist's lifestyle...in a Modern world, however, not in some remote past. And that is why this book is in a class of it's own. Many try to approach this focal point without success, but none in... 5/5 The Masked Reviewer - See all my reviews This review is from: Zen in the Martial Arts (Mass Market Paperback) I bought this book as a kid at 16 just being introduced to martial arts. 20 years later, I can still say, after college and an adult life filled to overflow that this book, among the hundreds I have read that touch on similar subjects, is STILL the best book of it's class. It is modern, unlike Sun Tzu or Samurai literature, and that is the book's strength. Samurais did not have the tedium of modern life to contend with: boardroom meetings, petty office jobs that lend life no meaning, mindless commercialized, propagandized media buzzing all around us. Samurai did not live in our world of wasting time and energy on nothing. They had time to get dressed and take their time, breathe clean air, and be human, and that is what Zen in the Martial Arts attempts to do, restore that balence to a martial artist's lifestyle...in a Modern world, however, not in some remote past. And that is why this book is in a class of it's own. Many try to approach this focal point without success, but none in... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , January 14, 2006

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  Simple words for intense meaning.

  In this book, Joe Hyams sheds light on obscure facets of our personality, many of which we are not even aware of. Why are we so anxious, why do we fear pain, why are we so eager to show our force to others, why do we have to go through daily confrontations with our family, spouse, colleages ? Through a short but clear description of the issues that make our lives sometimes difficult and a thorough analysis of the mental process involved in overcoming them, Joe Hyams explains all the internal revolutions that a sound mentality can create in human beings. Non martial artists will find in this book some answers to those questions they have always been asking themselves about their behavior and how to make the most out of their lives. Martial artists will be exposed to the Zen aspects of martial arts, which is probably essential to a mastery of these disciplines. As a beginner in Shotokan-Karate, I found this book enlightening on some issues that take a life-long to master and even... 5/5 Stephane P. Bordas (Evanston, IL USA) - See all my reviews This review is from: Zen in the Martial Arts (Mass Market Paperback) In this book, Joe Hyams sheds light on obscure facets of our personality, many of which we are not even aware of. Why are we so anxious, why do we fear pain, why are we so eager to show our force to others, why do we have to go through daily confrontations with our family, spouse, colleages ? Through a short but clear description of the issues that make our lives sometimes difficult and a thorough analysis of the mental process involved in overcoming them, Joe Hyams explains all the internal revolutions that a sound mentality can create in human beings. Non martial artists will find in this book some answers to those questions they have always been asking themselves about their behavior and how to make the most out of their lives. Martial artists will be exposed to the Zen aspects of martial arts, which is probably essential to a mastery of these disciplines. As a beginner in Shotokan-Karate, I found this book enlightening on some issues that take a life-long to master and even... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 14, 2000

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  List Price: $7.99
  

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  Martial Arts of Korea

  Movie
  

  Rating (3 reviews):

  (3.7/5)

  

  Korean martial arts, Top 12

  i enjoyed they presentation of Korean martial arts and its history and/or origin. the instructors views , ideas, and phiolosipy 3/5 Jak - See all my reviews This review is from: Martial Arts of Korea (Amazon Instant Video) i enjoyed they presentation of Korean martial arts and its history and/or origin. the instructors views , ideas, and phiolosipy Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 5, 2013

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  Informative about the many "native" Korean Martial Arts but several look like copies of other Martial Arts.

  Filming was okay, several displays were flashy and stunning. Good enough if you just want to broaden your knowledge. Not in depth but similar to "flash cards", 3/5 Francis Attai "TechKnow" (Florida, USA) - See all my reviews, February 21, 2013

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  Excellent overview!

  Simply put, this is an excellent survey of all the martial arts that come from the Korean peninsula. From Taekwondo to Hapkido to Gyongdang and beyond, this little film gives the viewer a great idea as to the variety of Korean Martial Arts.I'd endorse renting it, however. One of those films best enjoyed once. 5/5 Green Mountain Fist (Vergennes, VT) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Martial Arts of Korea (Amazon Instant Video) Simply put, this is an excellent survey of all the martial arts that come from the Korean peninsula. From Taekwondo to Hapkido to Gyongdang and beyond, this little film gives the viewer a great idea as to the variety of Korean Martial Arts.I'd endorse renting it, however. One of those films best enjoyed once. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 12, 2009

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

  Book (Turtle Press)
  

  Rating (45 reviews):

  (4.4/5)

  

  Purchased the Kindle version...mistake

  I purchased the Kindle version of this. It's a good book and highly recommend it for advanced karate students. I purchased the Kindle version however, and the graphics were hard to see. Buy it in paper instead. 3/5 VT Fly Angler (Vermont) - See all my reviews, April 7, 2010

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  Nothing short of AWESOME!!!

  I have just about every book imaginable on Kyusho-Jitsu/Dim-Mak/Pressure Points. And as a black belt in Shin Mae Shorin Ryu, I incorporate pressure points into everything that I do. Let me just say that I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!It is the most thorough book I have ever seen on the subject. This knowledge is that of true martial arts masters. Sang H. Kim is a great author & martial artist, but he really out did himself with this work!He obviously worked hard on this book. He clearly shows & describes the points & he also shows many excellent applications.I don't often say this, but this book is worth much more than it is being sold for!These are the secrets that the ancient masters guarded so closely.You cannot put a price on this kind of knowledge!!! 5/5 Neplusultra (Blairsville, GA. United States) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vital Point Strikes: The Art and Science of Striking Vital Targets for Self-defense and Combat Sports (Paperback) I have just about every book imaginable on Kyusho-Jitsu/Dim-Mak/Pressure Points. And as a black belt in Shin Mae Shorin Ryu, I incorporate pressure points into everything that I do. Let me just say that I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!It is the most thorough book I have ever seen on the subject. This knowledge is that of true martial arts masters. Sang H. Kim is a great author & martial artist, but he really out did himself with this work!He obviously worked hard on this book. He clearly shows & describes the points & he also shows many excellent applications.I don't often say this, but this book is worth much more than it is being sold for!These are the secrets that the ancient masters guarded so closely.You cannot put a price on this kind of knowledge!!! Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 15, 2008

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  Near-Perfect

  Well, the reason for the five stars is the presentation, which is VERY solid compared to most martial arts books.. The charts and graphs are clear, althought the black clothes sometimes make it hard to see. Not for beginners .. The tecniques usually need a lot of transition to happenSeems a good item to maximize strikes... The only thing that disapointed me is that some points are a bit vague... Without more references like "2 inches bellow collarbone" became "bellow the joint of collarbone and shoulder" Without a solid reference sometimes, it became hard to get the point..Thinking in the past, it would be a highly treasured manual for striking some 100 or 150 years ago... Now its just as good... Just a little more care with the pictures and point descriptions would make it totally perfect... But that will surely be fixed in a second edition 5/5 L. Laguna (Brasil) - See all my reviews This review is from: Vital Point Strikes: The Art and Science of Striking Vital Targets for Self-defense and Combat Sports (Paperback) Well, the reason for the five stars is the presentation, which is VERY solid compared to most martial arts books.. The charts and graphs are clear, althought the black clothes sometimes make it hard to see. Not for beginners .. The tecniques usually need a lot of transition to happenSeems a good item to maximize strikes... The only thing that disapointed me is that some points are a bit vague... Without more references like "2 inches bellow collarbone" became "bellow the joint of collarbone and shoulder" Without a solid reference sometimes, it became hard to get the point..Thinking in the past, it would be a highly treasured manual for striking some 100 or 150 years ago... Now its just as good... Just a little more care with the pictures and point descriptions would make it totally perfect... But that will surely be fixed in a second edition Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , January 6, 2009

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  List Price: $29.95
  

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  TMAS Feiyue Martial Arts Shoes (38 M EU/Black)

  Sports (Feiyue)
  

  Rating (272 reviews):

  (4.4/5)

  

  Excellent shoe, just a caution on sizing

  I'm an adult woman who's recently taken up Kung Fu. Everyone in my class wears these shoes, and most are fairly senior (brown or black belt). They all rave about them, and I agree. Especially for the price. Good stability on hard wood floor and good support. Also, very light weight (which especially helps after a long work out!).The only caution I'd make is that these shoes are very wide. I'm a size 7.5 US womens, but didn't find a corresponding size -- so I purchased size 39 (which corresponds to 8.5 US). I wish I had purchased the 38 (which corresponds to 7.0 US). So if you're on a boarderline size, my recommendation is to go smaller.But other than that, I'm extremely pleased! 5/5 C. Silva (Boston, MA) - See all my reviews, March 11, 2007

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  Solid, cheap, minimalist shoe

  This review is aimed at those who are considering this shoe for its minimalist qualities that imitate barefoot walking for better or for worse.SIZING HELP: I am a 44 in Vibram KSO's. My foot is about 11 inches long and it's moderately wide. I have a high instep, but it's not problem with this shoe. I ordered the 45 in this shoe, but it was too small. The 46 fits much better.THICKNESS OF SOLE: The sole is flexibel and you can bend it better than a converse shoe, but not as well as a VFF. The sole is about a centimeter thick, but this is not exact. It passes my "crack" test (If there's a decently sized crack on the ground, you can sort of feel it when you step on it with this shoe). There is no insole.THE FIT: I wish the toebox was a little wider. The heel is a little loose, but I don't mind that. I can run short distances in them, but I would not use these as my primary running shoe, due to the more narrow toebox.THE VERDICT: There are... 4/5 Eric B - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Feiyue Martial Arts Shoes (Apparel) This review is aimed at those who are considering this shoe for its minimalist qualities that imitate barefoot walking for better or for worse.SIZING HELP: I am a 44 in Vibram KSO's. My foot is about 11 inches long and it's moderately wide. I have a high instep, but it's not problem with this shoe. I ordered the 45 in this shoe, but it was too small. The 46 fits much better.THICKNESS OF SOLE: The sole is flexibel and you can bend it better than a converse shoe, but not as well as a VFF. The sole is about a centimeter thick, but this is not exact. It passes my "crack" test (If there's a decently sized crack on the ground, you can sort of feel it when you step on it with this shoe). There is no insole.THE FIT: I wish the toebox was a little wider. The heel is a little loose, but I don't mind that. I can run short distances in them, but I would not use these as my primary running shoe, due to the more narrow toebox.THE VERDICT: There are... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , October 28, 2010

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  Feiyue is Peerless

  For Shaolin martial arts, there is no better shoe. The only thing that comes even close is the Adidas Samba Classic, which is just a more expensively made Feiyue in most respects. Low cut, lightweight, streamlined, simple. 5/5 The Masked Reviewer - See all my reviews This review is from: Feiyue Martial Arts Shoes (Apparel) For Shaolin martial arts, there is no better shoe. The only thing that comes even close is the Adidas Samba Classic, which is just a more expensively made Feiyue in most respects. Low cut, lightweight, streamlined, simple. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 28, 2006

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  List Price: $14.89
  

  Popular and Fashionable

  Providing maximum traction for ultimate performance

  The tread is perfect for all martial arts styles

  Simple, durable canvas lace-up top and a padded yet light sole.

  The #1 shoe choice for Shaolin monks and masters

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