The Martial Arts Book

The history and philosophy of the various martial arts and how they have evolved to today's practice.

Discusses the techniques and philosophy of Asian fighting systems, such as judo, karate, and kung fu, and describes the practices of masters of the martial arts.

A well placed kick can mean the difference between victory and defeat in a fight! This illustrated guide to martial arts kicks provides the reader with a wealth of information on 89 different types of kicks from various styles. This martial arts book features kicks from Karate, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, Kung Fu, Kempo, Capoeira, Jeet Kune Do, and more. In a self defense situation there is no room for defeat. Readers will learn how to unleash a devastating barrage of kicks to throw their opponents off guard and leave every match in victory. The Essential Book of Martial Arts Kicks has one purpose: to help readers hone their kicking proficiency so that they can readily deploy the most powerful tool in the fighter's repertoire. It contains contains thousands of photos and diagrams to show readers exactly how to perform all of the 89 kicks inside this book. Packed with full color photos, detailed diagrams and a companion DVD featuring 50 of the most powerful kicks, this book is required reading for every martial artist who wants to sharpen and expand their kicking skills. You'll learn all about: Front Kicks Side Kicks Roundhouse Kicks Back Kicks Hook Kicks Crescent Kicks And many more!

Essays discuss various types of martial arts, and looks at how the martial arts help women to develop positive self-images and break free of the role of victim.

Although it was popularised by Bruce lee in the 1970s, Kung Fu has had an extensive history.This book charts its development over the centuries, from tradtional art, to the modern competitive sport we know today. It then deals with its techniques in step by step detail, with extensive action photographs illustrating each method. This book should appeal to thoses interested in both the techniques and philosophy behind this famous martial art.

The ancient martial arts disciplines are used not only for self-defense; they also contribute to a person's sense of harmony and well-being. Featuring specially commissioned photographs drawing on the expertise of highly qualified practitioners, this book examines in detail the history and philosophy behind the martial arts and the etiquette and techniques of primary and more advanced moves. 700+ color photos.

Provides a basic introduction to the martial arts with illustrations of each movement.

The martial art of boxing is being practiced from the era of ancient Thira, maybe even before that. There are several purposes of practicing martial arts. The main goal is practicing combat since martial arts are a combination of codified systems and traditions of various combat techniques. The main reasons behind practicing martial arts are for self-defense, military and law enforcement. Sometimes it is even practiced to attain spiritual and mental peace and development. In some nations, martial arts are practiced and performed to serve entertainment in order to preserve the intangible cultural heritage of that particular nation. In historical documents of eastern Asia, martial arts are associated with their own fighting style or fighting arts. However, the roots of original martial arts are found in the European combat system as early as in beginning of second half of sixteenth century. The term “Martial Art” is derived from Latin origins. In Latin, it is referred as “Arts of Mars”. Mars is the Roman god of war. There were many arguments made by several authors that fighting arts or fighting system would be more suitable for this ancient art. On the basis of their application or their creation by professional fighters, martial arts are never “martial”.