No comments about Aikido Principles: Basic Concepts of the Peaceful Martial Art.

5 comments about Dead Or Alive: The Choice Is Yours: The Definitive Self-Protection Handbook.

1. Geoff Thompson makes his mark not mainly in the presentation of practical techniques for self defense. Though he does that well (from his own educated point of view), I think that is not the most important point of this book. This book is intended to prepare the average person to deal with what by definition is a dangerous, uncomfortable meeting with people that one generally doesn't want to get to know. Though his book may scare off some readers in its graphic discussion of those who prey on normal people, getting right in one's mind about how things really are is an important step in doing something about one's personal safety in the street. Mental preparation is a major issue in personal defense, and is often overlooked by otherwise excellent authors. Thompson doesn't miss this key area. If you're serious about self defense, Thompsons work must be on your list!



2. A great companion to the book by Peter Consterdine's "STREETWISE - A Manual for Self Defence". Like Streetwise it's a hefty tomb and packed with useful, effective and easy to learn self techniques THAT WORK!! Plenty of clear pictures too.
   
   Geoff is one of the greats when it comes to Self Defence & personal protection, but what is SO GOOD in this book is that Geoff teaches you how to avoid situations that are likely to lead to a scrap, e.g. sections dealing with Awareness, profiles of Attackers & what they're looking for in a target therefore how to avoid being a target. How to deal with Fear & how to use it to your advantage.
   
   A lot of the book is devoted to actual self defence techniques, striking, parts of the body & ground fighting too. Also, first aid & points on The Law & how it can protect you are also covered.
   
   Geoff has had many years of experience learning & honing his skills on the streets and as a Doorman so is justly qualified to give out this kind of expert information. He is truly devoted to his methods and teaching and his passion for his skills comes out very well in this book.
   
   IT's a REAL LIFE-SAVER!!



3. I bought this book because many readers said that this is one of the "originals." Geoff is a former bouncer who has many insightful thoughts on fighting. The most important concepts in the book are on how to avoid fights. Secondly, the physiology of the "adrenal dump" is discussed at length. This was my favorite part, as I have a backround in medicine. The text is easy to read and understand. The fighting section is less useful, as martial arts are very difficult to learn from a book. Overall, I would highly recommend this book.



4. As a not very good amateur martial artist I have purchased many books to try and assist and inspire me in my training. By some margin this is by far the best. Sure there are better books that give more detail on specific topics, however no others deal with as many areas as this one. Thompson is ex-doorman/nightclub bouncer and martial artist in many disciplines. A 1st dan in judo, 6th dan in Karate together with qualifications in wrestling and many others.
   
   In this book he covers 24 areas of 'self-protection' from 1. avoidance and awareness to 24. Self-Defence and the law. There isn't sufficient time to review all the these areas in a short review like this. However what I will say is that this book has given me some new insights into just how to criminal mind works, as well as some useful information on practical martial arts. See for example chapter 12 which is devoted solely to the application, advantages and disadvantages of chokes and strangles.
   
   Perhaps the most interesting part of the book is where he interviews several victims of violent crime as well as several muggers and looks at several case histories from serial killers. Some of the case histories are hard to read (as their crimes are described in graphic detail by the criminal), however the interviews with the muggers are a fascinating insight into how the criminal mind works and a lot of useful information can be gained from reading these.
   
   Some will say that studying martial arts and reading this sort of material is a complete waste of time. However for those of us that do, it is enlightening to know that people who are switched off to their surroundings and their environment are the ones most likely to fall victim to a mugger or criminal.
   
   This book does duplicate some material from Geoff Thompsons other books. So if you only want to buy one book that covers the entire spectrum of his philosophy - this is the one.



5. I purchased the book for the interviews of muggers, attackers etc. There is not a core chapter dedicated to these interview as quotes are spread out through the text. The quotes do not provide insights as to their patterns or thinking, only how violent they are. There are some kernels of insight in the text, but the repetition of advice makes a straight read through near impossible. I would only purchase this book if you are looking to purchase at half price.

5 comments about Channan: Heart of the Heians.

1. Channan: Heart of the Heians, by Elmar T. Schmeisser, explores the possibility of the modern day Heians as derived from the chinese kata Channan-Dai and Channa-Sho. The author makes no definitive claim that his studies are absolute, but presents his research in a sound historical manner leaving the reader to make his or her own decision regarding the origins of the Heian kata based on the research presented. The book is loaded with simple-to-follow, step-by-step, photos of Channan-Dai and Channan-Sho and accompanying text for each step. In a simple straight forward way, the author clearly illustrates apparent or perceived correlations between the Channan kata and the modern day Heians. An added plus in this book is the way it is laid out; the book is designed in such a way that keeps the reader flowing seamlessly from one photographic illustration to another. Only two things might have improved this well produced book and research, one of which is nearly impossible to do on the printed page, showing the transition moves in sequence, and crisper photographs with a higher quality camera. Overall, regardless of these two minor shortcomings, this book is a fantastic work and will be greatly appreciated by anyone who enjoys the study of traditional Japanese kata, bunkai, and kata origins.



2. I read this book with great interest. I have known a few people that practiced these kata. This book does not present the real kata but instead a modified version of the first two pinan. The history is good but if you want these Kata get Funakoshi's Karate do Kyohan because the heian/pinan kata are there. I guess this wasn't a bad attempt just misguided. There are still a few that practice these Kata if you look hard enough.



3. Could someone who has this book list the evidence that Mr. Schmeisser provides to explain how he happens to know a Kata that has been lost for almost a century now. The only karate masters who ever mentioned it, in books written in the 1940's, say that no one knew it then and it had been forgotten. They obviously did not teach it, so how has it now popped back up? I would like to know whether this book is credible, or just a clever way to make a buck..... before I buy it.



4. It is great to see another book from this author who actually caters for those who seek new knowledge instead of just repackaging old theories and techniques. I have been teaching similar theories about kata in my class for years and having done Judo I found many throws, chokes etc., in all the kata. A great book for beginners to aspire to and some good direstion for veterans.



5. Author Elmar Schmeisser has, in this book, tried to uncover the kata at the root of the Heian/Pinan kata: Kata Channan. His research has led him to a Chinese Chuan-Fa system that entered the US via the Philipines; however, Dr. Schmeisser has made a convincing argument that, while the kata he presents may not be exactly like the one that Itosu used when constructing the Pinan kata, they at least have the same root. I don't have a problem with the probability that the two kata, Channan Dai and Sho, may not be the exact kata that Itosu derived the Pinan from, as a cursory observation of the same kata in different systems will also reveal small variations. Kata change over time; that's just the nature of the beast.
   
   In the first chapter, Dr. Schmeisser gives some historical background on Heian/Pinan in a concise but informative summary, and then gives some background not only on the various stages of learning kata in general, but also in analyzing the kata for practical applications (bunkai). Though the author does a wonderful job for the space provided in this section, I would love to have seen it expanded and given more detail. The next two chapters demonstrate the kata Channan Dai and Channan Sho. In both chapters, each sequence in the kata is given a paragraph or so for explaination, and the bunkai is usually shown along side the kata sequence. Chapter Four takes examples from the Heian kata (Shotokan style) and demonstrates where the sequences from the Channan kata fit in, sort of offering a short comparitive analysis of the Channan and Heian kata. The book ends with a very short chapter on historic implications, and one last chapter showing photo sequences of the full Channan Dai and Channan Sho kata without the interuption of text or bunkai.
   
   While I strongly believe that the original bukai in most kata are lost to history, most of Dr. Schmeisser's bunkai make sense, in a self-defense context. Included are strikes, throws, standing locks, chokes, off-balancing techniques, hand traps, and even some finishes for a kneeling or prone opponent. While I'm not a fan of every bunkai he shows (I think his punches that target the limbs could be better served being directed at the head or torso), they are far more encompasing and realistic than much of what is normally taught. Those familiar with Aikido and Judo will find techniques from those systems fitting right in alongside the punches and kicks of karate. The author also makes good use of end-notes, which inform the reader further of his research and don't interupt the flow of the text.
   
   The one notable negative of this book is the lack of enbusen lines. It's difficult at times to understand the footwork of some sequences, and an enbusen diagram would have helped. This, as well as the lack of elaboration in the first chapter that I mentioned earlier, keeps the book from getting a full five stars.
   
   Still, I find the book valuable as a historical work on the roots of the Pinan/Heian kata, as well as a source for realistic bunkai. Those interested in either should take a look.

5 comments about The Harder They Fall.

1. WMSR is enjoying a nice revival at the moment, and it's time for this superior work to come into the sun as well.
   What's most arresting about Schulberg is his ability to infuse formulaic subject matter with pathos and humanity. He wears his politics on his sleave, but his characters don't suffer much because of it. In an era when partisan opinion is treated as graceless error, it's exciting to read someone who gives a damn about the sorry state of the world.
   Schulberg handles American vernacular speach well, but falters with his Argentine characters. Still, a rapid, crisp and entertaining book



2. Budd Schulberg's 1947 classic isn't nearly as dated as you might think. The Harder They Fall is a fictitious expose of the seamier underbelly of the boxing rackets as they existed in the 40's. It provided the framework for an excellent 1956 movie of the same name which was Bogart's final flick.

   Through the eyes of Eddie Lewis, an Ivy League educated sometimes sportswriter who is on the payroll of mobster Nick Latka, we see the deceipt and unscrupulousness of the boxing business. Latka has elevated himself from a small time juvenile delinquent to one of the heads of the boxing racket. He pulls the strings of corruption from his palatial estate. For a weekly stipend, Lewis is the press agent for Latka's boxing patsies.

   Latka's latest crony is one Toro Molina, a gargantuan peasant boy and wine barrel maker from Argentina. Brought to the U.S. by the owner of a circus in which he performed as a strong man, Molina's contract is bought by Latka. Unfortunately Molina is slow, lumbering, unschooled in self defense, and has powder puff punching power.

   Regardless, Latka plans to glorify Molina and through a series of fixed fights designed to elevate him to championship contending status. What follows is the inevitable rise to the penthouse followed by the fall to the cellar and the endless depravity to make a dishonest dollar.




3. This book provides an inside look at the fight- game. It tells the story of the building- up of a phony contender a massive Argentinian Torro Moreno. It also gives insight into the corruption , of a racket- dominated fight world.
   Schulberg is a hard- hitting writer with a clear political agenda , but the tale rings true.



4. There's a lot to dislike about Budd Schulberg the man, but you've got to separate the art from the artist.
   
   The Harder They Fall is a superb novel, not simply about boxing but about creating a powerful hoax. The story holds up today and its story can be applied to pop-stars and politicians. Schulberg walks us through the seedy backrooms of the fight game, we meet all the different characters who benefit from a corrupt system -- and we learn how each of them justify their role in it.
   
   If you liked FAT CITY or REQUIEM FOR A HEAVYWEIGHT, you'll love THE HARDER THEY FALL.



5. Budd Schulberg, by the way, wrote the story and screenplay of the great Brando picture "On the Waterfront" (1954). His boxing novel is nearly sixty years old now, but it's lost nothing of its interest as a picture of the corruption that can flourish under the surface of mass entertainment. Prizefighting has been cleaned up considerably so that stories like this one can no longer happen (they say), but the greed and cynical manipulation that Schulberg dramatizes is a permanent fixture of American society (consider the "pillar-of-the-community" crooks at Enron). One of the scariest elements of the tale is just how far its hero has fallen. If there's ever been a cultural classic of American sports fiction, this is it.

3 comments about Masters of the Blade.

1. This book identifies the major knife instructors currently active in the U.S.A., permits them to briefly discuss their art, and illustrates through a series of photographs some of the techniques characteristic of their particular style.
   
   While there is one bowie knife instructor, most of the instruction is based on the Filipino arts. A surprising number of styles are offshoots of Lameco Eskrima, the art of the late Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite. Lameco is a blend of long (LArgo), medium (MEdio), and short (COrto)range movements, and appears particularly agreeable to knife.
   
   The book does not list instructor's addresses or telephone numbers. Some instructors (Guro Felix Valencia, for example, who tends to be fully booked with government agencies) are difficult to find even with modern search engines, but a few moments with google should solve most of the problem.
   
   The defensive knife world is in a constant state of change as some instructors retire or otherwise leave the arena and senior students rise to take their places. Over time, the book may (unless revised) become dated, but Masters of the Blade accurately reflected its subject matter on the date of publication.
   



2. Mr. Rey Galang did a great job with this book, and I hope that otehr authors will in the future try to reach the same level. The book is beautifuly done, instructors presented are well chosen, and the overall atmosphere breathes good will and cooperation. Subjects covered by different instructors do not overlap, which contributed to even greater information value. I would like that some people (most notably Jim Keating and Ron Balicki) had the time for better illustrated efforts, as well as that there had been some other experts as well...but than againg, maybe thet would make the book grow out of proportion. Still, nobody says there shouldn't be a sequel! Just one suggestion to Mr. Galang, in case he should see this review - maybe in the Part II, you could introduce some more European instructors, thus providing greatly appreciated info for those of us living out of USA.



3. Master Galang has done it again, this is extremly informative and ecceptional work, any F.M.A. student needs this book in there library!

1 comments about Foil Fencing: The Techniques and Tactics of Modern Foil Fencing.

1. Hi, I've been foil fencing for about 3 years at a club level.
   
   The pictures in this book are clear, and the entire book is information rich, meaning you won't get a lot of extra words on the page unless it is dense with pure fencing instruction.
   
   Highly recommended, especially since most other books are not foil fencing specific.

5 comments about Ninja Volume 4: Legacy of the Night Warrior.

1. This whole series is wonderful. I highly recommend them all to any martial arts student. Very useful and enlightening!



2. This whole series is wonderful. I highly recommend them all to any martial arts student. Very useful and enlightening!



3. Life and resources are too short to waste on fakes. Hayes is the real thing. Ninjutsu can't be learned through books. It must be learned from a qualified teacher. These books in the Ohara series are useful to understand your instruction better. They are all treasures when used that way.



4. i have the whole series and have read them over and over. i am a ninjutsu practitioner, and i can assure you, stephen hayes is the real deal.



5. From the table of contents:
   
   1. the unfolding story
   2. The five elements of escape
   3. Flowing action
   4. Kunoichi
   5. The force of intention
   
   Written by the first American ninjutsu teacher, this book covers the history of ninjutsu, philosophy, fighting, the mind as a tool of the spirit, active meditation, extended realities and the art of understanding. Fully illustrated techniques with step-by-step photos and instructions

5 comments about Taiji Sword, Classical Yang Style: The Complete Form, Qigong & Applications (Martial Arts-Internal).

1. The book is a great source for the Yang tai-chi sword, easy to follow and filled with exercises and some applications, but, you also need the video, because always is good to see other people doing the form.



2. If you are getting ready to learn the Yang style Taiji sword, then this book should be on your shelf. If you are trying to learn on your own- go out and get a real teacher.

   There are several things in this book that help suplement the instruction you can find in many Taiji schools that teach the sword. But this book is a supplement, not a replacement for that instruction.

   Many schools only teach the form, not the reality behind it. They will give you a sword and say, "do it like this." Going through the motions does not mean that you understand what is going on. This book can help fill in the gaps.

   A typical experience of someone learning the taiji sword is to come home after a long session and then find he/she can not even remember the sequence that the form is supposed to be in. This book can help jog your memory and help you in the sessions between training. But, again, if there are no training session with a teacher, you should just leave this book aside for now.

   I should point out that this book is for the traditional form and not the 32 sequence form that seems so common now.




3. This book is an excellent tool to teach the Taiji Jian and along with the video, you'll be able to capture the flavor and nature of energy patterns that are detailed in the book. I disagree with the previous reviewer in that he states that you need an instructor adjunct to this book. If the instructor has a different methodology, this book would circumvent the instructor and you'd end up creating your own methodology between the two. Why not simply learn from Dr. Yang Jwing-Ming, his clear and concise instruction is replete with all the necessary information that anyone could want with regards to Taiji Jian principle, exercise and practice. I highly recommend both the book and DVD for a complete practice.



4. This book completes very well the taiji studies, but I accept other people's opinion: the book is not enough. You will need a DVD or following a master's instructions in a real cours, because without it you cannot imagine how it works. But if you have a bit of experience about taiji sword, this book completes very well the studies. For exemple during a cours if I am far from the master I cannot see well how he holds his hand, so at home I can search the position from the book and check myshelf. It is also important that this book shows the martial use of movements. At the cours we study the official competition form of taiji sword and I have to admit, sometimes I do not see the reason of a movement, but this book explains it and after that it is easier to follow the master's instructions.



5. This book won't help you learn the forms. Pictures fragment the form into unlinked pieces and it seems the only way to understand what's going on is to know the form already. Descriptions are also extremely cryptic. Practically, I found the book useful for two things only: looking up applications of the movements I knew and well described beginners Qigong exercises. My teacher for some reason favors completely different Qigong set, so it was nice to learn some extras.

1 comments about Steel Chair to the Head: The Pleasure and Pain of Professional Wrestling.

1. One thing can be said about this book: it's unique. Not just for the smarts but definitely not for the marks, this book falls into a third category: The curious onlooker who wants to study what wrestling's appeal is, dissect it from ethical, psychological and cultural perspectives, and interpret the results. That's not to say it's bad- it isn't, in fact I find it very interesting. But then again, I know a lot of people who would find it quite boring. It's written by psychology and sociology scholars, after all- but don't dismiss it just yet.
   
   What the book does is examine what wrestling's impact is on the world- the female viewpoint, the way its masculine ideal is marketed, its approval of behavioral tendencies, its sometimes subtle racism, and so on. As stated, it's from more of a journalistic or scientific perspective.
   
   This isn't to say it's not fun. It is, though for one to enjoy it one must step outside of wrestling for a while. The perfect audience for this book is an intelligent wrestling fan who not only has some knowledge of wrestling history but also an appreciation of the business side of things that make it tick- in other words, a fan who enjoys what he's watching but can then turn off the tv, step outside of the role of "fan", and learn more about the gears and joints that keep the industry churning.
   
   I'll give a brief example: The book describes one of the lines of action figures, and how each figure was accompanied by an accessory such as a chair, metal piping, or other object with which to attack an opponent. It's pointed out that huge ex-WCW star Giant is accompanied not by such an object but rather a whole extra figure, small Rey Mysterio Jr. The packaging lists a feature which the book explains: "for fun one can slip Mysterio's tiny neck into the grip of the Giant's enormous right hand and then squeeze the larger figure's legs together to see him sadistically lift, lower, and strangle the hapless Mexican". They give an accompanying photo of said event which I find amusing, but that right there is what this book's all about: It goes on to examine why one would find such a thing amusing, and tries to figure out what led to this particular pairing of action figures in such a context, reaching pretty reasonable conclusions that range from potential racism to the size of wrestlers and how we're programmed to respond to them.
   
   See, that's the kind of book this is- it helps to know some of the stuff they talk about, because then one's own familiarity, understanding, and enjoyment of the things dicsussed are enhanced. So in that way it applies to wrestling fans. At the same time, the book's goal- while not being combative- explores the very nature of the business/fan relationship and how it works, as well as when it does and doesn't. It's very well written and informative, and researched enough to make very few mistakes- these guys are definitely well-read on their subject.
   
   So I guess it all comes down to a matter of how you answer the question "Why do you like wrestling?". If your answer is a perfectly acceptable "it's fun", "It's amusing", "it's entertaining", or something similar, then I'd have to say I agree but you won't want to bother with this book, you don't need to bother exploring all the cultural resonance. Now, if to that question you answer "Hmm, that's weird, why do I like wrestling? What makes me care about these guys, even though I know it's predetermined? Why do my minority and female friends watch? What's the point at the end of the day?", then this book will definitely be of interest to you. When all's said and done, it's essentially a bunch of smart people who got together to explore what wrestling does to (and because of) popular culture. A very interesting read for those who want to take the time to see what they've come up with.

5 comments about The Complete Book of Tai Chi Chuan: A Comprehensive Guide to the Principles and Practice.

1. I am a beginner to the study of Tai Chi Chuan, and I was looking for a book that would satisfy my overall curiosity of various aspects of Tai Chi Chuan. This is the book! Written very well by Wong Kiew Kit, it reads smoothly and is an enjoyable read. Very hard to put it down once you start. Packed with so much information I plan to read it a second time and will use it as a reference frequently. Do you want to learn more than just the health aspects of Tai Chi Chuan? Then this book will explore the martial art, the history, the physical, and the philosophical areas of Tai Chi Chuan to help you get the most out of it's practice. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone interested in or currently studying Tai Chi Chuan. This is the perfect book to start off your Tai Chi Chuan collection.



2. Its a must book for those who are really interested in Tai Chi Chuan as a Martial Art. It provide the reader a clear understanding of what this Martial Art is really about.



3. Good book with a helpful grasp of the history of kung fu. Also has some very useful information for proper foundations and stances. I feel that you should already have a grasp of some style of kung fu to properly appreciate and understand this book



4. Excelent, deep and very interesting book. It provide punctual and sustancial information about the escence of Kung Fu martial art. Also it gives historical information of Kung Fu development. I strongly recommend this book.



5. My Tai Chi Chuan teacher recommended me this book after inquiring him on the martial tactics behind the forms.
   
   First of all, let me get this off my chest:
   The author makes his view, that Tai Chi Chuan is far superior to other "brute-force" martial arts, very clear.
   Something that I think is unnecessary to comment on and shows the ugly political face of the martial art world.
   For example he specifically targets Karate, Taekwondo, Judo and Muay Thai with his criticism...but not Kung Fu for some reason...politics.
   This attitude gave me a negative view of the author from the start.
   
   You cannot learn any forms from this book.
   This book is a good first-book on Tai Chi Chuan for those who have just started or are thinking about trying out Tai Chi Chuan and want to read about different styles of Tai Chi and the general concepts and ideas behind the style.
   So this is a very good introduction.
   It also shows some tactics of Tai Chi when applied as self-defense.
   The text is quite clear and easy to grasp.
   
   As a book on tactics, however, I found that the book is not as informative as Dr. Yang's books on Tai Chi Chuan, Taijiquan Theory of Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming: The Root of Taijiquan, Tai Chi Chuan Martial Applications: Advanced Yang Style Tai Chi Chaun (Martial Arts-Internal Series) etc.