Customer Reviews (8)

A good basic guide Jeet Kune Do kickboxing training techniques.
The late Bruce Lee studied numerous martial arts in the development of his Jeet Kune Do approach to combat.Kickboxing was one of the combat arts he studied. The authors both studied under the legendary Dan Inosanto, who was Bruce Lee's top student.The authors emphasize that "this is not a book on techniques" but rather just one way of looking at a particular combat method.The areas covered in this text include:A brief history of the Jeet Kune do kickboxing approach, basic hand tools use with equipment, the JKD stance, foot weapons, how to attack with combinations, progressive indirect attack, defensive tools and other training drills are demonstrated. One of the areas I disagree with in Jeet Kune Do is their use of the strong side leg and stong side hand forward in their kickboxing and fighting method.In conclusion, this is a good basic introduction to Jeet Kune Do Kickboxing, which will be of interest to most martial artists.Rating:4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Monadnock Defensive Tactics (MDTS) System, Use of the Monadnock Straight Police Baton, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques, Police Yawara Stick Techniques, Persuader Baton System, The Shotokan Karate Self-Defense Manual, Mini-Baton official course Manual, Samurai Aerobics, Season of the Warrior).

Decent start-up for stand-up fighting
This book wasn't designed for the sport of kickboxing; rather, it was designed to show the kicking and boxing aspects of Jeet Kune Do. This book shows basic punches and kicks with the forward and rear hand and foot, and their applications. There is also some discussion and applications shown of using footwork, along with these tools, to move in and out of range, or to bring different weapons to bear against an opponent. As well, some combinations, using both hands only, feet only, and hands and feet together are shown, as are the basic attacks, against equipment like focus mitts and kicking shields. Also discussed, briefly, is the progressive indirect attack. Defensive possibilities are then shown, including counterattacks, including slips, bridging, ducking, stop-hits, and more. The use of focus mitts in training for defense is covered in the same chapter. There's also a bit on attack by drawing, whereby one "baits" the opponent.The book then moves on to jab-catch drills, building off of the basic defensive movement into counter-offense.The book finishes with some parrying drills, some basic kicking drills, and a word or two about strategy vs. different opponents.The elements in this book focus on Jun Fan JKD, and in that sense it's very compatible with the "Bruce Lee's Fighting Method" series and "Jun Fan/ Jeet Kune Do: The Textbook".In fact, "Kickboxing" and "Textbook" are almost two halves of a whole: the former for the basic applications, the latter for more advanced tactics and strategies.Those interested in Jun Fan would not be disappointed with this book.

Good but not good enough
This book offers a glimpse at Jeet Kune Do principles as they are applied to the sport of Kickboxing. The focus mitt drills as well as the other drills are explained correctlly but the poor photography really doesn't reveal the tecniques in the best form. Also this book was written in the 80's as a current Asst. Instructor in JKD I can tell you that the techniques and strategies in JKD have changed quite a bit since this book was written. For a better read pick up Principles of a Complete Fighter by Ron Balicki. It gives you a good view of current JKD training and strategy

Good basic overview of Jun Fan Gung Fu's basic striking
Jeet Kune Do Kickboxing is a good overview of the basics of Jun Fan Gung Fu in the kicking and punching range. If you're already a Jun Fan / JKD student under a qualified instructor you probably won't get anything really new out of this, but it is a good reference for those of us who aren't good about taking notes. My only complaint is that the basic stance and footwork are only given about a page and a half, and IMO, those are two of the absolute most important things as they are the foundation for everything else. If you don't have a good stance and good footwork, everything else falls apart.

Terrible!
I have been kickboxing for fifteen years, and got this book in the hopes that it would offer some fresh perspectives on the subject.I was sorely disappointed.

The book has a kernel of good information, however, the stances, footwork, combinations and technique demonstrated are so clearly incorrect, I was surprized this book got published.Not only are the authors demonstrating poor technique, the layout and structure of the book doesn't facilitate clear instruction on the principles of fighting.

I realize that this book's bent is JKD kickboxing, however, I wouldn't use this book for anything other than a primer on how NOT to do martial arts.

Perhaps I got spoiled.When I first started fighting back in the 80's, I was lucky enough to get a copy of Jean-Yves Theiriault's "Full Contact Karate".This book has become a collectors item.When I see books like the one I just reviewed, I understand why people are willing to shell out [price] for a used copy of Theiriault's book. ... Read more

Product Description
* NEW REVISED VERSION * step by step instructions to help you develop a deeper understanding of the art of Jeet Kune Do. This book consists of over 483 pages and over 3300 photos of in-depth instructions, based on the Original Jeet Kune Do and modern development of Martial Arts. This book is a must for every serious Martial Artist of any style. The instructions in this book will help you develop a better and deeper understanding of Jeet Kune Do and scientific street self defense. The tutelage of this book will allow both beginners and advance practitioners alike to gain a full understanding of the methods and theories that lay behind JKD, an art that for many years a substantial amount of practitioners struggled with. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

VERY DISSAPOINTED!
I am a little perplexed by all the glowing reviews - the book is full of pictures and little writing/explanation/discussion of strategy or method. The book is expensive and there are better products on the market - D R SEAMAN is worth checking out and The Science of Streetfighting is an informative read. This book might be useful as a reference tool for practitioners but seems to be more of a compliment to a practising student rather than a stand alone knowledge base.Overated reviews in my opinion - but then there are so many positive reviews I wonder if I am missing something here?

Practical self defense system
I bought this book and have finished about 3 quarters of it.I think with a lot of practice and with the help of the dvd a person could train themselves to use this style of Jeet Kune Do and succesfully defend themselves in a street confrontation.Everything is explained thoroughly and there are tons of pics ,with some being closeups or alternate angles.I would recomend this book to anyone interested in learning Jeet Kune Do.

Not From True Lineage And Thus Makes Mistakes About Punches
Best condensation from allot of various knowledge but with allot of creative license. He needs to pay for a bunch more time training under Guru Dan.
This author is not certified from the original lineage (Guru Dan) only person in U.S. originally with permission, by Bruce, to teach Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do in the U.S. and thus makes some serious mistakes in punch integration in the book. Also, a big 0 in focus pad drills that only Guru Dan had directly from Bruce. (Focus pads was one of Bruce's favorite training methods.) Also, much creative license is taken with Wing Chun and Chinese names for things. This is a good book if you can get it cheap for some of the Wing Chun portions etc. but, Kevin Seaman's book is much better for real authentic JKD. Also, since there are so many less than original JKD books out there best to get either Dan Inosanto's DVDs on JKD. Or his son in law's Ron Balicki's DVDs or Paul Vunak's DVDs.
The author is obviously sincere and very studiously trained in things he could such as The Tao Of Jeet Kune Do. (Btw, unfinished massive collection of Bruce's notes he never meant for publication)
But, for the wing chun a good supplement try Yip Chuns book on Wing Chun or many other resources. (note you cannot get chi sao from a book either)
JKD was meant to be a creative process to take what you need and add what is specifically your own with what works best for you, BUT not to disregard the essentials. So, stick with originals is probably the best advice.

Good JKD book
While I have not finished this book, yet, it seems to be
a good addition to the JKD arsenal.Some spellings are
different, but no big deal!Good job!Thanks

really good book on the art of JKD
This book was simply amazing to read and to follow along on the different techniques, exercises, and drills. I have a question: Is this book supposed to be in color photos or just black and white? I got mine in black and white so I just wanted to know. This book goes through the 5 ways of attack in JKD, wooden dummy, sticky hands, energy drills, kicking drills, 1 inch punch/kick, and much much more! I am glad that I purchased this book and it is one of the best books of JKD on the market. ... Read more

Product Description
For the first time, here is the fundamental structure andfoundation of Bruce Lee's Jun Fan Gung Fu, including:

* footwork and mobility training

* offensive and defensive hand techniques

* simultaneous strike and block

* basic kicking techniques

* Jun Fan trapping

* Lee's 5-Way attack drillsMartial arts practitioners can learn the essentials of Jun Fan GungFu--a necessity before they expand their skills and explore their ownpath of Jeet Kune Do. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

High quality book by an Exceptional Sifu!
I have seen a number of books on Jeet Kune Do, but few that put it in terms so easily understood. I came to the study of Jeet Kune Do with a background of familiarity w/ Wing Chun. Many other books on Jun Fan seem to bear only slightly on the Wing Chun connection. This is understandable as Bruce Lee parted ways with much of that art, but it is at the root of his system, and Sifu Seaman does a wonderful job of showing Jun Fan's connection to Wing Chun principles. I would also say that, having spoken to him on the phone, his spirit of Hing-Dai (Kung Fu brotherhood) is most refreshing in a world of inflated egos. If you seek to understand the path of Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do, you really only need this book!

Great textbook on Jun Fan Gung Fu
I take Jun Fan Gung Fu with an Inosanto teacher, and this book is the perfect textbook for what we do in class. The author does an excellent job of discussing principles, but also techniques. The pictures are clear, and the text only really contains things you need, without extra extrapolations on stuff you don't need to learn. This is an excellent textbook on JKD/Jun Fan.

The best in traditional Jun Fan material
Personally, this is one of my favorite books on the subject of Jeet Kune Do.It is different in that it presents the more traditional Jun Fan Gung Fu as opposed to the method of Jeet Kune Do.Not many books do this, as they go right into "what's new" in Jeet Kune Do.Although there is nothing wrong with that, Mr. Seaman shows the reader the value of the original Jun Fan material.He covers basic trapping, Jun Fan kickboxing kicks, boxing, stance movement, etc.Overall, this is a treasured book in my martial arts library, as it is rare in that it shows techniques and ideas that other books gloss over.Just my opinion.

Great Supplementary Literature on JKD
I have read most of the Bruce Lee library, small to big. My never-ending search for more knowledge brings me to other authors such as Sifu Seaman who was instructed by Sifu Dan Inosanto (no introduction needed there). Not having any limits is what Sifu Bruce Lee always insisted. Also having now way as "way". Never stop learning. Never stop practicing. That's what I live by. This book is a great addition to any JKD practitioner. Improving the fundamentals of JKD is the core. You move to your own path from there.

Ben

-Be water, my friend- Sifu Bruce Lee

Excellent addition to any serious martial artist's library
This book is an excellent overview of the basics of Jun Fan Gung Fu, the Gung Fu system developed by the late Bruce Lee, using the concepts and principles of Jeet Kune Do. It is very well organized and well written and everything is very clearly explained and illustrated.

One thing in particular that I really like about this book is that the first two chapters cover Jun Fan's footwork (as in stance, mobility, etc., not kicking), the foundation upon which everything else is built, which makes it an excellent companion to Chris Kent and Tim Tackett's books "Jeet Kune Do Kickboxing" and "Jun Fan / Jeet Kune Do: The Textbook" which are also very good, but do not cover stance or footwork very well.

Excellent study guide for any Jun Fan / JKD student. ... Read more

Product Description
The Principles Theories & Practice of Jun Fan Gung Fu/Jeet Kune Do vol.1by
Sifu Panayiotis Argyridis
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Excellent Book On Bruce Lee's Methods!!!!
Panayiotis Argyrides has been my student for close to twenty years now.In this time he has been one of the most dedicated people that I have ever seen in his quest for knowledge of Bruce Lee's teaching, training and fighting methods.In this concise publication, Panayiotis has presented accurate written descriptions of the techniques, as well as an abundance of photos to guide the reader through the "how to" of the techniques presented.I must congratulate Panayiotis on an excellent piece of literary work, and I am already eagerly looking forward to Volume 2! ... Read more

Product Description
The scientific art of streetfighting as developed,practiced and taught by Bruce Lee. Here are the essential theories andtechniques of Jeet Kune Do, with lots of streetfighting applicationsand vital strategies for street defense, including

* centerline theory

* economy of movement

* longest-weapon-to-nearest-target

* visual focus principles

* target selection

* interception.Anyone interested in street defense, as well as students of theseforms, will be advanced by these brilliant, well-tested situations andtechniques. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (45)

Very good overview
Very good product indeed !
If you are looking for a practical, easy to follow introduction to JKD applied for the street, this is for you.
The book has good quality photos, and after an initial part where the theory and general JKD aspects are covered, the street scenarios are covered: various defenses against different attacks.

Great and very informative book
I have read this book from cover to cover and it really is a fantastic book on the art of Jeet Kune Do. Many theories and principles are explained and outlined for those who want a better understanding of the art. There are also many wonderful applications of techniques in the book. If you are a fan or student of JKD, you need to purchase this book!

Excellent, clear book
First a disclaimer: I am a new student of Sifu Davis.Now the review: I purchased this book approximately one (1) month ago at about the same time I began learning Jun Fan/Jeet Kune Do from Sifu Davis.This book has helped me with reinforcing the principles that Sifu Davis teaches in class.He is an excellent instructor who knows what he is doing and much useful information has been transferred into this book.The combination of his instruction, the information contained in this book, and his excellent DVD's is helping me learn Jun Fan/Jeet Kune Do much quicker than I imagined.This book is an excellent reference and starting point for learning this martial art the correct way.Also, I am not a beginning martial arts student; I have approximately 8 years of past experience in Shotokan Karate.This book has helped reinforce several principles that I believe have helped me in a month more than my previous 8 years of experience to develop basic skills that willbe of great usefullness in any street fight I should encounter.Specifically, 1. Power side forward, 2. Economy of Motion, and 3. Centerline; while many more basic skills are in this book, these 3 are the main ones I've been able to work on and they, as stated, are reinforced by this book so that I can get them correct when working at home.If you want to learn real JF/JKD than this book is the book you want to buy.AND, his video's are the ones you want to buy.

From a Woman's Point of View
I am amazed and disgusted to see that some people gave this book such a low rating!All that I can say is that these must be other JKD practitioners who are jealous of what Sifu Davis has accomplished in his career as a martial artist.Trust me, don't pay any attention to what these jerks have posted.They obviously don't have a clue.

I have seen many books on Jeet Kune Do, and this one is by far the best of all of them!Lamar M. Davis II brings a wealth of experience to the educated reader.The descriptions of the various theories and principles of Bruce Lee's martial art are extremely in-depth, and made easy to understand due to Davis' writing style.There is an abundance of photos in the book, and all are clear and easy to follow.The last section of the book is particularly interesting, as you see Bruce Lee's fighting method clearly defined as it applies to self defense situations.

I had seen Sifu Davis in many martial arts magazines before, and found his articles on Jeet Kune Do to be extremely in-depth and to the point.The articles always left me anxious to see what he had coming next.Needless to say, I was extremely excited to see that he had finally written a book!I was very happy to get my hands on it, and have read and re-read it many times.I hope that he will write many more.As a woman interested in learning effective self defense, I found exactly what I wanted in this book.Don't just get it, GET IT NOW

Nothing Better
This is the best book I have seen for explaining the basic principles of JKD. It is a good book for any martial artist to have on his shelf and a necessary book for a JKD practitioner! It will help reinforce the skills of someone who already has knowledge in JKD and fill in a huge void for the beginner. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

A good basic guide to Jeet Kune Do techniques and tactics.
There are probably more books written on Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do than any other single combat art(the exception may be Jujitsu).The author has the distinction of having been trained by Dan Inosanto, Bruce Lee's top student and well-known Filipino martial arts expert.The informative book does a superb job of explaining, in a simple way, what the nature of Jeet Kune Do is, and more importantly, what it is not. This 123 page text covers the nature of fighting, the four ranges of combat, learning combat flow, the twenty six fighting elements of Jun-fan, the role of Kali, JKD's mental principles of combat and much, much more. In conclusion, this is a good basic guide but one cannot learn any physical skill without actual practice under the watchful eye of an instructor. Rating: 4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Monadnock Defensive Tactics (MDTS) System, Use of the Monadnock Straight Baton, PR-24 Police Baton advanced Techniques, Police Yawara Stick Technqiues, Pro-Systems Combatives Official manual Vol. 1,2.)

good insights
I would pick this book up before it goes out of print and is not available. I study JKD and this book provides a lot of interesting insights about JKD, ranges of fighting, intensity ("killer instinct") in the way only Paul Vunak can do it. I recommend this book.

lukewarm
I have yet to come across a good martial arts book, for some reasons martial artists seems to not come across well in written words or in acting for that matter. Having said that, I like the book for what it is trying to convey; JKD's basic concepts and philosophy, at least the title conveys the content of the book.

I've been training in Muay thai/escrima for quite some time and my basic principle has always been the same; keep it simple, fluid and effective. I carried this philosophy to my vocation and life as well. My only critique is the list of arts that are foundation of JKD. But somewhere in the book, Paul mentioned thatJKD is what you make it to be. Sort of like a liberal arts education in college; one can major in English, Lit, history, film studies, math etc. I like the JKD concepts that applies to MA. But it is what it is; only a concept of fluid thinking. The key is that one still needs to pick an art that works for oneself--in my case, Muay thai/escrima. And for the streets, I use modified muay thai. After all the thai commandos trained in "real" muay thai for combat.

A good first book
This book is great in the opening chapters.This is the section that breaks many a martial arts taboo and discusses developing your athletic attributes the best of your abilities.No crap about strength not being unnecessary or anything like that.Rather just good clear argument about the importance of being a healthy athlete.So the book offers practical, albeit condensed, advice on developing your attributes, strength, speed, agility, perception etc.THere is also a good overview of the strategy utilized by the JKD fighter in a fight.
That is all the text section.The technique section just does not further illuminate the message of the body of the text.The pictoral treatment is simply a series of this is how it could go in a fight maybe.This section fails to drive home the greater theme the JKD fighter is operating under.Which is too bad, but hey this is a first attempt to make available in a small volume the take home message of JKD.

Don't bother...
Save your money and pass on this book. Actually I'm a fan of Paul Vunak and I love his videos but this book doesn't cut it!
If you are absolutely new to JKD then you may be interested, otherwise look at some other titles, even Vu's Anatomy of a Streetfight is OK (but padded with large pictures). ... Read more

Product Description
In this fantastic book by, Larry Hartsell- one of the worlds leading authorities on Bruce Lees Jeetkunedo-you will discover the imperative component of Lees art Conditioning Training Methods, calisthenics, neck conditioning, leg conditioning, focus gloves training methods.Grappling concepts that are a 'must know in todays martial art circles.This fully illustrated practical manual also includes an exclusive interview with the author shedding light on Bruce Lee's conditioning and grappling concepts.Also includes exclusive photos and Lees original training program from the authors personal archives.This book belongs on the book shelves of every serious martial artist.600 b/w photos. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

GRAPPLING? STILL AN ART! ART ISNT ALWAYS WHATSPRACTICAL!
grappling-its a sport but sport isnt always whats practical.it adds to the curriculum so teachers can teach you more and put more money into their pockets! really think about it! using two of your hands to tie up your opponants one arm, which still leaves him an arm to use,is pretty silly and dangerous on the street and in sparring.dont believe me ! take it for checking! try it yourself and tell your partner to use the other hand while you go for your grapple! his imaginary eye jab,throat punch,groin slap,backfist to your head or whatever he uses that is an effective tool ,will get you! dont believe me try it yourself! believe me this is why bruce emphasized his eye jab so much-of course i dont advocate going to the eyes as much as bruce did-but i think it was bruces way of pointing out that simplicity is what works-even a backfist to the head,a headbutt,an elbow,a knee is more effective and less likely to fail than 99.9999999% {if not 100%} of most grappling techniques!!!!! lw

Same old same old
This book is no more than a rehash of what has already been written about in countless other books on JKD. The grappling material is very basic and limited. It is better covered and explained in other submission fighting books. There also should have been more closeups on the holds being applied as it is difficult to see many of them. Not something I would highly recommend unless you are just starting out.

It means, "Conditioning and Grappling Basics".
This is a good book for martial artists starting out. I have been in Martial arts for awhile. This book will help you get in shape and work on flexibility, if you don't already know how to do that. I recommend it to someone that wants to see what Jeet Kune Do involves and what kind of moves there are in Jiu-Jitsu. Pick one up, a good book for an all around freestyle martial artist. ... Read more

Product Description
Achieve a greater understanding of the art and practice of JKD through the insightful, thought-provoking research of Jerry Beasley. A martial artist who trained extensively with Joe Lewis, Beasley takes a logical approach to solving the mysteries, riddles and puzzles Bruce Lee left behind. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Classical Mess Of JKD Solved
This Book is excellent for anyone wanting to know more about Jeet Kune Do. Every Martial Artist in the world has asked themselves exactly what is JKD? Since so many claim to know, but very few people really answer that question, I am glad that Dr. Jerry Beasley was able to put the concepts of what is and is not Jeet Kune Do so simply. I know that I'm not the only one out there who has been confused by the whole JKD Concepts and Nuclues debate. Dr. Beasley takes out all the confusion behind JKD and allows the reader to "absorb what is useful and reject what is useless."

Good for those new to JKD.
Rather than this book the ones written by Dan Inosato are highly recommended to experienced martial artists.This book, however, is good introduction to one of the main JKD phylosophy "Use no way as a way,no method as a method."This book is suitable for those not familiarwith JKD concepts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

interesting but very basic
This book is interesting in the fact that there is plenty of stuff on Bruce Lee and some of his old training equipment but the the drills are all very basic and boring.

If you can find it get it.
I have only checked this book out at the library, and I am still looking for a personal copy. If you can find it, get it. Mr. Inosanto is a virtual wealth of knowledge and any tips he can give are helpful in training. ... Read more

Product Description
Burton discusses the concepts that bind all martial arts together.He provides information on martial philosophy and tactics; he then explains in detail five components shared by all martial arts - ranges, postures, attributes, techniques and training. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Does not deliver
The first half of this book does a pretty good job of scientifically breaking down martial arts and training.The book starts off showing different symbolic jestures in the martial arts, such as bowing, and then explains the meaning of Bruce Lee's JKD symbol, then Richardson's JKDU symbol.Whoopie.Next is a list of the tennets of JKDU's philosophy, as well as it's fighting philosophy/tactics.Interesting that the two should be separate.There's actually some good stuff here, though.Next, the five ways of attack are explained, as well as the three ways of defense; all very scientific, and all are included in any good JKD book elsewhere.Mr. Richardson then gives his seven ranges of combat.There are four empty-hand ranges and three weapons ranges.I've grown out of the whole range concept thanks to "Mastering Jiu-Jitsu" by Renzo Gracie, and I'd recomend that book to any martial artist.Six different postures are then classified; this does little more than make you aware that your body can be in at least six different possitions.Then there's three pages on how there are billions of techniques, and a good bit about techniques as words, and how you learn to write your own sentences.Different methods of training are classified next, including a section on spiritual training.Once again, this is more or less to classify what you are doing.Then, from pages 56-137, there is nothing but crap.Not really crap, just a bunch of techniques to show you how much the author knows, really.There wasn't much here that was related back to JKD principles.If you don't know a lot of techniques, then this section might interest you.Overall, though, I didn't see anything really new on the JKD front, and it seemed like the author just wrote this book to promote himself and his "style", not to help others grow in the martial arts.Nothing at all like the other JKD books out there.It's a shame, because I do like Mr. Richardson's articles in IKF, and I hear that he's a good instructor.Shame none of that showed in this text.

Weak
Not the best work on JKD. Padded with pictures this book does convey the essence of JKD Concepts but I was looking for more of a techniques oriented text. Try Entering to Trapping to Grappling by Hartsell if you're like me and want to see some techniques you can add to your repetoire.

Very limited
Usually Richardson is a bit more eloquent in his monthly writings in IKF but this is one of the worst books on "Concepts" ever conceived.

The text is rather pointless and shallow while most of the book is pictures of techniques that IMHO only work on a still training partner.

Save your money.I bought this used and feel cheated.

Confused
In my opinion no one can express what jeet kune do is really about except the master Bruce Lee himself since he never really got into the hardcore aspects of it before his tragic death. All these people who think they knowJeet Kune Do have no idea that what they do know could be no more then the2nd class of it. The real tragic part is no one alive knows the full art ofJeet Kune Do since his son passed away. He hadnt taught anyone long enoughfor anyone alive to know all of Jeet Kune Do.

The real purpose of jeet kune do
This book was not designed to be a manual for self defense. It was written to show how martial artist can apply the principals and philosophy of Jeet Kune Do to their art and this book accomplishes this feat perfectly. Thisbook will help martial artists of any style and will hopefully teach themto forget about the limitaions of conforming to one specific style and willencourage them to intergrate all they can into their training to makethemselves well rounded fighters who have an answer to every combatsituation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Average
I ordered this book in anticipation of getting a new JKD book for my library.I have been teaching JKD for some time and was anxious to get a different perspective on Bruce Lee's system.I found the book to be a bit preachy.Although I do not know Mr. Korol he seems very opinionated on a great many things; which is ok if one says that they are opinion.However many of the passages are written as a matter of fact which I found a bit distasteful.There were also many portions that went off tangent from what I thought was the main topic "Jeet Kune Do".I also noticed a consistent "JKD Concepts" bashing which didn't help. For those that do not know about this there seems to be various interpretations of JKD and the "Concepts" school obvious differs from Mr. Korol's view; again not a problem per se if it was just stated as opinion and not fact.I wish the book had been written from a more neutral perspective.For the record I've tried embracing all things JKD without falling into one camp of the other; so as a matter of consequence I have no dog in the JKD fight.There were some helpful sections in the book so there is some merit to the work.Also, Mr. Korol seems to be very well spoken utilizing very precise language which I enjoyed. Overall the work could be beneficial taken within the context expressed in this review.

understanding jkd
I will say understanding jkd by Jason p Korol is one of the best books out on Brucelee art jkd Jason gives the best explation of jkd and all its princaples I really love an learned a lot from what you said in the book I hope you do another book on jkd you are the best keep up the good work Charles Smith out.

A much-needed analysis of the philosophy and strategy of JKD
At long last, someone has written a book that focuses on the structure and philosophy of JKD.There are already many good technique-oriented books on the market (such as those by Burton Richardson, Chris Kent, and Larry Hartsell), and Sifu Korol does not try to retread this ground.Instead he offers an in-depth, critical analysis of the fundamental principles of scientific self-defense.This is a book that should be taken seriously by any student of the martial arts who aims to train realistically.As an instructor of Jeet Kune Do and jujitsu, I can heartily recommend this work.

A definitive book about martial arts.

Full disclosure:I am a student of the author.

Understanding Jeet Kune Do is a definitive book about martial arts and Jeet Kune Do.

Jason Korol is the Head Instructor at Downtown Martial Arts in Greenville, SC.

This book is not about technique.The "book, ... , is about why Jeet Kune Do is the science of self-defense." (page 5).

In the tradition of Bruce Lee, Sifu Jason asks fundamental questions about the purpose of martial arts and Jeet Kune Do in particular.The answers to those questions create a set of criteria that Sifu Jason uses to evaluate martial art techniques for inclusion into Jeet Kune Do.Do the techniques further the purpose of Jeet Kune Do enhancing Jeet Kune Do's effectiveness? The criterion also allows Sifu Jason to discover new techniques to incorporate into Jeet Kune Do.

Two questions asked by "Understanding Jeet Kune Do" are 1) What is the purpose of a martial art, 2) How does the martial art achieve those goals?While other martial arts can have various purposes, Jeet Kune Do's objective is real self-defense."Real" is meant literally; not in a sporting sense but in the context of street fighting.Given the purpose of self-defense how does Jeet Kune Do provide a human being, who has two legs, two arms, ten fingers, two feet and a set of teeth, the means to defend him or herself against other human beings in deadly circumstances.

In asking these questions about Jeet Kune Do and martial arts, Sifu Jason gives the reader a way to evaluate any martial art.Whether or not the reader wants to learn Jeet Kune Do, the book gives them strong criteria to understand and a critical look at any martial art.

A few quotes from the Introduction will illustrate my points.

"My goal with this book is to show that Jeet Kune Do is not purely a matter of personal interpretation but an exacting and logical science of self-defense whose teaching must include certain techniques, training principles and strategies in order to truly be Jeet Kune Do."(page 7).

"... Jeet Kune Do is the science of self-defense, ..." (page 8).

"The goal of self-defense is to annihilate or neutralize a threat while putting yourself in the least amount of danger possible.There are many ways to conduct your affairs in combat but only one way is the best way in any given context.The true goal of a Jeet Kune Do practitioner is to discover the best and most integrated way [of combat]... " (page 8).

"Jeet Kune Do techniques and principles, unlike many others [martial arts] are integrated to meet the demands of reality [real streetfighting]."(page 9)

"There is a counter to every technique and a counter to that too, but none to superior positioning." (page 9)

"I have also included a rather comprehensive definition of the philosophy of self-defense as well as the ethical guidelines that every person must consider.This is necessary because self-defense and violence are serious subjects."(page 11)

I strongly recommend the book for anyone with interest in martial arts.

The Definitive Jeet Kune Do Book
This book is the most comprehensive volume on Jeet Kune Do ever published. It details the entire basis for rational self defense and includes the entire RATIONAL Jeet Kune Do "skeleton". The author writes in a manner clearly, and hierarchically logical and covers the material from the first, most important step through. If you are not immediately motivated by the section on attribute development and training, CHECK YOUR PULSE! You may be dead already. :) Do NOT check your brain at the door!

Rusty Starkey - amapjkd1@charter.net
... Read more

Product Description
Jeet Kune Do, A NEW ERA is a picture illustration book designed to explore self defense in the groundfighting range.The subtitle is Groundfighting and Counters to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Due to Bruce Lee's untimely passing you might say the range of groundfighting was left unfinished business. Alan Ground picks up where Bruce Lee left off.

Even the most skilled Jeet Kune Do fighter becomes vulnurable when taken to the ground.That is why Jeet Kune Do Groundfighting was created.The moves shown will allow the JKD artist to continue to "flow like water," even if taken to the ground. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

NOT Jeet Kune Do, and not worth your money.
After browsing this book AGAIN at the local MA store, I am only further convinced that all of the good reviews of it here are by friends of the author trying to help him out. It is not about Jeet Kune Do, it is a collection of poorly presented grappling techniques that appear to come primarily from BJJ.

Like another reviewer said, the author mentions no certifications or instructorship under any recognized JKD instructor. Also, like the other reviewer said, "studying" someone is hardly the same as studying WITH someone. I challenge the author to provide proof of instructor certification in JKD. Without that, the author has no business claiming to be writing about Jeet Kune Do.

The author seems to just be using the name Jeet Kune Do to promote his book. Obviously, if it just had a title like "Ground Fighting" or "Ground Fighting Techniques and Counters" or "Practical Ground Fighting Skills for the Street", then it would not stand out among the many grappling and ground fighting books available by recognized grappling experts such as the Machados and Gracies and a true Jeet Kune Do instructor and grappling expert, Larry Hartsell.

If you're interested in learning more about Jeet Kune Do, my first recommendation is to search for a qualified instructor. There is a directory of certified instructors at Dan Inosanto's web site. For those who don't know, Dan Inosanto was Bruce Lee's long time friend and student, and one of only three people who Bruce certified to teach Jun Fan Gung Fu and Jeet Kune Do (the others being Taky Kimura and the late James Lee). Most of the other original Chinatown school students like Larry Hartsell continued to train with Dan Inosanto after Bruce's death.

There is absolutely nothing that can take the place of learning firsthand from a qualified instructor. This is not to say that books and videos aren't helpful, as they can serve as useful study guides and sometimes help us to understand certain aspects of an art or fill in the holes in the notebooks of those of us who don't keep very good class notes (if you don't keep a training journal, start now!). Having said that, my second recommendation is to read all of the books on JKD by Chris Kent, Tim Tackett, Larry Hartsell, John Little, Ron Balicki and the excellent book on Jun Fan by Kevin R. Seaman, and if you can find them, Dan Inosanto. The book Jeet Kune Do Conversations by Jose Fraguas is also excellent.

If you are interested in grappling books, then I would recommend Larry Hartsell's JKD books and Marc MacYoung's "Floor Fighting", as well as The Fighter's Notebook.

I do not, however, recommend spending your money on this book, as it is not JKD, and it is not a very good grappling book either. If you are still considering it because of all the 5 star reviews (which I suspect were posted by friends of the author), I suggest browsing it first at your local martial arts store if they bothered to stock it. I'm glad I did, as it saved me from wasting my money on it.

If your attacked on the street...
By a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guy, then this is a great book to have.But since 99% of the time the attacker a. does not know martial arts, b. has a weapon of some sort, and c. cannot grapple at all, this book is not the most useful in my posession.I can see the pros and cons, but this book was made more for the ring, I would say, then the street.it is, however, very well written and and photos are clear, so it isn't a bad quality book, butI don't see it as useful on the street.If you want to add some kind of grappling to your JKD, I would check out any of Larry Hartsell's books or Ron Balicki's book is very good and has some useful grappling inside.Just my opinion.

Grappler definitely recommends it
As an experienced grappler, I had always been fond of JKD and its concepts and now Alan Ground combines both of my interests into one.I first learned about Alan Ground and his works in either Black Belt or Inside Kung-Fu magazine where I saw the article on him titled "Jeet Kune Do Groundfighting?"At first, I was skeptical but his interesting theories intrigued me, so I bought the book.I have been a practitioner in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, submission wrestling, Russian sambo, and have won letters in high school for wrestling.I am pretty confident I know my stuff, so I find a lot of merit in Ground's book.If you want a good book on groundfighting to adapt to your JKD, I definitely recommend this book.

Ein sehr gutes Buch zum Thema Bodenkampf !
Seitdem das brazilianische Jiu-Jitsu in der amerikanischen Kampfsportszene für enormes Aufsehen sorgte, wird heute die Wichtigkeit des Bodenkampfes von keinem ernstzunehmenden Kampfsportler mehr geleugnet. Alan Ground hat hier eine Vielzahl von Techniken für den Bodenkampf zusammengestellt, die zum Teil aus dem brazilianischen Jiu-Jitsu entnommen sind, dieses aber nach seinen Worten teilweise sogar kontern und übertreffen können.

MAGNIFICENT!!!!!
Excellent book on ground fighting. Who cares if there are typos and bad use of grammar, I�m not reading it to for my use of English.Alan Ground gives the reader straight forward, effective, street fighting techniques. The pictures could be of better quality And arrangement (though Mr. Ground does explain how to read the book), This is nothing Compared to what I have seen in other Martial arts Publications. True it is best to learn from a instructor, but some of us are not located near a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school. I can�t wait for his next book to come out. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Truth will set you Free
Absorb what is useful is about finding out what works for you as an individual and absorbing it into your whole being. Bruce believed that absorbing what is useful is paramount to succeeding in the martial arts and life. This book is excellent.

absorb this book , it is very useful!
this superb book explains the phylosophy of bruce-lee as well as the diffrents of movie's spectacular techniques compare to the real useful and practical techniques of jeet kune do techniques that work on the streetfighting.the photos shows the diffrents in movements,tactics and strategyof jeet kune do.a self defence against an armed attacker,and how to defendfrom a very awkward positions.the main purpose of this book is to show youthe main diffrence between a real strategy -tactic skills in fightingcompare to the not effective fighting skills. the very skillful student ofbruce-lee (daniel inosanto) is also very skillful in explaining thebook,with also many tips on bruce-lee. the most practical book on martialart that is whole,pro,and easy to follow. highly recommanded!

The best JKD textbook.
Written by the best student of the legend Bruce Lee, Dan Inosanto, this book touches the most in-deapth JKD phylosophy as well as tactics.This book is best for advanced level martial artists. ... Read more