Kumite Tips #1/Kumite Tips #2/Kumite Tips #3/Kumite Tips #4/Kumite Tips #5/Kumite Tips #6/Kumite Tips #7/Kumite Tips #8/Kumite Tips #9
Kumite Drills # 1/Kumite Drills # 2/Kumite Drills # 3
Kumite Strategy #1/
Book Description
The Martial Way is nothing less than self-cultivation and the promotion of virtuous conduct.
Customer Reviews
Helpful aid to my martial arts quest.
Two recent events have galvanized me towards seeking the deeper aspects of martial arts. First was competing in a local tournament, where things got a bit out of control in the sparring ring. The second was my Shihan's announcement that I'm up for possible promotion to Shodan (1st degree black belt). Both events jolted me out of my comfort zone, and I knew I needed to reassess where I was at as a martial arts practitioner.
I began to study some of my Soke's writings, and also looked for works by other senior martial artists. However, my goal was not to master secret techniques or win tournament sparring in 7 easy steps. Instead, I sought out writers who dealt with the philosophical underpinnings of the martial arts. I wanted to explore the "why" behind the "what." "The Martial Way and its Virtues" grabbed my eye, and it was an excellent beginning to my quest.
For full disclosure, I'm a Christian practicing in a Christian dojo. That means my ultimate master is Jesus Christ, and my beliefs, presuppositions, morals, and so on rest upon the Bible. For those who may fret about that, or think Christianity and martial arts don't mix, be assured that this book does not have a Christian bent. Indeed, Sensei Chu draws from such diverse sources as Confucius, Soren Kierkegaard and Carlos Castaneda to make his points. However, my particular style is Shiho Karano, and a key aspect is that we have an open approach to knowledge and learn from all.
It was with that attitude I read "The Martial Way," and I was not disappointed. Sensei Chu writes using a clear and accessible style. The book is organized into three parts that respectively deal with philosophy, strategy and technique, and spirituality. Smaller sections flesh out each part, and titles such as "Lose Your Ego" and "Practice Real Life" indicate the specific focus. Overall, Sensei Chu wants his book to serve as "a call to practicing martial artists everywhere and to aspirants of the martial Way (page 3)." His guiding philosophy is "Tao De Gung," the pure essence of the martial arts.
Of particular interest to me was Sensei Chu's take on Shodan promotion. He indicates there are two paths a newly minted Shodan can choose. One is the "beginning of the end," usually taken by those whose main purpose was earning the black belt. They have reached their goal, and therefore leave the martial arts and go on to the next thing. But there's a second path as well, called the "end of the beginning." Here, the Shodan realizes he is just starting a lifelong quest towards a deeper life in the martial Way. That person maintains a "beginner's mind", and humbly acknowledges that he will always be a student who learns just as much (or more) by teaching as by doing. That's how I'd like to be.
Stressing the importance of a responsible code of conduct5
Accessibly written by F. J. Chu (a certified black belt instructor in Kenpo Karate), The Martial Way And Its Virtues: Tao De Gung is an informed and informative treatise on the mentality and physical and moral demands of following the path of life embraced by martial arts. Stressing the importance of a responsible code of conduct and higher ideals intertwined with learning physical and combat-related skills, The Martial Way And Its Virtues is an intriguing work and recommended supplemental reading for all students and practitioners of the martial arts. Also very highly recommended is the YMAA Publications website at www.ymaa.com.
A very good book
Indulgent Samurai Review...
I really liked reading this book, as it exemplifies everything this blog is about, in terms of the integration of the mind, body and spirit, through the rigorous training in the Martial Arts.
It gives a brief history of the Martial arts as far as origin and reasons why the Martial Way was developed in the first place.
It enforces the idea of the Martial Arts as a "Way of Life" rather than simply an intricate form of exercise or a philosophical ideal.
Through dedication and practice, the Martial Artist loses his ability to distinguish between the world of his everyday life and the life in the Dojo.
The Martial Artist learns that the lessons revealed from dedicated training, are pragmatic, applicable and powerful tools to be used as a buffer against the onslaught of everyday life.
The lessons of war, strategy and knowing your opponent, give the Martial Artist a distinct advantage over his fellow man. He learns that action alone counts and that by using death as an adviser, each action is done with a purpose and reason, as there is no recklessness in the life of a Warrior...
The "Martial Way" is a signpost for all serious Martial Artists who travel along the path of self discovery and come to a fork in the road. One can choose the safe and familiar path, and never go beyond his limitations. Or one can choose the unknown of the empty void and risk everything, but if successful consequently reap the benefits and rewards. Only the individual Martial Artist can make that choice...
To paraphrase Don Juan, "...we are obligated to seek out all there is to know about our lot as men and then to find out that there is much, much more, than we ever thought was possible"
Purchase this book from the Indulgent Samurai Store (Amazon.com) for as little as $15.95...
Don't forget to check out other exciting books and dvd's on Karate, Martial Arts, Zen, Weapons, Nutrition and Health from the Indulgent Samurai Store...
RJF
