Product Description
The odds are, if you’re attacked on the street you will have to defend yourself against a bigger, stronger assailant. When this happens, strength alone will not be enough to stop your attacker. The Science of Takedowns, Throws and Grappling for Self-defense addresses the concepts and, more importantly, the mindset required to survive an encounter with a larger attacker.

Martina Sprague, author of the top selling book Fighting Science, does more than show you what type of throws, takedowns, locks and presses work on the street. Learn why some techniques are more likely to get you into to trouble than out of it, how to apply concepts like timing and positioning to make your techniques even more effective, how to defend against common attacks with a weapon and what you can do to use that weapon in your favor, which mistakes are the most common and how you can prevent them from weakening your defense, and much more. With over 300 photos, you won’t find a more detailed, scientific look at takedowns, throws and grappling techniques specifically for self-defense. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

An Acquired Taste...
I just finished reading this book last night and am left with mixed feelings.The book doesn't seem to have a focus for who the audience is.In one sense the book is extremely basic and therefore not suited for advanced practitioners.I have 21 years in Martial Arts as of 03/31 and have 5 Black Belts.Much of the time, I felt like I was reading material that I already knew.This in and of itself isn't a bad thing as I have a good knowledge base and can see how the information could be beneficial to those "not in the know".However if I were a basic level student the books descriptions are so spartan and general that I would have little idea what it was describing.The lack of enough photos to present a sequential flow also hurts here.Therefore neither the advanced or the beginner student can get the full value of this book.Also the book is heavy on repetition to the point of feeling stretched.It doesn't help that some of the contained subject matter is only shown to connect to grappling on a cursory level.I give this book 3 stars in that it isn't a bad book but at the same time it doesn't cater to a specific audience in any focused fashion.

great concepts
a great book that has concepts that i always use in my martial arts training. if you are involved in self defence/ grappling this book is a must have

Didn't care for it
Personally I didn't care for this book.There was a couple things in the book that were informative but the book a as whole I didn't think was worth it.It's just my opinion, but I don't think it would help a grappler or mma student with his/her game; there are better books for that.Perhaps it would be helpful for someone just looking for some knowledge of general self defense.

Maybe her other books are excellent, I don't know, but this book seemed like kind of a let down compared to it's name and summary of what it is about.

Excellent text for a beginner, intermediate or advanced student
One of the difficult problems confronting authors writing books on martial arts is how to handle the wide range of audiences. This books ignores that problem by focusing on the concepts themselves. So the sharp beginning student has all the grounding in what is going on just as well as advanced students who may already know from experience that different techniques worked but really had no understanding why or how. The slower students will be challenged by the amount of material covered and the depth it is dealt with -- but they can re-read the concepts until they understand them and work at their own pace. I am pleased the author takes time to give tips on how to fall and safety in general -- something that is sometimes missed in books that just want to get to heart of the subject without realizing some guys don't have a clue about how they can hurt themselves. In addition to the thorough treatment of takedowns, throws and grappling, again with all the background concepts and simple physics necessary to understand what is actually going on, the author has a unique perspective -- smaller guy dealing with a larger opponent. From my experience, this is unusual and extremely helpful. Many books take a one shoe fits all feet approach. Since that one size approach usually works out that the hypothetical average guy is around six feet tall and 180 pounds, both smaller guys and inexperienced guys are at a disadvantage.
Some of us smaller dogs don't want to stay on the porch since we can't run with the big dogs. Nice to know we don't have to. Also in a perfect world, all work out partners are your size, but in reality that is rarely the case and more often than not they are heavier than you. Plowing ahead into a guy who outweighs you by 20 or 30 pounds is a sure way to grind yourself down and invite injury. But recognizing that you do not have to muscle the other guy or use a technique in just one way in order to take down a bigger guy is a very helpful and powerful concept. Even big heavies can be more effective using the solid techniques explained in the book, which arebased on simple physics, rather than their size. Consequently, this underlying sensitivity to the reality of a fighting situation makes this book particularly useful.
I don't consider myself a sexist, but I seriously wondered if a female author on martial arts would deal with points I considered important. Since fighting seems such a guy thing, I think many guys might share this question. I am glad I took the risk to see for myself. This is without doubt one of the best books around. It is serious and very useful study of the fundamentals of fighting presented from rock solid foundations. So many books simply show techniques and assume you will somehow make them work when that is the last thing on your opponent's mind. This author explains the dots you need to connect in order to make a effective "book" technique work -- just learning techniques are not enough to make them work. The book is alwaysthorough and grounded in reality that comes from obvious experience. The focus isn't simply to give you an arsenal of techniques, though it does, but rather to make sure you understand what basic concepts need to be respected in a particulas aspect of fighting. Working through the basic concepts may be less dramatic than following the pictures to learn particular techniques, but it is a surer recipe to success.

reminds me of aikido
Not many photos or techniques.

I expected lots of photographs and lots of techniques as in every other book I had previously bought in Amazon.

However, as I have looked at it deeper and due to training, I realised that to teach self defense you may not need to put lots of techniques into your arsenal, but those you may apply at any moment or situation.
I now find this book much more interesting and valuable than 3 years ago. Not lots of techniques, but you may not need many of them.
All you need is to practise a lot the ones collected in this book so you can apply them well from any position, as aikido people pretend to do.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

grappling master
Book smelles as if it was soaked in water and allowed to mold. Book arrived wrapped in a brown grocery bag. very unhappy

The best book on finishing holds by a true master of the art.
This is one of the most comprehensive books on finishing holds that has ever been published.Gene LeBell is a true legend in the martial arts field.He has a vast knowledge of grappling and wrestling.This book is so filled with valuable information that it needs to be studied in depth.To reap the full benefits of this text you should seek out hands-on training from an instructor as you study the book.An example of the amount of information in this text includes:The Lebell slap and catch, pressures against the back, neck locks and cranks, rib crushing, chokes and neck holds, wrist and finger locks, head locks, arm. elbow, shoulder locks and much, much more.The photographs are clear and the captions are easy to understand.In conclusion, this is a book that will be of value to all serious martial artists who want to futher their knowledge of finishing holds.Rating: 5 stars.Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Myths in the Martial arts, Season of the Warrior, The Monadnock Defensive Tactics System, The Use of the Monadnock Straight Baton, PR-24 Baton Advanced Techniques)

Great book on submission holds!
I love this book.It gave me my first experience with submission holds, and taking what I learned, I tapped out a BJJ blue belt who outweighed me by 40lbs.And that was when I didn't know any throws, pins, or escapes.That's how good this book is."Judo" Gene starts off with the very basics of grappling with showing the ways to grip your hands together, including his "three-fingered" grip, and why not to lace your fingers together.Then he demonstrates his 'slap-and-catch', which is a way to extend your opponents arm for locking.Then it's on to the holds.The holds are classified by what part of the body they work on, and include "Rib Crushing" and "Head Lock Varieties".At the end of his book is a "Grab Bag" chapter, which is just a bunch of seemingly random techniques.Some of the moves in this book are very complex, and best suited for showing off, but many are very good, and hardly ever seen in jujitsu or MMA competition, like the over-scissors and short-arm scissors, but I can tell you from experience that they work.This isn't a self-defense book per say, but many of the moves could be incorperated into self-defense training.Though it was written first, "Grappling Master" seems like the abridged version of Gene's "Grappling Encyclopedia", and I'd recomend that one get "Grappling Master" first, as most of the techniques are simplified from "Encyclopedia".The only things that detract from this book is that there are no "heel hooks", and that the pictures were originally taken in 1986, so they don't look so great.However, these holds are about as close to "catch wrestling" as any book I've ever seen, and include some "ripping" techniques.A good buy, especially for someone who knows nothing of grappling holds.

Not a Self-Defense Book, ( i secound this view )
Not a Self-Defense Book,
The book is not about self defense or street defense as the title alludes to. It is a book with great submission holds. But, before one can attempt to apply these submission holds they must be capable of fighting hand to hand and then successfully and safely be able to place their attacker into one of these holds; not likely without alot of previous experience and training. Pass on this book unless you are an experienced fighter looking for some good finishing holds;

but the book does a poor job is detailing the application of these techniques

Not a Self-Defense Book
The book is not about self defense or street defense as the title alludes to. It is a book with great submission holds. But, before one can attempt to apply these submission holds they must be capable of fighting hand to hand and then successfully and safely be able to place their attacker into one of these holds; not likely without alot of previous experience and training. Pass on this book unless you are an experienced fighter looking for some good finishing holds; but realize for everyone of these holds there is at least one counter or escape move, so learn those also. For those of you looking for self defense books refer to my "Listmania" suggestions. ... Read more

Product Description
Asks whether public schools can and should help students discuss moral disagreements, even when religion is involved. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

If John Dewey had taught in a high school for 10 years-- he might have written a book like this...
I do my research by shadowing high school students through their academic experiences. In my work, I am interested in how youth engage with each other and with ideas. Sadly, when it comes to engagement around ethical or moral issues, much of what I witness veers between "shock-radio" confrontation or systematic avoidance of any issue tinged with conflict or moral weight. In other words, bare-knuckle polemics or silence holds sway.

Writing with the acuity of a philosopher and the on-the-ground savvy of a veteran high school teacher-Kunzman offers a framework for understanding why the public school classroom must be a place for our diverse students to tangle and grapple with moral disagreement and combustible issues-particularly around our religious beliefs. Kunzman moves between sophisticated but accessible philosophical claims and providing detailed and authentic examples of "real" students and teachers "grappling with the good," the ambiguous, and the uncertain. As I finished this gem of a book, I jotted in the margin: "This is the kind of book John Dewey or Richard Rorty would write if they had worked as a high school teacher for a decade before they turned to full-time philosophy." ... Read more

Product Description
This comprehensive volume offers readers a concise overview of some of the most effective grappling techniques from numerous martial arts, including judo, ju-jitsu, wrestling, and more. "Grappling" provides a thorough, step-by-step analysis of all aspects of the various techniques - the transition between kicking and grappling distances, how to change from an upright fighting position to groundwork, the groundwork techniques themselves, breaking away, and executing finishing techniques. This is an essential reference source for anyone wanting to become proficient in the one of the key areas of martial arts techniques. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

One of the best
If you want to learn grappling, this is a must read. Over the years I've studied Japanese and Korean Karate as well as Kempo, and none of these systems taught any grappling. I recently started practicing Ju Jitsu and in order to expand my knowledge I started reading everything I could find on the subject.
It is my opinion that the Braun Jui-Jitsu series can't be beat. I just finished reading "Grappling" and half way through I had a better grasp of the subject than after reading four of the Gracie books. All the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu books by Invisible Cities Press are great books and I highly recommend them, but Braun presents the essential elements of grappling all in one easy to understand book.
The photography is sharp and clear with background colors contrasting with the clothes worn by Master Braun and his partner. It is easy to to understand and learn how to execute every technique in this book just from folowing the pictures. There are usually 4 photos per page with concise descriptions of each technique. Close-up photos are inserted as necessary along with helpful tips and an overview of each topic to be covered.
If you are just getting into martial arts and want a few good books that will deliver the most useful content for the price, invest in Master Braun's "Jiu-Jitsu The Basics", "Grappling" and "Jiu-Jitsu Training". Later on expand your library with books from the Gracie series as well as Marc Tedeschi's "The Art of Holding", "The Art of Throwing" and "The art of Groundfighting". "Savage Strikes" and "Killer Submissions" are useful reading as well. ... Read more

Product Description
The book represents a compilation of case studies about Japanese intellectuals' relationships to modernity in three majors arenas of art (art and aesthetics, theater, and literature) beginning in the 1850s to the 1970s. It discusses how inevitable wave of modernity was responded to, discussed, assimilated, changed by some of the most notable practitioners of art and intellectuals in Japan during this period. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (4)

Entertaining!
The stories were entertaining and made you get a small glimpse of just a portion of a soldier's life.I loved the writer's sense of humor used throughout the stories.

The Grappling Hook: and Irag
This book gives you a unique glimpse into the life of a soldier in Iraq - it is well written and engaging. It's real and uplifting.

Perspective, not hype
In his book, Mr. Maughan presents an engrossing series of narratives that clearly articulates the tribulations our soldiers face while simultaneously reminding us that sometimes you find laughs when you least expect them.

Far from being yet another prescriptive account of life in the field, this book makes us realize that through our experiences with the human condition we realize more similarities in our joys and difficulties than differences.

Written in a way that makes you wish you had the chance to hear these tales first hand on a bar stool or by a fire, The Grappling Hook is a wonderful read that will provide everyone some much needed perspective on life in the ranks...And life in general.

I assure you that no matter what your position on the war, you will put this book down realizing that we all share more in common than we think.

Grappling is gripping ...
The Grappling Hook is, in my opinon, the most insightful and clear portrait of the real life of soldiers in Iraq.The author offers us a picture of what it was, and is, really like on the front lines, without fillers and punch lines.Historians and patriots alike will celebrate this work for years to come.If you've ever wanted an inside look at what our soldiers sacrifice for us, and how they deal with the challenges of modern warfare, treat yourself to this book today. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A book for any Martial Arts Fan
This book is thick and full of great interviews with some of the greatest grappling martial artist of all time. Not only great interviews but packed with great pictures that I've never seen before and I've been following MMA for ten years. I thought this book would be disappointing because I've never heard of it before but when a received the book at my door it blew me away! A great book if you want to learn about the grappling masters!

Love the Jose M. Fraguas Series
There isn't much to say about these books, except that they are awesome. If you are interested in the subject that is on the outside of Jose's books, then he is the man for you. Just buy the book and you won't be disappointed.
I have one more of the series left to purchase. I hope Mr. Fraguas decides towrite more.
... Read more

Product Description
The new expanded edition of this best-selling martial arts instructional book is a must for anyone interested in learning the techniques needed to become a successful grappler. This comprehensive encyclopedia features Gene LeBell's champion student, "The Armenian Assassin" Gokor Chivichyan, and many others. It is packed with photos and illustrations, and includes a complete glossary, index, and a list of resources and products.Some admirers have called Gene LeBell, a.k.a. "The Toughest Man Alive," the deadliest man on the planet. His wife says sarcastically, "He's just from another world." LeBell wears many hats, having grown up in boxing and wrestling gyms around the world and spending a lifetime studying many of the different martial arts.LeBell has won national judo championships, wrestled professionally for over 20 successful years, announced professional wrestling on television for 15 years, and refereed professional boxing and wrestling matches all over the world. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

The PhD of Grappling Techniques
Was a former student of Gokor and Gene; extraordinary men.Excellent book that covers a lot.

Neat reference, but mostly pro wrestling junk
This book is interesting, it's not really an instructional, it's more of a reference for a variety of pro wrestling holds that you don't see much anymore.

There are some good techniques that work on live opponents, but there is almost no explanation on how to perform any of them.Most of the techniques require multiple complicated moves and would not work on a living, conscious opponent.

Not what I expected
This book really appealed to me, as Gene LeBell is a legend in American Judo and early MMA (very early, like 1960s).I expected an encyclopedia that consisted of a variety of submissions with various entries into them shown, from a variety of positions.Instead, it's a cartoonish collection of often completely unrealistic finishes, some of which are almost pro-wrestling-esque.No set-ups, no mentions of how you might actually catch someone in one of these moves, a lot of repetition as well with only slightly different holds being given separate sections.I was really disappointed.I am a black belt in Judo, as well as a former BJJ fighter, and I didn't get a single useful thing from this book.Don't buy it.

Grappling master!
Judo Gene continues to show us all what true masters of martial arts are, and he uses humor to illustrate his techniques. As a fellow martial arts instructor this book has more than helped my ground technique, but also reaffirms my belief in being humble.Judo gene and his crew are the BEST, i have had the pleasure of meeting them, they are even nicer in person.

You will be tapping out just reading this masterpiece!
...and I thought MY book, "The Authoritative Encyclopedia of Scientific Wrestling" was huge! This book is MASSIVE and jam-packed with awesome ideas.

Once you have the basics down (which realistically can take years to master) you are ready to get creative and learn from the best. Gene and Gokor have compiled, what in my opinion, is the FINAL word on submission holds.

This book is so amazing that you will be tapping out just by merely reading it. I have personally trained at Gokor and Gene's dojo and this book is the next best thing, believe me. ... Read more

Product Description
The biography of mathematician Laurent Schwartz in the context of his century. Aims to provide readers with a sense of the import of his work and his achievements, and his extraordinary abilities as a thinker and mathematician. Also documents the scholar's commitment to social causes such as the civil rights movement and the Vietnam war. Softcover. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Grappling is the word
This book is as fascinating to anyone interested in mathematics as any other mathematician's biography, with the extra asset of his life being deeply imbedded in 20th century history. While it gives a most interesting account of the French and international mathematical world during the second half of the century (especially on Bourbaki and, of course, on the distributions), it also tales the story of a "committed" (formerly trotskist) intellectual who valued his struggle for decolonization as highas his mathematical work. ... Read more

Product Description
This volume is produced from digital images created through the University of Michigan University Library's large-scale digitization efforts. The Library seeks to preserve the intellectual content of items in a manner that facilitates and promotes a variety of uses. The digital reformatting process results in an electronic version of the original text that can be both accessed online and used to create new print copies. The Library also understands and values the usefulness of print and makes reprints available to the public whenever possible. This book and hundreds of thousands of others can be found in the HathiTrust, an archive of the digitized collections of many great research libraries. For access to the University of Michigan Library's digital collections, please see http://www.lib.umich.edu and for information about the HathiTrust, please visit http://www.hathitrust.org ... Read more

Product Description
Learn to dominate opponents with the explosive throws, sweeps and takedowns of Sambo.Coach Steve Scott teaches 75 of the most effective ways to put your opponent on the mat and keep him there. Whether you compete in sambo, judo, jujitsu, submission grappling or MMA, the techniques Takedowns and Throws for Sambo, Judo, Jujitsu and Submission Grappling will arm you with an arsenal of explosive, functional throws and takedowns.Coach Scott starts you off with a thorough overview of the concepts and principles of throws and takedowns including technical execution, grip fighting, stance, posture, balance,defense, fitness and drill training. Building on these fundamentals, he teaches 75 takedowns, throws and sweeps including lifting throws, pick-ups, leg grabs, knee drop throws, body drop throws, over body throws, leg hooks and sweeps. Each technique is extensively illustrated with photos from key angles and Coach Scott's straightforward explanations make it easy for you to put these techniques to work on the mat in your next training session.THROWS and TAKEDOWNS INCLUDED: The Buck ~ Inside Thigh Lift ~ Outer Thigh Sweep ~ Cuban Leg Grab ~ The Metz ~ Ankle Pick ~ Hand Wheel ~ 1-Arm Knee Drop ~ Cross Arm Knee Drop ~ Tight Waist Knee Drop ~ Fireman's Carry ~ Cross Body Outer Hook ~ Sweeping Hip Throw ~ Inner Thigh Throw ~ Cross Grip Major Outer Hook ~ Front Kick Throw ~ Minor Inner Hook ~ Open Chest Body Drop ~ Side Body Drop ~ Knee Body Drop ~ Back Grip Hip Throw ~ Belly-to-Belly Throw ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Good resource book
Well written,although more directed toward tournament performance. Well worth the price if that's your goal.

For the Advanced Judoka
This book is written by a man who completely understands his field.But Mr. Scott has written for the advanced Judo player.Anyone can benefit from the study of this manual but those with the most experience will gain the most from it. ... Read more

Product Description

Millions of Christians have never built a foundation of Bible knowledge. They’re left with vague ideas of what they believe, why they believe, and how to articulate those beliefs. Pete Briscoe presents an innovative way to make theology memorable, meaningful, and relevant.

Briscoe divides the Apostles Creed into 16 key phrases and uses a clever M.A.P.S. system (Meditate, Apply, Plot, and Speak) to explain each point and to help readers:

• Identify key Bible passages that support their beliefs
• Explain every major theological aspect of their faith
• Discuss the significance of their faith with those who believe differently
• Explore the wonders of Christianity by experiencing the reality of God and Jesus
• Examine theology without intimidation and with confidence

Readers will discover how greatly belief matters: belief is real, belief is influential, and belief is life–changing. Ideal for churches, groups, and individuals ready for an awakening.

Customer Reviews (2)

Great introduction to the basics of the faith
This book is an examination of the Apostle's Creed, and steps through each line and phrase to explain what the significance is and why it was included.It is a great resource for people who are new to the faith or who have questions about Christian beliefs.The author has a very casual style that is easy to read, interspersed with personal stories that help to explain his point.Even if you're not a big reader, you can get a lot out of this book due to the easy to understand way the information is presented.

My only quibble with the book is that it is peppered with little asides, that sometimes correlate to the text, but sometimes don't.They break up what would otherwise be very good flow, and I found them very distracting.I think this is more of an editing issue than a writing issue, and it is certainly nothing that should discourage you from reading this book.

Good Resource
This is an approachable guide to the Apostles Creed.The authors liberally intersperse Questions, Definitions, Quotations and Contemplations throughout the text. These are good additions and certainly make it a usable group resource.Belief Matters is easy to read and though informative it is not heavy and is definitely aimed at the broadest market possible, which is actually a good thing.This really is a good book for pastors, group leaders, Sunday School teachers, or even just anyone wanting to give more study to what really is one of the fundamental creeds in the Christian Tradition.
... Read more

Product Description
Find out how to combine the latest techniques with centuries-old secrets, resistance exercises and proper body mechanics to make your punches, kicks, blocks and throws more powerful, as well as to defend yourself against explosive power. Double your fighting power by following this proven training regimen. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Mostly Solid And Practical Information
What I like about Loren W. Christensen is that he's the real deal: He's been both a military and civilian policeman and has had plenty of violent encounters. Unlike many non blooded martial arts experts, he tells you the truth of actual combat i.e. forget all the flashy moves and keep it simple. As a student of Krav Maga, that's a philosophy I can wholly relate to.

In this book Christensen lays out a wide variety of exercises and techniques to bring power to your martial arts moves. I liked very much that he points out that not every exercise is likely to be beneficial to you, and that he encourages experimentation to see what kinds of variations you might come up with. There's quite a bit of valuable information related, everything from an expose of martial arts "superhuman" feats, to sections on shin toughening and even Bruce Lee's legendary one inch punch. The writing is clear and concise. A few times I wished for more photos, but with effort you can work everything out from the words alone.

There are a few things I wouldn't try and I wouldn't advise anyone else to try, but to his credit Christensen does give warnings of exercises that can be damaging. As another reviewer noted, much of the information is old, but it's still valuable in my opinion to have it so carefully and clearly brought together in one book. I'm a firm believer in muscle confusion, and this is the kind of book you can flip through and easily find something new to add to your training which will keep your muscles challenged and guessing.

My only quibble with the book is the author's attitude in regards to forearm training. Bruce Lee believed that forearm development was a vital ingredient in powerful punches, and worked at it accordingly. Christensen says that forearm training is important, but insists they needn't be trained more than any other muscle group. I think one need only look at Mr.Christensen's forearms in comparison to Bruce Lee's to see a decided difference. I would have to side with Mr.Lee on the question of how much to train the forearms.

All in all, this is a great book for the martial artist looking for techniques to improve his/her power. Much of the material really got me excited and has certainly put some variety in my training sessions. I also love the way how at the end of the book Christensen reminds us that ultimately we study the martial arts for self defense, and shouldn't get too lost in the pretty moves and flashy nuances. Something we should all keep in mind.

Great Advice for the Novice
While, as one reviewer states, some of this information is old, does not mean that the information is useless.I am still so surprised to run into martial artist, of all ranks, who do not crosstrain their bodies by adding heavey bag workouts and weight training.

While I do have some minor disagreements, all in all, this book is worth five stars for those who have traveled down the road to increase one's martial skills outside the dojo.Often I find martial artists, at the gym I attend, lazyly working on a heavy bag and in no way increasing their power, speed or stamina.This book may enlighten some of these more lazy or ignorant karateka and provide them some extra tools to train harder and smarter (I do not use the word ignorant here as a pagorative - we all have learning to do).

The chapter on weight trainingg is still needed. Yes, progress has been made in the last 25 years (I grew up in the era that weights slowed you down mindset), but we still need to spread the word that weight training is beneficial for martial arts.I have ran into many people, although less than during my initial training, who do not value any kind of resistance training.Many of them are surperb athiletes - how much more they could excell with this author's advice.

Other chapters are good as well and after one reads this book, I hope they will continue to train and read other texts to increase their martial skills and add to the material presented here.

Powerful advice
Miyamoto Musashi, arguably the greatest swordsman who ever lived, advocated quickness and power as superior to strength and speed. Exceptional martial artists in every style demonstrate both quickness and power in all their applications, overwhelming opponents with seemingly little effort. Mr. Christensen's best selling book Speed Training covered the quickness aspect. This outstanding book covers power. As always it is well written, easy to follow, and easily incorporated into your martial training.

Subjects covered include ki power, ancient (traditional) exercises, modern weight resistance training, plyometrics (elastic strength/explosiveness), isometrics (resistance training), dynamic tension, developing a powerful neck, pushups, abdominals, kicking power, punching power, bag work, timing, and defending against power. You will learn how to use proper body mechanics and hip rotation to markedly increase your power. Even Bruce Lee's famous 1-inch punch is explained with sufficient clarity that most martial artists will be able to perform it themselves.

Christensen really knows his stuff. He began his martial arts training in 1965 and over the years has earned 10 black belts, 7 in karate, 2 in jujitsu, 1 in arnis. As the author of 29 books, he has received high praise for his easy-to-read, informative writing style from readers and book reviewers in the United States, France and Russia. He is a retired police officer with some 30 years experience in military and civilian law enforcement.

Lawrence Kane
Author of Surviving Armed Assaults, The Way of Kata, and Martial Arts Instruction

Improved my punches and kicks
I liked this book. I've incorporated several of the exercises over the last six months and have improved in my punching and kicking. My backfists especially have gotten stronger from the lying backfist/tricep extension exercise. My front and roundhouse kicks have really improved power wise and, to my surprise, Ive added some nice muscle in my thighs.

Good book.

Good coverage but training information is old
I have to start this review by complimenting the author on his
enthusiasm and depth, his coverage of breaking tricks and his useful coverage of an unrelated topic: fighting strategy.For that, 5 stars.For the propagation of old information, 1 star.

Most of the "strength" training information provided is actually that used by body builders to increase muscle mass:medium high
weight, 10 reps/set, 30 secs rest between sets, train to failure.Powerlifters do not train this way, but narcissists do.The author mentions a few descriptions of strength
training, such as the paragraph on Gracie's weight lifting
and another instance of low reps/high weight/big rest training
program.Also, he mentions fast twitch muscle fiber development, but usually in the wrong training context,
such as endurance training.Fast twitch fibers deliver a high
force output over short durations and are quickly exhausted.
You can't train for endurance *and* power without sacrificing
the other.

The author also presents a forearm exercise routine
to increase grip strength.That's just mean. This makes me doubt that this book was written from personal experience.
He does write one paragraph on brick holding to increase
pinch grip power, but WAY more should be written on
finger and hand strength in a book on power training.
Check out John Brookfield's book on grip training.

Wrist weight and dumbbell air punching is just plain ol' backwards and dangerous.You really want to avoid training
muscles to slow down additional weight.So, you would train
either to throw the weight or have it decelerated by a target
such as a heavy bag.This external deceleration is the entire value of heavy bag training, and the author should know better.
Dumbell punching is the opposite of heavy bag training. To give him credit, the author does mention the use of punching weights into a heavy bag and throwing weights.

The routines provided will increase your power, but not as
efficiently as other methods. The author should
study modern strength and conditioning and update his book.
_Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning_ by Baechle and Earle .I anxiously await his second edition. ... Read more

Product Description
An introduction to one of the most sophisticated forms of self-defense in China. Includes numerous pressure-point techniques, as well as joint locks and escapes ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Hands off
This book is good in teaching how to restrain anyone dumb enough to put there hands on you. The techiques are very detailed so you can learn from a book and a partner to practice.

It's worth the time it takes to learn and practice these techniques.
Chinese Grappling: T'ien Shan P'ai Chin-Na, The Grappling Art ofSelf-Defense, Volume 1 by Willy Lin

This book is about specialized grappling hold and joint-lock techniques found in many of the asian martial arts.No particular style or school of martial arts has recognized claim as founder of these techniques.But, for now forget the name of the styles and the names given to the techniques by the styles.Examine the techniques and variations of the techniques.Then, take note ofthe assault scenarios in which they are applied.If you compare the applications and execution of these techniques from one style to another, you should see that they are all basically the same in principle and execution.Some Jujitsu schools or styles teach these techniques early in the course of a beginning student's instruction which is as it should be.Other schools, for whatever reason, choose to withhold instruction of these techniques until a student reaches some intermediate or advanced level of rank and claim that these are advanced techniques.Well, they are not advanced techniques because anyone can learn them.

These techniques are valuable for learning self-defense because successful application of these techniques against an assailant forces the assailant to recognize that a continuation of hostile actions will result in a continuation or intensification of pain the assailant will experience by being trapped in the technique and may even result in a serious injury to himself.Intense pain becomes the persuasive medium to cease hostile actions.

Therefore, these techniques should be learned by all beginning martial art or self-defense students as a way to perhaps prevent an escalation of violence at the moment an assailant initiates an aggressive act.This book covers the techniques at a beginning level and should not be thought of as providing answers to all situations for all individuals.It is simply a start.The author of this book also wrote a second volume to this subject of Chin-Na.If you read both books and practice most of the techniques to as many scenarios of assault as are covered, you will have some ability to defend yourselfin common assault scenarios.But, the person practicing must keep in mind that it is still just a beginning and by no means complete.

**Shotokan Karate students who practice the katas empi or wansu can see the real application of the first move in the kata when they perform the so called down block as they drop to one knee on page 114 and 124of Volume 1 where Willy Lin demonstrates a simpler variation of this technique to deal with an assailant who grabs the neck or chest or lapel.He uses this technique to trap the assailant's arm or throw the assailant to the ground.

** On pages 90 and 91 of Volume 1, Willy Lin uses a move found in Karate katas heian or Pinan 5 to free himself from an assailant who grabs both of his wrists.

If you find this information useful and you find that you like the book, there are several other instructional books and videos on Chin-Na available on Amazon or thru popular martial art magazines.Also, Willy Lin, as I already mentioned above, has written a second volume on this subject which you can also find on Amazon.

Other sources which include coverage on the same subject of holds and joint-locks include the following:

Chin-Na: The Grappling Art of Self Defense ISBN: 0897500954

Comprehensive Applications of Shaolin Chin Na: The Practical Defense of Chinese Seizing Arts for All Styles (Qin Na : the Practical Defense of Chinese Seizing Arts for All Martial Arts Styles)

Analysis of Shaolin Chin Na DVD (1st Edition-YMAA)Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming

Analysis of Shaolin Chin Na, 2nd Edition: Instructors Manual for All Martial Styles

Chin Na In Depth - Courses 1 - 4 (YMAA grappling)

Chin Na In Depth - Courses 5 - 8

Chin Na In Depth - Courses 9 - 12


Small-Circle Jujitsu by Wally Jay ISBN: 0897501225
Small-Circle Jujitsu, Vol 4 - Tendon, Tricep, Armbars and Armlocks by Wally Jay ASIN: B0001NJ9KI

Aiki-do Videosby Sam Combes ASIN: B0002KQQ4CASIN: B0002KQQ4MandASIN: B0002KQQ4W

Shorinji kempo;: Philosophy and techniques by Do Shin So




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Customer Reviews (7)

X guard only.
This book is X guard focused! A typical Kruass/Cordoza layout, with step by step pictures and well written commentary. This is all about the use of the X, from set up to execution, it does have a repetitive nature but I think is what ingrains the concept into your mind. Some great insights into the butterfly guard obviously as a precursor to the X. Good instructional but don't expect any esoteric or secret learning to take place.

Not sure about the feasibility.
I have flipped thru this book several times and came up with a major problem.

This book is most definitely not for MMA.My class have tried the X-Guard and found it to be worthless.The setup for it is too long and leaves you too exposed to punches and kicks to make it feasible.

If the title were changed to "The X-Guard: For Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and No Gi Grappling."I think it would be an excellent book for such.

Truly none can deny that Marcelo Garcia is one of the best in the world of jiu-jitsu.And after reading some of the book have found the submissions to be excellent.But the X-Guard itself is too open for counters in MMA especially from a striker.

I recommend this book for jiu-jitsu competition only.

New dimension to the game
If you want to add new dimension to your game, get this book. Better yet get his DVD as well.

Advanced Jiu Jitsu and Everything You Need to Know to Get There
It's no secret that I really enjoy Victory Belt's books. I think they've nailed the format for describing individuals' games and their specialities. They are definitely the market leader in the arena of working with a fighter to extract the information they need and put it into print.

It shouldn't surprise any readers, then, that I really liked the X-Guard by Marcelo Garcia.

The book has all the hallmarks of Victory Belt's previous works. The large format and detailed colour photography don't disappoint and actually go one better with this edition.

Not resting on their laurels, the guys at VB have introduced detailed inset photos where warranted. This is not a completely original concept by any means, but it is done as well here as with any other publisher.

One of the problems I thought I might have with the book is that I wouldn't be able to identify with Marcelo and the X-Guard. This was an issue with Eddie Bravo's books on the Rubber Guard. I don't really use the Rubber Guard and am not built well for it. I pretty much have had the same problem with the X-Guard.

That was until I read through this book. You see, my butterfly guard is a little...... agricultural. And that, it seems , is my problem with the X-Guard. Not my long legs and extraordinary height - my previous excuses.

The book is split into two sections. The first is on the butterfly guard and the second on the X-Guard, itself. Both are split into three subsections each. The butterfly guard section is the most detailed treatment I've seen of the topic in a book. The three subsections are titled "Basic Positioning & Grip Defense", "Sweeps & Transitions" and "Submissions".

Now, Marcelo Garcia can work his butterfly guard in a way I find amazing. It's something I'd never been able to do terribly well. I could work it well enough against white belts, but always had to let it go against people nearer my own skill level. This book, though, gives solutions to most of the problems I'd encountered in the past.

I had the same problem with the X-Guard. There was just no way known I was ever going to get my giant legs in position. It shouldn't surprise you to find I was doing it wrong, though. The details shown for the X-Guard helped me a great deal, but I believe it's my better understanding of the butterfly guard that has ealed the deal for me.

The X-Guard section is is split up in a similar way to the butterfly guard section with subsections called "Establishing the X-Guard", "Sweeps" and "Submissions".

All-in-all, I'd say this is one of those rare $24 books that have made a heck of a lot more than $24 worth of effect on my game.

It just keeps getting better, too. Erich Krauss and Glen Cordoza have been getting steadily better at writing, too. In the past, I've criticised their spelling and grammar in the introduction sections. Is it better in this book? The truth is, I don't know. I got so engrossed in Marcelo's story, I never bothered to check.

That's got to be a big tick in the box.

After a review like this, I like to put a little disclaimer to it......

I am no Marcelo Garcia fanboy. I've not watched his DVDs all the way through and I've seen maybe three of his matches. I have also been known to give Victory Belt some very pedestrian reviews, but they do impress me with their ability to improve with each publication. This book is the second of their catalogue to go in the Best of the Best category, but probably not the last if the quality continues this way.

A must have.
This is a must have for anyone willing to think outside the box when it comes to BJJ.The introduction itself is worth its purchase.Marcelo defines what it means to sacrifice for any goal or passion we all have inside.The detailed pictures and explaination leave no room for error.Get this ASAP. ... Read more

Product Description
With crashing kicks and well-placed punches the ninja devastates at will. By sculpting his body into a supple, lethal weapon, he can also dominate in close-quarter grappling. Here, the author Omoto Saiji reveals grappling motions for escape from any situation. These holds escapes and throws will give you a fighting edge. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Concise, direct, good healing-pressure-point & flex chapter.
I bought this book simply because it has a ( useful/good ) chapter on flexibility and pressure-points for healing.It is a very small book ( 104 pages ), and the author has a quality mind and is systematic/fairly-clear. Charles Daniels' Taijutsu gives a better sense of the way an integratedhuman ought move, but uses significantly more book to do so.IF you knowaikido++ and want to get a feel for taijutsu this'd probably sketch it wellenough, otherwise it's so small as to only describe it a bit.I lookforward to other work by Omoto Saiji. ... Read more