5 comments about The Complete Tae Kwon Do Hyung, Vol. 1.

1. Although this book is sometimes lacking in clarity and explanation, it more than makes up for it by being a great supplement to your normal training and study. I've found myself refering to Master Cho's TKD Hyung Volumes dozens of times after something just didn't click in class. The pictures are well done and logical, and have given me new perspectives on techniques. I have found no equal to these volumes as far as a move-by-move pictoral analysis of the ITF patterns. However, the written content of the volumes is sometimes unclear and lacks thorough explanation. These minor flaws are easily overlooked though when you can see the dedication to Taekwon-Do that Master Cho has. One of the overlooked treasures of these books are the inspirational sayings that Master Cho has accompanied with fantastic pictures of him breaking, doing flying kicks, etc. After a hard night at class when I'm frustrated I come home and read some of these and I realize that it's all worth it. Scott Tingley, I Dan Black Belt, Yom Chi Taekwon-Do Association



2. This book is very helpful for me when learning the basics of my patterns.

   The patterns in this book are ITF patterns, which most Taekwon Do patterns are based upon. In other words, its a very universal pattern book.

   What I find most helpful about the book is that it gives you the diagram, interpretation, and number of moves in each pattern, plus clear photographs of the preparation, chamber, and execution of each move.




3. this book is what i was trained on. step by step instruction on forms, TKD background and very nicely wrote. again the forms are the traditional and not "westernized" i train my students with it as guidelines for forms. and revert to it often. it is underpriced and a steal for the quality. Reed Sensei, Contemporary TKD, 3rd degree Reiki.



4. The strength of this book is the abundance of photos for each form. The photos are also numbered according to the corresponding step in the form. Several of the more complex steps have multiple photos (6a, 6b, etc.) showing intermediate positions moving from one step to the next. The story behind the form and notes which precede each form are far superior to the "one liners" that usually accompany the forms.

   Parts of the book are a little cheesy, however. A section showing Master Cho on various martial arts magazine covers does nothing to add to content. The biography was a little melodramitic.

   Fortunately, the heart of the book is very useful, making this book valuable to those practicing the ITF Hyungs.




5. Grandmaster CHO gives not only clear and concise directions on perfroming the hyungs, he gives historical and very useful information to the tkd student. There is also very helpful sections on how perform the basic blocks kicks and foot placement in the hyungs. For the beginner to advanced, especially a person thats on the road and trains alone alot, this book is superb!!!

5 comments about Taekwondo: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior.

1. I was so pleased to read a book that focused on the art of taekwondo rather than simply the sport. Bravo, Doug Cook for bringing to light that there is more to taekwondo than competition. I highly recommend this book to anyone who seeks more from the martial arts than sport sparring.



2. So many people today decribe taekwondo as having no philosophical foundation. This is clearly not the case after reading Doug Cook's work. So much care is given to every facet of the traditional art of taekwondo. If you have grown cynical about your practice, read this book. It will revitalize your outlook and remind you of the virtues of your practice.



3. This book has many positive points. I would encourage any TKD practitioner to read it. However, it is ponderous at points, I think due to Mr. Cook's attempt to convey the great inner meaning TKD has for him. It tends to be too personal and anecdotal, reading like a diary of his last trip to Korea. The author tends toward strings of polysyllabic words, however, that conceal as much as they reveal. A good editing to strip away the fluff would have made for a more accessible work. Like another reviewer, I found the author's enthusiasm for other spiritual/philosophical viewpoints a bit grating at times. Is it possible to NOT embrace Buddhism, and yet be a martial artist? If the martial arts encompass universal values, that should be true.
   Not to fault the author, though. He is clearly well-informed and writes with passion and enthusiasm. For that reason I would recommend it especially to adult readers who want to take their practice of TKD beyond a repertoire of physical techniques.



4. This book is worth reading, but not what I was expecting. I have no doubt that this book is from the heart and sincere, however it reads as if Master Cook were trying a bit too hard share the spiritual aspect of this fine martial art. It comes across a bit heavy handed, forced, and almost "preach-ey" at times. While lip service is paid to how incrediably different dojangs and teaching styles are even among those that are not "McDojangs" he comes across as if he feels the way that it is done in his school is "the" way. (the right place/importance of meditation in TKD studies is one example).
   I think this is a good addition to the library of the serious student of TKD, but as such it would be a supplement to the philosophy books in their possession and would not be the only source. For the new student or for people simply trying to understand TKD philosophy out of one or two references, I would look elsewhere.
   Like I said, it feels sincere and heartfelt and is otherwise well done - just know what you want before you buy.



5. As other reviews have states, this is not a book of techniques. This is a book about the history and philosophy of Taekwondo.
   
   The book begins by giving a brief lesson on korean history, and the events that led up to taekwondo's creation. This is useful for someone getting into the art, who wants to learn a little bit more, but there is nothing really groundbreaking at this point.
   
   The remainder of the book consists of chapters relating to a serious attitude, virtue, courage, and topics along those lines. These are things which are important to all people, regardless of which art they study (of even if they study one at all). Anecdotes relating to the author's martial arts career cement how taking classes can help people unite themselves with these qualities that I meantioned above.
   
   I believe this is a great book for someone who is taking classes, and wishes to make the most out of them. It will enable you to be able to take these concepts out of the dojo(jang) and beyong simple self-defense, and try to help you become a better person.

No comments about Taekwondo for Kids (Martial Arts for Kids).

2 comments about Traditional Taekwondo: Core Techniques, History and Philosophy.

1. Cook once again has contributed greatly to Taekwondo. His first book is one everyone should have in their martial arts library. His second, this book, begins where his first left off. Where Taekwondo: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior speaks of principles, this book covers the history and techniques, both physical and metaphysical in nature, of Taekwondo. Buy both and study them closely.



2. Part 1 - history - I like this section very much. He starts with the "mandatory" references to the ancient kingdoms and Hwarang warriors but builds that into a nice bit of background for the emergence of modern TKD. From there he does a nice section on the "Formative Years of Taekwondo", complete with great details, photos, pictures of old organizational patches, and attention to all of the movers and shakers (including Gen. Choi). He also gets into some modern developments and the students creeds and such. His treatment of the "Formative Years" is not as in-depth as Dakin Burdick's articles but it covers all of the key points and is very accessible to read. For this section alone, I would highly recommend this book to my students and to all Taekwondo students.
   
   Part 2 - philosophy - This section covers meditation, Ki and the poom-se.
   I like the ideas he presents and I like the inclusion of medititaion training in Taekwondo. My only real issue with this section is his combining of Indian, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean terms and ideas and terms in his dealing with this topic. I would have prefered to see the use of all Korean terms and concepts within the context of his very book title. Regardless, the concepts and ideas are great... just maybe not "Traditional Taekwondo".
   
   The "Ki" section is similar, with a mix of Chinese, Korean, and Japanese terms and concepts. There are a bunch of exercises that may be fun to try although I don't recall ever seeing the real close pigeon-toed (thighs touching) stance shown in the exercises (which he does credit to kumdo though).
   
   The poom-se section is excellent though and provides a nice bit of history (including some interesting tie-ins to Kata ), rationale, uses, and elements of training. It also provides a concise "meaning/philosophy" of the main sets of forms (Palgwe, Taegeuk, and Chang Hon). For this bit, I also recommend this to my students
   
   The next section covers various drills and step sparring, none of which is particularly new but could be of interest. The "Ho Shin Sool" section didn't impress me at all. Most of the techniques shown look like Hapkido (which is only mentioned in a quick way as a "possible" source for some techniques) but there is no evidence of distraction, balance disruption, or tight control (I like seeing the elbows tight on joint locks for control). There also are no releases or finishes shown for the techniques. Again, students will be getting their actual intruction in class, not from a book... but I don't like this part much.
   This is followed by "Self Defense for Women" - same as above but the lack of distractions, finishes, releases and such make it even more glaringly incomplete. The section on awareness and avoidance tips are good though.
   
   The appendices cover some terminology, although no Hangeul is given unfortunately. There is also a nice 2 page listing of his sources.
   
   Overall, for $20, this is a nice handy reference for Taekwondo students especially on the historical background and on the forms (poomse) material. Ideally the "physical skills" aren't learned from a book anyway and the instructors can cover this.

1 comments about Jojos Flying Sidekick.

1. My four-year-old (who's big brother has been practicing karate for a few years) loved this story about a girl overcoming her fear and lack of confidence, ultimately succeeding in her goals.

5 comments about The Complete Idiot's Guide to Tae Kwon Do (The Complete Idiot's Guide).

1. You will realize why the title of this book is correct if you buy it. There is very very little information in it; just a lot of rambling. I have picked it up at least ten times in hopes of finding some information but I just get the urge to trash it. If you are looking for a book to direct you in any way regarding forms, techniques,or basics; this isn't it.



2. Keith D. Yates -- 10th degree black belt, an inaugural member of the Texas Martial Arts Hall of Fame, and one of the most respected martial arts leaders in America -- and co-author Eden have written a superb beginner's guide and introduction to Tae Kwon Do. There's a lot of good material in this book, including basics on blocks, hand-techniques, kicks, one-steps, free-sparring, self-defense, and beginning forms for several styles. I highly recommend this book to anyone exploring the martial arts, especially new martial artists, and parents interested in enrolling their kids in martial arts. For an in-depth book on forms (kata), also get Mr. Yates' excellent "The Complete Book of Tae Kwon Do Forms."



3. I was a little disappointed in this book. I have been practicing Taekwondo for the past 3 weeks. I was hoping to get some information on forms and some more technical aspects, in order to advance in the class. Instead this book sounded like it was for someone who never took a class before in their life, and was not sure if they wanted to start. Although I am no expert, the book seemed to focus on just explaining how wonderful Taekwondo is, and some other basic information. Also, I found it focused too much on Taekwondo as a sport instead of an artform. As the title suggests, it really did seem a like the perfect guide for an idiot.



4. This book is helpful for beginners in Tae Kwon Do, It gives you a brief base on Tae Kwon Do in a way. It is not a book I recommend for Advance Tae Kwon Do Practitioners, people who have been doing TKD for a long time will find this book useless, I almost found this book offensive in a way that it portrayed TKD, and the fact that this books seems to base its validity on the accomplishments of Keith Yates who is a "10th Degree" black belt, regardless of the fact that no respectable TKD organization has a higher degree than 9th (and has very few ninth degrees at that). In my Honest opinion its just another person trying to profit off of the American Mcdojang.



5. So I would disregard the reviews of the experienced Tae Kwon Do readers, this book is not intended for them. It is for those new to the sport, thus the term IDIOT Guide. It doesn't really mean for dumb people. LOL. So it is for people like me looking to learn more about the sport

5 comments about Tae Kwon Do: The Ultimate Reference Guide to the World's Most Popular Martial Art (Facts on File).

1. It is a good starting reference for those beginning about the sport. The pictures of the poomse are helpful but nothing takes the place of good instruction. I found it hard to rely on the pictures to do the forms.



2. This book is above par. I am a soldier deployed in Iraq and I purchased this book to continue my study while on deployment. It has accurate information and pictures to explain everything from the basics, to advanced level forms, and top notch sparring techniques. A great purchase.



3. Overall great reference guide to starting and intermediate tae kwon do students. Lists the applications and effectiveness of all most aspects of TKD with slideshow pictures to demonstrate correctly. Of course, don't think you can learn the whole martial art from a book; you will need to accommodate by training with an instructor.



4. ....for those of us who need to refer to our poomsae quickly. Tedeshci's texts (taekwondo and hapkido) would be a lot better, but they're big and are rather expensive.
   Park and Park gives you a lot of bang for your buck, and the book can easily be stored in your briefcase, gymbag, etc.



5. A fantastic read and reference point.
   Indispensible parent's handbook in providing extra coaching for youngsters.
   An invaluable tool in supplementing formal training.

2 comments about Tae Kwon Do! (Step into Reading).

1. i just receieved this book for my 4 1/2 year old daughter.It was great very few words per page with excellent illistrations making it easy for a child just learning to read!I would recommend this book for any child learning to read but especially for children who are in or have family/friends in martial arts!



2. I gave this book out to the children at my son's 4th birthday at a Karate studio. They all loved it. It has catchy rhymes and it is a beginning reading book. The pictures are adorable and perfect for girls and boys.

5 comments about Tae Kwon Do Basics, Techniques and Forms: The Indomitable Martial Art of Korea.

1. This book is great if you want a basic reference for kicking and punching techniques, forms, sparring, etc. I was hoping for more of the theory and reasoning behind the art. In my opinion, it is best to clarify any questions of physical technique with a good teacher, rather than a book, so I try not to rely too heavily on the technical suggestions.



2. This book co-authored by Taekwondo Hall of Famer GM Dong Keun Park
   offers much for both the beginning and advanced student. The photos and
   explanation of techniques are clear and crisp. Highly recommended!
   
   Gerard Robbins,
   3 Times National Taekwondo Champion
   Competitor / 2nd World Taekwondo Championships



3. I bought this book for my Grandson and he just loves it! He said it was the best Christmas Gift ever! He loved all the color photos and the description was so easy to understand I could follow it too! Can't wait until GrandMaster Park's next book comes out!!!



4. I really enjoyed learning from this book. There are so many Martial Arts books out these days, it's hard to find one that is really good. After looking at many books, I found that the author is the most qualified teacher in the TaeKwonDo world. Grandmaster Park is the best by far! Great Book!!!



5. Tae Kwon Do Basics, Techniques and Forms: The Indomitable Martial Art of Korea
   
   This book was a long time coming and I'm proud that our father's technique is being shared in this book. The hope is that many would be able to learn from this book and instill confidence, self-discipline and self-respect in those that choose to practice it.
   
   Congratulations and Happy New Year!

5 comments about Taekwondo: The State of the Art.

1. This book offers a comprehensive overview of Taekwondo, from the history and philosophy of TKD to strikes and Poomse. It is the perfect reference for beginners and intermediate students of TKD.



2. I bought this my first week of TaeKwonDo. At first it was a little overwhelming. As I learned, the book became a very useful tool. It's really great to practice the physical and read the theory and history behind it in this book. It's a great guide for practicing at home. I recommend this book for any beginner to this sport.



3. This is a really good book . . . I have been studying Tae Kwon Do for a couple of years now and this book allows be a quick review of some of the things we do at class. The step by step Poomsae picture section at the end is very helpful for polishing your forms.
   
   I highly recommend this book.



4. I've found this a really good book. It covers basic techniques and stepping in enough detail to be really useful, then moves on the descibe the forms in three different ways - a text description with notes on specific moves, a description using drawings, and a quick summary of the moves involved. And it includes information on sparring. I own three or four other books dedicated to different aspects of Taekwondo, but this is the one I use 90% of the time.
   
   The only problem I had was with a couple of pages becoming detached, but this was probably from me having it open in my hand while I practiced!



5. I have purchased many books from Amazon and have never left a review. I feel compelled to write on this textbook because it is an extraordinarily well written and has fleshed out in my mind the history, principles and practice of taekwondo.
   
   All of the important fundamentals are here, with concisely rendered figures of the stances, strikes, blocks, kicks, footwork etc. What is most helpful to my children especially the poomse sections. All of the taegeuk forms are here with explanations and review sections with schematic figures of the patterns. This book is essential for any age taekwondo practitioner.