Foundations of Korean Martial Arts: Masters, Manuals and Combative Techniques

Foundations of Korean Martial Arts: Masters, Manuals and Combative Techniques
Author: Michael DeMarco, M.A., et al.
Publisher: Via Media Publishing
Total Pages: 180
Release: 2017-01-29
Genre: Sports & Recreation
ISBN: 1893765431

Most of what are referred to as Korean martial art styles are actually derived from Japanese/Okinawan karate systems or find their roots in Chinese boxing. The Korean peninsula has existed as a fragile territory between China and Japan and thus shared many cultural elements from their neighbors. To what degree has the Japanese and Chinese arts influenced those practiced in Korea over the centuries? Can we distinguish any original Korean martial art style? Chapters in this anthology are derived from the Journal of Asian Martial Arts specifically in response to such questions as asked above. The authors provide great detail on the military/martial manuals that recorded both battlefield arts and personal combative arts and use these sources to give a picture of the martial traditions practiced in Korea for hundreds of years. In chapter one, Stanley Henning provides an excellent overview of martial arts in Korea since the earliest dynasties. These include bare-hand arts as well as those with weaponry. His overview illuminates the time and place of highly influential military manuals as discussed in the chapter by Manuel Adrogué. John Della Pia’s two chapters focus on a particular manual—the Muye Dobo Tongji (1790)—providing details of open-hand and weapons training, in particular with the unique Korean “native sword.” Two chapters provide the theory and practice of qigong methods for health and martial effectiveness. Dr. Patrick Massey et al. offer results on the use of breathing methods affecting lung capacity. Sean Bradley’s chapter goes deeply into the medical theories that parallel the practice of Sinmoo Hapkido’s qigong methods. The final two chapters focus on practical fighting applications from Hapkido. Marc Tedeschi’s chapter provides sound advice for self-defense against multiple opponents. In addition to detailing principles that give any defender a helpful advantage, Tedeschi shows nineteen examples of techniques against two, three, and four opponents that include pressure point striking, throws, arm bars, locks, and a variety of kicks. In the closing chapter, Sean Bradley discusses a few of his favorite techniques, where he learned them, and why they are memorable. Rich in historical details and practical advice, this anthology will prove to be a prized reference work to all interested in the Korean martial traditions.

Taekyon: The Korean Martial Art

Taekyon: The Korean Martial Art
Author: Michael DeMarco
Publisher: Via Media Publishing
Total Pages: 73
Release: 2016-10-25
Genre: Sports & Recreation
ISBN: 1893765393

When people discuss Korean martial arts, they rarely mention taekyon. They are usually totally unfamiliar with the name because there hasn’t been much written about it. The four chapters in this anthology give an excellent overview of taekyon as a system noted for it’s dance-like qualities and combative style, especially for leg techniques. Taekyon stands unique as it represents most closely to a pure Korean martial tradition. Chapter one by Stanley Henning gives a detailed overview of martial arts in Korea. From the beginning, Korean martial arts were intertwined with those of China. Even the historical references to Korean martial arts are all in Chinese. The author concludes that traditional Korean martial arts are but a vague memory, with taekyon being the sole survivor. In the next chapter, Robert Young skillfully presents what is known about taekyon. With over 150 years of verifiable history, taekyon is the most thoroughly documented of Korean martial arts. Its skills and techniques greatly differ from those of other modern Korean styles. It is the only plausible candidate for the descendant of ancient subak. This well-researched chapter includes theory and techniques and lineage chart. Dr. Willy Pieter expands upon the historical development of Korean martial sports as presented by Young. There is an emphasis on the hwarang (“flower boy”) and their presence in Korean culture and martial traditions in particular. The etymology of Korean martial systems are questioned. The final chapter by Yung Ouyang offers a fuller picture of what taekyon represents as a moving art. Traditionally, taekyon was a game as well as a martial art, so many did not credit taekyon for its combative elements. It has largely been ignored by those interested in the fighting arts. It is gaining recognition as a legitimate heir to the traditional Korean martial arts, but is also undergoing influences from Japanese traditions and Western sports. Taekyon deserves to be recognized for its uniqueness among the martial arts of Asia. This anthology will serve as solid reference for all interested in the Korean combative traditions, and especially taekyon for its aesthetic appeal as a form of dance and graceful yet powerful combative method.

Tae Kwon Do

Tae Kwon Do
Author: Dong Keun Park
Publisher:
Total Pages: 0
Release: 2006
Genre: Tae kwon do
ISBN: 9781931229463

This manual on tae kwon do gives comprehensive physical and mental guidance for belt levels from white through black, offering coverage of essential hand and foot techniques, blocks, and strikes. There are complete listings of both Olympic rules and World Tae Kwon Do Federation sparring guidelines. In addition to the practical aspects, the book delves into the philosophy and history of tae kwon do, giving a closer look at the "art" of this martial art.

Muye Dobo Tongji

Muye Dobo Tongji
Author: Chŏngjo ((Roi de Corée ;)
Publisher: Turtle Press
Total Pages: 404
Release: 2000
Genre: History
ISBN: 9781880336489

In 1789, King Chongjo, ruler of the Yi dynasty, ordered General Yi Duk-moo to compile an official textbook on all martial art forms then present in Korea to preserve them for future generations. The result, the Muye Dobo Tongji, is the only surviving classical text on the Korean arts of war. Based on the earliest known Korean martial arts treatise, the Muye Chebo written in 1599, the Muye Dobo Tongji clearly shows the influence of the neighbouring Japanese and Chinese armies. Through hundreds of wars and invasions, Korean soldiers adapted battlefield skills and tactics from their enemies, creating a unique system of their own. Organised into 24 distinct disciplines comprised of empty hand fighting, weaponry and horsemanship, this book is an accurate historical snapshot of the warrior arts of the hermit kingdom in the late 18th century. The release of 'The Comprehensive Illustrated Manual of Martial Arts of Ancient Korea' marks the first time this volume is available in English. Carefully translated from the original text and illustrated with reproductions of ancient woodblock carvings, this book provides fascinating insights into Korea's martial arts legacy.

Hapkido, Korean Art of Self-Defense

Hapkido, Korean Art of Self-Defense
Author: Scott Shaw
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing
Total Pages: 96
Release: 2017-06-13
Genre: Sports & Recreation
ISBN: 9780804848794

Hapkido, "The Way of Coordination and Internal Power," is one of the three major Korean martial arts. Founded in 1963 by Master Choi Young-Sul, it is a complete system of self-defense, encompassing striking, kicking, and grappling techniques. Conceptually, Hapkido techniques more closely parallel those of Aikido than Taekwondo. In fact, as the author describes, there is a parental link between the arts. In Hapkido: Korean Art of Self-Defense, Scott Shaw presents a precise description of the techniques, concepts, and applications of this Korean martial art of self-defense. Profusely illustrated with 220 clear photographs, this instructional hapkido book describes and depicts self-defense techniques against a variety of punches, holds, and kicks. Hapkido has been utilized by military and law enforcement agencies worldwide, but until now little has been written on it. This hapkido guide is one of the few in English to present the essential techniques of this fascinating Korean martial art. Chapters include: The History and Development of Korean Martial Arts The Evolution of Hapkido Danjon: The Center of Ki Hapkido Fundamentals Hapkido Self-Defense Techniques

Black Belt

Black Belt
Author:
Publisher:
Total Pages: 184
Release: 1998-02
Genre:
ISBN:

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.

Black Belt

Black Belt
Author:
Publisher:
Total Pages: 162
Release: 2000-02
Genre:
ISBN:

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.

Taekwondo Basics

Taekwondo Basics
Author: Scott Shaw
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing
Total Pages: 196
Release: 2012-02-07
Genre: Sports & Recreation
ISBN: 1462904858

Taekwondo Basics teaches you all the fundamentals of this Korean martial art form in a clear and easy-to-understand manner! This basic introductory survey contains the following vital information: The origins, philosophy, and history of Taekwondo How to find a teacher and a class that are right for you Getting ready for your first class--what actually happens in a Taekwondo class? The essential elements--stances, blocks, hand and arm strikes, and kicks How to complement your Taekwondo training with other conditioning exercises, such as running and biking Powerful ways to improve your technique through target training, partner training, competitive training, free-sparring, and more Resources that can help you further develop your Taekwondo practice Whether you're just getting started, or you've already been training for a year or two, Taekwondo Basics offers an easy to read, yet comprehensive, introduction to the sport.

Complete Martial Arts Training Manual

Complete Martial Arts Training Manual
Author: Ashley Martin
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing
Total Pages: 296
Release: 2012-04-16
Genre: Sports & Recreation
ISBN: 1462905552

The Complete Martial Arts Training Manual is a complete guide for anyone who has an interest in the martial arts. Having a broad knowledge of the various techniques of the martial arts gives a martial artist an expanded ability to counteract a variety of attacks and overwhelm an opponent's defenses. Author Ashley Martin shares with the reader his years of experience as a practitioner and teacher. He provides a catalog of the various martial arts being taught worldwide and their strengths and weaknesses. He then covers the basics of hand-to-hand techniques within each of those disciplines, from strikes to ground fighting. Finally, he offers information on the overall health and well being of the martial artist, including important nutritional information and stretching techniques. The Complete Martial Arts Training Manual is a solid foundation of martial arts for beginners and a key supplement for the veteran martial artist.