External Martial Arts Books Published by YMAA

Advancing in Tae Kwon Do by Richard Chun
Originally published in 1983, this authoritative work has been the guide for thousands of Taekwondo Black Belts as they advanced in their training. Whether for self-defense, forms competition, or for preparation for Olympic games, this revised edition provides beginner & advanced training...

Analysis of Shaolin Chin Na 2nd ed.: Instructor's Manual for all Martial Styles by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming
Chin Na is one of the four major fighting categories in all Chinese martial styles and is effective against grabbing attacks, wrestling and strikes. Chin Na has been known as the root of the Japanese arts of Jujitsu and Aikido. This book presents theory, fundamental training and over one hundred and fifty Chin Na techniques.

Ancient Chinese Weapons: A Martial Artist's Guide by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming
Ancient Chinese Weapons: A Martial Artists Guide is an easy reference guide. Profusely illustrated, easy to navigate, and conveniently broken down into four main classifications: Long Weapons, Short Weapons, Soft Weapons, and Projectile / Thrown Weapons.

Cardio Kickboxing Elite: For Sport, For Fitness, For Self Defense by Frank Thiboutot
Acquire real kickboxing and self-defense skills while getting into the cardiovascular shape of your life! In Cardio Kickboxing Elite, you’ll learn what impact resistance and hitting moving targets are all about, along with safe, authentic and effective ways to punch, block and kick, using real equipment and real bag work.

Chin Na in Ground Fighting-Principles, Theory and Submission Holds by Al Arsenault, Joeseph Faulise
Explains the use of joint locks, pressure points, and bone displacement techniques for fighting encounters on the ground. Holding Techniques for immobilizing an opponent, principles and theory of these holds, identification and use of pressure points for offensive and defensive purposes.

Chinese Fast Wrestling for Fighting: The Art of San Shou Kuai Jiao by Liang, Shou-Yu, Tai Ngo
San Shou Kuai Jiao (Fast wrestling for fighting) is the Chinese martial art of throws and takedowns. This book presents seventy-five throws and takedowns against punches, kicks, and grabs, and demonstrates basic training methods such as stances, footwork, and strength training.

Complete CardioKickboxing: A Safe & Effective Approach to High Performance Living by Tom Seabourne
Finally, Tom Seabourne, the trainer to the trainers, teaches you how to stay INJURY FREE no matter what cardio program you enjoy! Discover the safest, most effective approach to CardioKickboxing! Increase your strength, endurance, and flexibility, plus burn fat, with safe non-impact workouts.

Comprehensive Applications of Shaolin Chin Na by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming
Presents Chin Na techniques in actual fighting scenarios. For example, applications of Chin Na when your opponent punches you, grabs your wrists, or even attacks you with a knife. Effective application of Chin Na requires speedy execution of a block or yield, a set up, and then a proper technique. Over 375 techniques presented.

Essence of Shaolin White Crane: Martial Power and Qigong by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming
This comprehensive martial arts training guide explores White Crane Kung Fu (Gongfu), one of the most famous martial styles developed in China. Martial Arts Qigong is integral to White Crane kung Fu and is a proven way to build explosive fighting power, known as Jin.

Kata and the Transmission of Knowledge In Traditional Martial Arts by Michael Rosenbaum
It is the transmission of martial knowledge, through kata and other forms of communication that this book explores. The author reveals that prearranged fighting techniques were used by ancient Greeks, Egyptian, Asian, and European societies. Impressive sourcing and end-notes.

Martial Arts Instruction: Applying Educational Theory and Communication Techniques in the Dojo by Lawrence A. Kane
A holistic approach to teaching, incorporating theory and communication techniques often overlooked in budo. Martial arts instructors will improve their abilities to motivate, educate, and retain students, develop a foundation to facilitate learning.

Meditations on Violence - A Comparison of Martial Arts Training and Real World Violence by Rory Miller
Experienced martial artist and veteran correction officer Sgt. Rory Miller explores the differences between martial arts training and real-world violence.

Mind Body Fitness: Focus, Preparation, Performance by Tom Seabourne
This book offers sound advice on how to add Mind/Body methods to your sport/fitness training, and reap the physical and mental benefits that modern research is now finding Mind/Body can achieve. Relaxation, meditation, focus, confidence, diet, goal setting, and time management.

Mugai Ryu: The Classical Samurai Art of Drawing the Sword by Darrell Craig
In this book, the author takes us on a tour of the Samurai code of Bushido. He talks of his encounters with the descendants of famous samurai' of the past. The author instructs us on the use of the sword with over twenty traditional sword drawing techniques and sparring routines.

Northern Shaolin Sword: Forms, Techniques & Applications by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming, Jeffrey Bolt
Sword training is one of the highest accomplishments in Chinese Martial Arts. Sword training improves your perception, timing, and reactions. This book presents in-depth history, fundamentals and three complete sword sequences, including a rare Matching Set. Two person routines, martial applications & sword fighting strategies included.

Okinawa's Complete Karate System: Isshin Ryu by Michael Rosenbaum
Okinawa’s Complete Karate System offers you a comprehensive history of Isshin Ryu as well as a thorough investigation of its founder’s life and philosophy with in-depth system’s lineages, internal and external aspects of the art, and multiple interpretations of all Isshin Ryu kata.

Power Body: Injury Prevention, Rehabilitation, and Sports Performance Enhancement by Tom Seabourne
To attain the ultimate body, you must understand your body. In this book, you’ll learn the safest, most effective state-of-the-art warmups, stretches and workouts. Sections include: Balanced training, body mechanics, strength training, injuries, fitness, and personal strength/plyometric programs.

Shihan Te: The Bunkai of Kata by Darrell Craig
Kata is often called the mother of Karate. Bunkai is a kind of analysis (meaning, 'to disassemble') - a much neglected form of study within Karate. In Shihan Te: The Bunkai of Kata, these 'secrets” are revealed.

Surviving Armed Assaults: A Martial Artists Guide to Weapons, Street Violence, and Countervailing Force by Lawrence A. Kane
This book teaches proven survival skills that will keep you safe on the street. Everyone, including experienced martial artists, security and law enforcement professionals, and concerned citizens will benefit from this vital information.

Tae Kwon Do - The Korean Martial Art by Richard Chun
Originally published in 1976, this authoritative work has been the guide for thousands of Taekwondo practitioners as they advance in their training.

Taekwondo Spirit and Practice: Beyond Self Defense by Richard Chun
Master Richard Chun takes us on a first hand account of his life story and his dedication to the art of Taekwondo. We begin in Korea just before the Korean war and learn why Taekwondo is a noble and positive recreation for children, offering them challenges and lessons that they will reflect upon for their entire lives.

Taekwondo: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior by Doug Cook
Learn how principles such as honor, perseverance, and dedication will enhance your daily life, how the philosophical and physical tenets combine to form not only a way of living, but a solid system of self-defense, and why these concepts are not just quaint ideals, but more important than ever in today's age.

Taekwondo—A Path to Excellence by Doug Cook
This book, in seven parts, offers you the opportunity to visit the garden that is Taekwondo. Discover what it means to be a steadfast practitioner, understand Taekwondo’s honorable past, and prosper in the confidence and purpose that Taekwondo offers to all that participate.

The Art of Hojo Undo: Power Training for Traditional Karate by Michael Clarke by Michael Clarke
Hojo Undo means ‘supplemental training’, and using these tools is the key for developing the devastating power of karate techniques. Without Hojo Undo, a practitioner cannot reach the profound strength levels required for a lifetime of karate training.

The Fighting Arts: Their Evolution from Secret Societies to Modern Times by Michael Rosenbaum
This book traces the evolution of the martial arts from the ‘old worlds’ through today’s modern times. Expounds on cultural influences, differences between civilian and military warfare, myths and legends, segmentation of the arts in modern cultures and a discussion of the realities of terrorism.

The Little Black Book of Violence - What Every Young Man Needs To Know About Fighting by Lawrence A. Kane, Kris Wilder
The book will arm you with the knowledge and good sense to make informed choices in hazardous situations. Every time you engage in violence, no matter how small or trivial it may appear, it has the potential of escalating into something extraordinarily serious.

The Martial Arts Athlete: Mental and Physical Conditioning for Peak Performance by Tom Seabourne
Answers questions that today's competitors must know to succeed. Learn how to train for peak performance, create incredible physical conditioning programs, manage pain, and get answers to a host of nutrition and strength training questions.

The Martial Way and its Virtues: Tao De Gung by F J Chu
The martial arts revolve around the way of personal combat and to live in accordance with a warrior code of conduct and honor. The Martial Way promises a long and arduous journey. In the end, this higher ideal is what separates the warrior from the predator.

The Way of Kata: A Comprehensive Guide to Deciphering Martial Applications by Lawrence A. Kane, Kris Wilder
This groundbreaking book unveils methods, not only teaching you how to analyze your kata to understand what it is trying to tell you, but also helping you to utilize your fighting techniques more effectively—both in self-defense and in tournament applications.

The Way of Kendo and Kenjitsu: Soul of the Samurai by Darrell Craig
This book addresses advance level Kendo skills including equipment, exercises, wazas and the last three katas of the All Japan Kendo Federation, which uses the short sword (Wakizashi).

The Way of Sanchin Kata: The Application of Power by Kris Wilder
Many believe that Sanchin Kata holds the key to mastering traditional martial arts. Those who understand its teachings find that it facilitates enormous quickness and power in any martial application. The challenge lies in gaining that understanding...

The Way to Black Belt—A Comprehensive Guide to Rapid, Rock-Solid Results, by Lawrence Kane and Kris Wilder by Lawrence A. Kane, Kris Wilder
Packed with actionable information, The Way to Black Belt will teach you how to set goals, find a good instructor, monitor your progress, overcome plateaus in your training, take advantage of learning opportunities, and work through the inevitable injuries that come with rigorous martial arts training.

Traditional Taekwondo Core Techniques, History and Philosophy by Doug Cook
The history and evolution of Taekwondo from its ancient roots to modern day applications. Also included are exercises in "Ki" or internal energy development, meditation practice, and practical self-defense strategies. More focused on the traditional aspects of Taekwondo rather than on its sportive component.

Wisdom's Way: 101 Tales of Chinese Wit by Walton Lee
Wisdom's Way is a collection of true stories from ancient China. Filled with palace intrigue, ambitious warlords, greedy swindlers, and justice-seeking wise men, each story evokes the legendary wisdom of the Far East.