The Ultimate Book of Martial Arts by Fay Goodman - ISBN 0-681-45837-2
Product Description The ancient disciplines of the martial
arts are not only used for self-defense but also contribute to a
person's sense of harmony and well-being. With over 700 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. The book covers such arts as aikido, which is the
ability to recognize the aggressor as a source of energy; tae-kwondo,
known as the art of empty hand fighting concentrating on high kicking
techniques; and ju-jitsu, one of the oldest martial arts combining the
art of karate, aikido and judo bases. This book is the definitive
reference guide for martial arts enthusiasts and active participants in
the disciplines as well as for first-time seekers of this ancient art.
Overview Fay Goodman, author of The Ultimate Book of Martial Arts, holds
ranks of 8th dan in shinto ryu and 6th dan in iaido, and also won the
gold medal at the 1995 European Iaido championships. She is the coach
for the British Kendo Association, and teaches other martial arts as
well, including karate, aikido, and ju-jitsu. This book covers ten
different martial arts (taekwondo, two different karate styles, aikido,
ju-jitsu, judo, two kung fu styles, kick boxing, tai chi chuan, kendo,
iaido, and shinto ryu), devoting one chapter to each. The chapters are
broken down into five sub categories: "History and Philosophy",
"Clothing and Equipment", "Etiquette", "Exercise", and "Technique".
In the sections entitled: "History and Philosophy", Goodman outlines
the origins of the particular art. Related systems are mentioned as
applicable, and the manner in which competitions are held is discussed.
This section also explains the benefits of participating in the style,
and the general characteristics of the art.
The following section addresses the dress code, ranking system, and
necessary equipment for the activity. The third section deals with the
proper etiquette, informing the reader as to how to show proper respect
during the course of a training session. The fourth section discusses
warm-up exercises appropriate for each art's unique methods of attack,
defense, and counterattack.
The fifth and final section deals with the varying techniques used by
each art. In general it starts out with the basic techniques and
progresses towards the advanced ones, and in some case it includes
weapons training.ﾠﾠ
This large format book includes many photos, which help in
demonstrating the various techniques. However, some items are missing
such as photos from competitions or other events. One other item of
concern is that there is a misrepresentation of the taekwondo uniforms
(the now-standard V-neck uniform is not shown). Also, that it was
necessary to include mention of special techniques for women poses some
unanswered questions.
Condition: Used/Very Good condition
