5 comments about The Straight Lead: The Core of Bruce Lee's Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do.

1. As a lowly TKD student of one year I recently began challenging myself with questions like... what if in a real fight situation I encounter someone with a little knowledge/training in martial arts (not uncommon) or say enter an open tournament in which I would meet well-trained individuals from other disciplines, how would I fare. The answer plain enough to me was --- not well at all! I don't mean to say TKD is an inadequate art but that realistically countering other arts _requires_ some exposure or at least a little training for.
   
   That got me into Straight Lead. It is an excellent read, accessible, good writing, does what it sets out to do very very well. Teaching you how to execute a killer JKD straight punch from every scientific, fistic and strategic point of view. Her discussion of JKD and Bruce Lee politics was also totally warranted. In his own short life BL was very controversial and her book helps understand why it was, why it still is and what politics you may encounter in your own study.
   
   Has this book helped me answer my own questions? Am I really better equipped for a tough customer? Absolutely!!! I recently threw the straight lead at an experienced sparring partner and unfortunately hit his unprotected temple a bit harder than I intended and stung his eye. I regretted and deeply apologized immediately as one should always. My supervisor thought it was a wild punch, my partner thought it a lucky punch. I thought it was so quick neither of them really saw it until it had landed. In other words Straight Lead teachings about non-telegraphic motion, trajectory, speed, body and footwork really do work.
   
   Finally if you are just beginning in martial arts as I am, beware you will learn many potentially deadly skills long before you are able to effectively control them -- as I just did. Do not attempt to study Straight Lead or any other martial art in isolation, enroll in a good school, train very diligently, go for your black belt. You should learn and practice the straight lead in a safe setting so you can unleash it to deadly effect only when needed.



2. I liked this book and how it traced Lee's research into the straight lead. Yet the crucial mistake Teri Tom makes is not posting a video of her performing the straight lead or including some kind of cd-rom. Pictures of her doing each step of the straight lead is all well and good, but her timing, her speed, and so much more do not show up in static pictures. If she is really interested in preserving Bruce Lee's life work, she should release a seminar video for sale. Not everyone can trek down to CA to see her do a seminar.



3. This book is a great dissapointment. If this were your only exposure to JKD, you might think the entire fighting sytle consisted of trying to sucker punch your opponent. Tom's opinions on other JKD styles, and Wing Chun is disparaging and at times fraught with a lack of understanding bordering on ignorance. The political motivations behind Tom's work seem to revolve more around mud-slinging and selling her new book/issues of 'Black Belt" magazine than teaching the best that she can.



4. This book is for true believers of the JKD art. Ignore the bashers and wannabees. These are truly the fine points of technique and style. If you want fanboy stuff or are more about reading than working, yes, just ignore this book.
   
   If you want to move beyond all the fluff and fisticuffs, stop right here and click to order.



5. It is obvious that Ms. Tom went into "Jeet Kune Do" with little, if any, martial arts background and understanding. She has biases that are common in those students-not just of JKD-that have only studied one art. Her biases shine through, which destroys a lot of the integrity of the book, but that is not to say that this book does not have something to offer. It is refreshing that someone has taken the time to write a complete book on one technique. Ms. Tom does explore the "straight lead" rather deeply and I did come away feeling better off after reading it. If nothing else, she offers quite a few great drills one can incorporate into one's own training. It does make me wonder, though sarcastically, if these drills came directly from Bruce Lee himself, as she does preach throughout the book how important it is to only follow what Bruce wanted...whatever that means. In the end, if one can get through the biased, preachy aspects of the book, I think it would be a good addition to any martial artist's library.

No comments about Chinatown Jeet Kune Do: Essential Elements of Bruce Lee's Martial Art.

5 comments about JEET KUNE DO.

1. This DVD is a complete and comprehensive course in JKD presented in a structured way for effective learning and practice. If you can't get to or don't want to enroll in JKD school then buy this DVD. Just get a friend and practice or you can practice much of it on your own. The discussion and use of the By-Jon stance alone is worth the price.



2. Don't get me wrong, this is by far the most complete,up to date, accurate and full of photographs JKD book in the market ! Everything, and I mean really everything of this art is covered with an astonishing amount of pictures. I have never seen a book so loaded with pictures, describing every angle and each and every movement in JKD.
   So I will not repeat the positive qualities of this book, already very much described in other reviews.
   On the negative side: complement this book with a more streetfighting oriented book. This book is also very much focused on trapping, tunneling, and related drills which have limited use in real world experience (unless you spend years daily training with them).
   So, for the phisical preparation, and training, all of these drills are veru useful, but, I would use it only for training purposes.



3. This book was simply amazing to read and to follow along on the different techniques, exercises, and drills. I have a question: Is this book supposed to be in color photos or just black and white? I got mine in black and white so I just wanted to know. This book goes through the 5 ways of attack in JKD, wooden dummy, sticky hands, energy drills, kicking drills, 1 inch punch/kick, and much much more! I am glad that I purchased this book and it is one of the best books of JKD on the market.



4. While I have not finished this book, yet, it seems to be
   a good addition to the JKD arsenal. Some spellings are
   different, but no big deal! Good job! Thanks



5. Best condensation from allot of various knowledge but with allot of creative license. He needs to pay for a bunch more time training under Guru Dan.
   This author is not certified from the original lineage (Guru Dan) only person in U.S. originally with permission, by Bruce, to teach Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do in the U.S. and thus makes some serious mistakes in punch integration in the book. Also, a big 0 in focus pad drills that only Guru Dan had directly from Bruce. (Focus pads was one of Bruce's favorite training methods.) Also, much creative license is taken with Wing Chun and Chinese names for things. This is a good book if you can get it cheap for some of the Wing Chun portions etc. but, Kevin Seaman's book is much better for real authentic JKD. Also, since there are so many less than original JKD books out there best to get either Dan Inosanto's DVDs on JKD. Or his son in law's Ron Balicki's DVDs or Paul Vunak's DVDs.
   The author is obviously sincere and very studiously trained in things he could such as The Tao Of Jeet Kune Do. (Btw, unfinished massive collection of Bruce's notes he never meant for publication)
   But, for the wing chun a good supplement try Yip Chuns book on Wing Chun or many other resources. (note you cannot get chi sao from a book either)
   JKD was meant to be a creative process to take what you need and add what is specifically your own with what works best for you, BUT not to disregard the essentials. So, stick with originals is probably the best advice.

5 comments about Jeet Kune Do: Bruce Lee's Commentaries on the Martial Way (Bruce Lee Library).

1. This is the best book on on Bruce Lee's philosofies yet! A must read for every martial artist.



2. Jeet Kune Do is a book full of insight into the martial arts through the eyes of Bruce Lee. It does contain many important aspects of martial arts. It appears to attempt to address very important topics which many martial art styles tend to ignore. Martial arts are more than lists of techniques and pre arranged kata. They are about developing fighting skill, and about how to train in order to perfect your agility, balance, power and timing. Volume three does address these concepts and more.
   
   The down side to this book is that it isn't very much more than the brain storming sessions of Bruce Lee committed to paper. One statement after another is made with very little logical connection. What this book needed was to be ordered such that related statements and concepts were grouped together. In places there are simple lists of various techniques without little or no explanation of the context. Rather than clear explanations of concepts we are treated to short unrelated sentenences.
   
   The job of trying to extract from these notes the real meaning of what Bruce was trying to convey was very difficult indeed. The book is full of photos of Bruce in action, however these photos are generally not related to the content. Drawn illustrations are in somewhat better context, but they are obviously the original illustrations Bruce had drawn himself.
   
   For those who are interested in the original notes from Bruce Lee there may be some interest. However, for a general reader the presentation of his ideas is confusing and incomplete. This isn't to say that the book does not have value. There is quite a bit of good advice. My issue with the book is that the editors could have substantially reorganised it in such a way as to make it more comprehensible. It would also have been an advantage to redraw the illustrations professionally so that we don't have to strain to read the notes.
   
   Bruce was a great Martial Artist, but that doesn't mean we should expect him to be the best writer. In this case his ideas should have been extended and examined. Where there were incomplete sections the context should have been filled in for people. Also the order of ideas should have been changed so that similar ideas were not repeated throughout the book.



3. I see that a lot of reviewers that gave this book low ratings seem to think that you can learn martial arts from a book. I will give you this warning now, you can't and never will be able to learn a martial art from a book, but this is a good starting place for beginners to see some of the techniques and ideas put forward in Jeet Kune Do. If you're someone with martial training as I am you can learn a number of things from this book. Most martial arts that are taught today are for exercise, fun, or competition, rarely are they taught for safety or other more historical reasons. This book can help you get back to those roots of your art.
   
   I have studied various forms of martial arts for around ten years now and would consider this book an invaluable edition to my library, which is always growing and always changing and I still rank this book as one of the better ones in my collection. Inside you will find sections of philosophy and sections on technical work. The reason I gave this only four stars is that if you are not a martial artist or if you don't at least have some basic training, the technical section of the book is worthless and will do you no good. However, if you have practiced, you can learn a lot from the technical section of this book as Bruce goes over individual moves and how to use them to their best in a fight. He also explains how to close space between yourself and an opponent, how to mix up the rhythms of a fight, and how to make your attack and defense more effective.
   
   If you haven't studied martial arts then you will find some sections of this book to be quite interesting while others are utterly worthless. If you have, however, this is one of the better technical manuals that can be purchased that is also veined with the philosophies behind this physical and mental art. It is a wonderful resource and a useful tool for any martial artist.



4. I study Jeet Kune Do in Denver Colorado. My Sifu referred me to this book. I do wish the book had more diagrams of some of the techniques. Overall it is the geatest book on JKD. Of course it is,it was written by the man who created JKD.
   In one place in the book, Bruce Lee had written the pros and cons of different arts and what he liked about them technichly. This allows you to see how Lee was percieving martial arts and what he was looking for. You also get possible insight to where his art was going.
   Near the end of the book are Lee's training routines. He even writes how to teach a class. There is much more info in this book than the original. Just don't forget the same author wrote them both.
   Also don't forget to check out Bruce Lee's 4 volume Fighting methods to see how Lee trained.
   JKD Pupil



5. This is my favorite of the John Little/Bruce Lee series.
   
   If you are looking for real, honest-to-goodness Bruce Lee principles of JKD, then this is the book. Even though the book is organized into categories, I think the best way to study it is to take a random page (any page will do) and apply it to your martial study for a full practice session. Just the one page will be packed with ideas.
   
   And your martial arts will improve.
   
   Digest the book, one piece at a time, and you will improve every aspect of your martial arts ... speed, reaction time, attack and counterattack, rhythm and timing, and on and on.
   
   This really is a value-packed book.
   
   Remember, savor the advice and don't gloss over any of the writing. This "stuff" is important.
   
   --Keith Pascal, martial arts author

5 comments about Bruce Lee's Fighting Method, Vol. 4: Advanced Techniques (Bruce Lee's Fighting Method).

1. IN MEMORY OF MARIO PONTILLO
   Since the late 1970's, I have studied Mr. Lee's "Way of the Intercepting fist."
   This book will walk you through the physical aspect of his methods. It is the last in a volume of 4 books. I recommend you get all the volumes from this series. You will need to start from the beginning; and you do that by emptying your cup so Bruce may fill it.

   My favorite quote: "Knowing is not enough, you must apply; willing is not enough, you must do." -Bruce Lee

   Please do not hesitate to check out my Poetry book that I published while in the U.S. Navy in 2003; "Under the Rose: Poetry of Tragedy, Essence, and Romance"




2. Review of Bruce Lee's Fighting Method, Volume 4, Advanced Techniques
   
   This Volume has Chapters XII thru XVI
   
   The main idea for this volume is that 4 elements that make for a good attack include strategy, deception, timing, speed. The inconsistent or fragmentary structure of Bruce Lee's writing almost mutes the main idea stead of supporting it.
   
   Being able to adapt to change quickly is an important strategic quality. Bruce Lee expressed it in other words in his writings. He recommends that the fighter should vary his attacks and defenses ostensibly to prevent the opponent from anticipating what comes next and to be able to fight with fighters from other styles.
   
   Bruce Lee recommends a number of ways to deceive the opponent such as using feints, drawing the opponent's attack by using footwork or leaving a target open to the opponent, using circular and semi circular parries and strikes: hooks and uppercuts that come from out side the field of the opponent's visual field, and broken attack rhythms.
   
   Timing and speed are more important with use of more advanced techniques: good counter strikes, trapping, evasion techniques to allow the fighter to counter strike with more than one blow without blocking or parrying, and being able to sense and harmonize with the opponent' moves and the rhythm of his moves to strike him the moment he makes an opening in his guard are all advanced skills in timing and require the ability to move quickly to seize a moment and make use of it.
   
   Some techniques have the potential illusion of speed built into them simply because the hand or food used might be closer to a target on the opponent. Eliminating moves that reveal your intent to the opponent also creates the illusion of speed by reducing or elimination of warnings.
   
   In Chapter XIII, Bruce Lee mentions that too many fighters emphasize too much on speed and blame their failure to make contact on the opponent with their strikes on the lack of speed instead of not using the correct strike for the moment. This statement would have been better placed on the first page of the volume because it helps to preserve the main idea of this volume as you read about all the tactics and striking and kicking techniques that follow.
   
   This volume covers each of the various basic striking and kicking techniques. The body mechanics of performing each strike, the practical uses of each technique, and quality of each type of strike is covered. So, in this volume, strikes are written about in such a way that a punch is not just a punch. A kick is not just a kick. But, each strike's characteristics makes it suitable at a particular instant, a particular type of scenario in fight. In a fight each striking technique becomes a tool for an instant, for the right moment: lead jabs to intercept and keep the opponent busy or at a distance, hooks and upper cuts to follow straight punches to catch an opponent off guard in close fighting, reverse punch or rear counter for a powerful, damaging strike when the opponents guard is open.
   
   I think that these 4 volumes were originally intended to be published as one book; not in volumes. Each of the volumes has different range of chapter numbers. Sometimes while reading some topic, something will make more sense if you had read the previous volume or a related topic in the Tao of Jeet Kune Do.
   
   If you like this series of books and the Tao of Jeet Kune Do, you might also like Paul Vunak's "street Fight" series of videos or former kickboxing and karate tournament champion, Hector Echavarria's 3 video series on Kickboxing. Many of the principles Hector Echavarria talks about and demonstrates are the same or very similar as those in this series of volumes on Bruce Lee's Fighting Method.
   
   Street Safe I by Paul Vunak
   
   Street Safe II by Paul Vunak
   
   Street Safe III by Paul Vunak
   
   R.A.T. Fighting System by Paul Vunak
   
   Jeet Kune Do: Its Concepts and Philosophies (Jeet Kune Do) by Paul Vunak
   
   Anatomy of a Street Fight by Paul Vunak



3. This is not a cure all book of splendor that will make your street sojourns safe as can be. What it happens to be is a terse condensing of terms and applications. However, this can be a blessing in disguise if you've ever really fought someone for whatever petty reasons. But as is usual, petty fights can't be won by might alone. Moreover, a brief self-defense type situation not asked for nor expected in the least, will never ever count on you being able to muster Earnie Shavers-esque punches via hours and hours of your prior chopping of wood and winding up and hitting a hanging truck tire with sledge hammer in hand. But such is the world of Archie Moore. Anywho, Bruce Lee's Vol. 4 "Advanced Techniques" will give you insights into not so much what works, but what will keep you in the fight for the long haul. Pointers I took to liking and appreciating were:
   Side kick from a distance. Hook kicks aimed roughly a foot in front of an advancing target for maximum impact (a late straight or hook kick results in you being taken down or knocked stiff; watch muay thai to appreciate). Straight kicks to the groin when in close (the power comes from the bending and straightening of the knee as when kicking a soccerball). For punching, what I found illustrative were comments on when to throw body punches and how to punch in disengagements. Many fights end after an attacker relaxes to early, stays too close, and then abruptly tastes a big hook or wild uppercut when flatfooted. Hook when countering, uppercut when the hook gets suffocated, throw high, low, high, low and so on when putting together combinations. Be careful though when body punching a big strong opponent - you open your face all to easily to both compact and loose hooks. Lastly, if you are facing someone who is in the reverse stance (opposite lead hand forward), be very cautious of straight punching both upstairs and down. Of course, if your opponent doesn't do this, you should be able to no problem as it is your first and best option (you beat a lefty by evading the straight left, but to do so, you'll have to square up on occassion and unleash your own straight right). Lastly, speed and defensive measure can be vastly overrated - you might quickly escape backward only to be launched further (watch UFC competitors who smell knockouts! it isn't one punch, two punch, three........it is a literal assault coming straight at you with a fierceness you'll have to somehow disrupt). Use your speed only for direct attack or blocking, however, try not to feint hyperactively as this will leave you wide open eventually! Learn to block, roll the punch, sharply turn, and lastly, if you can, duck and parry a straight punch and follow naturally with a leaning blow to the opponents already commited waistline.
   The book is lacking in elbow and knee offensives. Knees are really only good from the clinch, while elbows are good against someone who comes in uppercutting or letting loose lowline hooks with both hands. It also does not teach you any grappling, takedowns, shoots, or chokeholds. Learn those elsewhere - I prefer Ken Shamrock's 'Beyond the Lions Den' with its emphasis on submission wrestling and manuevers that translate to the street if need be.
   Other aspects covered that should be paid attention to are: keeping initial combinations (opponent not dazed nor hurt) to 2 to 3 blows; keeping hands projected further outward when feeling stuck (rear hand can almost touch lead shoulder to make for new angles and lessening of muscle tension); lead jab thrown with knuckles in the verticle and rear heal almost leap frogging toward lead heal to make a power-V for torque in rotation); also relying less on bobbing and weaving against a stronger opponent (as is thought to be so fruitful) and looking more to the stop-hit and cover-counter-cover-counter approach (bob and weaving works somewhat at a distance, and can help to avoid becoming frozen in action). Lastly, I'll give a few hints from my own minor scrapes, mostly on what to avoid from the opponent:
   1) Learn to stop or get away from rear shots. These include overhands, straights, thrusts, etc. Either jump straight back (chin down hands high), move to a side (again hands high), or jump forward at an angle (duck!). It is very easy to get overconfident with straight punches. The good news is, you opponent begins to open himself to his own weapon of choice - the rear straight! Once you start countering straight for straight, be preparred to duck and then uppercut in anticipation of the opponents tendancy to start trading straights. If you can collapse the gap, short hooks and body punching can become overwhelming to a once strident attacker.
   2) Do not lunge in to far, called reaching, to land a straight body punch or blow to the head because if your opponent is well seasoned, you will get tagged repeatedly by hooks arriving in all directions. Thus, if your opponent starts getting desperate and throws long overhands, either step right in with two rapid one-two uppercuts; or, step back and let the attackers momentum shift them right into range for your wild hooks. One or two of these is plenty, but a third and forth can be sprung on them if they are stunned or cover excessively.
   3) Long hooks and sharp, in-close body punching can be the only way to open up a stubborn defensive fighter. No matter the situation, if you do 3 daily exercises, your strength for self-defense becomes two-fold within a month or two - pushups, situps, and squats. And if you wish, shoulder presses and pullups.
   Bruce Lee was a master. In a real boxing match, he may not have been big enough to tackle the heavyweight devision, crowned champ. But when there are no rules out on the street, and if your initial move or instictive reaction fails (groin kick, knee kick, side kick to sternum, carotid strike, eye jab) then it becomes imperative to have a reserve of strong boxing/kickboxing know-how. Thank goodness for people who devoted their lives to helping innocents withstand perilous circumstance. Maybe not as beautiful as Euclid's Elements Book 13, enlightening just the same.



4. If you like martial arts , than it's a great book and you can better unerstand Bruce Lee.



5. Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Bruce Lee's and M. Uyehara's, "Bruce Lee's Fighting Method; Volume 4: Advanced Techniques." This book is a direct continuation of the previous volume and will continue where that one left off.
   
   As is stated in the introduction to this and the other three volumes in the series, Bruce Lee never intended for these books to be published. However, since his untimely passing, his wife Linda decided that she would allow them to be published. Something we should all be thankful for.
   
   What I will attempt to do in this review is to give you a well-rounded grasp of what Bruce has written and demonstrated for you in this series of books. Although nothing can replace the value of a qualified and competent instructor, a well written book can still provide you with a wealth of knowledge if you know how to realize it and obtain it.
   
   12. Hand Techniques for Offense; Part One:
   
   a. Set-up your primary attacks first.
   b. Your primary attacks should be indirect attacks rather than direct attacks.
   c. Basic principles involved in utilizing hand techniques effectively.
   d. You should always be studying your opponent.
   e. How to effectively utilize the Leading Finger Jab.
   f. How to effectively utilize the Leading Straight Right.
   g. How to effectively utilize the Leading Punch to the Body.
   h. How to effectively utilize the Leading Straight Left Punch.
   
   13. Hand Techniques for Offense; Part Two:
   
   a. How to effectively utilize the Straight Left to the Body.
   b. How to effectively utilize the Lead Jab.
   c. How to effectively utilize the Backfist.
   d. How to effectively utilize the Hook Punch.
   e. How to effectively utilize the Uppercut.
   
   14. Attacks with Kicks:
   
   a. How to effectively utilize the Side Kick to the lead shin and/or knee.
   b. How to effectively utilize the Leading Side Kick.
   c. How to effectively utilize the Roundhouse (Hook) Kick.
   d. How to effectively utilize the Turning Back (Spin) Kick.
   e. How to effectively utilize the Turning Wheel or Hook (Sweep) Kick.
   
   15. Defense and Counter:
   
   a. How to effectively counterattack utilizing the Lead Finger Jab.
   b. How to effectively counterattack utilizing the Leading Side Kick to the shin or knee.
   c. How to effectively counterattack utilizing the Roundhouse (Hook) Kick.
   d. How to effectively counterattack utilizing the Turning Back (Spin) Kick.
   e. How to effectively counterattack utilizing the Leading Right.
   
   16. Attributes and Tactics:
   
   a. Discusses the importance of speed, attitude and tactics.
   
   Like any well written book, as much as you can learn from this book by reading it, you can learn just as much if not more by reading between the lines. I particularly enjoyed the simplicity of what Bruce was trying to relay throughout this and pretty much all of his books. What may work well for one person, may not work at all for another. Therefore, you as an individual needs to research the techniques that are out there and find those that work best for you and use them. Remember, there are no superior martial arts, only superior martial artists.

5 comments about Bruce Lee's Fighting Method, Vol. 3: Skill in Techniques (Bruce Lee's Fighting Method).

1. This is one of the better books out there devoted to actually being able to use your body's weapons with skill. The book starts off on body movements, stuff like footwork and distancing. It then goes into attacking with the hands, and then attacking with the feet. Parrying is also covered, and then targets and stances. This book is devoted to eliminating bad habbits, and has a lot of comparisons of JKD vs. classical martial arts. As I mentioned in my other reviews of "Bruce Lee's Fighting Method", this book works much better when taken with the series, as well as a couple of other early JKD books. However, it is useful to the average martial artist when it comes to making fighting movements more efficient, and more crisp.



2. IN MEMORY OF MARIO PONTILLO
   Since the late 1970's, I have studied Mr. Lee's "Way of the Intercepting fist." I have the 1st editions of all the "best" books on Bruce's work.
   This book will walk you through the physical aspect of his methods. I recommend you get all the volumes from this series. You will need to start from the beginning; and you do that by emptying your cup so Bruce may fill it.

   My favorite quote: "Knowing is not enough, you must apply; willing is not enough, you must do." -Bruce Lee

   Please do not hesitate to check out my Poetry book that I published while in the U.S. Navy in 2003; "Under the Rose: Poetry of Tragedy, Essence, and Romance"




3. The Chapters are numbered from VI to XI.
   
   After reading Chapter VI, the reader should begin to understand how the intensity and mode of a fight can change when fighters vary their distance thru the 3 ranges of long range, medium range, close range. The reader should begin to understand how fighters can test each other's behavior responses, habits and perhaps level of skill by attempting to provoke and manipulate each other thru the use of footwork to vary distance and use of feints and drawing techniques.
   
   Chapter VII covers the attributes, advantages and form of strikes and defensive guard used in Jeet Kune Do. 8 bad habits are listed to bring to the attention of the reader habits to avoid or correct one's self from doing or to take advantage of when done by the opponent.
   
   Chapter VIII is about kicks.
   
   Chapter IX defines and describes the use of parrying in Jeet Kune Do. The message to fighters is to fine tune their defense to save energy and effort in defensive action by not making wasteful, exaggerated moves. Elements of timing, distance, evasive footwork and awareness of the opponent's intent is covered here.
   The cleverness of Bruce Lee's use of the lead hand to strike while the rear hand parrys or grabs becomes understandable as the photos show that the opponent's hand is allowed to extend more fully when parried by the rear guard hand thus opening the opponent's defense for a counter strike with the lead guard hand.
   In this chapter, Lee's parries are constantly compared favorably and persuasively to traditional, classical methods of blocking.
   
   Chapter X "Targets" is about the weak, vulnerable areas of the body. There are no secret vital pressure points and no mumble jumbo about imaginary vessels and meridians in this book. All weak spots covered in this chapter are known to every one: the ribs, solar plexus, groin, shins, etc, etc.
   In this chapter, Bruce Lee reminds the reader that well chosen targets can bring a fight to a quick, efficient end. Part of the purpose of this chapter is to have the reader keep these weak areas and the moves that expose them in mind when planning defense and attack techniques to use, that is, to have the fighter thinking about defending and attacking weakness as an essential component of a fighter's skills.
   
   Chapter XI is about sparring and mentions the degenerative, decaying effect competitive sports, safety rules, regulations, and safety equipment have on martial arts and combative systems.
   Covered subjects include combinations, drawing the opponents reactions, feints, timing and self confidence. The parts of this chapter that explain about evasive means of defense instead of parries and blocks and more about bad habits is especially valuable and very much worth reading.
   
   Hector Echavarria's 3 Volume DVD video series on KickBoxing is very similar and compatible to this series of books on Bruce Lee's Fighting Method.



4. Thought the book was well thought out with it's diagramming of the various technical skills. Also the explanation of the skills were very simple but precise.



5. Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Bruce Lee's and M. Uyehara's, "Bruce Lee's Fighting Method; Volume 3: Skill in Techniques." This book is a direct continuation of the previous volume and will continue where that one left off.
   
   As is stated in the introduction to this and the other three volumes in the series, Bruce Lee never intended for these books to be published. However, since his untimely passing, his wife Linda decided that she would allow them to be published. Something we should all be thankful for.
   
   What I will attempt to do in this review is to give you a well-rounded grasp of what Bruce has written and demonstrated for you in this series of books. Although nothing can replace the value of a qualified and competent instructor, a well written book can still provide you with a wealth of knowledge if you know how to realize it and obtain it.
   
   6. Skill in Movement:
   
   a. Basic principles involved in obtaining and keeping your preferred distance away from your opponent.
   b. The 3 fighting distances and what the preferred techniques are for each one.
   c. Footwork and how to use it to maintain your preferred distance from your attacker.
   d. Don't telegraph your intentions or your movements to your opponent.
   e. How to Side-step your attacker.
   f. How to effectively duck in order to avoid a blow.
   
   7. Skill in Hand Techniques:
   
   a. How to use your entire body correctly when punching.
   b. How to utilize strategy when punching.
   c. How to effectively utilize countering techniques.
   d. Avoiding bad habits such as; opening your mouth, dropping your hands, etc.
   
   8. Skill in Kicking:
   
   a. The basic principles behind kicking are discussed.
   b. How to utilize the Lead leg Side Kick.
   c. How to utilize the Slide Forward Side Kick.
   d. How to utilize the Roundhouse (Hook) Kick.
   e. How to utilize the Turning Back (Spin) Kick.
   f. How to utilize the Turning Wheel or Hook (Sweep) Kick.
   
   9. Parrying:
   
   a. Parrying a blow is preferable to blocking a blow.
   b. Basic principles involved with parrying.
   c. Several various types of parries are demonstrated.
   d. Utilizing parrying and counters against punches.
   e. Utilizing parrying and counters against kicking.
   
   10. Targets:
   
   a. Discusses the two primary targets you should try and strike during a fight.
   b. Fighting is not a sport.
   c. A martial art that is primarily sport oriented is weaker than a traditional martial art.
   d. A description of various other targets that you can strike as well as the two primary ones.
   e. It is better to strike the correct vulnerable spot once, than the incorrect one many times.
   
   11. Sparring:
   
   a. Contact sparring is preferable to non-contact sparring.
   b. Various techniques to use when sparring with protective gear.
   c. How to use feints, fakes, counters, slipping, and bobbing & weaving.
   
   Like any well written book, as much as you can learn from this book by reading it, you can learn just as much if not more by reading between the lines. I particularly enjoyed the simplicity of what Bruce was trying to relay throughout this and pretty much all of his books. What may work well for one person, may not work at all for another. Therefore, you as an individual needs to research the techniques that are out there and find those that work best for you and use them. Remember, there are no superior martial arts, only superior martial artists.

5 comments about Bruce Lee's Fighting Method, Vol. 1: Self-Defense Techniques (Bruce Lee's Fighting Method).

1. Although you can't learn martial arts from a book, Lee's books are very good historical references from the late master. Lee was constantly changing and evolving his fighting arts and these books show a small slice in time of his fighting philosophy and techniques. The series is simple, yet interesting. Lee's Jeet Kune Do was to the 60s/70s what mixed martial arts is to modern times. These books certainly deserve a place on the shelf of any Bruce Lee fan.



2. Who the hell is this who claims B.L. didn't write these books?
   Go buy it, read it. Then judge for yourselves.
   This is the best there is: The basics on Street Fighting and self defense.
   Not the Basics as taught by traditional Chinese Boxing (KungFu)



3. Bruce Teaches you how to fight just like him in a hard cover book. It really is Bruce teaching you from 1966 when he made this book. After he died his wife released it . I learned so much from learning Bruce's self defense techniques.
   This HArd Cover Book is truely amazing.



4. Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Bruce Lee's and M. Uyehara's, "Bruce Lee's Fighting Method; Volume 1: Self-Defense Techniques."
   
   As is stated in the introduction to this and the other three volumes in the series, Bruce Lee never intended for these books to be published. However, since his untimely passing, his wife Linda decided that she would allow them to be published. Something we should all be thankful for.
   
   What I will attempt to do in this review is to give you a well-rounded grasp of what Bruce has written and demonstrated for you in this series of books. Although nothing can replace the value of a qualified and competent instructor, a well written book can still provide you with a wealth of knowledge if you know how to realize it and obtain it.
   
   1. Defense Against a Surprise Attack:
   
   a. The best defense against a surprise attack is not to be surprised by an attack.
   b. Awareness is the key and should be practiced at all times.
   c. Bruce demonstrates 4 different scenarios in which an attacker attempts to surprise him with an attack.
   
   2. Defense Against An Unarmed Assailant:
   
   a. Bruce stated that he felt you are wasting your time and energy by studying set patterns of forms (kata). On this particular point I have to agree and disagree at the same time. If you are studying the forms and practicing them for their intended purpose it is definitely not a waste of time. However, if you are studying them incorrectly, then yes I would have to agree that for the most part it would be a waste of time.
   b. Bruce demonstrates 9 different scenarios for defending yourself against an unarmed attacker.
   
   3. Defense Against Grabbing:
   
   a. The best defense against being grabbed is not to let them grab you in the first place.
   b. However, once you have been grabbed the most practical defense is to use your hands.
   c. Bruce demonstrates 16 different scenarios from which to defend from. These include wrist grabs, arm grabs, belt or pants grabs, etc.
   
   4. Defending Against Choke Holds and Hugs:
   
   a. Once again, the best defense against a choke or a hug is not to let them grab a hold of you in the first place.
   b. However, once you have been grabbed the best defense is the most simple and effective.
   c. Remember, awareness of you and your surroundings is the key.
   d. Bruce demonstrates 11 different scenarios from which to defend from. These include various chokes, bear hugs with and without your arms being pinned, etc.
   
   5. Self-Defense Against An Armed Assailant:
   
   a. "You are at a disadvantage against someone with a weapon, so keep away from him."
   b. You must constantly practice in order to have a chance in this type of situation.
   c. Demonstrated in this section are 9 different scenarios for defending yourself against an attacker armed with a stick or staff.
   d. Demonstrated in this section are 4 different scenarios for defending yourself against an attacker armed with a knife.
   e. Demonstrated in this section are 2 different scenarios for defending yourself against an attacker armed with a handgun.
   
   6. Defense Against Multiple Assailants:
   
   a. Defending yourself against more than one opponent at a time is always harder.
   b. However, having said that, just because there is more than one attacker doesn't necessarily mean you are at a disadvantage. Sometimes there is a disadvantage in numbers.
   c. Bruce demonstrates 8 different scenarios from which to defend from when fighting against more than one attacker at a time.
   
   7. Defense from a Vulnerable Position:
   
   a. Always remember, "Anything goes when defending yourself."
   b. Bruce demonstrates 3 different scenarios from which to defend from when sitting in a chair.
   c. Bruce demonstrates 4 different scenarios from which to defend from when lying down.
   
   Like any well written book, as much as you can learn from this book by reading it, you can learn just as much if not more by reading between the lines. I particularly enjoyed the simplicity of what Bruce was trying to relay throughout this and pretty much all of his books. What may work well for one person, may not work at all for another. Therefore, you as an individual needs to research the techniques that are out there and find those that work best for you and use them. Remember, there are no superior martial arts, only superior martial artists.



5. I am going to make this review very simple and straight forward to the best of my knowledge. Bruce Lee offers step-by-step illustrations of just about every move in this book. As for someone who hasn't been in martial arts(myself)for the past 10+ years I am very confident that I could execute most of these moves efficiently with practice. They are not hard but they are very effective. Speed becomes an issue with some of these moves. The book isn't about blocking your opponents blows in any form. This book is about quick counter-attacks. Bruce Lee obviously did not intend on waiting around for a chance to be hit.. He would attack at the same time his opponent would but SMARTER!! Good book! With confidence in yourself and practice you also will benefit from Bruce Lee. Once again, these are not flying kicks, acrobatics, or anything professional in nature. These moves are about using your brain quicker than your opponents. I hope you find this review helpful.

5 comments about Bruce Lee's Fighting Method, Vol. 2: Basic Training (Bruce Lee's Fighting Method).

1. Mito Uyehara was the founder and publisher of Black Belt magazine. Mito actually took privates from Bruce in his office according to staff legend. Mito also gave Bruce plenty of exposure in Black Belt, but the books in this series, Bruce Lee's Fighting Methods, are the true legacy of that relationship. Mito was very protective of Bruce's image and his admiration for him is as clear as the many photographs in these books.

   Of course, Bruce Lee was always changing his methods and ideas about training. To what degree he would have stood behind this material some 40-years later has been the subject of much debate. The closest thing to a modern version of this series is How to Master Bruce Lee's Fighting Style by Lee student Joe Lewis, who credits much of his success to principles he learned while working with Bruce Lee.

   But, "never take your eyes off the finger, or you will miss a great book for any Bruce Lee fan."




2. Bruce Lee covers the basics and foundations of training.
   
   All too often martial artists focus their energies on techniques without developing or preparing the body for such techniques.
   
   This volume covers:
   
   1) Aerobic Conditioning - running vs jumping rope
   2) Stretching
   3) Core muscle strengthening almost always overlooked. Namely abdominal toning
   4) Proper stance and movement
   5) Footwork
   6) Developing power in your strikes
   7) Increasing your speed



3. Bruce Lee's Fighting Method: Basic Training Vol. 2
   
   Chapter 1 is sort of an overview of a number of exercises and the benefits of each exercise in conditioning the body to be a fighter. There is not much in this chapter, which you cannot find in other exercise or workout books. Furthermore, the practice of receiving blows from a medicine ball or moderately controlled punches to the abdomen is no longer recommended because we now know that receiving even moderate, controlled blows over time can cause damage to internal tissues and organs. Never the less, I am not going to say that there is nothing worth reading in this book. It's just that this book was written before the fitness craze gained momentum to the extent of becoming a cultural practice in the United States. Many people back then were out of shape and did not know how to exercise for better health and physical performance. Some still don't. To beginners, this chapter can serve as an introduction of the types of exercise for a fighter.
   
   Chapter 2 explains in detail and illustrates Bruce Lee's unique right lead Jeet Kune Do guard stance, posture and benefits. Then, there are a series of photos of Dan Inosanto, Bruce Lee's famous student, posing in various classical guard positions, some of which look more like illustrations of moves in kata or forms. The book persuasively criticizes the various weaknesses of the classical guard stances. In defense of some classical positions criticized, however, some martial artists argue persuasively that these classical positions found in katas and forms are symbolic representations of effective fighting techniques being executed and do not represent stationary guard positions.
   (See books by Rick Clark, Guy Trimble III, Ashley Croft and George Dillman for more on better interpretations of kata's symbolic representation of effective fighting techniques."
   
   The Chapter on footwork is very basic and simple. It is almost boring. However, the important point to take note of is that moving quickly and effectiveness in fighting begins with being quick on the feet. Bruce lee's books are unique in that they emphasize elements such as distance, timing, speed, creating openings in the opponent's guard and observing the opponent's reactions and habits rather than reliance on techniques for this or that situation. So, it begins with footwork to move into range quickly to strike, to move out of range or side-to-side to avoid being struck and being ready to counter when an opening does appear. The later volumes build on ideas that require good footwork. So, it does start with this book to create a foundation of good footwork. After all, good technique and power is wasted if you can't deliver your strikes or kicks due to lack of speed or improper timing or distance.
   
   The beginning martial artist reading this book might get the quickest results from this book in studying the chapters on power training and speed training. Anyone who understands how to combine the elements such as closing to a proper distance to be able to punch through the target, using harmonious movement of the body while keeping the muscles relaxed until the instant your strike makes contact will discover an alternative, more effective way to deliver a powerful strike rather than using the strength of the arm and upper body alone.
   
   The last chapter on speed training offers 7 different ways to train for developing speed. Most of these training methods require a partner. The reader has to look for these in the context of the writing. There is also an interesting technique suggested for psychologically developing a better sense of timing and quickness of reaction near the end of the last chapter.
   
   Beginners and young martial artist might not fully understand the value of the information in the series of books on Bruce Lee's Fighting Method and in his Tao of Jeet Kune Do.
   
   There is also a video adaptation of this book available on VHS or DVD which features Richard Bustillo and Ted Wong, one of Bruce Lee's students, who also is seen in the photographs of the books.
   
   VHS:
   
   Bruce Lee's Fighting Method
   
   Bruce Lee's Fighting Method
   
   DVD:
   
   Bruce Lee's Fighting Method - by Ted Wong and Richard Bustillo



4. Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Bruce Lee's and M. Uyehara's, "Bruce Lee's Fighting Method; Volume 2: Basic Training."
   
   As is stated in the introduction to this and the other three volumes in the series, Bruce Lee never intended for these books to be published. However, since his untimely passing, his wife Linda decided that she would allow them to be published. Something we should all be thankful for.
   
   What I will attempt to do in this review is to give you a well-rounded grasp of what Bruce has written and demonstrated for you in this series of books. Although nothing can replace the value of a qualified and competent instructor, a well written book can still provide you with a wealth of knowledge if you know how to realize it and obtain it.
   
   1. The Fighting Man Exercises:
   
   a. The importance of aerobic conditioning and exercises to increase your aerobic capacity such as; running, bike riding, jumping rope, etc.
   b. Most martial artists neglect their actual physical workouts, thinking that practicing their particular martial art of and by itself is all you need to get into and stay in shape. This is not true! One must supplement their martial arts training with various muscle building and flexibility exercises.
   c. You must constantly push yourself to become better than what you already are. If it comes easy, it generally isn't worth it.
   d. How to warm-up properly in order to prepare your body for harder workouts without risking the chance of unnecessary injury due to the use of a well designed and executed warm-up routine.
   e. Various flexibility exercises are shown using the trampoline and various body stretches.
   f. Several different abdominal exercises are demonstrated as Bruce always felt that the abdomens were the major source of power in the martial arts.
   
   2. The On-Guard Position:
   
   a. Bruce goes really in-depth on a good fighting stance.
   b. Looks at the disadvantages of more traditional or formal stances.
   c. Bruce also talks a good deal about balance and how important it is to being effective with your techniques.
   
   3. Footwork:
   
   a. The basic principles behind your footwork are discussed.
   b. Demonstrated and explained are the Forward and Backward Shuffle.
   c. Demonstrated and explained are the Quick Advance and Retreat.
   d. Demonstrated and explained is the Burst Forward.
   e. Demonstrated and explained is Sidestepping.
   
   4. Power Training; Punching Power:
   
   a. How to correctly make a fist for punching.
   b. Various training exercises utilizing the heavy bag, punching mitts, force shields, etc.
   c. The use of canvas bags filled with everything from sand to steel filings in order to toughen the hands for impact.
   d. The use of hand weights when practicing your punches.
   e. The use of a staff across your shoulders to improve your body's ability to work in unison when punching.
   f. Talks about using KI when punching and how to punch through your target, not at it.
   g. Also discussed is "Pulling Power" and how to develop it with hand and forearm exercises.
   
   Power in Kicking:
   
   a. Flicky point style kicks are useless in self-defense.
   b. How to develop striking power in your Side Kick.
   c. The use of the heavy bag to develop power in your kicks.
   d. The use of the kicking shield to develop power in your kicks.
   e. How to add more power to your Front Kick by utilizing your hips correctly.
   
   5. Speed Training:
   
   a. Basic principles involved in training for speed in your techniques.
   b. Developing punching speed.
   c. Developing whipping speed for your Back Fist.
   d. Developing speed in your Finger Jab by using a piece of paper.
   e. Developing speed in your Lead Straight Punch.
   f. Using equipment such as the double-end bag, punching mitts, and heavy bag to develop speed.
   g. Developing a non-telegraphic punch.
   h. Using concepts from fencing to enhance your speed and punching skills.
   i. A very interesting use of a children's game to develop speed.
   
   Speed in Kicking:
   
   a. Principles and techniques of the Side Kick and Roundhouse Kick, which I find very interesting that Bruce calls the Roundhouse Kick a Hook Kick.
   b. Various methods of developing speed in your kicks.
   c. Awareness of your body and what it is doing when you are kicking.
   
   Like any well written book, as much as you can learn from this book by reading it, you can learn just as much if not more by reading between the lines. I particularly enjoyed the simplicity of what Bruce was trying to relay throughout this and pretty much all of his books. What may work well for one person, may not work at all for another. Therefore, you as an individual needs to research the techniques that are out there and find those that work best for you and use them. Remember, there are no superior martial arts, only superior martial artists.



5. I'm not a martial artist. I don't know anything about Jeet Kune Do like most of these reviewers. I grew up only knowing the western style of fighting, boxing at it's simplest level. Put up your hands, jab with your left and punch with your right.
   
   Bruce's style is totally different. Everything is predicated on speed. Strikes are used with the knuckles of the last 3 fingers (middle, ring, and pinky) instead of middle finger and forefinger. Instead of turning the wrist over to at the end of the punch the wrist is kept straight. He used southpaw stance because 80% of the work is done with the lead hand and foot (he was right handed). All these techniques run counter intuitive with western style of boxing.
   
   I appreciate reading about Bruce's workout techniques. It's really the reason I bought this book. I wish there were more. He talked about riding his exercycle, jogging, skipping rope, and a few abdominal exercises. There are numerous other workout techniques that involve a wooden dummy, punching bags, speed bags, etc, however those do not concern me too much. I have already incorporated jump rope into my daily routine which includes situps. I plan to practice hitting an 8 X 11 piece of paper with my elbows to learn body control.
   
   Thanks to Bruce, I now feel like I will have an opportunity to really improve my fitness and coordination but only time will tell as to the results I will achieve.
   
   I give this book 4 stars because it contains information that I can actually use in real life. I docked it one star because it contained too much information on stances (the on-guard stance in particular) which was incredibly boring and not at all what I needed.

5 comments about Complete Krav Maga: The Ultimate Guide to Over 200 Self-Defense and Combative Techniques.

1. I really enjoyed the book. The progression of the book is done really well. It takes the reader from the basics to advanced moves very easily. Although it helps if the reader has had some fighting expreience, I have been practicing Martial Arts for over 20 years, the moves are simple and effective. I picked the system right up but someone with no Martial Arts experience may have some difficulty. Actually nearly all the techniques I had already been taught in my Jeet Kune Do studies, ther are many similarities between the two arts. The moves chosen are very effective and practical. The rifle and shotgun disarms are something not may systems incorperate.
   If you are looking for an effective and practical system, Krav definately delivers.



2. This is written for those who are just getting interested in Krav Maga and it does its job perfectly. I was contemplating joining a local KM class but wanted to see what techniques the training would entail.
   
   This book goes through Levels 1 - 5 of the Krav Maga 'system' and throughly explains the moves. Each explanation has pictures to show the reader what's going on.
   
   In short, it's a great book and covers a lot of material.



3. Self defense (SD) covers a number of attributes: awareness, avoidance, deescalation, strategy, tactics, techniques, witness building, speaking to law enforcement and the legal system, torts, ad nauseum. This book on Krav Maga doesn't attempt to cover all of that, which is a shame, because they are necessary components of self defense. It does you little good to defend yourself only to be prosecuted and imprisoned later. That is what keeps a good, solid book about self defense from being great.
   
   Based upon the information is does present, I find the book to be excellent. The SD material presented (techniques) aren't flashy nor need the coordination of a nineteen year old Olympian. These are solid techniques that are practical, simple and can be retained in an adrenal event (when adrenaline hits, conscious thought can go out the window. Think of people who freeze at public speaking. Now magnify that fear by about a million). The KISS method is always preferable. Save the fancy stuff for the next Matrix movie.
   
   To sum up-
   The good:
   The techniques are solid, real-world techniques that are functional and appropriate. They are not useless chop and flop. Pictures are well-done and easy to see. The techniques are well-explained.
   
   The bad:
   No mention of appropriate use of force. No mention of legal strategies or that there are such things as laws regarding self defense. Little discussion on awareness and avoidance (the primary SD tools).
   
   Bottom line:
   If you have a good grasp on the other important parts of SD and just need a book on technique or maybe some more techniques to throw into your toolbox, this is a good book. A newbie wanting solid information of the totality of what it means to defend yourself can do better.



4. As a police officer and former Marine, I know your life may depend on your CQC skills and this book does not do Krav Maga justice. This book is a poor overreach at explaining what I have seen to be an extremely effective fighting system. From sport ground fighting (not street combat), ineffective combative movements, to sloppy weapons defenses this is a poor rendition of Krav Maga training. A few examples of the bad techniques:
   On pages 41-42, the other cover hand is left down, exposing your face and prohibiting a second strike with it. On page 126, this defense will not work if someone pulls back with force--which is likely. A simple turn and counterstrike will work against any type of rear pulling attack. On page 248, without stepping off the line of attack, this defense can get you stabbed.
   On page 250, this defense does not move to the deadside and will get you killed as the attacker falls back from your punches and retains control of the handgun. The handgun is designed for him to hold--not you. If he falls to the ground you are in danger. To preform the defense properly you must move to the deadside while delivering strong, simultaneous counterattacks while controling the barrel.
   On page 253, again, this defense does not move to the deadside and will get you killed as the attacker falls back from your punches and retains control of the handgun.
   If you know Krav Maga, you'll know this book has too many mistakes to be an effective guide to anything, much less Krav Maga.



5. Well written!!! All this stuff works... I been learning Krav Maga for years and this is a great way to start!!!!

5 comments about Tao of Jeet Kune Do.

1. 
   Excellent study guide into the mind of Master Bruce Lee! This book is for the true Martial Artist........Tao of Jeet Kune Do



2. this item was excellent, a good buy. it was exactly what i was looking for.



3. I came into this world many years later since Lee had closed his eyes upon it. I can only imagine the loss it must have been to the world to Martial Arts. But, he never left in spirit. An essence of his philosophy and his approach to martial arts still lives through his followers and this book. I learnt Aikido for 5 years, but found it not very handy when it came to tackling an opponent in the street. That's when someone recommended Lee to me. JKD is much faster and more practical (make no mistake, I still worship Aikido from bottom of my heart...JKD is only a natural next step in the route I took for my education in Martial Arts) when it comes to handling a situation in the street. But this book is not a step-by-step guide to beat someone black and blue. It's Lee's philosophy, his approach to martial arts (which is called Jeet Kun Do) - a way of life, from Lee's perspective.
   
   I am only qualified to speak so much, but definitely recommend this book for everyone who wishes to understand Lee's apparoach to Martial Arts and, in turn, benifit from it to develop his or her own perspective.



4. I love Bruce Lee, but I couldnt get into this book! I cant honestly tell you to read it or not, because I havent! I bought it here at Amazon and gave it away a month later! Watch "Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story", thats a classic!



5. It is a must have if you participate in any martial arts! This book not only helps with improving as a martial artist but also brings awareness in understanding oneself better.