Reviews (8)

I don't get the title
The book has a pretty sizeable chapter on all sorts of "madness" (in the british sense) that might be associated with those who practice the martial arts (eg. My Martial Art is the SUPREME martial art in the world! syndrome).I am not really interested in the martial arts, but in the esoteric teachings - secrets are always begging for attention.This book has a couple of good meditations by one of Glenn's former students, and a lot of anecdotes from his and his students.I loved the previous two books, and I think this one is definitely worth the time (mostly for the bibliography), but maybe not as good.

Another excellent book by Glenn Morris...... BUT...
Whenever I heard of a new Glenn Morris book, I eagerly checked it out, bought it, and usually devoured it in a day or two. Some of the items within his books delve into the metaphysical, paranormal, and sometimes just plain weird. His martial arts insights are equally interesting and as an on-and-off student of Southern Shaolin kung fu, I can understand and appreciate the references to ninpo and Bujinkan ninjutsu. Whats with the first two reviews?
Dr. Morris has written a very interesting collection of essays and exercises similar to his first two books and to top that off has included essays by students on their experiences. The inclusion of students is extremeley rare as they offer a proof that this wierdness is teachable and what is even more interesting he includes quotes from people who tried his meditation exercises out and got results but did not train with him. Very different. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Martial Arts    2. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    3. Psychological aspects    4. Sports    5. Sports & Recreation    6. Oriental martial arts   

Reviews (4)

Son's college reading
The book was just what was ordered.My son was pleased.

A Work for Martial Artists--Business PeopleNeed Not Apply!
A copy of Thomans Cleary's translation of Musashi's classic A Book of Five Rings was presented to me several years ago by a fellow martial artist.I have read and re-read the text many times over as I progressed in different martial arts.This is a book written by a martial artist, for martial artists.Musashi wrote this work in order to pass on the truths of martial strategy that he learned from a lifetime spent as a genuine warrior...Musashi was the real deal and had taken many a human life by the time he sat down to write at age sixty.Because of this, it is best that A Book of Five Rings be read with a certain seriousness of purpose and an understanding of why it was written. If you are a serious martial artist, it was written just for you.
Bonus Material Not Found in Other Translations
This classic text deals with the delicate art of leadership, and was composed originally in 1643 by the famous samurai Miyamoto Musashi. But this book isn't just for those involved in the martial arts, as the previous reviewer suggests, no far from it; it's for anyone who wants to enjoy the neverending wisdom contained within this text. Thomas Cleary's translation of Miyamoto's masterpiece is comprehensible, with an introduction that presents us readers with the spiritual backdrop of the warrior tradition that is vital for the rest that proceeds. This most up-to-date edition also embraces one more important Japanese text - "The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War" by Yagyu Munenori; here the book highlights insights of Zen and Taoism as they pertain to the way and life of the warrior. Enjoy the book! Cleary is a terrific translator. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Early works to 1800    2. Eastern - General    3. Japan    4. Leadership    5. Military art and science    6. Personal Growth - Success    7. Philosophy    8. Swordplay    9. Oriental & Indian philosophy    10. Oriental martial arts    11. Philosophy / Eastern    12. Taoism   

Reviews (5)

Straightforward & simple approach that produces real skills
This book works.It lays down a solid foundation.The exercises and practice drills continually produce and reinforce positions that the practitioner will appreciate later on.Its subtle but it will become quite apparent IF one does exactly as the book says.A good place to start.

The best how to box book available
The American Martial Art is the most comprehensive boxing book now available. It covers all the basic punches,and defenses. However, I enjoyed the sugggested workouts covering the heavy bag work,shadow boxxing and counterpunching. No other book I have seen covers counterpunching in any detail.This book offers several counterpunch workouts. Anyone one who puts in the time and effort and completes the 12 week course offered in The American Martial Art, will become a much better boxer. I highly recommend it.

Basic Introduction to a Great Sport / Art
The book gives a basic outline of the great American art of self-defense, Boxing. The author introduces the foundation to the necessary basics to train and compete, if desired. Yet, boxing is a hands on sport that must be physically executed to truly learn. A book can serve as a guide or to attempt to enlighten one to the basics, but without a coach or sparring partner it can never be understood.
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Subjects:  1. Boxing    2. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    3. Sports    4. Sports & Recreation    5. Training   

Reviews (1)

A Necessary Companion to _Best Aikido_
This volume completes the Aikikai Aikido repertoire, as first outlined in _Best Aikido_.As such, this book is an indispensible companion, containing in it a repository of information and demonstration by the third doshu.Read more

Subjects:  1. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    2. Martial Arts - Aikido    3. Sociology    4. Sports & Recreation    5. Oriental martial arts   

Reviews (5)

Learn the art of judo whether you're training for competition or preparing for the black belt
Learn the art of judo whether you're training for competition or preparing for the black belt using JUDO UNLEASHED: ESSENTIAL THROWING & GRAPPLING TECHNIQUES FOR INTERMEDIATE TO ADVANCED MARTIAL ARTISTS. This step-by-step guide to the art is for any who want to take judo techniques a step further, blending it with other competitive fighting styles. The author is one of the world's best judo coaches and his expertise lends to all the basics, building both a philosophical and athletic foundation of advanced self-defense moves. Color photos throughout show how.
This Might Become the Standard
- beautiful pictures, all colour
A must have
In addition to the comments already posted, the photo sequences of moves + the close-ups of grips AND positioning of the feet are extremely effective reminders of what the sensei/coach keep pounding in our heads back at the dojo/gym.
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Subjects:  1. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    2. Martial Arts - Judo    3. Sports    4. Sports & Recreation    5. Judo    6. Sports & Recreation / Martial Arts & Self-Defense   

Reviews (3)

A Must-Have for Any Student of the Sword
The one word that came to mind when I first saw this book was "finally!"
An "magnum opus" of historical swordfighting
First, a confession: I have known Stephen Hand for the better part of a decade, and have had the pleasure of trading notes, lessons and blows with him. I also saw this manuscript in its draft form and helped him refine it to its final form. So I cannot be called "unbiased".
Another essential work by Stephen Hand
In this book, Hand, a leading authority on recreating medieval and renaissance swordsmanship, turns to the long overlooked topic of the English basket hilted broadsword of the Elizathean age. Long considered to be inferior to the rapier, it is now usually accepted as a viable weapon art, yet there has been little secondary information until now.
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Subjects:  1. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    2. Sports    3. Sports & Recreation   

Reviews (11)

No Holds Barred Fighting: Savage Strikes: The Complete Guide to Real World Striking for NHB Competition and Street Defense
This is truly an excellent book. Ive purchased all ofMark Hatmaker books and think he is truly an excellent instructor.
Great book for a beginner
I have absolutely no background in hitting since my background is judo/soft martial arts. I ordered this book out of curiosity to see what is involved in what I consider hard martial arts and I was delighted. Hatmaker seems at his best in this area -- I suspect he may be a boxer at heart. While he also has a wrestling and grappling background, I find myself questioning some of his approaches in those areas. I think he is more comfortable in this area and really seems to delight in the subject. I also feel that his basic philosophy works better here.
Good bang for the buck
Pros --
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Subjects:  1. Combat Sports    2. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    3. Sports    4. Sports & Recreation    5. Boxing    6. Sports & Recreation / Martial Arts & Self-Defense   

Reviews (9)

The Best Study of European Martial Skills Yet Published!
I was astounded to find this book. By far, it the best academic study of Western fighting arts I have found. The focus is on the role of martial training in the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It was a violent and dangerous era, and people in all strata of society, be they soldiers or civilians, honest citizens or criminals, learned what skills they could to survive on the battlefield or in the streets. Not only is the text outstanding, but the book has been thoroughly illustrated with art from the time periods covered.

Interesting, though his conclusions are debatable
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book (I skipped around alot, it is extremely dense), and I agree with the many others who have stated that this is a ground-breaking encyclopedic tour of the history of fencing. I also wholeheartedly agree that historical fencing should be viewed as a full-fledged martial art ("fencing" is not synonymous with "modern sport fencing"). Essential Reading
Anglo's groundbreaking work is definitely one of the most influential treatises on Renaissance combat ever written.Seldom does an author write so in depth and cover so much material.Read more

Subjects:  1. 16th century    2. Combat Sports    3. Europe    4. Europe - General    5. History    6. History - General History    7. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    8. Martial arts    9. Renaissance    10. Sports    11. Sports & Recreation    12. To 1500    13. Combat sports & self-defence    14. European history: c 1500 to c 1750    15. History / Renaissance    16. c 1500 to c 1600    17. c 1600 to c 1700   

Reviews (23)

Hayes own Experience and Introduction to Ninpo as an Art
This was the first book on ninpo I read as a youth.Thankfully, I believe it did a lot to innoculate me against much of the...other stuff out there claiming to be "ninjutsu".Author Stephen K. Hayes actually was proficient in Karate (3rd dan), running a dojo in Atlanta, Georgia before hanging up everything and flying off to Japan to find Masaaki Hatsumi, a Ninja historian and one of the few holders of a legitimate titles of proficiency in traditional Japanese martial arts associated with the ninja of Old Japan.
Great history, philosophy, stories and photos.
This is one of the first books that I read about ninjutsu back in the day as a teenager and it still is fun to pull off the shelf and skip around. It recounts Hayes's first encounter with Hatsumi, his finding himself being one of the few non-Japanese to study the art before the big ninja boom of the 80s when everything got so stupid in the public's eye, the brutality of early training under Hatsumi, some recollections of unconventional training and a few demonstrations of techniques. There are also many great photos from the old school, which you may find as interesting as I do.
Full perspective on Ninja
With sensitivity, Hayes gives readers a clearRead more

Subjects:  1. General    2. Hayes, Stephen K    3. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    4. Military Science    5. Ninjutsu    6. Sports    7. Sports & Recreation    8. Oriental martial arts   

Reviews (10)

fun review
oh my goodness! when ok'tar gave up his right of charlin for maybo....I cried like a new born wampa rat that can't find it's powpow....
Good Forms Reference
This books contains detailed step-by-step explainations of the forms, and their applications. I really liked the two man sets showing applicatation. I don't think any book can teach you a martial art alone, but if you already know one or you are using this in conjunction with a live class, this is an excellent reference. No matter what style you practice this book has techniques that can be applied along with what you already know. A good technical book.

Excellent Text--What Do Some People Expect?
This is a great book that goes into the detail that was expected of martial art books of the time.Apparently, some people expect to learn a form from a book--what ridiculousness!How can anyone learn the complexities of a form from a book?That is not how the system has been transmitted in the past, nor should it be that way in the future.It does what it serves to do: act as a reference.The real deal takes place with a live teacher.The photos are pretty good with nice documentation of the form.Anyone who wants to see how this can really work is still able to train with this man. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Kung fu    2. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    3. Sports & Recreation    4. Oriental martial arts   

Reviews (22)

"The Art of Peace begins with you..."
Named for the mythical (?) and mystical kingdom in the East, Shambhala Publications is known for bringing some of the greatest and sometimes most obscure philosophical writings of Mankind to the attention of the general public. Heavily (though not exclusively) concerned with Buddhist and Taoist thought, Shambhala Pocket Classics are an attractive set of unabridged minibooks which fit comfortably in a shirt pocket, making them perfect for reading on planes, trains, and automobiles. Titles in the set include THE BOOK OF TEA, WAY OF THE JEWISH MYSTICS, ZEN FLESH, ZEN BONES, THE TIBETAN BOOK OF THE DEAD, TAO TE CHING, POEMS BY EMILY DICKINSON, THE ART OF WAR, and this volume by Morihei Ueshiba, THE ART OF PEACE.
Enlightening
Whether you practice martial arts (Aikido) or not this book is amust read.A philosophy to live by for sure.

Very handy booklet with wise words that you can bring anywhere you go.
The booklet is small enough to carry it anywhere you go, so you can review the wise words of Ueshiba Sensei wherever and whenever you like.
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Subjects:  1. 1883-1969    2. Aikido    3. Conflict management    4. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    5. Martial Arts - Aikido    6. Philosophy    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Teachings    9. Ueshiba, Morihei,    10. Combat sports & self-defence    11. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    12. Oriental religions    13. Sports & Recreation / Martial Arts & Self-Defense    14. Ueshiba, Morihei   

Subjects:  1. Diet / Health / Fitness    2. Exercise    3. Fiction    4. General    5. Qi gong    6. Exercise & workout books    7. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    8. Oriental martial arts   

Reviews (2)

Very good Book
This book is a surprise; it is all double blade work.Lots of information. On the down side, sorry but the Tagalog names are distracting.The pictures are too small; it's hard to pick up at times what each blade is doing.BUT......big but..... there is more good stuff packed in this book that in a good 90% of other books on the subject.Get it and get really good reading glasses : )

Hands down....The Best Arnis book I own
I really didn't understand what I was buying when i ordered this book....but I'm so glad I did. This is the first written record of Arnis in the philippines, that can only be found in the Philippine national archives; originally in archaeic Tagalog that modern Filipinos can't understand. Rey Galang just brought all this wonderful mystery to the modern world. Believe there are no sticks here..this is all blade, all the time! Now I can really see what the old folks were talking about! The best part is the Classic Espada y Daga...not stick and knife. Sword and Dagger! Been looking arond for a real good book on Espada y daga this is it! Plus the extra Sinawali techniques...thank you Rey Galang I will be waiting for your next book...please don't stop writing.
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Subjects:  1. Escrima    2. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    3. Mga karunungan sa larong arnis    4. Mga karunungan sa larong arnis Isinaayos ni Buenaventura Mirafuente    5. Sports    6. Sports & Recreation    7. Yambao, Placido    8. Yambao, Placido.    9. Oriental martial arts    10. Sports & Recreation / General   

Reviews (24)

No nonsense, practical knife fighting
I've been a martial artist for twenty-six years and an instructor for about twenty of those and have never seen a knife fighting program that I liked.Right now I'm studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and their knife self-defense is excellent, but they do not teach knife fighting.What this book does is break through all the style specific silliness and gets to the practical, simple application that is functional and easy to remember.
excellent, informative. avoid a knife fight at all costs!
As a long time practitioner of self defense, this book is a must read and is in my collection. You will find the best technique in the book demonstrated by the author himself, on pg 99, run away is always the best option.

Revolutionary
Michael Janich knows more about knives than most people know about their families.He has single handedly evolved the usage of the knife from a humble meat separator to the most deadly form of self-defense imaginable as it has been proven to be more powerful than karate and t'ai chi combined.Janich places emphasis on that which most novice knife fighters overlook, the grip, going into great detail on the 3 most popular grips in urban america today: the hammer grip, the ice pick, and the Indian handshake.I've been to a couple of seminars and I'll be the first to say that Mr. Janich is a snake in the grass.He appears to be the amalgamation of Bob Barker and a real estate salesman, but do not be fooled by this jovial appearance, Janich is all business and won't hesitate to explain the hammer grip to you the hard way.Even if you're not into knives I recommend buying this book.If you're not into reading then go check him out, you'll be glad you did.You can learn more from him about knives in one hour than most butchers do in a lifetime. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Knife fighting    2. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    3. Personal Growth - General    4. Professional - General    5. Self-Help    6. Sports & Recreation    7. Study Aids    8. Combat sports & self-defence    9. Designed / suitable for other (non-UK) curricula & examinations    10. Sports & Recreation / Martial Arts & Self-Defense   

Reviews (12)

I gave it 3 stars because it's Bruce Lee
This book as far as it being a good read is kind of boring. Aside from the boredom it gives you a lesson in comparative studies the west sucks and the east has the natural flow of things. However, having said that don't think that this book do not have any revelance. According to John Little, Bruce Lee's whole philosophy revolves around martial arts and that is the basis for all of his metaphors. I do not have a problem with that as I took karate as a child for a whole day!Anyway, Bruce said all knowledge is self knowledge. WOW! I have never thought of it like that before but I suppose he is right. Such things like that make the book worth the read. Is it a self help book per se no, but it can help you become someone spiritual especially for those who are into martial arts or like me just like to read and develop metaphors.
Dr.Phil ain't got nothingon Bruce Lee
Bruce Lee was always some one that I always Looked up to. He truly had a strong Vibe about Himself&the way he worded things&Put things into Perspective is still very Uplifiting to Me.He was a Very Intelligent Man&a strong Philosopher. this Book truly is Great for self-Esteem&Finding Inner Peace. a Must read.

Timeless
I would like to thank the authors for presenting such useful information. A few things that really impacted me were: 1. Bruce Lee felt that to strike back to people who are aggressive shows weakness. 2. He really worked his stomach.I have worked out for years and once I read about his stomach work I felt the affects immediately. 3. I love his thoughts on stress managemnt.I always kind of knew when I ate junk food that it was somehow related to stress.Now that I practice stress reducing excercises, I eat less junk food and I have no desire to eat it. 4. I appreciate his philosophy on total health. Like I said, what I read has totally changed my ideas on a lot of things. Thank you for an awesome book! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1940-1973    2. General    3. Lee, Bruce,    4. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    5. Martial arts    6. Philosophy    7. Spiritual life    8. Sports    9. Sports & Recreation    10. Biography: film, television & music    11. Body, Mind & Spirit / General    12. Films, cinema    13. Lee, Bruce   

Reviews (3)

A tight focus on mental and emotional self-improvement
The Spiritual Practices Of The Ninja: Mastering The Four Gates Of Freedom by therapist and workshop leader Ross Heaven leads the reader on a journey to the spiritual philosophy of the Ninja, and its core tenet that there is no higher power than the actualized human being. Four initiatory ordeals lead the seeker through the confusion and fatigue of the soul that block the individual from realizing his or her full potential. Primarily a metaphysical self-help guide rather than a martial arts instruction book, The Spiritual Practices Of The Ninja nonetheless offers a tight focus on mental and emotional self-improvement that can reap benefits in all walks of life.

an extraordinary work
A remarkable book - I speak as a professor of anthropology in Italy - which combines a distillation of mythic wisdom with highly practical techniques that enables any reader to simply apply this wisdom to excellent effect. One reviewer describes this book as Joseph Campbell and Carl Jung in concert with Ninja spiritual wisdom, and I would say that is very fair. I am a fan of Mr Heaven's work and regard him as a true pioneer and great modern philosopher and thinker so I admit to bias, but still I cannot recommend this work highly enough. Excellent.

Best book
I am a fan of all Mr Heavens books. This one is his best I think. Through it I learnned more about myself than through any other book I have reqd by anyone and I can speak hily of it. Buy it!!! You wil not be dissappointed! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alternate Spirituality    2. Eastern - Zen    3. Martial Arts    4. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    5. Ninjutsu    6. Religion    7. Spiritual Healing    8. Spiritual life    9. Spirituality - General    10. Body, Mind & Spirit / Spirituality / General    11. Oriental martial arts   

Reviews (14)

Amazing Book
This is an amazing book.It really has alot of techniques you can
Advanced Knowledge For Grapplers
US martial artists won't find much of the material in this book elsewhere. Those studying advanced judo, jujitsu or other grappling arts will find techniques that enhance basic techniques already in use. I found the sections on attacking tendons especially well done. No surprise that successful application requires significant strength in the fingers and wrists. Not recommended for beginners.

not good for every type
Allforms can be applied only by the movement of some types ofinternal kungfu familiar to auther ONLY. Kungfu studens who practice other kind of kungfu such as external martial artsmay see no chance to use them or find them useless.Read more

Subjects:  1. Martial Arts    2. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    3. Sports    4. Sports & Recreation    5. Oriental martial arts    6. Sports & Recreation / Martial Arts & Self-Defense   

Reviews (1)

Ancient Art of Japanese Archery
This book is very technical in its dealing with the ancient art of Japanese archery.It goes over the equipment, techniques, and etiquite for kyudo.I recommend this for those who are going to start studying archery or those who are already studying it.However, I don't recommend this for casual reading.If you are interested in reading about martial arts for pleasure, I recommend that you pass on this book.If you need a reference to help you with your kyudo technique, this is great. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Archery    2. Japan    3. Sports    4. Sports & Recreation    5. Oriental martial arts    6. Sports & Recreation / Archery   

Reviews (13)

Actually, There WERE Secrets . . .
In taiji circles (no pun intended) it's common knowledge that Cheng taught select students a set of nei gong exercises that he found invaluable for taiji and even calligraphy.William C.C. Chen mentions receiving this training from Cheng in his book about taiji's body mechanics, and there was a group of Malaysian students (some of whom still teach) who got this training.Cheng didn't teach any of his American students this all-important nei gong (internal work) that is an essential part of taiji.He was known rarely to discuss it.Cheng was very secretive and he usually taught only the hand form.The hand form without the nei gong is really only half an art (though some would say the nei gong is in the form).Lowenthal learned the form and push hands, and had a great time, and his enthusiasm for Cheng comes through, as does much of Cheng's personality, which was wise, mischievous, and cultured.So if you want to read a series of anecdotes, which is what the book contains, it's defintely worth buying--particularly if you're a Ching devotee.But don't expect instruction.It's not a textbook or manual, but a memoir.

Pieces of Gold, interspersed with Psychological Angst
Pieces of Gold, interspersed with Lowenthal's Psychological Angst Relax, Live Pure, Train Hard
This is an easy to read book that is part one man's insights (Wolfe Lowenthal) into a legendary Tai Chi master, and part revelation of those pearls of wisdom for the Tai Chi practitioner that are so valuable.I finished this book in an hour it's so easy, and gleaned much about Master Cheng as TaiRead more

Subjects:  1. Cheng, Man-ching    2. Cheng, Man-ch°ing    3. Martial Arts    4. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    5. Martial Arts - Taichi    6. Sports    7. Sports & Recreation    8. Tai chi    9. Oriental martial arts    10. Sports & Recreation / Martial Arts & Self-Defense   

Reviews (4)

Samurai Fighting Arts
This book is a unique blend of the physical and mental skills of the samurai. While most books are one or the other, this one is both. This book also contains the history and culture of feudal Japan.
Phenomenal Book
Worth every dollar I've spent. Detailed chapters on all aspects of samurai fighting arts; such as Kobuto, Jujutsu, Kenjutsu, and classical and modern Budo. This book also contains information on the sword against other weapons, such as the Yari, bo staff and Naginata. Includes information on Japanese medieval historical eras. This book is also includes detailed illustration for all chapters. Best Samurai book out on the market, a must own for all sword enthusiasts.

Outstanding, a comprehensive and valuable text!
Fumon Tanaka sensei's mastery of kobudo, iaijutsu, and jujitsu is well articulated in this excellent work. The writing is much clearer than many Asian master's first works in English. The layout is extraordinarily well done with outstanding photos and illustrations that really augment the text. Content includes budo (martial arts) history, jujutsu, kenjutsu, and samurai tradition. The nito-ken (two-sword) techniques included herein are not widely taught and rarely described in other texts. Basic, intermediate, and advanced Honmon Enshin Ryu applications are well laid out, with many okuden (secret) mastry level techniques portrayed. The focus is primarily on sword to sword applications though there is also a small section on sword vs. yari (spear), naginata (halberd), bo (staff), and shuriken (throwing star) as well. There is also a bit of muto dori (no sword) techniques covered as well.
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Subjects:  1. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    2. Sports    3. Sports & Recreation    4. Oriental martial arts