Traditional Sun Style Taijiquan (Saddleback College-CPS7) Review

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(More customer reviews)I have been studying the Sun-style of taijiquan for about a decade and have had a chance to meet one of the co-authors of this book. Tim Cartmell, at a weekend workshop of the solo form covered in this book. Tim is that rarity... a martial practitioner who teaches as well as he performs and who writes as well as he teaches.
You can't learn a form of movement by reading a book, no matter how competent the written and photographic content; but a beginner can certainly get a very good idea of what the Sun-style solo form is about as well as the potential benefit of studying its health aspect. Furthermore, anyone who has experienced that style of taijiquan from a teacher will, without a doubt, get new insights into it.
My one complaint, as a martial artist, is that the combative applications of the various postures are not illustrated in any way; though some interesting two-person postural testing methods are described in detail. But, the book really isn't about the combative side of that style so I shouldn't have been surprised!
An excellent book by an excellent teacher...

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"Traditional Sun Style Taijiquan" is the most complete and comprehensive text to date on the Sun style.The book includes chapters on the history of the style, the benefits of practice, the important principles of the style, basic exercises, a complete breakdown of each movement in the traditional form with thorough explanations of all relevant details, as well as methods of testing the form for accurate execution.All exercises and form movements are illustrated with photos accompanying the text.When practiced as originally designed, Sun style Taijiquan provides a profound study into correct methods of postural alignment, unified body use and coordinated movement, as well as a coherent method of building the health while uniting the mind and body.

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The Complete Idiot's Guide to Fitness Boxing Illustrated Review

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(More customer reviews)I have taught boxing aerobics for many years, and I have published reviews of numerous boxing books in the past. This book is one of the best books I have ever read on Fitness Boxing. It is one of the most comprehensive and well illustrated books ever published on using boxing as a total fitness activity. It covers every aspect of fitness, not just the punching exercises of boxing. This book also includes a 650-minute DVD which demonstrates the fitness exercises and movements in the book. However, there is one flaw in the DVD in that it promises to take you through 12-two minute boxing rounds, but all it does is show you how to do the exercises. Nevertheless, the book is still worth purchasing. This text is broken down into four parts. Part one provides an introduction and reasons to choose fitness boxing as your workout choice. Various warm up exercises are also shown in this section. The second part covers training tools of boxing,taking a fitness boxing class, how to use power and balance balls, using weights and how to do partner exercises. Part three finally gets into the actual mechanics of boxing. This part covers stance, balance, footwork, how to throw the basic boxing punches, and using workout bands in your boxing workout. The final section covers various workout routines such as shadown boxing and bag work.
In conclusion, if you are interested in boxing for total physical fitness, you will want a copy for your personal library. I also recommend this book to fitness professionals who teach or would like to teach boxing for fitness.
Rating: 5 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Samurai Aerobics: The Kenjutsu/Kendo Workout Program)


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Brazilian Jujutsu: Side-Mount Techniques Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been studying Joe Moreira's style of BJJ for years and am impressed he was able to share so much of his wisdom in this inexpensive book. Those who want Hollywood style marketing/packaging need not apply. Those who want logical and indispensable BJJ strategies from the Side-Mount in a compact paperback will not regret this purchase. Highly recommend A+

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Detailing over 100 moves through photographic sequences and detailed captions, this volume uses Moreira's 'sequential teaching' style to delineate the network of options available to combatants dealing with side-mount situations. Whether a student, teacher, or simply a fan of jujutsu, this edition will serve as a comprehensive reference for side-mount moves and instill a deeper understanding of the art's emphasis on techniques rather than strength. Some of the techniques included in Moreira's book include the straight-arm American lock, knee popper, crucifix choke, fall back to armbar, roll to collar choke, and much more.

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Winning on the Mat: Judo, Freestyle Judo And Submission Grappling Review

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(More customer reviews)This book is full of useful information for people that already know the basics of the throws. There are better basic instruction books but, this book has lots of variations and tips and the classic throws. Kudos for Mr Scott taking the time to show and discuss them.
My only negative is that the pictures are black and white and sometimes are actual competition throws where the bodies are so entwined it is hard to dissect the technique. If would have been much better in color, but that would have made the book cost much more.
Lastly, for those following Olympic rules, i.e. USA JUDO, USJA, ETC, this book uses AAU Freestyle rules, which the author clearly states in the beginning. So, don't try to use a leg grab or something shown in the book at a non AAU Freestyle competition, or you will get disqualified. Doh!!!!


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Judo is many things to many people, but at its core, judo is a combat sport. Winning on the Mat offers an in-depth analysis of how to win at the sport of judo and how to make your judo work for you. Veteran coach and author Steve Scott presents the most effective and commonly used skills, techniques and tactics of competitive judo and analyzes why and how they work. Hundreds of winning skills are illustrated in realistic, competitive situations, most with exciting action photos taken at Judo competitions. Steve Scott presents a comprehensive, analytical approach to winning...whether your sport is judo, submission grappling, sport jujitsu or mixed martial arts. The practical, functional and real-world advice found on every page of Winning on the Mat will ensure that you return to this book again and again as you train to make your Judo work for you. Skills covered include: Winning Concepts, Grip Fighting, Defense, Forward Throws, Knee Drop Throws, Inner Thigh Throw, Pick Up Throws, Reaping Throws, Leg Hooks, Foot Sweeps, Body Drop Throws, Sacrifice Throws, Groundfighting, Pinning, Pin Escapes, Breakdowns, Armlocks and Strangling

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Best Karate 2: Fundamentals Review

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(More customer reviews)The Best Karate series is THE definitive reference for the praticing karataka. Fundamentals coversthe basic blocks, strikes and stances.

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The Anatomy of Stretching Review

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(More customer reviews)If you wish to be a martial artist, there are other stretching books that teach maximum flexibility: e.g. Stretching Scientifically by Thomas Kurz. or yoga books such as YOga: The Iyengar Way by Mira Silva & Schyam Mehta. But if you've hurt your back or other body parts (e.g. legs, shoulders, etc.), then this single volume is a gold mine. I've written several cover stories in Inside Kung Fu and Kung Fu Wushu magazines, and have practiced martial arts since a very early age. I have had perfect splits in life, but became less flexible via neglect. Trying to get back in shape, I hurt my back three years ago and sometimes had trouble bending down (on very bad days) or would rehurt my back when trying to resume running and shaolin kung fu. Fortunately, I taught at a college that had a Ph.D. program in physical therapy so I got free physical therapy for a year. All of the therapy exercises I learned for free are included in Brad Walker's Anatomy of Stretching. In addition, Walker's book contains dozens of wonderful exercises to provide therapy for hurt body parts, and to obtain general flexibility. I visited bookstores to compare the texts, and Walker's book provides wonderful schematic drawings on how the muscles are involved at the very moment of each specific stretch. Unlike other stretching anatomy books, Walker's provides a specific itemization of how to do the exercise, what body part is affected, what injury it treats, what sport it's good for, and when to avoid the stretch if you have a particular injury. It's the best diagrammed text around. I would recommend buying this book with a couple of other texts that are equal to Walker's in many respects (and sometimes better, sometimes worse):
Two books by Kit Laughlin:
1. Stretching & Flexibility, and
2. Overcome Neck & Back Pain.
You can order DVDs from Australia from Laughlin's website. Kit even emailed me to answer my stretching queries.
3. Back Care Basics by Mary Pullig Schatz, M.D. Dr. Schatz combines knowledge in injury science with expertise in Iyengar yoga. It's a wonderful text for injured practitioners.
4. The Stark Reality of Stretching, by Dr. Steven D. Stark. Dr. Stark presents a wonderful theory of stretching that argues convincingly that the best way to stretch is to avoid any stretches that load the specific muscle groups you are trying to stretch. He also demonstrates how we injure ourselves unwittingly: e.g. by running with a stride that is either too short, or too long. His research is a bit dated, but logical and convincing.
5. Yoga: The Iyengar Way (authors mentioned above).
Remember NEVER TO BOUNCE HARD WHEN STRETCHING, ESPECIALLY IF YOUR BACK IS INJURED. As long as you stretch everyday, you should gently heal your back.
Stretching one's back using a "half therapy roll" available at medical supply stores is useful if you have lower lumbar injury, but get diagnosed by a top notch physical therapist. Unlike general medical practitioners, they know the body much better and know the excercises to heal the back. The function of a regular medical doctor is simply to authorize x-rays to ensure you don't have unusual injuries: e.g. spinal/skeletal, herniated disks, torn muscles, dislocated ligaments and torn tendons, etc. Once you've excluded extreme abnormalities, a good stretching book can do wonders for your back and other body parts.
Back pain is due to muscle imbalance and slight injuries. Scarred muscle tissue gets tight and one needs to stretch those tissues to prevent spasms. These books, written often by medical doctors, are a great adjunct to qualified medical care.
For general back care, buy:
6. the Second edition of Mike Hage's THE BACK PAIN BOOK, REVISED 2ND EDITION.
Hage covers everything from how to bend properly when picking up objects to sitting correctly on a toliet to prevent reinjuring or weakining one's back. We cause injury to ourselves gradually until that single extra straw one day breaks our camel's back.
Without question, Walker's ANATOMY OF STRETCHING, is one of the best in the market. There is no single perfect book, but the relatively short list I've constructed is all you need. They might save you thousands of dollars on professional physical therapy and provide you with healthy restful flexibility and relief from unnecessary pain.

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Stretching for Flexibility and Health Review

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(More customer reviews)This has clear, concise step by step diagrams, showing how to improve strength and flexability. The text explains why you need to do these stretches and how they will strengthen your muscles and improve your flexability and posture. I recommend this book to both elite athletes and weekend hackers

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Relax into Stretch : Instant Flexibility Through Mastering Muscle Tension Review

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(More customer reviews)I almost didn't buy this book because some of the reviews are so negative...but I'm glad I did anyway. A few points:
1. This method absolutely works...I say this after studying karate for 4 years (hundreds of kicks, stretching that included pouring water on the floor and having someone push down on your back, staying in stretched positions for up to an hour, etc..) yoga, stretch machines, standard stretch routines. Through all this, my stretch increased very little. I couldn't even sit on the floor with crossed legs without discomfort. My karate instructor used to say I had the flexibility of a rock. Pavel's method works. Get the book! The concepts are simple, but revolutionary. A few more points:
2. There is enough information and stretching routines in the book to last for years. I don't understand the reviews that say there is not enough info in the book, too many pictures, etc...I appreciated the fact that I could quickly go throught the book and get right into the stretching.
3. There is another reviewer who outlines all of the potentially harmful stretches, based on his assessment as a doctor. However, all of the stretches he talks about are in the advanced stretching section of the book; they are extreme exercises, that Pavel clearly states are not for beginners.
4. Appearances can be deceiving...for example I was experiencing slight lower back pain from one routine and then I went back and read how to do the exercise, and realized I was overstretching, not controlling my breathing and tension as described in the book. In spite of the clear, "simple" format of the book, it is rich in information, that must be read carefully.
5. One last point: this book is for those who need to get to the next level. (I can't believe someone recommended Anderson's "granny" stretch book over this one; give me a break) Whether to reach top levels of fitness, martial arts study, rock climbing, etc...I'm thinking of someone who is into total fitness.)
On the other hand, it's also worth reading for the weekend athlete, only because the knowledge can help one prevent injuries and avoid harmful stretching methods.
Disclaimer: this is not a cheerleader review for Pavel. I have no connection with him whatsoever, just a very appreciative reader. Get the book!

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"Conventional stretching attempts to literally elongate your tissues, which is dangerous and ineffective. Relax into Stretch simply teaches your muscles to relax into a stretch.If you compare traditional training to a messy hardware reorganization, then Relax into Stretch is an efficient software upgrade.While stretching tissues may take years, changes in the nervous system are immediate! Your muscles will start noticeably elongating from your first Relax into Stretch practice-and within months you will have achieved a level of flexibility uncommon in our species."-Pavel Tsatsouline. Own an illustrated guide to the thirty-six most effective techniques for super-flexibility. How the secret of mastering your emotions can add immediate inches to your stretch.How to wait out your tension-the surprising key to greater mobility and a better stretch. How to fool your reflexes into giving you all the stretch you want. Why contract-relax stretching is 267% more effective than conventional relaxed stretching. How to breathe your way to greater flexibility. Using the Russian technique of Forced Relaxation as your ultimate stretching weapon. How to stretch when injured-faster, safer ways to heal. Young, old, male, female-learn what stretches are best for you and what stretches to avoid. Why excessive flexibility can be detrimental to athletic performance-and how to determine your real flexibility needs.Plateau-busting strategies for the chronically inflexible

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Reverse Crescent Kick (Achieving Kicking Excellence, Vol. 5) Review

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(More customer reviews)Reverse Crescent Kick is the fifth book of the Achieving Kicking Excellence series by Shawn Kovacich. Just as he did with the other volumes of the series, Kovacich attacked the instruction of the reverse crescent kick with meticulous detail and thoroughness. I have to admit, ever since Billy Jack wopped Posner on the right side of his face with his right foot, I've had a sentimental spot for the reverse crescent kick, and that makes this my favorite book of the series.
This book is the most detailed written description you will find on executing the reverse crescent kick, and should be included in any martial artist's book collection who incorporates kicking into his or her training. This is not a book you just sit down and read cover to cover for enjoyment. It is a resource text to be studied and referred to at various times during your training or teaching. Yes teaching! I think instructors will learn tips on how to teach the reverse crescent kick by reading this manual.
The most valuable sections of this book are the chapters that teach the basics of the reverse crescent kick and then the variations. The variations Kovacich covers include: Turning Reverse Crescent Kick, Spinning Reverse Crescent Kick, Step-Back Turning Reverse Crescent Kick, Switch Turning Reverse Crescent Kick, Hop/Slide Forward Reverse Crescent Kick, Hop/Slide Backward Reverse Crescent Kick, Front Leg Reverse Crescent Kick, Cross-Over Reverse Crescent Kick, Off-Setting Turning Reverse Crescent Kick, Jump Turning Reverse Crescent Kick, and the Switch Turning Reverse Crescent Kick (left leg). The chapters do have some repetition, but this enables the book to be more easily used as a reference tool, since you can pick the book up and review any of the kicks without having to refer back to different chapters. Kovacich uses plentiful photographs and illustrations to demonstrate all aspects of the kick, striking angles, foot placement, and the arc of the kick. As I mentioned, he attacks this with meticulous detail and you will not find a more complete written account of the reverse crescent kick anywhere.
The chapters on strength, speed, and power are the weakest chapters of the book. While it is nice that Kovacich included a bit on these topics, the real strength of this book is with the detailed instruction of the kick itself. There are many other resources out there that cover strength, speed, and power in more detail and depth than Kovaich does here. The good thing is he introduces these concepts and any good martial artist will further his or her study of these to incorporate into their training with different resources.
The trouble shooting guide offers some good tips to better your kicking, and Kovacich also includes a short chapter on reverse crescent kick applications.
If you want in-depth instruction on the reverse crescent kick and ten of its main variations, this book with over 200 pages of text, photographs, and illustrations is a must have addition to your martial art library. It is an excellent resource for any martial artist regardless of style.
Reviewed by Alain Burrese, J.D., author of the DVD set Streetfighting Essentials.

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Total Stretch Review

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(More customer reviews)Great large pictures and explanations. The order arrived quickly in great condition. Great price! Highly recommend!

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Axe Kick (Achieving Kicking Excellence, Vol. 3) Review

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(More customer reviews)The third volume of Shawn Kovacich's Achieving Kicking Excellence series is Axe Kick, and like the first two it is an excellent resource regarding this specific kick. Like other books in this series, Kovacich wrote a text with detailed explanations on the execution and application of the axe kick and its variations. Also like the others in the series, this is the most complete written description with photographs of the axe kick that I know of, and is an excellent addition to any martial artist's library. It will be especially beneficial to those that teach the axe kick and variations in their curriculums.
The author, Shawn Kovacich, set two world records for endurance high kicking that were certified by the Guinness Book of World Records, and has an impressive record in the tournament circuit having competed in tournaments such as the Sabaki Challenge among others. With those credentials, I expect him to provide solid instruction on the execution and application of kicks, and he definitely delivers.
Axe Kick includes brief chapters on basic anatomy, warm up and stretching, strength, speed, and power. Many martial artists, especially instructors, will have more complete references on these topics. However, it is nice to have these brief chapters that have the basics all in one volume, especially for those that do not have a large martial art library. I feel it is important that Kovacich includes these if for nothing more than to introduce the basics and encourage the reader to seek out more instruction on these important elements to kicking. I have said the same thing about the other volumes in the series, but include it here as well to make this review stand on its own.

The reason to include this book in your library is for the instruction on the axe kick. Kovacich starts out with a very good description of the basic principles of movement for the axe kick including target areas. He then delivers an excellent description with pictures of how to perform the out-to-in axe kick. I don't think a person could give a better explanation with pictures in written form than Kovacich does here. The next chapters teach variations of the axe kick including: Back Spin Out-to-In Axe Kick; Spin Back Out-to-In Axe Kick; Off-Setting Out-to-In Axe Kick; Switch Out-to-In Axe Kick; and the Step Back Out-to-In Axe Kick.
After the descriptions of the variations, Kovacich gives detailed instruction with pictures of the In-to-Out Axe Kick. This chapter is followed by the variations: Off-Setting In-to-Out Axe Kick; Cross-Over In-to-Out Axe Kick; Hop/Slide Forward In-to-Out Axe Kick; Hop/Slide Backward In-to-Out Axe Kick; and the Switch In-to-Out Axe Kick.
Kovacich includes training and practice methods, a trouble shooting guide, and axe kick applications in subsequent chapters. This rounded out the book to make it a complete stand alone volume on the axe kick, and by far the best resource out there on this difficult technique.
One of the things I really enjoy in this series of books is the notes. Each chapter has notes and in these you find excellent gems of wisdom. Not only will they help your kicking on the described kick, but are relevant to other kicks too. For instance, in this volume, one of the notes states, "The ability to effectively and efficiently utilize high section kicks depends primarily on the following four factors. A: Your expertise in kicking. B: Your overall flexibility and physical condition. C: Your environment at the time. D: Your opponent." I wrote about similar issues in the kicking chapter I wrote in Fighter's Fact Book 2 with Loren Christensen.

Like Back Kick and Wheel Kick, the first two books in this series, a person could criticize this text regarding the repetitiveness of some of the pictures and descriptions of the wheel kick variations. If you are reading this book straight through cover to cover, yes, the repetitiveness could become boring. If you are using the text as Kovacich intended, as a learning tool, this should not be a factor. I much rather have each kick explained in its entirety, rather than be referred to a different part of the book for the elements that are similar or the same. There is a big difference in a book intended to be read from cover to cover and a book intended as a resource guide. The Achieving Kicking Excellence series are guide books, and the format is perfect for this kind of instruction.
Shawn Kovacich's Axe Kick is the third book of the series and an excellent instructional text for any student or instructor of the kicking arts. Its detailed descriptions and photographs are clear and easy to understand, while his kicking notes provide quality instruction and advice to improve one's training and execution of this important kick. I am definitely looking forward to future volumes in the Achieving Kicking Excellence series.
I highly recommend this book and the entire series!
Alain Burrese, J.D., author of the DVD Hapkido Hoshinsul.

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Hatchet Kick (Achieving Kicking Excellence, Vol. 8) Review

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(More customer reviews)This is Volume Eight of ten books devoted to mastering kicks. Shawn Kovacich devotes this book to the Hatchet Kick. This review examines Shawn's book from a practical stand point--how well does this book enable me to learn the hatchet kick?
I'm 50, 6'3" tall and 220 pounds, but I'm not an athlete--just healthy. I cannot perform the hatchet kick correctly right now, I cannot kick high enough--I'll need to improve my flexibility. It isn't too much of a handicap for self defense--or active military service--but for those of you involved in karate matches, you need the high kicks for the match-winning points.
So, what is a hatchet kick and why would I use it? Shawn writes that the hatchet kick is a hybrid turning wheel kick and an in-to-out axe kick.. The striking surface is the back center of the heel and the head, neck, and shoulders are the targets. Getting inside another's Observe, Orient, Decide and Act loop can win a match for you--or allow you to seize and keep the initiative in a fight. I thought that the hatchet kick would be easy, but I've been humbled! Fortunately, following Shawn's safety procedures on page 11 (take one step at a time) kept me from injuring myself. It's just that unless my opponent's head is lower than my own waist, he's in no danger of my hatchet kick for now!
I have training prejudices: I like to employ mirrors, a video camera or two, a minimum of one sparring partner, and at least one referee when I train. Multiple sparring partners are to keep me from getting stuck kicking at the same height each time, and because in the real world, my problems usually come in bunches. Often, I must train alone or not train at all, so I have to limit my training intensity for safety. A second set of eyes can help spot flaws--and prevent injuries. It is very hard to dial 911 when one's back is thrown out. These kicking techniques can injure the practitioner if done incorrectly. I like both mirrors and video because when I initially practice, I can watch myself in the mirror. For realistic practice, I need to concentrate on technique and the target instead of watching my own reflection--instant video playback aids me in spotting what happened. I can even figure out if my kick was in the right place or not! Shawn wrote about the "crawl, walk, and run" phases of training and the basic and advanced kicking techniques are covered in detail. Exact detail. Train at your own risk. I perform a risk reduction prior to training--assess the risk level and employ risk reduction techniques to make training safe. Remember that training is synthetic reality, intended to be less expensive than gaining real-world experience.
I think that "Achieving Kicking Excellence: Hatchet Kick" is well organized. There are ten chapters. The introduction defines the kick and advises how to use the book. Chapter One is kick anatomy: bones and muscles. Chapter Two recommends warm up and stretching exercises. Chapter Three is Basic Principles: striking surface, target areas, and 11 other key points. Clear graphics left me with little doubt about what part of the foot to apply and where to hit my opponent. Chapter Four covered the primary kick technique. Again, the graphics are very clear. They include "dance step diagrams" showing where the feet go--footwork is critical to effective kicking. The photos have numbered labels stressing correct positioning of each part of the body. Chapter Five is variations of the primary technique. Chapter Six covers training and practice techniques to achieve skill, strength, speed, and power. Chapter Seven is a trouble-shooting guide. Chapter Eight is applications: how to use this in competition or combat. Chapter Nine is Shawn's awards and accomplishments. Chapter Ten previews the next volume in the series. There are a table of contents, a recommended reading list, and an index.
This is an excellent study guide. I can train some now, on my own, and when I find training partners (sparring partners and a referee) I might even get proficient!


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Hatchet Kick is the eighth volume in the extremely well written and fully illustrated, Achieving Kicking Excellence series of martial arts related books. Hatchet Kick, along with the other nine volumes in the Achieving Kicking Excellence series, goes into intricate detail over all aspects of executing the primary kick, which in this case is the Turning Hatchet Kick, and several of its main variations. Starting with a basic anatomical analysis of this kick, you quickly progress to the basic principles associated with the Hatchet Kick, and then you dive right into learning the proper execution of the primary kick, Turning Hatchet Kick. Once you have finished with this section, you are taken to the variations chapter which builds upon the primary kick, Turning Hatchet Kick, by teaching you 10 of its main variations. From here you are taken to the Training and Practice Methods chapter for a look at some very simple, yet effective methods for adding speed and power to your kicks. Your next chapter takes a question and answer approach to some of the most common problems people have executing the Hatchet Kick and the solutions to correct them. The next chapter in this book deals with a very brief and basic application section for the Hatchet Kick and each of the variations previously detailed in this book.NOTE:The combat/self-defense applications of the Hatchet Kick are discussed and demonstrated in much greater detail in the companion book to this book, Hatchet Kick: Achieving Kicking Excellence; Volume 8, which is Hatchet Kick: Applications in Combat: Achieving Kicking Excellence; Volume 18. This book goes into intricate detail over all aspects of applying the primary kick, which in this case is the Hatchet Kick, and several of its main variations, against twelve of the most common attacks that you are most likely to face in an actual unarmed self-defense/combat situation.At the conclusion of this book you are given a sneak preview of the next volume in the Achieving Kicking Excellence series, which in this case is the Roundhouse Kick.

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Low Kicks: Aiming Low For Maximum Punishment In Unarmed Combat Review

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(More customer reviews)Fred Hutchinson's Low Kicks is an excellent manual for training the body's most powerful anatomical weapons -- the legs. The manual's format is similar to John Sanchez's Slash and Thrust and Andrea Ferrara's Corsican Steel. (What these manuals share in common is the presentation of training exercises that are independent of style or system. The obvious result is that any reader can benefit from their information regardless of his/her own background, expertise, or combative preferences.) Low Kicks begins by identifying those kicks that Hutchinson considers most appropriate for self defense from the perspective of the reader who cannot train regularly in a dojo. The kicks he recommends are simple in execution and effective in application. Some kicks are drawn from traditional karate, and a few others come from French savate. At least two kicks Hutchinson uses come from WWII Military Combatives, a "style" of combat that has recently developed a large following in the US and Britain. The book then proceeds to reveal a variety of training methods used for making the kicks even more effective. The methods described are such that the reader can utilize them in his den or basement without relying on elaborate equipment or training devices. What is most unique about Low kicks is not only that the author has diligently selected those kicks that work best under a wide range of circumstances, but that the kicks fit in smoothly with the body dynamics used by diverse martial arts systems from karate and savate to ninjutsu and combatives. We have recently made Lopw Kicks required reading in our training halls, and unreservedly recommend it to anyone interested in practical personal protection.

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Tai Chi Chuan: Body and Mind in Harmony Review

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(More customer reviews)In this first popular explanation in English of T'ai Chi Ch'uan (Wu Style), Sophia Delza, the only Western woman master of the system [circa 1961], discusses its underlying philosophy and describes every step of each movement in picture and lucid text. Of it she says:
T'ai Chi Ch'uan is a system of activating the body for the development of physical, emotional and mental well-being that produces a feeling of satisfaction and a sense of tranquility that Western exercises do not give. This in itself may not sound unusual since many exercises so promise, but what is unique in this case is the technical method, with its form and spirit, which promotes the desirable state.
We in the West are apt to overdo in exercises and sports, believing that a hard, tense movement indicates strength and control and that power comes from the ability to expend strength violently. The technique of T'ai Chi Ch'uan is contrary to such a method. It is in the philosophy of T'ai Chi Ch'uan that energy can be controlled, strength balanced, vitality stabalized by using the body in such a way as not to strain the muscles, not to overactivate the heart, not to exert oneself excessively. The technique of T'ai Chi Ch'uan is based not only on a physical method, but also on an emotional and mental attitude, from which a state of awareness, calmness nd concentration evolves. This consideration of man's total health is intrinsic in the forms and techniques of T'ai Chi Ch'uan.
--- from book's dustjacket

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Wheel Kick (Achieving Kicking Excellence, Vol. 2) Review

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(More customer reviews)When I picked up Wheel Kick by Shawn Kovacich I was already familiar with the first book of his Achieving Kicking Excellence series, Back Kick. I was not expecting a book one would sit and read for pleasure such as a novel or martial art history book. I was expecting a text with detailed explanations on the execution and application of the wheel kick and its variations, and I was not disappointed. Wheel Kick is the most complete written description with photographs of this kick I know of, and is an excellent addition to any martial artist's library. It will be especially beneficial to those that teach the wheel kick and variations in their curriculums.
The author, Shawn Kovacich, set two world records for endurance high kicking that were certified by the Guinness Book of World Records, and has an impressive record in the tournament circuit having competed in tournaments such as the Sabaki Challenge among others. With those credentials, I expect him to provide solid instruction on the execution and application of kicks, and he definitely delivers.
Wheel Kick includes brief chapters on basic anatomy, warm up and stretching, strength, speed, and power. Many martial artists, especially instructors, will have more complete references on these topics. However, it is nice to have these brief chapters that have the basics all in one volume, especially for those that do not have a large martial art library. I feel it is important that Kovacich includes these if for nothing more than to introduce the basics and encourage the reader to seek out more instruction on these important elements to kicking.

Where Wheel Kick shines is the actual kicking chapters. Most books or magazine articles on kicking have minimal descriptions of each kick. Wheel Kick does much more than briefly describe the wheel kick with a couple accompanying photographs. It is a detailed analysis of every movement of the wheel kick from beginning to end. Wheel Kick explains the wheel kick, variations of the wheel kick, training and drills for kicking, and applications of the wheel kick in one comprehensive volume.
Kovacich details every aspect of the primary kick, the turning wheel kick, including stance, turning, trajectory, impact, and follow through. In addition to the numerous detailed photographs of each stage of the kick, Kovacich includes various diagrams to help the reader understand proper foot placement and pivoting, correct trajectory, and targets and impact. He then describes variations including: step-back wheel kick, spinning wheel kick, hop/slide forward wheel kick, hop/slide backward wheel kick, front leg wheel kick, back leg wheel kick, switch wheel kick, off-setting wheel kick, jump turning wheel kick, and the 540-degree jump turning wheel kick.
Like Back Kick, a person could criticize this text regarding the repetitiveness of some of the pictures and descriptions of the wheel kick variations. If you are reading this book straight through cover to cover, yes, the repetitiveness could become boring. If you are using the text as Kovacich intended, as a learning tool, this should not be a factor. I much rather have each kick explained in its entirety, rather than be referred to a different part of the book for the elements that are similar or the same. There is a big difference in a book intended to be read from cover to cover and a book intended as a resource guide. The Achieving Kicking Excellence series are guide books, and the format is perfect for this kind of instruction.
Also like Back Kick, the book concludes with a trouble shooting guide to help pin point problem areas with your wheel kicks, and a chapter on applications. Once you have mastered the wheel kick and its variations, you should be able to apply the kick in a sparring or fighting situation and Kovacich provides some of the basic applications he has used and teaches his students.
Shawn Kovacich's Wheel Kick is the second book of the series and an excellent instructional text for any student or instructor of the kicking arts. Its detailed descriptions and photographs are clear and easy to understand, while his kicking notes provide quality instruction and advice to improve one's training and execution of this important kick. I am definitely looking forward to future volumes in the Achieving Kicking Excellence series.
Reviewed by Alain Burrese, J.D., author of the Lock On Joint Locking Essentials series.


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Wheel Kick is the second volume in the extremely well written and fully illustrated, Achieving Kicking Excellence series of martial arts related books. Wheel Kick, along with the other nine volumes in the Achieving Kicking Excellence series, goes into intricate detail over all aspects of executing the primary kick, which in this case is the Turning Wheel Kick, and several of its main variations. Starting with a basic anatomical analysis of this kick, you quickly progress to the basic principles associated with the Wheel Kick, and then you dive right into learning the proper execution of the primary kick, Turning Wheel Kick. Once you have finished with this section, you are taken to the variations chapter which builds upon the primary kick, Turning Wheel Kick, by teaching you 10 of its main variations. From here you are taken to the Training and Practice Methods chapter for a look at some very simple, yet effective methods for adding speed and power to your kicks. Your next chapter takes a question and answer approach to some of the most common problems people have executing the Wheel Kick and the solutions to correct them. The next chapter in this book deals with a very brief and basic application section for the Wheel Kick and each of the variations previously detailed in this book.NOTE:The combat/self-defense applications of the Wheel Kick are discussed and demonstrated in much greater detail in the companion book to this book, Wheel Kick: Achieving Kicking Excellence; Volume 2, which is Wheel Kick: Applications in Combat: Achieving Kicking Excellence; Volume 12. This book goes into intricate detail over all aspects of applying the primary kick, which in this case is the Wheel Kick, and several of its main variations, against twelve of the most common attacks that you are most likely to face in an actual unarmed self-defense/combat situation.At the conclusion of this book you are given a sneak preview of the next volume in the Achieving Kicking Excellence series, which in this case is the Axe Kick.

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Street Tough, Hard-Core, Anything Goes Street Fighting Fundamentals Review

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(More customer reviews)Phil Giles's "Street Tough" system is a rough-and-tumble system based in part on scientific boxing, sport jujutsu, and MMA. He simply takes these various elements out of the ring and on to the street. The emphasis is on full-contact, live training and realistic drills. He begins with "Fundamental Fighting Concepts", introducing the clinch, the shoot-style takedown, clinching against a wall, weak points of the human anatomy (differentiating between lethal and non-lethal targets), drills for closing the distance vs. punching and kicking, and even a little on pre-emptive striking. The second section is "Street Boxing Concepts", and includes the basic position, how to generate power, and a basic arsenal of tools including both open-hand and fisted techniques, and the headbutt. His explainations of the use of his stance and the medical justification for not excluding the headbutt are worth reading. The third chapter is on "Mobility and Defense". He goes over basic footwork from his stance, and moves on to defensive body movements like the slip, and simple, scientific defensive techniques like the catch and Driscoll parry and Driscoll bridge. He includes examples of their usage and some drills for improving both footwork and defense. Covering almost sixty pages, his chapter on "Ground Fighting" is the longest. He starts off by stating that going to the ground is not desirable most of the time in a streetfight (good advice if I've ever heard it), and then proceeds to discuss the various groundfighting positions. He gives the reader several offensive options for each position, and usually some accompanying drills. He always reminds the reader that "dirty tactics" (biting and gouging) should be utilized whenever possible. He also includes striking for downed opponents, getting back to the feet from the ground, taking down an opponent from the "open guard", and various training drills. My only objection to this section is that, at least in the States, kicking a downed opponent is considered excessive and will most likely result in criminal charges being made. Overall, though, this is a very good book. The only thing that might be missing is basic weapons usage and defense. The techniques are very basic and essential, and the training seems quite practical. They seem very compatible with Jun Fan and BJJ/MMA. I'd recommend it to anyone wanting to learn to fight, either for self-protection or even for sport/MMA.

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In this book, Phil Giles provides full-throttle instruction in how to prevail in a street or bar fight, from the proper combat mind-set to the first stand-up blows to when the fight gets down and dirty on the ground.This is some of the most aggressive self-defense training you are ever likely to receive, including the best ways to close with an opponent to smother his attack, how to slam someone up against a wall and really go to work on him, and vicious ground fighting tactics that will make an opponent instantly realize that he made a very bad mistake when he decided to assault you.A series of intense training drills performed at full power and full speed sets the Street Tough program apart from all other self-defense regimens.

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Dynamic Kicks: Essentials for Free Fighting (Specialties Series) Review

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(More customer reviews)Mr. Lee's book was one of the first martial arts books I ever bought 18 years ago and one that has found a permanent place in my library.
The best part of this book is the "Techniques Basic To All Kicks" section. I thoroughly enjoyed this section and although I did not agree with all of it, I found it to be very beneficial to anyone learning how to kick.
The sequential pictures for the proper execution of each kick presented were very well done and for the most part quite accurate. I did feel that the picture angle used on some of the kicks could have been done better in order to allow for a better view of each kick.
This book also lacked an application section which would have enhanced the book even more by showing you how each of the kicks was to be applied to an opponent.
This book spends too much time on quantity of kicks, and too little time on the quality of each individual kick. Which seems to be the norm for books dealing with this subject. Thirty-one kicks are explained in this book and the average explanation of each kick is two pages in length, which consists of anywhere from 8 to 14 pictures, and what amounts to 2 to 5 paragraphs of written text on how to perform each kick.
Although the text sections are too short, they are still a lot better than some of the others that I have seen in other kicking books.

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This book is the first in a series of books by Chong Lee, the 1974 Long Beach Grand National forms champion. Lee's proven method of developing perfect kicking techniques is illustrated. It contains 30 separate kicking variations.

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