Karate: The Art of "Empty Hand" Fighting

The devotees of the martial arts in the United States, particularly Karate, now number in the hundreds of thousands. While rising concern about violent crime undoubtedly accounts for some of this interest, the main reason can be found in the nature of the martial arts themselves. Emphasizing discipline, speed and grace of movement, the martial arts have their historical and kinesthetic roots in both combat and dance. Of the many unarmed martial arts, Karate is both the most popular and most effective. Its techniques of combat and ritualized formal exercises are an excellent method of mental and physical self-development and also an enjoyable form of recreational exercise.

KARATE: The Art of “Empty Hand” Fighting is probably the best single introductory book available on the subject. Not to be confused with cheap paperback “courses” guaranteed to make you an expert overnight, this is a professionally produced text, written by authors both literate and of unquestioned competence in the martial arts. Through hundreds of dramatic photographs, all basic kicks, strikes, blocks and stances are clearly depicted. The accompanying written explanation is also exceptionally clear. Also, virtually unique among such works, most techniques are photographed from several different angles at each stage of execution, leaving little doubt how to perform them. Common errors are also described and photographed.

In addition to basic technique, a wealth of other material is provided: a brief history of Karate, warm-up exercises, sparring, throws, a complete form (Heian 4), and defenses against holds, and knife, club and pistol attacks. For those wishing to train on their own, a complete 65-lesson program is included.

For either the beginning or advanced student, Karate: The Art of “Empty Hand” Fighting provides invaluable material. For the person merely interested in “what Karate is all about,” the text and hundreds of accompanying photographs make for informative and exciting reading.

Reviewed by Jarret B. Wollstein / (251 pages, indexed) / BFL Price $8.75