Knife Fighting Techniques

Description

Hojo undo means 'supplemental training equipment' for traditional martial artists. This book comprehensively details how to construct and use the most popular martial arts training tools of Okinawa. The value of hojo undo is that the strength building exercises are linked to the motion of the fighting techniques of karate; this is the kind of information many practitioners need to have in order to make sense of where karate's devastating power comes from. This book details how to construct and use many training tools, provides accurate mechanical drawings, comprehensive training methods, and an historical context to understand why Hojo Undo was created in 'old' Okinawa.

Features

• ISBN13: 9781594391361
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Reviews

A Long Overlooked Element of Okinawan Karate

by Demitri Pevzner from depends on time of year on 2010-08-02
Upon it's introduction to mainland Japan, the art of Karate lost a significant element of it's rigorous conditioning in favor of a more ritualized and sports-oriented format, referred to in the book as "sportification." Ironically, while this helped popularize the art among the mainstream public by removing the strenuous, time consuming, and often times hazardous regimen, it also diminished considerably a vast portion of the art's effectiveness. In this book, author Michael Clarke brings back to mainstream public awareness the long neglected elements of Okinawan Karate.From the get-go, it is clear that a lot of research went into the writing. A number of established figures from various Okinawan Karate organizations lend their credence to this book in preface and interviews. The reader will get a brief section of history and better understanding of Karate's geographic background, as well as a glimpse into the mindsets of Karateka of the past and present, in addition to the various training methodologies of the art before it came to Japan.The book is divided into several sections. Following the history portion, the author lists junbi undo, or various warm-ups and stretches handed down by Chojin Miyagi to his students. Next are the lifting tools and impact tools, followed by directions on how to manufacture them using simple and widely available materials, and exercises which implement them. The next section deals with 2 person conditioning drills, and auxiliary exercise. The final section features interviews with the current high ranking Okinawan Karate masters, giving further insight into the emphasis placed on hojo undo training.Overall, this book gives the reader a lot of material to work with, providing a means to effective exercises, drills, and conditioning, which will undoubtedly result in vast improvement of one's skill. In my opinion, the material goes a long way in supplementing modern Karate training methodologies to form a far more effective training regimen.

Not for those looking for a great read but TRULY inspiring for all Karateka

by Andrew O. Brien from UK on 2010-05-28
Michael Clarke is clearly one of the most dedicated and passionate western martial artists on the planet. As the fantastic photographs in his book show, he has followed his art all over the world, including time on Okinawa which I'm extremely envious of by the way; and he has trained with some of the most experienced and revered Japanese, Okinawan and western instructors alive (some now sadly deceased) today. It also becomes evident throughout the book that Mr Clarke has far more knowledge of Hojo Undo than some of our leading Japanese Karate Sensei, particularly those of the Shuri te styles, Kanazawa in point of fact.Is it that, as times have moved on and training has progressed and become far more scientific, the need for such tough, painful and potentially damaging training has been deemed outdated and uneccessary? After all, we as karateka are not expected to defend ourselves or our King from armed Samurai, as were the great masters of old. Or is it that, since Karate's migration to Japan, it's dissemination throughout the world and the growth of the sporting aspect of the art, the aesthetic importance of Karate has now completely saturated and dissolved the true nature and needs of the art? The sweet sugar being lost by the bitterness of the coffee, so to speak.The answer to both the former and the latter is YES in varying degrees. Lets leave the sport karate question out of equation, as its my opinion that it has no semblance of the traditional art attached to it anymore, and lets concentrate on the need for Kojo Undo conditioning.Let's face it, the need for traditional Hojo Undo training probably isn't necessary today as there are many modern and some would argue, better training methods and equipment at our disposal these days. But as a karateka reading this book, looking at the amazing photographs of great men like Funakoshi, Chojin Miyagi and Chotoku Kyan using or surrounded by their crudely constructed equipment; seeing their steely looks of determination and invincibility in their eyes, I became acutely aware that these exercises were far more than a hard physical means of honing a rock hard body and fearsome striking power. The art of Hojo Undo also toughens the resolve, focuses the mind and sharpens the real essence of karate - the ZANSHIN.OK, it's not rocket science and there are no revolutionary ideas in this book but that's not the point. It gives a real insight into a particular aspect of the history of karate and what's more, if you fancy giving it a go, there are simple to follow instructions on how to construct all the varrious types of equipment both lifting and striking. So guess what I'll be doing for the next few months.Hojo Undo is not for those looking for a great read and I actually skipped chunks of it. However it's content transports you back to a time and a place that all karateka should hold dear to there hearts, the photos alone were truly inspiring. Oh! Be sure to read the endnotes.

Hojo Undo

by The Professor from on 2010-05-23
This is an amazing work of literature, the secrets of the old Karate masters is embedded in this book. You will learn to build your strength, condition yourself, and learn techniques to build power. This book will also teach you how to build training equipment to achieve all this. This is an absolute must buy! Thanks YMAA for releasing this book.

worth reading

by ATI letdown from New York, New York on 2010-04-24
This is a very informative book. Lots of clear pictures and routines. Shows how to make the simple tools for working out. Interesting...

chop wood, carry water / sweep floors, carry groceries

by Tjyh from Boston MA on 2010-04-21
This book is a good review of the type of extra training tools that student and masters used to use and some still do. The book is particularly effective at discussing how the basic training can be used to gain greater power in your movement, and is recommended reading for those interested in a glimpse in the past to see how students trained in a more complete manner.However, when you consider the agricultural underpinnings of the genesis of the martial arts, it is not surprising that practitioners were using items at their disposal in which to train. That small stone grinding wheels are used in a manner to gain strength is no different than modern day farm kids throwing bales of hay to develop strength. Thus it is with some surprise that the author finds it necessary to validate the presence of these objects. Many of the photograph captions seem to convey the message that the author is working hard to convince the reader that these object do in fact exist.What follows is perhaps the only flaw of a useful book in that directions are given for how to go create replica tools that can be used to train. Why go through the bother of pouring cement and setting poles into it, when an easily purchased dumbbell provides the same opportunity. What about modern Hojo undo? If you sweep floors, put a 5 lb weight on the end of the broom (yes, use a broom!). If you are putting groceries away, grab a soup can or 2-l soda bottle from the top with only your fingers, and do a few lifts.The Author is intent on recreating a past system that was developed during a specific time using readily available materials. It is obvious that our training is now different, and because of this, the tools we develop will similarly be different. We can look to the past for lessons, but should not be stuck in thinking that is the only way to do things. Few of us still chop wood and carry water, but we can sweep floors and carry groceries.

Description

The Kids’ Karate Workbook is an engaging workbook meant to be used at home by young people who want to supplement their regular Karate or Taekwondo training. Drawing on the author’s more than 20 years of experience teaching martial arts to children, the book offers a step-by-step curriculum that traces a typical journey from first-day beginner to intermediate-level student.Along the way, kids learn about uniforms and etiquette; practice the most frequently used strikes, kicks, blocks, and forms; and unlock the basics of martial arts physics. The curriculum is highly interactive, inviting readers to answer questions and solve puzzles. It also highlights common mistakes to avoid, answers frequently asked questions, and points the way to a deeper understanding of martial arts. The easy-to-follow text is accompanied by 150 illustrations depicting the author’s own students—real kids who are also serious martial artists. While written for youngsters, the book is equally useful for parents who want to assist in practicing at home, as well as instructors who teach children.

Reviews

A Modern Textbook for Martial Arts

by Ayman Fawaz from on 2010-03-07
The interactive style of Sensei Didi Goodman's reference book helps engage and challenge young readers who are taking martial art classes. It is a comprehensive book with a complete set of illustrations, designed as a modern text book which can be used to learn and to have fun at the same time. As an adult martial art student, I enjoyed reading it as it helped seal certain terminologies and concepts in my mind. A must have companion for young martial art enthusiasts who want to advance in their disciplines.

Supplement your martial arts training!

by N.L. Peluso from Berkeley, CA United States on 2010-02-08
This book is an excellent supplement to martial arts training. The easy-to-read text by Sensei Didi Goodman will be useful to students as well as parents. Linda Nikaya's illustrations will remind and reinforce what students have learned in class and in this book about stances, arm positions, and self-defense techniques. All the basics needed for training at home with and without training partners are covered. The emphasis is on self-defense skills and good form with the addition of some basic martial arts' philosophy as it applies to kids' lives today. These tools provide the building blocks of self confidence that come from practicing contemporary martial arts. The book will help kids get better at their arts--and have a lot of fun practicing too!

Fun at-home guide for all levels!

by John Brooks-Jung from on 2009-11-01
This workbook is a great resource for kids who are just starting martial arts and for those who have practiced for years. It is filled with wonderful illustrations, clear explanations, and fun activities. As an instructor in children's martial arts classes, I know that the mistakes that students make appear again and again - this book does a great job of clearly highlighting these challenges in a way that kids understand so that they can practice effectively and safely. This book is just what students need to have fun, learn, and grow while they practice at home. I highly recommend this book as a supplement to in-class instruction - it's an extremely valuable resource that is both fun and accessible for beginning students!-Lara B-B

A Great Primer to the Martial Arts . . . and a little homework too.

by Jill A. Martinucci from on 2009-10-25
This is a great primer for the young martial artist, complete with clear illustrations and explanations of techniques, etiquette, and some history. Though written for children to read, I like that the questions and activities give an opportunity for parents to be activity engaged, making them partners in their children's training. And homework is good if it expands the student's consciousness, a complement to regular classes.I have taught martial arts to adults for ten years, and I plan to recommend this easy-to-read guide to my beginning students as an excellent resource.

Great for kids and adults!

by D. J. Flagler from Miami on 2009-10-24
I am the head instructor of a martial arts school in S. Florida and I have an earlier version of the book. I liked it so much I purchased one for each instructor in the dojo so they can review the tips and teaching techniques to improve their own lessons. While the title says it is a kids book, I find it valuable for adult students as well.

Description

Karate Training Guide: Sparring Skills: Centering is a concise introduction to the techniques, tactics, and training methods of centering the mind and body to increase free sparring skills.Various exercises to develop centering skills are included.This product is manufactured on demand using DVD-R recordable media. Amazon.com's standard return policy will apply.

Description

Hojo undo means 'supplemental training equipment' for traditional martial artists. This book comprehensively details how to construct and use the most popular martial arts training tools of Okinawa. The value of hojo undo is that the strength building exercises are linked to the motion of the fighting techniques of karate; this is the kind of information many practitioners need to have in order to make sense of where karate's devastating power comes from.

Reviews

A Long Overlooked Element of Okinawan Karate

by Demitri Pevzner from depends on time of year on 2010-08-02
Upon it's introduction to mainland Japan, the art of Karate lost a significant element of it's rigorous conditioning in favor of a more ritualized and sports-oriented format, referred to in the book as "sportification." Ironically, while this helped popularize the art among the mainstream public by removing the strenuous, time consuming, and often times hazardous regimen, it also diminished considerably a vast portion of the art's effectiveness. In this book, author Michael Clarke brings back to mainstream public awareness the long neglected elements of Okinawan Karate.From the get-go, it is clear that a lot of research went into the writing. A number of established figures from various Okinawan Karate organizations lend their credence to this book in preface and interviews. The reader will get a brief section of history and better understanding of Karate's geographic background, as well as a glimpse into the mindsets of Karateka of the past and present, in addition to the various training methodologies of the art before it came to Japan.The book is divided into several sections. Following the history portion, the author lists junbi undo, or various warm-ups and stretches handed down by Chojin Miyagi to his students. Next are the lifting tools and impact tools, followed by directions on how to manufacture them using simple and widely available materials, and exercises which implement them. The next section deals with 2 person conditioning drills, and auxiliary exercise. The final section features interviews with the current high ranking Okinawan Karate masters, giving further insight into the emphasis placed on hojo undo training.Overall, this book gives the reader a lot of material to work with, providing a means to effective exercises, drills, and conditioning, which will undoubtedly result in vast improvement of one's skill. In my opinion, the material goes a long way in supplementing modern Karate training methodologies to form a far more effective training regimen.

Not for those looking for a great read but TRULY inspiring for all Karateka

by Andrew O. Brien from UK on 2010-05-28
Michael Clarke is clearly one of the most dedicated and passionate western martial artists on the planet. As the fantastic photographs in his book show, he has followed his art all over the world, including time on Okinawa which I'm extremely envious of by the way; and he has trained with some of the most experienced and revered Japanese, Okinawan and western instructors alive (some now sadly deceased) today. It also becomes evident throughout the book that Mr Clarke has far more knowledge of Hojo Undo than some of our leading Japanese Karate Sensei, particularly those of the Shuri te styles, Kanazawa in point of fact.Is it that, as times have moved on and training has progressed and become far more scientific, the need for such tough, painful and potentially damaging training has been deemed outdated and uneccessary? After all, we as karateka are not expected to defend ourselves or our King from armed Samurai, as were the great masters of old. Or is it that, since Karate's migration to Japan, it's dissemination throughout the world and the growth of the sporting aspect of the art, the aesthetic importance of Karate has now completely saturated and dissolved the true nature and needs of the art? The sweet sugar being lost by the bitterness of the coffee, so to speak.The answer to both the former and the latter is YES in varying degrees. Lets leave the sport karate question out of equation, as its my opinion that it has no semblance of the traditional art attached to it anymore, and lets concentrate on the need for Kojo Undo conditioning.Let's face it, the need for traditional Hojo Undo training probably isn't necessary today as there are many modern and some would argue, better training methods and equipment at our disposal these days. But as a karateka reading this book, looking at the amazing photographs of great men like Funakoshi, Chojin Miyagi and Chotoku Kyan using or surrounded by their crudely constructed equipment; seeing their steely looks of determination and invincibility in their eyes, I became acutely aware that these exercises were far more than a hard physical means of honing a rock hard body and fearsome striking power. The art of Hojo Undo also toughens the resolve, focuses the mind and sharpens the real essence of karate - the ZANSHIN.OK, it's not rocket science and there are no revolutionary ideas in this book but that's not the point. It gives a real insight into a particular aspect of the history of karate and what's more, if you fancy giving it a go, there are simple to follow instructions on how to construct all the varrious types of equipment both lifting and striking. So guess what I'll be doing for the next few months.Hojo Undo is not for those looking for a great read and I actually skipped chunks of it. However it's content transports you back to a time and a place that all karateka should hold dear to there hearts, the photos alone were truly inspiring. Oh! Be sure to read the endnotes.

Hojo Undo

by The Professor from on 2010-05-23
This is an amazing work of literature, the secrets of the old Karate masters is embedded in this book. You will learn to build your strength, condition yourself, and learn techniques to build power. This book will also teach you how to build training equipment to achieve all this. This is an absolute must buy! Thanks YMAA for releasing this book.

worth reading

by ATI letdown from New York, New York on 2010-04-24
This is a very informative book. Lots of clear pictures and routines. Shows how to make the simple tools for working out. Interesting...

chop wood, carry water / sweep floors, carry groceries

by Tjyh from Boston MA on 2010-04-21
This book is a good review of the type of extra training tools that student and masters used to use and some still do. The book is particularly effective at discussing how the basic training can be used to gain greater power in your movement, and is recommended reading for those interested in a glimpse in the past to see how students trained in a more complete manner.However, when you consider the agricultural underpinnings of the genesis of the martial arts, it is not surprising that practitioners were using items at their disposal in which to train. That small stone grinding wheels are used in a manner to gain strength is no different than modern day farm kids throwing bales of hay to develop strength. Thus it is with some surprise that the author finds it necessary to validate the presence of these objects. Many of the photograph captions seem to convey the message that the author is working hard to convince the reader that these object do in fact exist.What follows is perhaps the only flaw of a useful book in that directions are given for how to go create replica tools that can be used to train. Why go through the bother of pouring cement and setting poles into it, when an easily purchased dumbbell provides the same opportunity. What about modern Hojo undo? If you sweep floors, put a 5 lb weight on the end of the broom (yes, use a broom!). If you are putting groceries away, grab a soup can or 2-l soda bottle from the top with only your fingers, and do a few lifts.The Author is intent on recreating a past system that was developed during a specific time using readily available materials. It is obvious that our training is now different, and because of this, the tools we develop will similarly be different. We can look to the past for lessons, but should not be stuck in thinking that is the only way to do things. Few of us still chop wood and carry water, but we can sweep floors and carry groceries.

Description

Marchini, Black Belt Hall of Fame member and top tournament competitor, demonstrates this weight-training regimen with partner and kung fu expert Leo Fong. Included are weight routines, iron hand exercises, kicking and non-weight resistant exercises. These drills supplement regular martial arts workouts for developing explosive power. Fully illustrated.

Reviews

Excellent workout routines for anyone in the martial arts.

by Joseph J. Truncale from Chicago, Il on 2009-06-29
Even though this book first came out in 1974; nevertheless, the information it contains is timeless. I have personally used many of the routines and found them excellent programs that helped me become better at karate and jujitsu. The sections include tips for using this book, which gives general training tips. The next section is a glossary of weight lifting exercises. Weight training routines are in the next section, followed by various hand exercises. Section five is my favorite because it shows various practical applications of karate and kung-fu. Section six shows various stretching exercises and a few body weight exercises. In conclusion, this book is for anyone who desires to learn how to combine weight training exercises along with your martial arts training. Rating: 4 stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: The Monadnock Defensive Tactics System, Season of the Warrior, Samurai Aerobics, PR-24 Baton Advanced Techniques)

Your Grandfather's Manual

by Kien Ming Yow from Malaysia on 2004-10-11
This book is amply illustrated and clear on instructions to begin. However, a modern workout maniac would probably want a little scientific or physiological explaination of what the routines does for you and how it really benefits your targeted workout. You could probably see results from your workout soon but you will never know if your doctor will advise againts some of these routines. Going amatuer? This book might do.

Great book!

by Ken Wilkinson from Kawasaki, Japan on 2000-11-18
This is one of the best common-sense books available. No mumbo-jumbo, no mystical nonsense. Instead it offers sensible and practical basic bodybuilding exercises. From a purely bodybuilding perspective however, its easy to find fault, but considering that most martial artists are more concerned with catching flies between chopstix than benchpressing, the text is suitably pitched.

On Tough Woirk-out

by from on 2000-04-01
This is the best workout book I have ever read or used. Performing the exercises in this book brought me tremendous results in a very short time. The book outlines programs for the beginner and the pro. I highly recommend the use of this book for the serious body builder.

Description

A foam padded target comes with a nylon wrist strap so this won't get away while training. Unique clapping sound from double end is made when struck because of the two sections coming together.

Features

• Color: Black/Red
• Martial Arts Punching Targets
• Karate Training Paddles
• Karate Pads and Targets
• Adidas Double Hand Paddle

Description

These brand new videos by renowned karate instructor and historian Harry Cook are packed with information you will find nowhere else. Harry is best known as the author of Shotokan Karate: A Precise History, widely regarded as the most important book of its type ever published, and the knowledge gained from the three decades of research and training that produced this volume, is also very evident in these professionally produced training videos. In these fascinating programs the author shows how karate was transformed from an effective martial art to little more than a gymnastic performance in less than a lifetime, and demonstrates the robust pre-war karate of the original Shotokan training hall in Tokyo’s Toshima-ku district first opened by Gichin Funakoshi in 1939.

Description

Program your subconscious mind to learn Karate. Develop the mental and physical skills for peak Karate training. Create amazing results to enhance your martial arts training using state-of-the-art subliminal and brainwave entrainment technologies. Tune your brainwaves to specific frequencies by listening to this CD! Program your subconscious mind for positive lasting results, created by a Certified Hypnotherapist and NLP Practitioner (Neuro-Linguistic Programming). Silent affirmations, inaudible hypnotic suggestions and thousands of powerful subliminal messages program your subconscious mind for positive results. The first 3 tracks have an ocean background. The Silent Ultrasonic Track 4 is completely silent with no sound at all! BMV exclusive Quantum Subliminal Matrix Technology sets a new standard for the subliminal industry! BMV has merged existing subliminal neurotechnology with many new exclusive techniques to create the most powerful CDs on the market. This CD contains the following audio neurotechnologies to maximize your results: Ultra-Silent Ultrasonic Subliminal Frequency Modulation Technology- All subliminal messages are modulated to ultrasonic ranges (higher frequencies) for full meta-programming with no audible sounds at all on Track 4! You can use these powerful silent subliminals in any setting! Program yourself anywhere, anytime! Multi-channel Subliminal Replication Technology-100 times more subliminal messages makes it 100 times more powerful than other subliminal tapes or CDs. Autonomic Audio Pacing Technology-Relaxed heartbeat and breathing patterns cause physiological responses that trigger deep progressive relaxation to maximize your results. Brainwave Entrainment Technology- Embedded binaural beat frequencies and monaural tones create hemispheric synchronization while tuning your brainwaves to specific frequencies that are most effective for subliminal programming. Monaural entrainment tones- No need for headphones!