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Title: Kung Fu: History, Philosophy, and Technique (Kung-Fu) by David Chow, Richard Spangler ISBN: 0-86568-011-6 Publisher: Unique Publications Pub. Date: 01 December, 1980 Format: Paperback Volumes: 1 List Price(USD): $14.95 |
Average Customer Rating: 4 (11 reviews)
Rating: 4
Summary: Very good info on Kung Fu
Comment: This book was originally published in 1977 as a way to introduce Westerners to the complex history and traditions of Kung Fu. This book covers the history of the Chinese martial arts quite well, given the space they had to work with. The history goes all the way back to the bronze age, and is followed throught the centuries. Bodhidharma, the legendary figure who brought the movements of Kung Fu and the philosophy of Chan (Zen) to the Shaolin temple is given an entire chapter. The Taoist influence over the Chinese arts is mentioned, specifically when talking about the internal styles of T'ai Chi, Pa Kua, and H'sing Yi. The emphasis is on T'ai Chi. Several external styles of Kung Fu are featured as well: Northern Shaolin, Dragon, Wing Chun, White Crane, Praying Mantis, Monkey, Hung Gar, and Choy Lee Fut. Each style is given a one or two page description that includes history, techniques, fight strategy, and overall philosophy. There is also a chapter on Chin Na, but those familiar with other Chin Na works will find that the techniques covered here, while effective for self-defense, don't even come close to showing the complexities of the "seizing and controlling" art. There is also a chapter on how to perform amazing feats, with much of the text taken from an ancient Chinese book. I believe that this chapter has some value, though I can't verify the various Kungs that emphasise Chi power. The last bits of the book are on Kung Fu films, the Westernization of Kung Fu, and some neat little proverbs. Overall, this book is very good for introducing people to the Chinese martial arts, whith a very broad range of subjects covered. There are some weaknesses, though, notably that the text seems a little dated, and the photos are in awful condition. Still, the self-defense moves are fairly practical, and the insight into the history of Kung Fu and the different styles makes this book worth buying.
Rating: 4
Summary: Good historical, philosophical overview of Kung Fu styles
Comment: I really enjoyed reading this book -- it has something for everyone. I've re-read parts of it several times already. From historical background on many popular Kung Fu styles, to detailed descriptions and photographs of David Chow performing Chin Na techniques. From interesting reading on Kung Fu philosophy and wisdom to discussions on the Westernization of Kung Fu. An outstanding buy for the price, IMO.
Rating: 3
Summary: limited overview of chinese boxing culture
Comment: This is a good book for someone just starting to explore martial arts. Chow gives historical information about the origins of chinese martial arts (legends included), brief overviews of the more mainstream internal and external chinese boxing styles, some chin na techniquue, chinese philosoophy and training methods and disciplines. Has a cool section on some obscure styles of martial chi kung. Also talks about the spread of martial arts into western pop culture. This book helped me get started in kung fu and provides a lot of information about chinese boxing. I only give it 3 stars because the information held within the book is limited and common place upon further study of chinese boxing.
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Title: Art of Shaolin Kung Fu: The Secrets of Kung Fu for Self-Defense Health and Enlightenment (Tuttle Martial Arts) by Wong Kiew Kit ISBN: 0804834393 Publisher: Tuttle Publishing Pub. Date: 01 November, 2002 List Price(USD): $15.95 |
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Title: Shaolin Fighting: Theories, Concepts by Douglas L. Wong ISBN: 086568006X Publisher: Unique Publications Pub. Date: 01 June, 1975 List Price(USD): $7.50 |
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Title: The Tao of Gung Fu: A Study in the Way of Chinese Martial Arts (Bruce Lee Library, Vol 2) by Bruce Lee, John Little ISBN: 0804831106 Publisher: Tuttle Publishing Pub. Date: 01 November, 1997 List Price(USD): $18.95 |
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Title: Zen in the Martial Arts by Joe Hyams ISBN: 0553275593 Publisher: Bantam Books Pub. Date: 01 July, 1982 List Price(USD): $6.99 |
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Title: Power Training in Kung Fu and Karate by Ron Marchini, Leo Fung ISBN: 0897500474 Publisher: Ohara Publications Pub. Date: 01 June, 1974 List Price(USD): $17.00 |
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