All the basic points of karate arranged systematically for effective learning, step by step--the parts of the body used as natural weapons, the stances, how to block, how to attack, introduction to the kata and to kumite. The fundamentals as presented in this volume, briefly but accurately, are the distillation of the author's forty-six years' experience in this art of self-defense. As well as setting forth the basic rules that must be put into practice when performing kata or applying techniques in kumite, this volume pinpoints the underlying physical and physiological principles of karate: source and concentration of power; stance, form, stability and technique; movement in all directions; basic and comprehensive aspects of training.

This volume is one of a series presenting all karate and "kumite" practicedy the Japan Karate Association. Each chapter contains photographs of annstructor of the Association executing a certain technique.

Fully described and illustrated in this volume are the widely practiced Bassal and Kanku kata from the JFA recommended group. The student learns fast and slow techniques, the dynamics of strength, how to turn weakness into strength, changing directions, jumping and going to ground.

Kata, the formal exercises of karate training, were the essence of practice in Okinawa and China, and are the core training method even today.Detailed here in 1500 sequential photos are the five Heian and three Tekki kata, mastery of which is necessary to attain first dan. Demonstrated by the author and Yoshiharu Osaka.

"Simple, clear, easy to learn…Dispenses with hours of needed to practice for the professional…Outstanding primer on self–defense." — Marine Corps Gazette Practical Karate: Fundamentals of Self–Defense is the first volume in the classic six–volume series by Masatoshi Nakayama and Donn Draeger. Written for those too busy to devote hours a day to Karate training, it is a serious introduction to the basic elements of self defense. Excerpts from Practical Karate: "The secrets of self–defense can be summed up in the proverbs: 'a wise man avoids danger’ and 'to run away is the best way to win.' Yet, sometimes you are not able to choose these courses. I select here several techniques which you will be able to master with comparative ease, thus protecting yourself more effectively against any unarmed assailant." – M.Nakayama "Properly learned karate response will teach you to face emergency attack situations or to run—both with confidence. The few minutes a day you spend in practice will never be wasted." – Don Draeger

The oldest and most respected martial arts title in the industry, this popular monthly magazine addresses the needs of martial artists of all levels by providing them with information about every style of self-defense in the world - including techniques and strategies. In addition, Black Belt produces and markets over 75 martial arts-oriented books and videos including many about the works of Bruce Lee, the best-known marital arts figure in the world.

The oldest and most respected martial arts title in the industry, this popular monthly magazine addresses the needs of martial artists of all levels by providing them with information about every style of self-defense in the world - including techniques and strategies. In addition, Black Belt produces and markets over 75 martial arts-oriented books and videos including many about the works of Bruce Lee, the best-known marital arts figure in the world.