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So many books have been written about the meditation side of Zen and the everyday, chop wood/carry water side of Zen. But few books have approached Zen the way that most Japanese actually do--through ritualized arts of discipline and beauty--and perhaps that is why Eugen Herrigel's Zen in the Art of Archery is still popular so long after it first publication in 1953. Herrigel, a philosophy professor, spent six years studying archery and flower-arranging in Japan, practicing every day, and struggling with foreign notions such as "eyes that hear and ears that see." In a short, pithy narrative, he brings the heart of Zen to perfect clarity--intuition, imitation, practice, practice, practice, then, boom, wondrous spontaneity fusing self and art, mind, body, and spirit. Herrigel writes with an attention to subtle profundity and relates it with a simple artistry that itself carries the signature of Zen.--Brian BruyaBook Description
This intriguing, influential work of literature-an outstanding way to experience Zen-is now available on cdIt is almost impossible to understand Zen by studying it as you would other intellectual pursuits. The best way to understand Zen is, simply, to Zen. This is what author Eugen Herrigel allows us to do by sharing his own fascinating journey toward a comprehension of this illuminating philosophy. In Japan, an art such as archery is not practiced solely for utilitarian purposes such as learning to hit targets. Archery is also meant to train the mind and bring it into contact with the ultimate reality. If one really wishes to be master of an art, technical knowledge of it is not enough. One has to transcend technique so that the art becomes an 'artless art' growing out of the Unconsciousness. In this way, as the author simply, clearly demonstrates, archery becomes a path to greater understanding and enlightenment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (61)

This is not a book on kyudo.
This is not a book on kyudo.As Earl Hartman says in another review, Herrigel did have little contact with kyudo in Japan (3-4 years).This book could be about many interesting things (zen, misticism, ...), but I don't know of them.But it's not a book on Kyudo.It seems more a book on Herrigel himself.
I don't says this is the worst book someone can read if is interested on kyudo.Last years saw apearing one or two terrible book's with kyudo in title.
Should be read with precaution and specially doesn't substitute pratice and guidance from a teacher or a master. Many persons come to kyudo allready knowing this book but after a few sessions they give up. and many of them continue to claim that they know about kyudo only by reading this book.

Zen in practice
For me this book is first and foremost about Zen. Students of Japanese archery can come to it to take their craft to another level but for me the archery is just a mantle for the teachings to sit on. I've been studying Zen for ten years or so, and have read many great works on the subject. This book was a gentle reminder, ushering me back onto the path. It's wisdom can be applied to almost anything. For a more in depth look at some of the discussions in this book, see Suzuki's Zen and Japanese Culture.

One reviewer, with whom I disagree,says that this book is not a valid source of Zen because the master archer in the book had never "studied" Zen. I think he came in touch with the Zen Mind through his art. The Sixth Patriarch Hui Neng had never "studied" Zen either and came by his enlightenment through living life and carrying fire wood. "Studying" Zen, in terms of following the rituals of an institution, can be formative but is not necessary. Zenmind existed long before the Zen religion.

So whether you're studying Japanese Archery or looking to deepen your awareness of your own art (I study painting, music and Tai Chi), this book can help if you're ready for it.

wonderful insight...
there's an old adage in the acting world..'don't give a performance, let the performance give you'..so what does that have to do with this book? well, I read this wonderful book a few years back when I was studying acting in NYC and I really worked hard at incorporating some Zen technique into my acting process..it wasn't easy..but I stuck with it and I feel as if I reached a different level consciousness and ability with my craft. This book is a wonderful teacher for the ways of Zen and incorporating those lessons into real life events not just archery.

A classic
This book had a real influence on my early spiritual development. I read it when I was a teenager; the impression I was left with was one of discipline, self-mastery, and the difficulty of the art of archery. I loved the author's earnestness and sincerity. For some time, I shot my own bow with what I took to be the spirit of the Zen approach. I wished I could travel to Japan and learn from a master.

From where I sit now, I'd have to acknowledge that this book is more a description or a memoir, rather than an actual guide. That is, for one determined to walk the spiritual path, this book will be more an inspiration than a manual. For some, that may lead to frustration.

"Zen"
A relaxing read, but not always easy to follow.It is very similar to the process of understanding what Zen is. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

A MUST TO ALLARCHERS
I AM ABOUT HALFWAY THROUGH THE BOOK AND I AM TOTALLY AMAZED AT ON HOW WRONG I HAVE BEEN TAUGHT IN THE PAST ABOUT FORM, SIGHT PICTURE, POINT WEIGHT,. BERNIE EXPLAINES IT ALL SO ALL CAN UNDERSTAND. IT WAS HARD TO FIND THE TIME TO READ THE BOOK BUT ONCE I STARTED IT IS HARD TO PUT IT DOWN.I HAVE WATCHED SO CALLED EXPERTS SHOW AND DEMENSTRATE POOR FORM, WRONG DRAW WIEGHT, SELL WRONG EQUIPEMENT. I NOW HOLD MY BOW LIKE IT IS SECOND NATURE AND IT MAKES THE SPORT SO MUCH MORE ENJOYABLE. I HAVE HAD A NEW BOW FOR 3 MONTHS AND VOWED NOTTO FIRE IT UNTIL I HAVE READ HIS BOOK.GET THE BOOK THEN BUY YOUR EQUIPMENT. OTHER WISE IT IS LIKE GETTING THE CART BEFORE THE HORSE. GREAT JOB BERNIE, KEEP UP THE FIGHT TO TEACH ARCHERY THE RIGHT WAY

Not idiotic archery
Idiot Proof Archery is easy to read and focuses on the primary problem of mentally separating sight picture (aiming) and trigger pull (release). I enjoyed the 44 case studies with pictures that showed the most common problems with technique which allows self analysis. I have recommended it to other archers at our club and I consider it a reference book for my library.

Definitive and enjoyable
I had reached a plateau. I had made steady improvement with daily practice, then could not seem to improve any further. When this book arrived, I stopped shooting and read it through. Bernie was very convincing about not only what to do, but why to do it his way. It is also entertaining to read. Just one of his tips made an immediate improvement. Following his plan, I have a blueprint about how to make steady improvement. Some readers have criticized this book claiming that Bernie is just trying to sell his products. I didn't find that at all. He offers his products, and explains how they work, but does not insist that you "must" have them. In fact he criticizes the archery industry for pushing products rather than coaching good tecnique.
I will not let this book go. I have already referred back to it numerous times to hone my skills.This book does not make archery easy, but it does give you a plan and hope for becoming better - with a lot of work. I recommend this book to archers of all experience.

Helpful for hunting too
Although I'm not a tournament or 3D shooter, this book gave me what I needed to be a better hunter.

the best compound archery book out there!
I've struggled with my shooting for quite some time, and was about to give up. Then I bought this book, and in just 7 chapters, and 4days, my grouping was 50% better, and I have consistent hits.
This is the easiest understandable book on archery I've read.
I recommend it with all my heart.
Now I just wish Bernie would take his archery school on tour to europe:-) ... Read more

Book Description
Head to the range with the skills to hit the bull's-eye. Archery Fundamentals will have you shooting on target in no time.

Instruction in all the essentials--from stringing the bow through the anchor to learning aim, grip, and release--will put your technique right on the mark. Sequential instructions and accompanying photographs will guide your execution through every phase of the shot.

In addition, you'll find inside tips for choosing and maintaining equipment as well as using accessories to improve your accuracy with both recurve and compound bows. You'll also discover how to use arrow patterns to correct errors. And, if you want to compete, you'll appreciate the recommendations for entering and participating in archery tournaments.

Archery Fundamentals is a better, faster way to learn the basics. With this book, you'll have as much fun learning the art of shooting as you'll have hitting your mark consistently. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

ArcheryFundamentals
Good basic bookexplaining the essentials in stance, bow handeling and marksmanship +, helped this beginner a lot and i would reccomend it for anyone who has , or is learning the sport on their own.

Archery Fundamentals (Sports Fundamentals Series)
I learned the basics of archery.It was very helpful in setting up a program. ... Read more

Book Description
Traditional bowhunters must be close to their quarry before they take a shot, and that nearness is what makes the hunt so thrilling and personally rewarding. That excitement and respect for natural resources and the hunting tradition infuses this unique guide. A chapter on the whitetail deer population and increases in urban and suburban areas deals with this recent phenomenon and tells how traditional bowhunters can help solve the problem. The follow-up to Beginner's Guide to Traditional Archery (0811731332) includes recipes for venison and a list of traditional archery suppliers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

introducing my son to archery
This book is an easy read, about three hours from front to cover in a single sitting. The descriptions are easy to understand and appropriately simple; it makes sense at the reading, and even more sense at the range. I purchased this book in preparation to introducing my son to traditional archery while on Vacation in Montana. We were fortunate enough to not only find an extremely helpful archery store, but one of their customers agreed to coach my son for about an hour on the range. Everything he shared with my son was in the book. When we left the store Zane Smith recommended next training steps, again in this book.

This is not an advanced concepts book, though the bow tuning of arrows seems advanced to me, but hey I'm a rookie, right? In a few weeks time my son should be in position to start working on the accuracy exercises in this text, and I am very much looking forward to see how they improve his accuracy as at 10yrds his arrows are already nicely bunched, just not in the center of the target.

I would highly recommend this as an introductory text to traditional bow hunting for anyone interested in taking up this fun and challenging sport. This book has already kept a supportive father from spoiling his son's experience.

Long Bows & Recurves
In 1943 when I bought my first bow, I had a teacher that taught me basics.I moved from a yew long bow to recurves in the late 1950's and then archery went to compound bows, and to my taste, archery lost at least some of its tradition.My 52 year old son decided he wanted to learn again.I gave hime this book and a bow.For beginners it is a good place to start.

Useful and Well Written
This book provides some very useful information that will help you get started in traditional archery the right way, while avoiding common mistakes that could end an excellent pastime prematurely.
Mr. Thomas' writing style is very easy to read and comprehend.He is quite skillful at making the various issues addressed in this book understandable.
I would recommend this book to anyone getting into or thinking of getting into traditional archery.

Concise and usable
This book packs essential information into a small, readable package. I agree with L Day's review, but don't understand why Day only gave it two stars!

Just what I wanted...
I'm a new person to archery and this book was just perfect. It had photo's and detailed everything I need to learn as well as what I needed to purchase. I would recommend it to anyone who's just starting out. Very good and easy to read! ... Read more

Book Description
Master all of the archery skills essential to shooting straight and true. Archery: Steps to Success provides in-depth, progressive instruction with accompanying illustrations for each phase of the shot—sighting and aiming, shooting form, and anchoring—for all forms of archery.

Build a solid skill base; learn the details of choosing, fitting, and tuning equipment; and then refine your technique and sharpen your mental skills. By practicing the 91 drills and using the scoring systems to gauge your progress, you'll develop consistent technique and shot patterns in no time.

Whatever the target, this manual will help you hit the mark. As part of the popular Steps to Success Sports Series (more than 1 million copies sold!), Archery: Steps to Success hits the bull's-eye when it comes to expert instruction on the sport. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

How to learn archery
This book is excellent and it has great teachings about archery. The author of the book dominates the subject very well. This book is indicated for the lovers of the sport and beginners as well.
All the Best.
Francis -Brasil

There are much better books available
This book is geared for beginners, but is really lacking.Line drawings are no substitute for decent pictures.Many of the explanations are so basic that they don't really give you any information at all. There is nothing in this book that can't be found somewhere else, such as the internet for free. I believe that anyone starting in archery would be much happier with some of the other books available.

A beginers requisite
Archery Steps to Success
by Kathleen M. Haywood & Catherine F. Lewis
If you target shoot, then you do need this book to improve. It is "The Dummies Guide to better archery". All clubs should have a copy for all bow types; it is simply a training book, which takes you step by step through what are painfully obvious tuning and practice sessions. This is your own personal tutor book, which is full of hints and explanations on style and equipment.

Not Impressed
I agree with another post that this book is primarily written for a summer camp counselor who is in charge of the archery course!I was probably dissapointed because I read this after reading the revised edition of Dr. Kidwell's book Instinctive Archery Insights.That book enlightened me, and helped my shooting, in ways I could never have imagined!This book, Archery: Steps to Success is pretty basic.If that is what you are looking for I guess it's OK.

A Great book for someone looking into archery.
If you are interested in archery this is a great book for overall information.You will learn about the history and equipment.It walks you thru all the basics with a check list. You will learn step by step on howto shoot a bow right and what not to do. If you can not be personallyintructed get this book. ... Read more

Book Description
Written by top coaches and competitors, this instructive resource covers all archery disciplines, including recurve, compound, and barebow archery. Whether you're a target archer, field archer, or bow hunter, you'll find in-depth instruction to perfect your stance, body alignment, muscle use, and shot sequence. You'll find cutting-edge advice on

·selecting and maintain equipment, with detailedadvice on bow tuning and setup, arrow tuning, and testing new equipment;
·employing mental preparation, focus, and relaxation techniques to improve your consistency and accuracy;
·adjusting your technique for various weather and terrain conditions; and
·using fitness training to condition your body in ways that will directly enhance your archery performance and skills.

Go beyond the basics of shooting and develop pinpoint accuracy. Precision Archery will put you on target to perform your best. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Maybe not the best read for a beginner
Highly detailed in every description ... too much for my beginner status.I seemed to overthink everything and couldn't group my shots as well as before. I will pull it out again after I have more practice under my quiver. This is, however, a great book to tweak your technique in areas you might not have even given any thought. The section on keeping your bow in tune is very useful.

Advice you can take tothe bank
I found this book excellent and one of the few target archer resources that provides pointed guidance that you can "take to the bank".Steve Ruis even answered some tuning questions directly.This book also has pieces from other archers that are poignant and enjoyable reading. I took the Larry Wise Core Archery class and found the section in this book written by Larry to be an excellent review of class material.Learning to shoot using Back Tension is not an overnight endeavor, however this book can get you there sooner than a trial-and-error effort.

Book Review: Precision Archery
Book Review: Precision Archery
202 Pages, Edited and Written by
Steve Ruis and Claudia Stevenson
Retail Price $19.95 (US dollars)

Precision Archery is a new book brought to you by the folks who publish this magazine. The book is a collection of articles written by some of the foremost experts in archery today: Rick McKinney, Don Rabska, Larry Wise, M.J. Rogers, and several others. It is geared toward recurve and compound target archers who wish to raise their shooting abilities and increase their general archery knowledge. You will find chapters dealing with shot execution, physical conditioning, and advanced form for recurve and compound archery, as well as an inspirational chapter entitled "Embracing the Spirit of Archery."

When I first saw the cover an immediate alarm bell rang. It appeared to be yet one more book that was trying to be "everything to everybody." The phrases "target shooting, field competition, and bow hunting" seemed to imply that this book may be taking on too much. Anybody who claims be an expert on all these areas is probably a master of none. When I saw that it was, in fact, a collection of works by multiple authors it made more sense; each writer stays within his or her range of expertise.
Rick McKinney, one of the world's greatest Olympic-style archers, contributes a fine chapter called "Exploring Competition." In it, he lays out why competition may be good for you (if you're not doing it) and (if you are) how to better prepare for it. Don Rabska, one of the top technical gurus, writes on "Advanced Form for Recurve Archers." While I don't shoot recurve, I still found this to be one of the best chapters in the book. He starts with proper stance, and moves on to each component of an archer's form: bow hand, shoulder placement, and form execution. His final section is called "Connecting with the Target" and explains something I have personally found very mysterious. Why are my shots smooth and effortless close to the target but not further away? I found Rabska's answer to this phenomenon most enlightening.
Compound archers have their technical guru, too; namely Larry Wise. Larry details the steps in shot execution with many photographs. I found it curious that there was no photo showing the release hand anchoring on the jaw, given the importance of this. While there is no doubt that Larry'sexplanations are technically accurate, I didn't always find the information useful. For example, Larry defines back tension as ". . . the contraction of the dominant or drawing side rhomboid muscles, aided by the levator scapula muscle, which causes a micro sliding rotation of the scapula toward the spine." Right. I'll keep that in mind next time I'm at full draw. (I think not!)
Tuning recurve and compound bows are covered by Rabska and Ruis. If you have been around archery for long, this material may not be new for you, but it's still worthwhile to have for a reference. The chapter "Perfecting Practice" does cover some new ground. Relatively little has been written about this, which is puzzling to me. More efficient use of practice time will make far more difference in your tournament results than about anything else you can do. While the author makes a good start on this subject, I feel it still needs to be explored further. If you consider the volumes of material that have been written on training for other sports, material on training for archery seems nearly non-existent.
Other chapters include "Executing the Shot" by Ruis and Stevenson, "Tuning the Mind" by Lisa Franseen, "Achieving a Physical Edge" by Annette M. Musta, "Coaching and Being Coached" by M.J. Rogers,and many others (14 chapters total). I found the last chapter,"Embracing the Spirit of Archery" by Claudia Stevenson very inspirational. This chapter puts into words many of the feelings that have been at the back of my mind about archery for years. Stevenson attempts to answer the question: just why do we frustrate ourselves with archery? She cites the power of self knowledge that archery can teach us and the sense of community that archers develop as two of the reasons.
I found "Precision Archery" a very worthwhile addition of my archery library. It is well written, attractively bound, and has a nice reference in the back, listing sources for more information. One note of caution: if you are looking for material on bowhunting, this is not the book for you, even though the cover suggests otherwise. Actually, the phrase "bow hunting" was on the cover by mistake. The editors told me that book is strictly for target shooters, although I suspect bowhunters would learn a lot about shooting a bow from it. And while much of the material was not new to me, it is very convenient to have it located in a single source. I doubt that there is a single archer who will not learn something from this book. For example, much to my dismay, the recent elevation of my indoor scores may be due entirely to the "Hawthorne effect." What the heck is that, you ask? Well, you will just have to read the book to find out!

Precision Archery Table of Contents

Chapter 1. Exploring Competition
Rick McKinney
Chapter 2. Advanced Form for Recurve Archery
Don Rabska
Chapter 3. Developing Your Compound Archery Form
Larry Wise
Chapter 4. Executing the Shot
Steve Ruis, Claudia Stevenson
Chapter 5. Achieving a Physical Edge
Annette M. Musta
Chapter 6. Tuning the Mind
Lisa Franseen, PhD
Chapter 7. Tuning Recurve Bows and Arrows
Don Rabska
Chapter 8. Tuning Compound Bows and Arrows
Steve Ruis, Claudia Stevenson
Chapter 9. Coaching and Being Coached
M.J. Rogers
Chapter 10. Dealing With Difficulties
Steve Ruis, Claudia Stevenson
Chapter 11. The Joys of Arco Nudo
Ty Pelfrey
Chapter 12. Perfecting Practice
Steve Ruis, Claudia Stevenson
Chapter 13. Testing New Equipment
Steve Ruis, Claudia Stevenson
Chapter 14. Embracing the Spirit of Archery
Claudia Stevenson ... Read more

Book Description
Instinctive Archery Insights (Revised Edition) provides unique information for the archer, traditional or compound, that cannot be found anywhere else.Within these pages are principles from applied psychology, communicated with an easy to understand style, that will dramatically improve any archer's ability.Dr. Kidwell effectively communicates many unique insights designed to accelerate learning and enhance performance.Discover the truth about consistency in both physical processes and mental processes. Uncover the real secret to attaining accuracy.Learn about the primary cause of missing and how to quickly remedy the problem.Gain insights into how imagery works and learn how to integrate imagery into your regular routine.Discover the true source of success.

New to this edition is Dr. Kidwell's work on the development and treatment of target panic.Based on years of research and experimentation, it is the most accurate work on the subject to date with an effective therapeutic intervention.The real cause of target panic is explained in a simple and concise manner and the intervention is simple and effective for curing target panic. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

Jay Kidwell has hit the mark !
This is the first book that I have read that has broken the steps of Traditional Archery shooting down in a pychological view. Jay's insights into how the mind works and learns are invaulable when applied to trad shooting. As your mind learns the correct methods of form, mental focus, imagery, and practice techniques, accurate shooting follows.

This book has heped me learn the proper practice techniques, both mental and physical, and become a more confident and accurate archer. I highly reccomend this book to anyone, whether they are already an accomplished traditional archer or just beginning their quest. Traditional Archery Insights by Jay Kidwell will help improve their accuracy along with their enjoyment of this sport.

Darrell Peak

Not For Beginners
I have just started in archery and this book did not answer my questions about the sport of archery.I wanted a book to tell me about target shooting, but this book is aimed at experienced hunters.

So, if you are an experienced hunter looking for a way to get around target panic this might be for you; however, if you want to shoot at a stationary target buy something else.Much of the book deals with shooting in a traditional fashion, such as not using sights (line up along the arrow and cant the bow) and how to let the string roll off your fingers.

I shoot with sights and I use a mechanical release (this is a string holding device and lets you release the arrow after pulling a small trigger).The book just doesn't deal with this type of shooting.

SIMLY THE BEST
If your new to instictive archery or a verteran who wants a book to keep your form and mind sharp LOOK NO FURTHER THIS IS THE BOOK!!!!This book will make you a better archer and the author makes it easier to learn than any book i've read on the subject of instictive shooting.A MUST READ BOOK

Accelerate learning any repetitive tasks
I found this book on my shelf at home. I am not planning on taking up archery. But the subtitle about "accelerated learning through applied psychology" sounded like it might yet be relevant for other activities, so I read the book. You can get some good insights if you read it with software development in mind. Ask yourself which are the essential but repetitive activities that need to be carried out consistently, and learn what it takes to ensure that they get done right every time. Do that so you have time to focus on the much higher-level software tasks like design and coding. No, no explicit software hints in the book. But the psychological principles still apply. So if you read the book, let me know if it helped either your software or your archery.

Excellent book
This was an easy book to read, and it had lots of usefull information. I thought it was too simple at first. I applied the lessons and my shooting started to improve steadily. It has been just over a month since I read the book, and I have "Robin-hooded" two arrows with my recurve bow without sights. ... Read more

Book Description
*170 b/w photos
* 6 x 9
* Expert information on selecting and using classic archery equipment:longbows and recurves
* Detailed instructional photographs throughout

The tools of traditional archery, the longbow and recurve bow, haveremained virtually unchanged for tens of thousands of years. In thisthorough, fully illustrated guide, archery expert Sam Fadala presents adetailed examination of this sport, which has experienced a renewedpopularity in the last decade. Traditional Archery gives carefulattention to bow and arrow selection, equipment tuning and maintenance,shooting techniques, accessories, safety, history, and traditionalarchery resources.

Sam Fadala is an expert on traditional weapons and has written numerousbooks and articles on archery and the outdoors. He lives in Mills,Wyoming. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A must for the newbie
My wife bought me this shortly BEFORE I bought my bow. I suppose she got sick of hearing me talk about getting into archery and felt this would help appease me (or even change my mind). She was right. I ended up with my face buried in this book for weeks, and then even more after I bought my bow and began shooting.

It covers a lot of ground for the beginner. Detailed explanations of terminology, the history of bow types, techniques, and even sources for equipment can be found here. There are a multitude of photos to accompany the chapters, which help to illustrate the topics of discussion (unlike those found in some other archery books, which have nothing to do with anything being discussed).

So, if you're new to archery or are switching from a compound to instictive shooting, this one comes highly recommended.

A good beginners book
I have just recently started archery as a hobby, and have found this book to be very helpful.The book covers all of the basics, and lists a variety of different options for styles and equipment.By covering all areas, it gives you a good idea of what is out there and makes you more familiar with the wide world of Archery.Also, the author ties in many of his own personal experiences, which makes it a little more upbeat in comparison to some other drier books.It's only weakness is lack of depth in certain areas.This lack of depth makes it an excellent starting point for the novice archer, yet not much help in any higher levels.

did the writer of this book give himself good reviews
because i did not like this waste of paper one bit!

Basic to Intermediate
This book is excellent for instructing one in fine-tuning a traditional bow (recurve or long), and matching arrows to such a bow... among many other things.

Not worth it
The book looks promising but alas, fails like an arrow with wet fletchings, and only 1 star rating because I can't have none. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Strating of right
An excellent book that should be "compulsory" reading for any person serious about archery.If I read the book when I started archery I would not have had to unlearn the many bad habits I learnt or have been taught over the past three years.

A clear and practical step by step guide to get any serious archer in shooting his best shot. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Very technical, very useful for intermed/advanced archers
I own quite a few (probably too many!) books on archery.After a while they all start to sound the same, NOT SO with this book.It details the exact mucles and bones used in shooting a bow.It has many excellent labelled drawings so the techincal language is easier to follow than you would think.I have rotator cuff trouble and this book really helped me with this.Explanations of how to hold the string are particularly good.I do not recommend this for beginners, you really should start with a less technical book.Otherwise it's an excellent value.

very useful and interesting
Whether your interest is target, 3-D or hunting, and especially if you shoot a traditional bow, rather than a compound, this book will educate you in new ways.The excellent illustrations tell the story in themselves -- there are good ways and not-so-good ways of drawing a bow.You can improve your performance and help avoid injuries and nagging problems, by following the advice in this book.

An excellent contribution to a little-understood and vital aspect of our sport.Highly recommended.

An Acquired Taste
This is a very interesting read. I am a beginner in archery and never knew the depth of this sport before I read this book. I was fastreading my friend's copy twice before I finally decided that I need this book. If you are looking forpersonal satisfaction in this sport read this book. It will teach you how to get the appropriate sensation of each movement in archery. To me archery is about feeling and this book can help you feel for the sport. One word of caution though - Be prepared for some heavy reading! The jargon can be tiring.

There are few books of its class.
There are not many good books on the sport in print, SO far I have only found about 6 books worth reading.

This is one of them, it explains in great detail the medical nature of the sport and how it affects the body.

Never judge a book by its cover, this is one of those books.

One of the best books on archery
This biomechanical study of archery supports all the best coaching. It has one of the best explanations of the proper draw that I have seen. In addition to correct methods of execution, it shows the disadvantages thatless duplicatable methods pose. Good book for coaches and archers alike. Ifyou're a beginner, you'll need this book later. ... Read more

Book Description
Kyudo-the Way of the Bow-is the oldest of Japan's traditional martial arts and the one most closely associated with bushido, the Way of the Warrior. After the Second World War Eugen Herrigel introduced the concept of kyudo to the West in his classic Zen in the Art of Japanese Archery. But
until now, no Japanese kyudo master has published a book on his art in English.

In Kyudo: The Essence and Practice of Japanese Archery, Hideharu Onuma and his American co-authors, Dan and Jackie DeProspero, explain in detail both the spiritual and practical aspects of kyudo. Written with both novices and advanced students in mind, the book is presented in simple,
straightforward language and features hundreds of detailed illustrations, supplemented by rare photographs of Master Onuma, clearly demonstrating the fundamental techniques and daily practice of this form of "standing Zen."

Including chapters on equipment and kyudojo construction, Kyudo: The Essence and Practice of Japanese Archery is the most comprehensive reference work on the subject available. Special sections on problem solving and shitsu (errors) also make it a unique teaching and learning resource, and the
concluding shiteimondo (teacher-student dialogue) provides unparalleled insights into the thoughts and teachings of a true master of the martial arts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great book, fun and an easy read.
Fun book if you want to not only learn the art of Japaneese long bow, but the history as well.

Art, Tradition and Spirit
In Kyudo: The Essence and Practice of Japanese Archery (Bushido--The Way of the Warrior)yuo'll find the lost way in our every day life. Life as arrows, may flight to the tag or may be broken.
With a lots of pictures and explanations about Zen Archery, this book is a great deal.

very good introduction
i knew nothing about kyudo and found this book to be very helpful.Concise and easy to read without too much mumbo-jumbo.After reading the book, I just might try the sport

A Must-Have-And-Read book for Kyudo beginners
Wonderfull book, covers both spiritual and technical aspects of kyudo practice. Dialogs with Onuma-sensei are very very valuable for real understanding of what kyudo is stands for, problem solving section helps a lot for technics. Very well done as a book - exceptional quality. A must have book...

Should be known as the Kyudo Bible.
This is one of the best books out on the art of Kyudo. I am currently in Japan teaching and have taken up the practice of Kyudo as a way to learn about Japanese culture. The book covers all areas of interest and is verydetailed with step by step illustrations. My instructor refers to the bookoften to point out my mistakes and highlight my improvement. If you arelearning Kyudo or just want to read about its history and culturalsignificance, then this book is for you. You will not be disappointed. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description
Archery Strong is the first and only strength training program designed specifically for archers and bowhunters of all shooting styles. It is a remarkably efficient program that will improve your performance and accuracy in just 30 minutes a week. Only three exercises done once-per-week will improve your ability to hold at full draw with total control from a rock solid stance, giving you complete mastery over the physical aspects of shooting a bow.

This revolutionary program exercises every muscle in your body, but focuses on the very muscles needed for accurate shooting. It will make you powerfully strong, and give you the endurance to shoot accurately for hours. The program is easy to follow and provides a fast, effective workout.

The 30-minute program also consists of unique warm-up and cool down movements that will improve your flexability and help prevent injuries.

Archery Strong can be safely done by men and women of all ages. Modified programs for beginning and advanced levels are included in the book.

As an added benefit, Archery Strong can increase your energy, burn excess fat, and improve muscle tone.

The large--8 1/2 x 9 1/2--no nonsense book contains nearly 100 photographs with clear, detailed descriptions and explanations of each exercise and their unique benefits to archers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Archery Exercises
Learn a few variations to your day-to-day exercises that will help improve your shooting.The exercises are short and easy to follow.

Archery Strong, only about average
I found it to outline pretty basic physical exercise routines.Nothing particulary different than what you might do yourself to keep physically fit.There are a couple of variations of typical exercises that are supposed to improve archery-specific muscles, but the variations are pretty small.I was expecting some very specific routines that focus on some of the critical archery functions, but found it to be lacking, in my opinion.

Get Stronger
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to get stronger without a huge time committment. The training information is cutting edge, the exercises are explained in detail, and I can do them in my garage. I was skeptical at first given the short workouts, but I am totally fatigued after each one. It definitely works, I am getting stronger each week which is sure to improve my shooting.

great advice
This is the first book I've seen that gears fitness directly to archery.The workouts are quick and effective.The pictures are self-explanatory.

Excellent Book!
I've been using the program for about six weeks now. I feel stronger and more confident with my bow and have a better sense of control. The book is straight forward and the routines are easy to understand. What I like best is that it is a short workout that I only need to do once a week. ... Read more

Product Description
As a major hunting tool and weapon, the bow changed human history around the world, and its diverse forms reflect the cultures that adopted it. This book presents color photographs and descriptions of some three hundred items, including quivers, thumb rings, and more, from the Charles E. Grayson Archery Collection. The artifacts are organized by region, taking in equipment from Asia, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and Europe used over the last five hundred years. The introduction provides an overview of traditional archery and its nomenclature, and chapter essays situate the items in their historical, cultural, and technological contexts. Plate descriptions note materials, construction methods, dimensions, and temporal and cultural affiliations. This first wide-ranging survey of European and non-European archery equipment will be the standard reference work in the study of archery. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

traditional archery
Bert Grayson has incredible knowledge on this subject, and we are so happy that someone has taken the time to put this all in a book that can be shared with others instead of sitting in a room in Missouri.Awesome, informative...a must for anyone who loves archery through the ages!

Beautifully Illustrated Book!- Loved It.
Did you know that the bow was used for both hunting food and as a weapon? Traditional Archery is a beautifully illustrated book about how archery shaped civilization for many centuries.

Traditional Archery: the Life Work of Charles E. Grayson
This volume provides an overview of the world-class Charles E. Grayson collection of archery equipment, housed at the University of Missouri, Columbia.Traditional Archery is an important guide to the diversity of bows, arrows and other related paraphernalia used by ancient and modern cultures across the globe.This work will become a standard reference on the subject, taking a rightful place alongside other classic studies such as Mason's 1893 North American Bows, Arrows and Quivers, Heath's 1971 The Grey Goose Wing, and Hamilton's 1982 Native American Bows, for example.

Traditional Archery is well-written, providing information on the nomenclature and technology of bows and arrows, as well as region-specific discussions of equipment from Asia, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and Europe.The photographs complementing the text are superb, providing the reader with representative examples from the Grayson collection.Additional illustrative materials include photographs, drawings, and paintings showing archery equipment in use in a variety of settings such as hunting and warfare.

The value of this book lies in the presentation of a large amount of information in a manner that is accessible to the general reader, but is also detailed enough for scholars researching the prehistoric and historic manufacture and use of archery equipment.Dr. Grayson is an outstanding authority on the subject, having studied archery in all its aspects as a historian, bowyer, and hunter.His background, along with the breadth of the collection he amassed over many decades, makes Traditional Archery a unique contribution.
... Read more

Book Description
Here are the inspirational life and teachings of Awa Kenzo (1880–1939), the Zen and kyudo (archery) master who gained worldwide renown after the publication of Eugen Herrigel's cult classic Zen in the Art of Archery in 1953. Kenzo lived and taught at a pivotal time in Japan's history, when martial arts were practiced primarily for self-cultivation, and his wise and penetrating instructions for practice (and life)—including aphorisms, poetry, instructional lists, and calligraphy—are infused with the spirit of Zen. Kenzo uses the metaphor of the bow and arrow to challenge the practitioner to look deeply into his or her own true nature. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Zen Bow, Zen Arrow
a small book but diamonds are small-as is the brief instant of satori. a wonderful history of the great Zen archer Awa Kenzo with a treasure of gems of wisdom from his teachings: statements, aphorisms, koans and haiku.
whether you are seeking thru t'ai chi, target shooting or archery, the wisdom here will guide you in your practice.

A pearl of wisdom
Don't miss this book if you are interested in "Zen in the Art of Archery" and "The Method of Zen" by Eugen Herrigel.
The teaching of Awa is a pearl of wisdom.

Bullseye
John Stevens produces another one of his find vignettes of prominent Japanese martial artists.The field of Kyudo is not well known in the U.S. and anything that can be done to remedy that should be.I believe this book is best read alongside Herrigel's "Zen and the Art of Archery."

A wonderful introduction, or re-introduction, to Awa Kenzo's life and philosophy
Informative, readable and inspiring account of Kenzo's life as well as an excellent anthology of his actual teachings.I loved John Stevens' way of explaining complex Zen terms in simple English: e.g., kensho - "see your nature" or "look into your nature;" jobutsu - "become Buddha;" and the ultimate Zen experience, satori, which Stevens explains means literally "remove distinctions,"and which he, along with many others, translates as "enlightenment."This is great stuff for anyone interested in Japanese language and culture as well as providing a springboard for deeper investigations of Zen, of archery as a form of "practice" and of martial arts in general.Includes detailed notes on sources and an excellent bibliography.Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
From the cover: Mental mechanics is learning the self-respect to reach within for permanent solutions rather than looking outside yourself for temporary solutions. No one knows your mind better than you. ... Read more