From the first enthusiastic kiai in the dojo to the solemn black belt presentation ceremony, students learn that karate is all about fitness, confidence, discipline and respect. <i>The Essential Karate Book</i> is a guide to martial arts, the history of karate, and a wide range of karate techniques.<BR><BR>With 20 chapters covering practically every aspect of karate, this in-depth reference will assist students and instructors as they plot their course through karate instruction, benefiting those at all levels. <i>The Essential Karate Book</i> contains 200 diagrams mapping out moves, 300 color photographs, and a DVD, making it a comprehensive general karate reference for Western audiences.<BR><BR>Readers will learn about:<ul><li>The origins of karate</li><li>Required behavior, clothing and etiquette, as well as the fundamentals of karate and the different styles that share them</li><li>Stances, blocks, strikes and kicks</li><li>Preparing your body through warm ups, stretching, and conditioning through karate-specific exercises</li><li>Kata grading and fighting (kumite) techniques and competition rules</li><li>Martial arts weapons (kobudo), and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) applications</li></ul><i>The Essential Karate Book</i> is a must-have for any martial arts enthusiast, from beginner to black belt!