From the first enthusiastic kiai in the dojo to the solemn black belt presentation ceremony, students learn that karate is all about fitness, confidence, discipline and respect. "The Essential Karate Book" is a guide to martial arts, the history of karate, and a wide range of karate techniques. With 20 chapters covering practically every aspect of karate, this in-depth reference will assist students and instructors as they plot their course through karate instruction, benefiting those at all levels. "The Essential Karate Book" contains 200 diagrams mapping out moves, 300 color photographs, and a DVD, making it a comprehensive general karate reference for Western audiences. Readers will learn about: The origins of karateRequired behavior, clothing and etiquette, as well as the fundamentals of karate and the different styles that share themStances, blocks, strikes and kicksPreparing your body through warm ups, stretching, and conditioning through karate-specific exercisesKata grading and fighting (kumite) techniques and competition rulesMartial arts weapons (kobudo), and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) applications"The Essential Karate Book" is a must-have for any martial arts enthusiast, from beginner to black belt!

Author Biography

Graeme Lund fell in love with karate as a young man and pursued every martial arts course that he came across; from body guarding to body conditioning. When he graduated to First Dan he realized that teaching karate, not just the moves and techniques, but also the fundamentals and essence, was what he enjoyed most. Graeme lives in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.