1 comments about Tang Soo Do Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan: Orange Belt Instructional Guide.

1. This is the second book in a 4-volume instructional series published by the United States Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation (USSBDMDKF), the official organization of Moo Duk Kwan founder Hwang Kee, now led by his son H.C. Hwang.
   
   This volume includes all of the materials required for promotion by the USSBDMDK to orange belt 6th and 7th gup. Explanations are given for hip rotation and turning through the rear properly, hand and foot techniques, and the following Hyung (forms): Ki Cho Hyung Sam Bu (#3), Pyung Ahn Cho Dan (#1), Pyung Ahn Ee Dan (#2), and the second Chil Sung Hyung (which is learned first), Chil Sung Ee Ro Hyung. The Chil Sung Hyung were created by Hwang Kee after his study of the Chinese-influenced Korean military text Mooyea Dobo Tongji. All hyung include foot/stance diagrams so that the reader can be clear about direction, stance, etc.
   
   Also presented completely are the required One Step Sparring sequences (Ill Soo Sik) #3-8, self-defense (Ho Sin Sool) same side wrist grabs #1-4 and Two-handed wrist grabs #1-3. Sparring combinations 1-5 are also included, but generally aren't part of the required USSBDMDK test. Also sections on breaking, culture and ettiquette and terminology.
   
   A high quality manual with a flexible cover hard enough to be durable, yet soft enough to be placed open on the floor without having to worry about creasing the spine of the book. Glossy laminated sweat-resistant cover keeps this book from wearing out from use.

5 comments about Wheel Kick (Achieving Kicking Excellence, Vol. 2).

1. I recieved this book, the second installment of Kovacich's series, and found it as informative as the first volume. this book centered around the dynamic wheel kick. 200 pages on one technique is absurd in how well it is broken down, step by step, to every minute detail. everything from what muscles are activated, exact positioning of limbs to guarantee efficiency and powers, and footwork and trajectory is scrutinized. I felt like i was back in college, only my professor was telling us his thesis on kicking instead of james joyce. highly recomended, this book is the most thorough guide you can find on this technique, and this author puts out excellent books on the subject.



2. Shawn Kovacich is a committed, highly regarded and honored practitioner of martial arts with a specialization in Kicking. Yet not satisfied to have achieved the degree of excellence in his craft, Kovacich has devised a series of books that extend beyond the usual 'self-help' category of writing. His considerably cautious eye and sense of balance, in sport and in life, has resulted in his publishing a series of books - ACHIEVING KICKING EXCELLENCE - that at this point are ten in number but promise in the near future to be doubled in amount. Each of these books, handsomely designed and with excellent photographic illustrations, takes one type of kick at a time and explore not only the development of that kick, but also inform the student reader the kinesiology of that kick as well as slowly advising how to develop and master that kick.
   
   Most books on martial arts fall into one of two categories: some are written in a format that is beyond the understanding of the reader who may be completely new to martial arts while others dumb down the reader with superficial 'quick fix' problems thinking the reader is already proficient in the fundamentals of Martial Arts. Kovacich respects his reader/pupil, and with great dignity of writing style and unfolds each kick mastery with surety of developmental skill and encouragement of each aspect of a single movement. This allows the reader who may be proficient in Kicking to buy just the one book written for the type of Kick the reader finds difficult to master: buying the entire set of books assures the reader that each stage of development will be respected from the beginning to the mastery of the ten Kicks Kovacich addresses.
   
   Each of these ten volumes is equally excellent. The ten volumes include Back Kick, Roundhouse Kick, Front Kick, Side Kick, Crescent Kick, Reverse Crescent Kick, Hook Kick, Wheel Kick, Axe Kick and Hatchet Kick. Having exposure to each of these ten volumes gathers respect for Shawn Kovacich not only as a man who is able to master a tough medium of sport, but also one who has discovered the perfect manner of teaching and communication. The ten volume set is well worth the investment, monetarily and educationally. Grady Harp, May 09



3. I have been practicing the martial arts since the age of 14. This year will mark the 40th year that I've studied one system of combat or another. Additionally, I have been a police officer for 31 years and my profession has occasionally offered me the opportunity to use the thingS that I've learned in the Dojo. I have an entire set of Shawn Kovacich's superb series on Achieving Kicking Excellence (Vol. 1- 10) and can truthfully say that I have seen no more thorough books on the art of kicking in the all my years in the martial arts. The kicks covered (one per volume) include the back kick, the heel kick, the axe kick, the crescent kick, the reverse crescent kick, the front kick, the hook kick, the hatchet kick, the round house kick, and the side kick.
   Each volume begins with an overview of the kick and instructions on how to make the best possible use of the kick. Chapter 1 delves into the anatomy of the kick and which muscles are used, and in what manner, to achieve the maximum possible efficiency in kicking.
   Chapter 2 outlines a stretching program and offers helpful tips in that area for the student. Chapter 3 deals with the basic principles of kicking movement. These include the striking implement, target areas, stability (a biggie!), balance, alignment, sequence of movement, accuracy. Strength, speed, timing and distance, impact, retraction, and visualization. Each area is explained in detail as it relates to developing your kicking ability.
   Chapter 4 deals exhaustively with the primary kick. It follows the kick from initiation through each phase of the kick to impact, recoil, and recovery. He troubleshoots the problems that many martial artists experience with the kick at each phase and offers corrective actions for each problem.
   Chapter 5 goes over pretty much every variation of the kick known to man and these are dissected with master Kovacich's usual thoroughness.
   Chapter 6 is one of the strongest parts of the book for me. In this chapter, Master Kovacich discusses training and practice methods. He details skill, strength, speed, and power training. Learning how to do the kick is only half the battle. Developing the kick through specific training methods and exercises is the other half and is usually overlooked by other authors.
   As if he hadn't already done enough in this area, Master Kovacich outlines further specific trouble areas for the student in chapter 7. Chapter 8 covers kicking applications for tournament and street.. Master Kovacich shows how the kick is set up and how delivery can be affected by your opponent's actions as well as your own.
   In chapter 9 you can see why Master Kovacich's kicks are so good and why you should pay attention to his advice. He is in the Guiness Book of World records for throwing more high kicks in an afternoon that I believe I have thrown in my life.
   If you desire to become a more powerful, competent kicker, then these books represent an important investment for you . I can tell you that, even after 40 years of fighting experience, there are things in these books that have made me re-think some of my training methods regarding kicking.
   Master Kovacich will be coming out with a new series of books dealing with the combat applications of each kick in the near future. As I'm sure these books will cover combat applications with the same thoroughness of this series, I eagerly await their publishing.



4. Shawn Kovacich is a long-time veteran of the fighting arts who has proven himself in full-contact tournaments, setting world records for the Guinness Book of Records (11,000 high kicks in 5 hours) and working as bouncer for several tough establishments.
   
   Although Shawn is an excellent martial artist overall, he is especially recognized for his extraordinary kicking ability. He has recently begun to share his kicking knowledge in an ever-growing book series called "Achieving Kicking Excellence."
   
   In the Wheel Kick (AKA: hook kick) volume, Shawn, as always, crams the book with something for every reader. Because some people learn best with photos, there are dozen upon dozens of how-to-do photos - shot from many angles - that show all the variations of the wheel kick. For those readers who like to process the intricacies of a technique through well-written text, Shawn breaks down every facet of the kick to include the how and why of specific body mechanics.
   
   Wheel Kick also explains and demonstrates which exercises - weights and free-hand - target the precise muscles involved for power, speed and accuracy.
   
   A small applications section demonstrates specific points needed to deliver a powerful and accurate wheel kick against an opponent. A troubleshooting guide answers the most common question fighters have about this beautiful, yet devastating kick.
   
   Achieving Kicking Excellence Wheel kick is a complete book that is like a personal coach who is guiding you to develop yours to its optimum. Every fighter - veteran and white belt - will benefit from Shawn's insightful and masterful instruction.
   
   I've been training, teaching and writing about the martial arts since 1965 and I highly recommend this book.
   
   Loren W. Christensen, author of over 40 books, martial artist, 8th dan.



5. Volume 2: Wheel Kick in Shawn's Achieving Kicking Excellence series is structured the same as the others in the series. Shawn covers human anatomy from the perspective of understanding how to get the body set up properly for the kick. This book is incredible in the detailed consideration of how to execute the most effective kick possible and to apply the body as a lethal weapon. Shawn presents a very useful clock-drill which serves as an excellent analogy for practicing and breaking down the kick. This book tells you how to breath, where to look, how to achieve maximum speed, drills for strengthening and stretching and everything else needed to become an expert in the Heel Kick and make it a useful tool.
   
   Like his other volumes, Wheel Kick is an incredibly scholarly work. When I first heard that a martial artist had written 10 volumes on kicking - each on a different core martial arts kick, I thought, yeah - right. How much can you say about any one kick? I thought, there isn't that much knowledge in the universe about kicking that could fill 240 or so pages, even with pictures - and to have written ten of these volumes? Well I was wrong.
   
   What is so amazing about this book and the others in the series is that Shawn has created an easy to follow format that is also very easy to read. Wheel Kick has excellent and detailed photos which break down the kick and all of its variations and nuances. The photos are very well labeled showing every angle, every line of movement and attack from head to toe. Once you read through the books in this series, you quickly discover that none of the volumes is really about a single kick. Each kick in the series has numerous important variations which any serious martial artist needs to study and practice to expand his or her horizons.
   
   I very quickly found myself lost in the details of this book - wanting to absorb as much as I could. I've been teaching martial arts for more than 20 years and yet I never really thought about how much information an instructor might pass on to a student about any particular kick. Each day we cover a few more details and finer points with our students. What Shawn has done a magnificent job of here is capturing, structuring, packaging and synthesizing in one volume, everything a martial artist needs to know about a given kick. If you're going to practice for hundreds of hours, performing thousands of kicks, you need to get it right and understand what you're doing. This goes for the back kick, the side kick or any of the other kicks that Shawn covers in his other volumes.
   
   If you take the time to assimilate this easy to read book, practice the various concepts, drills and stretches, then you will be learning correct kicking from a true master of the art! I highly recommend this book. I have been involved in martial arts for a long time and yet still found a wealth of excellent material; some new to me and some which I already understood. Whether you are a sixth degree black belt or a white belt, this book will serve you as an excellent companion throughout your studies. This book proves that, no matter how long we may have been studying or teaching, there is still more knowledge out there that that can help us improve and that we are still always white belts inside.
   
   Kevin Brett: Author
   "The Way of the Martial Artist: Achieving Success in Martial Arts and in Life!"

1 comments about Tang Soo Do, Soo Bahk Do, Moo Duk Kwan: Red Belt Instructional Guide.

1. This 4 book series is in my opinion, the most complete teaching work out there on any school of Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan. That it is put out by the official organization led by the son of the (unfortunately deceased) Moo Duk Kwan founder Hwang Kee makes it all the more reliable. This 4th volume published by the United States Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation (USSBDMDKF) contains all of the required information for promotion to the red belt ranks 3rd, 2nd, and 1st gup, and in conjunction with the material in the previous three volumes, Cho-dan, the Midnight Blue Belt (same as black belt). This volume was also designed for use by members of other Tang Soo Do schools who would like to join the official USSBDMDK, and for that reason includes all three of the Chil Sung Hyung designed by Grandmaster Hwang Kee, which aren't as widely known as say the Ki Cho Hyung or the Pyung Ahn Hyung.
   
   Included are complete descriptions with detailed diagrams and photographs showing all required hand and foot techniques, and the hyung (forms) Pyung Ahn Oh Dan (#5), Chil Sung Il Ro (#1), Chil Sung Ee Ro (#2), Chil Sung Sam Ro (#3), Passai, and Naihanji Cho-dan.
   
   Also covered are one-step sparring (Ill Soo Sik) #13-18, self-defense for cross-wrist grabs #1-4, and same-side sleeve grips #1-4. Red belt sparring combinations #1-3 are also shown. As with the other books, a complete glossary of terminology is included, and explanations of the Moo Duk Kwan symbol, Hwang Kee's "Song of the Ship Sam Seh" (13 Influences), etc. All techniques and forms are demonstrated by the current head of the traditional Moo Duk Kwan H.C. Hwang, son of Hwang Kee.
   
   An excellent teaching mauel. Quality binding that can be opened wide for learning and won't crack the spine. Glossy sweat-resistant cover, so no worries about staining or bumped corners.

2 comments about WHITE BELT: INSTRUCTIONAL GUIDE - Tang Soo Do.

1. I like this book a lot and would recommend it to anyone who is taking Tang Soo Do. The breakdown of each movement makes it easy for anyone who is new to the art to follow. This is a great manual to use for individual practice in conjuction with a formal class.



2. Here is the official training manual of the Original Moo Duk Kwan school, written by founder Hwang Kee and his son H.C. Hwang. This guide contains the official syllabus of the Original Moo Duk Kwan school. It is a terrific complement to the original Moo Duk Kwan Soo Bahk Do Tang Soo Do Textbook, and contains a number of combinations the official Textbook does not.
   
   Covered are all materials to orange belt, including Hwang Kee's Ki Cho Hyung 1, 2, & 3, Hand Techniques, Foot Techniques, One step sparring (Il Soo Sik) 1-4, Self Defense (1-4), Sparring Combinations 1-6, and material on the history of Moo Duk Kwan and founder Hwang Kee. Includes the "Song of Sip Sam Seh", or song of the 13 influences, Hwang Kee's poetic advice.
   
   All techniques and forms are shown completely with footwork diagrams. Privately published by the United States Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation. Especially helpful for those who are "lateralling" (joining) the original Moo Duk Kwan Under the auspices of Hwang Kee's successor, his son H.C. Hwang.

5 comments about Side Kick (Achieving Kicking Excellence, Vol. 10).

1. Shawn Kovacich is a committed, highly regarded and honored practitioner of martial arts with a specialization in Kicking. Yet not satisfied to have achieved the degree of excellence in his craft, Kovacich has devised a series of books that extend beyond the usual 'self-help' category of writing. His considerably cautious eye and sense of balance, in sport and in life, has resulted in his publishing a series of books - ACHIEVING KICKING EXCELLENCE - that at this point are ten in number but promise in the near future to be doubled in amount. Each of these books, handsomely designed and with excellent photographic illustrations, takes one type of kick at a time and explore not only the development of that kick, but also inform the student reader the kinesiology of that kick as well as slowly advising how to develop and master that kick.
   
   Most books on martial arts fall into one of two categories: some are written in a format that is beyond the understanding of the reader who may be completely new to martial arts while others dumb down the reader with superficial 'quick fix' problems thinking the reader is already proficient in the fundamentals of Martial Arts. Kovacich respects his reader/pupil, and with great dignity of writing style and unfolds each kick mastery with surety of developmental skill and encouragement of each aspect of a single movement. This allows the reader who may be proficient in Kicking to buy just the one book written for the type of Kick the reader finds difficult to master: buying the entire set of books assures the reader that each stage of development will be respected from the beginning to the mastery of the ten Kicks Kovacich addresses.
   
   Each of these ten volumes is equally excellent. The ten volumes include Back Kick, Roundhouse Kick, Front Kick, Side Kick, Crescent Kick, Reverse Crescent Kick, Hook Kick, Wheel Kick, Axe Kick and Hatchet Kick. Having exposure to each of these ten volumes gathers respect for Shawn Kovacich not only as a man who is able to master a tough medium of sport, but also one who has discovered the perfect manner of teaching and communication. The ten volume set is well worth the investment, monetarily and educationally. Grady Harp, May 09



2. Shawn Kovacich has been training in the fighting arts for many years, competing in some of the toughest bare knuckle tournaments around, setting world records for the Guinness Book of Records (11,000 high kicks in 5 hours) and working as a bouncer in places angels fear the tread.
   
   Shawn is an excellent all-around martial artist with kicks that could flatten the face on a statue. He shares his knowledge of his kicking ability in a large book series he calls "Achieving Kicking Excellence" that is like nothing else on the market.
   
   In the Sidekick volume, the author offers something for everyone. If you're a visual reader, there are tons of how-to-do photos that show the many forms of the sidekick from every angle. For the more technically minded, the author breaks down every facet of the kick so that you know exactly how and why it's executed mechanically, to include which muscles are involved and how precisely to align the skeletal system.
   
   The book also includes exercises - weights and free-hand - that target the specific muscles needed to develop your power, speed and accuracy in the sidekick.
   
   There is a small applications section that he uses to clarify certain points about delivering the sidekick. One section I really liked was the troubleshooting guide. It's a little like getting personal coaching since you'll probably find a question answered there that you have been wondering about.
   
   The word "complete" is overused in reviews but not in this case. Achieving Kicking Excellence Sidekick is a complete book on developing your optimum sidekick kick. Every martial artist - veteran and newbie - will benefit from the insightful instruction in this book, written by a guy who has truly mastered kicking and applied his knowledge in the ring and in the street.
   
   I've been training, teaching and writing about the martial arts since 1965 and I highly recommend this book.
   
   Loren W. Christensen, author of over 40 books, martial artist, 8th dan.



3. I have been practicing the martial arts since the age of 14. This year will mark the 40th year that I've studied one system of combat or another. Additionally, I have been a police officer for 31 years and my profession has occasionally offered me the opportunity to use the thingS that I've learned in the Dojo. I have an entire set of Shawn Kovacich's superb series on Achieving Kicking Excellence (Vol. 1- 10) and can truthfully say that I have seen no more thorough books on the art of kicking in the all my years in the martial arts. The kicks covered (one per volume) include the back kick, the heel kick, the axe kick, the crescent kick, the reverse crescent kick, the front kick, the hook kick, the hatchet kick, the round house kick, and the side kick.
   Each volume begins with an overview of the kick and instructions on how to make the best possible use of the kick. Chapter 1 delves into the anatomy of the kick and which muscles are used, and in what manner, to achieve the maximum possible efficiency in kicking.
   Chapter 2 outlines a stretching program and offers helpful tips in that area for the student. Chapter 3 deals with the basic principles of kicking movement. These include the striking implement, target areas, stability (a biggie!), balance, alignment, sequence of movement, accuracy. Strength, speed, timing and distance, impact, retraction, and visualization. Each area is explained in detail as it relates to developing your kicking ability.
   Chapter 4 deals exhaustively with the primary kick. It follows the kick from initiation through each phase of the kick to impact, recoil, and recovery. He troubleshoots the problems that many martial artists experience with the kick at each phase and offers corrective actions for each problem.
   Chapter 5 goes over pretty much every variation of the kick known to man and these are dissected with master Kovacich's usual thoroughness.
   Chapter 6 is one of the strongest parts of the book for me. In this chapter, Master Kovacich discusses training and practice methods. He details skill, strength, speed, and power training. Learning how to do the kick is only half the battle. Developing the kick through specific training methods and exercises is the other half and is usually overlooked by other authors.
   As if he hadn't already done enough in this area, Master Kovacich outlines further specific trouble areas for the student in chapter 7. Chapter 8 covers kicking applications for tournament and street.. Master Kovacich shows how the kick is set up and how delivery can be affected by your opponent's actions as well as your own.
   In chapter 9 you can see why Master Kovacich's kicks are so good and why you should pay attention to his advice. He is in the Guiness Book of World records for throwing more high kicks in an afternoon that I believe I have thrown in my life.
   If you desire to become a more powerful, competent kicker, then these books represent an important investment for you . I can tell you that, even after 40 years of fighting experience, there are things in these books that have made me re-think some of my training methods regarding kicking.
   Master Kovacich will be coming out with a new series of books dealing with the combat applications of each kick in the near future. As I'm sure these books will cover combat applications with the same thoroughness of this series, I eagerly await their publishing.



4. Here we go again. I have read all but two of Shawn's books on kicking and it is amazing how he has managed to get so much information on kicks into each book. What is of interest to me is the fact that you will learn variations of the side kick. You won't have just learn a side kick but a hop/sliding side kick a jumping side kick plus more.
   Shawn has taken the time to give you real skills and a way to build on those skills. He shows you, with pictures, which part of the body you will be using for the side kick. There are target references (a kick is no good if it doesn't hit a viable target). You will get tips on how to build up your speed, power and execution.
   The only thing left for you to do is practice but practice correctly. Shawn says in the book it is better to practice 100 times correctly than 1,000 times incorrectlly. I agree!
   These are not just words on a piece of paper but personal experience that has taught Shawn this is the way to properly execute a side kick. What you won't learn in this series is timing and distance. That is reserved for another series of books on Application of Kicks.
   There is not a lot more I can say about Shawn's books that I haven't said already. Get it, put it in your library and refer to them often.



5. In Achieving Kicking Excellence - Side Kick, Mr. Kovacich has again provided a great service to martial arts practitioners. Side Kick provides a very detailed description complete with photos on the proper way to perform a side kick and variations. I have found that this book has helped with my kicking and also in the way I teach the kicks to my students. I would highly recommend this book to all beginning and intermediate level martial artists and maybe advances practitioners may pick something up as well.

5 comments about Front Kick (Achieving Kicking Excellence, Vol. 6).

1. The following review will encompass three books out of Shawn Kovacich's excellent series "Achieving Kicking Excellence." I recently received and tried out Volume 4: Crescent Kick, Volume 5: Reverse Crescent Kick, and Volume 6: Front Kick.
   
   One of the first books I ever picked up when I started training in Karate was Gichin Funakoshi's "Karate-Do Kyohan." My background was primarily in Chinese Boxing but I decided to branch out into other art forms. My instructor at the time told me that Funakoshi's book was essential if I wanted to perfect my form. The book was a fantastic read and definately gave me guidance on my technique.
   
   The reason why I mention "Karate-Do Kyohan" is that this text is recommended by so many instructors in Karate to students for the main purpose of perfecting technique. When someone recommended Shawn Kovacich's series on kicking techniques, I was a little skeptical. How much could you actually write about a front kick, for example? Funakoshi's book only spends 4 pages on specific foot techniques. Most technical training comes from a one-on-one session with a trainer. My perception on this matter has been shattered after spending some time with just three of Kovacich's books.
   
   Each of the three books has a similar format. Chapter one usually addresses the basic anatomy of the specific kick. Chapter two, outlines a stretching routine specific to the kick. Next, Kovacich describes the basic principles of the kicking movement before going into great detail on the primary kick. Once the primary kick is disected, Kovacich teaches you the variations of the kick. The next section, where each book really shines, are a set of excercises designed to increase the power, speed, and flexibility of each kick. The rest of each book is composed of a trouble shooting guide and kicking applications.
   
   The books do not just present the kick as a series of movements. Kovacich provides detail on what muscles you use in the kick, where your balance should be in the transition, what is the best target for the kick, and how to develop speed and power for your kick. I was amazed at how easy the books were to use and how the approach was almost as good as being in a formal setting with an instructor.
   
   Nothing can replace going to an instructor and learning the martial arts under supervision. I will say, however, Shawn Kovacich's "Achieving Kicking Excellence" is the next best thing in terms of elevating your kicking technique. These books are essential companions to the classic kata texts.



2. Shawn Kovacich is a committed, highly regarded and honored practitioner of martial arts with a specialization in Kicking. Yet not satisfied to have achieved the degree of excellence in his craft, Kovacich has devised a series of books that extend beyond the usual 'self-help' category of writing. His considerably cautious eye and sense of balance, in sport and in life, has resulted in his publishing a series of books - ACHIEVING KICKING EXCELLENCE - that at this point are ten in number but promise in the near future to be doubled in amount. Each of these books, handsomely designed and with excellent photographic illustrations, takes one type of kick at a time and explore not only the development of that kick, but also inform the student reader the kinesiology of that kick as well as slowly advising how to develop and master that kick.
   
   Most books on martial arts fall into one of two categories: some are written in a format that is beyond the understanding of the reader who may be completely new to martial arts while others dumb down the reader with superficial 'quick fix' problems thinking the reader is already proficient in the fundamentals of Martial Arts. Kovacich respects his reader/pupil, and with great dignity of writing style and unfolds each kick mastery with surety of developmental skill and encouragement of each aspect of a single movement. This allows the reader who may be proficient in Kicking to buy just the one book written for the type of Kick the reader finds difficult to master: buying the entire set of books assures the reader that each stage of development will be respected from the beginning to the mastery of the ten Kicks Kovacich addresses.
   
   Each of these ten volumes is equally excellent. The ten volumes include Back Kick, Roundhouse Kick, Front Kick, Side Kick, Crescent Kick, Reverse Crescent Kick, Hook Kick, Wheel Kick, Axe Kick and Hatchet Kick. Having exposure to each of these ten volumes gathers respect for Shawn Kovacich not only as a man who is able to master a tough medium of sport, but also one who has discovered the perfect manner of teaching and communication. The ten volume set is well worth the investment, monetarily and educationally. Grady Harp, May 09



3. Although the front kick is usually the first one taught in most martial arts schools, it's arguably one of the most difficult to master. It's not uncommon to see even veteran fighters throw it incorrectly.
   
   Shawn Kovacich is a long-time martial artist with an amazing history that includes competing in brutal full-contact tournaments, setting world records for the Guinness Book of Records (11,000 high kicks in 5 hours) and applying his fighting skill for real virtually every night as a bouncer in some of the toughest joints around.
   
   Shawn is an excellent all-around martial artist with kicks that are extraordinarily flexible, powerful and fast. He shares his knowledge of his kicking ability in a large book series he calls "Achieving Kicking Excellence" that is like nothing else on the market.
   
   In the Front Kick volume, Shawn has included information for every martial artist wanting to make this powerful and versatile kick their own. For the fighter who learns best with lots of photos, the author employs dozens that depict step-by-step over 10 variations of the front kick. For those who want to understand the body mechanics involved, Shawn does an amazing job explaining it all in an easy-to-read format.
   
   The book also includes exercises - weights and free-hand - that target the specific muscles needed to develop your power, speed and accuracy in the front kick.
   
   Achieving Kicking Excellence Front Kick is an information-crammed book on developing your optimum front kick, written by a guy who has truly mastered kicking and applied his knowledge in the ring and in the street.
   
   I've been training, teaching and writing about the martial arts since 1965, and I highly recommend this book.
   
   Loren W. Christensen, author of over 40 books, martial artist, 8th dan.



4. Over the past 7 -8 months, I have been searching extensively for descriptions of the various kicks and how to properly execute them. I have read numerous explanations of kicking techniques, gauging each according to length, clarity, detail, and thoroughness. Although I was able to learn something from most, none of the descriptions were of the caliber that I had been seeking. Having yet to be satisfied, I continued to search for a description that would meet my criteria - and stumbled upon the Achieving Kicking Excellence series by Shawn Kovacich. I was interested immediately. What initially fascinated me was that the author had created an entire series about kicking, with each book devoted to all the particulars of a single technique. After reading the book, I can say that the series has been all that I was looking for and more. The Achieving Kicking Excellence series is unparalleled in length, clarity, detail, and thoroughness. I believe these books to be the single most exhaustive explanations of each kick that have ever been written.
   
   Achieving Kicking Excellence: Front Kick first covers the basic anatomy of both the bones and the muscles in relation to the front kick. I had never previously considered its significance, but I now realize the importance of understanding anatomical structure. Knowing which muscles are involved in the front kick cultivates an awareness of the contracting and expanding of each muscle during each part of the kick. Understanding the bone structure allows the person to clearly visualize and apply proper alignment to each part of the front kick.
   
   The book then describes the basic principles of kicking. Some of the principles are specifically detailed to the front kick, while others apply to all kicks in general. The principles described include target areas, balance, alignment, striking surface, accuracy, speed, and strength. The author provides a clear description of each principle along with an explanation of how the principle relates to the front kick.
   
   Next, the book details the proper execution of the back leg front kick - the primary form of the front kick. The author breaks the back leg front kick down into 8 parts: fighting position, raise knee, coil, midway to impact, impact, recoil, lower knee, and return to fighting position. Each part is then further broken down into 7 -8 technical points, each point pertaining to the position of the feet, knees, upper body, head, etc with a total of 62 technical points for the kick from start to finish. Accompanying the description of each part of the kick are two full-page pictures [front view and side view], providing a quick visual reference of the technical points - perfectly complementing the detailed explanation.
   
   Following the comprehensive explanation of the back leg front kick, the book then goes on to describe 11 variations of the kick. Although they contain less depth of detail [as well as smaller pictures], each description provides all the information necessary to execute the variation, provided that you have read and understand the explanation of the back leg front kick.
   
   The book then describes a wide variety of training and practice methods to help improve the execution of the front kick. Specifically, the book covers several methods in each of skill training, strength training, speed training, and power training.
   
   Next, the book contains a trouble shooting guide. Detailed in this section are 10 common problems people have executing the front kick. Each problem is followed by a description of the most common mistake(s) that cause the problem, and possible remedies to those mistakes.
   
   The trouble shooting guide is followed by a guide to some of the basic applications of the front kick. The kicking applications guide is brief [in comparison to the second Achieving Kicking Excellence series by Shawn Kovacich - Applications in Combat], containing one application for each variations of the kick. But, keep in mind that the book is about how to properly execute the front kick, not about how to use the kick - so I consider the applications section to be an added bonus to the main content of the book.
   
   The Achieving Kicking Excellence series would make an outstanding addition to the library of any martial artist. The book functions as both an exhaustive guide and a valuable reference. I believe that this series would benefit anyone, from the beginner to the expert, regardless of their skill level. The series could easily be used by a beginner, as an aid in learning the techniques; as well as by an expert, looking to refine their execution of the techniques.



5. I have been practicing the martial arts since the age of 14. This year will mark the 40th year that I've studied one system of combat or another. Additionally, I have been a police officer for 31 years and my profession has occasionally offered me the opportunity to use the thingS that I've learned in the Dojo. I have an entire set of Shawn Kovacich's superb series on Achieving Kicking Excellence (Vol. 1- 10) and can truthfully say that I have seen no more thorough books on the art of kicking in the all my years in the martial arts. The kicks covered (one per volume) include the back kick, the heel kick, the axe kick, the crescent kick, the reverse crescent kick, the front kick, the hook kick, the hatchet kick, the round house kick, and the side kick.
   Each volume begins with an overview of the kick and instructions on how to make the best possible use of the kick. Chapter 1 delves into the anatomy of the kick and which muscles are used, and in what manner, to achieve the maximum possible efficiency in kicking.
   Chapter 2 outlines a stretching program and offers helpful tips in that area for the student. Chapter 3 deals with the basic principles of kicking movement. These include the striking implement, target areas, stability (a biggie!), balance, alignment, sequence of movement, accuracy. Strength, speed, timing and distance, impact, retraction, and visualization. Each area is explained in detail as it relates to developing your kicking ability.
   Chapter 4 deals exhaustively with the primary kick. It follows the kick from initiation through each phase of the kick to impact, recoil, and recovery. He troubleshoots the problems that many martial artists experience with the kick at each phase and offers corrective actions for each problem.
   Chapter 5 goes over pretty much every variation of the kick known to man and these are dissected with master Kovacich's usual thoroughness.
   Chapter 6 is one of the strongest parts of the book for me. In this chapter, Master Kovacich discusses training and practice methods. He details skill, strength, speed, and power training. Learning how to do the kick is only half the battle. Developing the kick through specific training methods and exercises is the other half and is usually overlooked by other authors.
   As if he hadn't already done enough in this area, Master Kovacich outlines further specific trouble areas for the student in chapter 7. Chapter 8 covers kicking applications for tournament and street.. Master Kovacich shows how the kick is set up and how delivery can be affected by your opponent's actions as well as your own.
   In chapter 9 you can see why Master Kovacich's kicks are so good and why you should pay attention to his advice. He is in the Guiness Book of World records for throwing more high kicks in an afternoon that I believe I have thrown in my life.
   If you desire to become a more powerful, competent kicker, then these books represent an important investment for you . I can tell you that, even after 40 years of fighting experience, there are things in these books that have made me re-think some of my training methods regarding kicking.
   Master Kovacich will be coming out with a new series of books dealing with the combat applications of each kick in the near future. As I'm sure these books will cover combat applications with the same thoroughness of this series, I eagerly await their publishing.

5 comments about Roundhouse Kick (Achieving Kicking Excellence, Vol. 9).

1. I have been practicing the martial arts since the age of 14. This year will mark the 40th year that I've studied one system of combat or another. Additionally, I have been a police officer for 31 years and my profession has occasionally offered me the opportunity to use the thingS that I've learned in the Dojo. I have an entire set of Shawn Kovacich's superb series on Achieving Kicking Excellence (Vol. 1- 10) and can truthfully say that I have seen no more thorough books on the art of kicking in the all my years in the martial arts. The kicks covered (one per volume) include the back kick, the heel kick, the axe kick, the crescent kick, the reverse crescent kick, the front kick, the hook kick, the hatchet kick, the round house kick, and the side kick.
   Each volume begins with an overview of the kick and instructions on how to make the best possible use of the kick. Chapter 1 delves into the anatomy of the kick and which muscles are used, and in what manner, to achieve the maximum possible efficiency in kicking.
   Chapter 2 outlines a stretching program and offers helpful tips in that area for the student. Chapter 3 deals with the basic principles of kicking movement. These include the striking implement, target areas, stability (a biggie!), balance, alignment, sequence of movement, accuracy. Strength, speed, timing and distance, impact, retraction, and visualization. Each area is explained in detail as it relates to developing your kicking ability.
   Chapter 4 deals exhaustively with the primary kick. It follows the kick from initiation through each phase of the kick to impact, recoil, and recovery. He troubleshoots the problems that many martial artists experience with the kick at each phase and offers corrective actions for each problem.
   Chapter 5 goes over pretty much every variation of the kick known to man and these are dissected with master Kovacich's usual thoroughness.
   Chapter 6 is one of the strongest parts of the book for me. In this chapter, Master Kovacich discusses training and practice methods. He details skill, strength, speed, and power training. Learning how to do the kick is only half the battle. Developing the kick through specific training methods and exercises is the other half and is usually overlooked by other authors.
   As if he hadn't already done enough in this area, Master Kovacich outlines further specific trouble areas for the student in chapter 7. Chapter 8 covers kicking applications for tournament and street.. Master Kovacich shows how the kick is set up and how delivery can be affected by your opponent's actions as well as your own.
   In chapter 9 you can see why Master Kovacich's kicks are so good and why you should pay attention to his advice. He is in the Guiness Book of World records for throwing more high kicks in an afternoon that I believe I have thrown in my life.
   If you desire to become a more powerful, competent kicker, then these books represent an important investment for you . I can tell you that, even after 40 years of fighting experience, there are things in these books that have made me re-think some of my training methods regarding kicking.
   Master Kovacich will be coming out with a new series of books dealing with the combat applications of each kick in the near future. As I'm sure these books will cover combat applications with the same thoroughness of this series, I eagerly await their publishing.



2. After reviewing this book I can't without hesitation that I learned quite a lot about the proper execution of the roundhouse kick. For a kick that I thought looked simple, I was surprised to see how many details there are to it. It's a surprisingly technical type of kick that requires much practice to deliver it properly.
   
   I've been doing martial arts for the past years and I've had competent instructors show me how to perform the roundhouse kick. However, I was never told the little details about the kick that really makes it work correctly. Either my instructors didn't tell me the details or they were unaware of them. That is why I think it's very important to read this book if you want to learn the roundhouse kick properly because even instructors can miss details with techniques.
   
   The roundhouse kick is broken down into various stages of it's delivery, Shawn writes each stage in extreme detail covering everything about the roundhouse kick. Also included in the book: the basic anatomy of the kick, warm up and stretching, variations of the kick, training and practice methods, trouble shooting guide and even a small section of the applications of the kicks.
   
   Reading this book has definitely improved my understanding of the roundhouse kick, it was very helpful for me to really understand why the kick is done the way it is. Now that I have a better understanding of it, I just need to practice thousands of repetitions :)
   
   Whether you are a complete beginner or an advanced martial artist you will still benefit, even advanced students will learn something from this book.
   
   While it is important to train hard, it is even more important to train smart. This book will show you how.
   
   Thanks Shawn



3. As a student of Martial Arts holding 2nd Dans in Taekwondo and Shotokan Karate and a amatuer competitor in sports karate ,I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Kovacich's books.
   I own several of Mr. Kovacich's books , Axe Kick , Back Kick , Crescent Kick , Front Kick ,Hook Kick ,Roundhouse Kick, and Side Kick .
   each book stands on its own fully describing each particular kick to the nth detail.
   The muscles needed to throw the kicks , the proper methods to throw the kick different various ways to throw the kick for example front leg , rear leg , spinning , jumping etc are fully described , the strength and conditioning exercises used to help develop the kick. Even common mistakes are discussed.
   I really feel its must reading for any serious student of Martial Arts that uses kicking as a technique to really amp up their kicking abilities.
   Im actually hoping my competitors don't read these books.
   Seriously a great read.
   Well Done Mr. Kovacich . OSU



4. There are four kicks that are the bread and butter of kicking. The front kick, the side kick, the back kick and the roundhouse kick. Shawn has managed to convey to the reader the mechanics of all four and with this book the roundhouse kick. If you have never learned the roundhouse kick try the instructions Shawn gives you in this book. When you think you have it go to a martial arts school in your area and try it. I'm not asking you to challenge anyone, just try the kick. See if yours is at least as good if not better than theirs. This doesn't mean you don't need a teacher only that, this is a good substitue until you can find a teacher to your liking.
   
   Shawn gives you solid training techniques to learn the roundhouse kick. You get to see the progression of the kick in pictures. Shawn also asks you at the end of the book if you see anything improper. That helps to train you to look for errors in your kicking. Shawn Kovacich, has done his research to make sure you have the best information to perform the roundhouse kick correctly. The only way to get better is to get a teacher or at the very least a training partner.
   
   Shawn has done you a service by repeating certain training techniques throughout the book and the series. You don't have to keep flipping pages to find information you need. That was done, I believe, intentionally because this is a reference book. Something to be referred to again and again to help you learn the roundhouse kick.
   Note: For those of you who have an awesome kicking regimine might I suggest you try Shawn Kovacich's kicking application series, who knows you might learn something your classmates don't.



5. As are all Mr. Kovacich's kicking books that I have read, Achieving Kicking Excellence - Roundhouse Kick is a must read for the martial arts practitioner. The Author provides a very detailed breakdown of the roundhouse kicks and variation. As this is one of my most used kicks, I found this publication useful in understanding what I was doing right and what was wrong. I highly recommend this book to all that want to master this important kick.

5 comments about Complete Tang Soo Do Manual, from White Belt to Black Belt, Vol. 1.

1. Hi, I'm the book's designer. I worked really hard on this book and illustrated with detailed pictures and diagrams. Master Jack Pistella was an amazing help and wrote many of the chapters. I also highly recommend the VOLUME 2 edition. It's 300 pages in full color!



2. I have been taking one form or other of Martial Arts most of my life. This book is a great resource for any Tang So Do student. Although many of the techniques are not practiced in my dojang, or the patterns are slightly different, I found this book to be interesting and informative. Your not going to finnish reading this book and be able to defend yourself but with a membership to a dojang and daily practice this book will definately help you understand why you practice the forms and basic movements.



3. This book i a very good manual for learning Tang Soo Do. It gives an understanding of both theory and the practical applications, organized in belt by belt levels describing the requiremnts for each level. One of the greates things in this book (which I have not seen in any other Taekwondo or Tang Soo Do book) is the applications or rationale behind each of the patterns for each belt level.
   
   This book I will really reccomend for all practionairs of Tang Soo Do specially, but also for those practicing Tae Kwon Do (WTF style).



4. The book was well written, illustrations are clear & concise for the student who has had hands on training. Is a good reference book for learning forms & techniques, also for the advanced student to reference. This book is not written to teach without the assistance of a certified instructor but to aid that student.



5. I have been in martial arts for many years. Finding a user friendly comprehensive volumn that literally takes you from a-z through forms, some applicable self-defense moves as they relate to those forms and still leads you the next level is a treasure to be discovered. What impressed me is the diagramming. It may have helped that I conceptualize the way the author does and his communication style matches my own. I do not have any negatives other than I wish it had the basic motions for Tang Soo Do covered in it. I had been doing my own hard copy diagramming because the school I was taught in had a great Teacher, Master J. D. Lawler. We did not use manuals. He could show us something new everyday and we could never grasp it all. He was that amazing. This book helped shed light on some of the teaching I received from Master Lawler. I hope the Black Belt Vol 2 is just as good.

2 comments about Complete Tang Soo Do Master Manual: From 2nd Dan to 6th Dan, Vol. 2.

1. I have been taking one form or other of Martial Arts most of my life. This book is a great resource for any Tang So Do student. Although many of the techniques are not practiced in my dojang, or the patterns are slightly different, I found this book to be interesting and informative. Your not going to finnish reading this book and be able to defend yourself but with a membership to a dojang and daily practice this book will definately help you understand why you practice the forms and basic movements.



2. This book is a great learning aid for anyone in the martial arts, specially in tang soo do, tae kwon do, karate, okinawan karate, WTF and ITF. It's heavily illustrated and printed on glossy paper.
   
   If you already have volume 1 you need this book as well. If you don't (since volume 1 is temporarily out of print) you can definitely learn a lot more from this title as it includes advanced techniques, weapons and so much more.

5 comments about Tang Soo Do: The Ultimate Guide to the Korean Martial Art.

1. This book is an adequate reference for the Tang Soo Do hyungs, but little more. Precious little background is given for the style of Tang Soo Do or the hyungs themselves. For reference, there is no substitute for GM Hwang Kee's book.



2. To understand why this book is such a good deal, I should first explain a bit about Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan publications in general. There are a plethora of nice, costly Tang Soo Do/Soo Bahk Do/Moo Duk Kwan manuals available today. Virtually all of these fancy hardcover tomes range from 50.00 to upwards of 100.00, and don't contain much more than general information on the basics as originally presented in Grandmaster Hwang Kee's 1978 English translation of the "Soo Bak Do Dae Gam" (Korean), "Tang Soo Do: Moo Duk Kwan" (More recent reprints use the title "Soo Bahk Do: Moo Duk Kwan", and are available from the U.S. Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation for around 90.00).

   For those of the Moo Duk Kwan lineage (founded by Hwang, Kee), there is also the question of whose book to buy! After all, Jae Chul-shin, C.S. Kim, Ho Sin Pak, Richard Byrne, and several others all have put out costly hardcover volumes. Rest assured, they all have the same basic Tang Soo Do information...the only MAJOR difference you will find between all of these expensive volumes is who is pictured doing the techniques, and the name of the organization they now head. While it is nice to have GM Hwang's books if only for their historical value (especially since GM Hwang's untimely passing in July of 2002), the volume "Tang Soo Do: The Ultimate Guide to the Korean Martial Art" tops them all by offering the same information for a much lower price (16.95). Author Kang Uk-lee was dan #70 (1952) under Grandmaster Hwang, and like all of the other authors named above, broke away from Hwang to form his own association. Well...I suppose everyone leaves home sometime. Kang's book includes crisp photos, and helpful descriptions as well as foot diagrams. There isn't a lot of space devoted to the basic techniques themselves (such as variations on hand techniques, kicking, etc), which I assume is due to the fact that most readers already will have some instruction in basic techniques. The main focus of this volume then, is HYUNG (forms). ALL of the basic forms of Tang Soo Do are covered here, to about 4th dan. Included are 19 Hyung: Ki Cho Hyung 1-3, Pyung Ahn Hyung 1-5, Chil Sung Hyung 1-3 (these are three of the new forms introduced by GM Hwang), Bassai Hyung, Naihanchin 1-3, Ship Soo Hyung, Jin Do Hyung, Kong San Kong, and Rohai. All include complete photo sequences showing ALL of the movements, as well as descriptions and foot/stance diagrams.

   This volume is up-to-date enough to include GM Hwang's 3 Chil Sung Hyung, but does not include other highly advanced elements like the older Japanese/Chung Do Kwan lineage forms Sei Shan Hyung, Wang Shu Hyung, Ji On Hyung, and Oh Sip Sa Bo Hyung, and also those created by Hwang, like the 3 Yuk Ro Hyung (very linear), and the master form inspired by the Mu Ye Do Bo Tong Ji, Hwa Sun Hyung. Most readers simply wouldn't need these other forms yet (unless of course you are 4th dan +). All of this advanced information is available in Hwang's second volume, "Tang Soo Do Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Volume 2" (available from the US Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation for about 60.00). Kang's book however is simply the best deal out there. All of the necessary Hyung information to take you from 10th gup to 4th dan is for the first time available to virtually anybody for less than twenty clams. Page 14-15 also includes the most complete TSD/MSK genealogy yet published, and there are some good photos showing historical items, GM Kang, GM Hwang, and other TSD folks. If you are studying Tang Soo Do or any Moo Duk Kwan derivative which utilizes the old style forms, and are looking for a guide to assist you with your technical studies, there is no better value than this particular volume. There is simply no comparison.




3. This book is an excellent resource for hyungs, basics, history, and terminology. The photos and descriptions are clear and concise. Highly recommended for any practitioner of Tang Soo Do or Chung Do Kwan.



4. I just started taking Tang Soo Do lessons and I have found this book super helpful, especially when I am at home trying to practice the movements and forms I just learned. It is a great reference book to keep you on track with your lessons so you do not get into bad habits. Very good explainations and tons of photos. Even helps with the Korean to English translations. I would highly recommend for a student of Tang Soo Do...especially a beginner.



5. This is a pretty good book if you are a beginner and are looking mostly for a guide to help with Forms only. For the price it is worth it. Would be nice if he had another book with more on the one step sparring and self defense.