Steve Arneil

The word karate translates literally as 'empty-hand,' and the sport is a very effecive method of empty-handed (weapionless) defense. But, developed according to its own discipline and philosophy, karate is more than a way to protect the body. It is also an ideal path to a well-trained mind, because the bodily discipline necessary to execute properly karate's swift and powerful punches, kicks, and blocks requires spiritual well-being, too. Karate, indeed is the ultimate training for both the body and mind; its highest endeavor is to show the way to spiritual tranquility and the serene state that most people have sought, but few have found, since time immemorial.

Modern Karate is a thoughtfullly conceived, step-by-step guide to the martial art by two experienced teachers. The book's basic aim is to act as a link between beginning techniques and the realities of combat that advanced study of karate offers. To do this, a clear, concise text is coupled with over 500 action photographs that show perfect form correctly used in specific situations. Not only basic techniques but also sparring, predetermined free fighting, and competition fighting techniques are discussed. Chapters on construcitve use of the striking board and the method and purpose of the breaking technique are also included.

Modern Karate offers all participants in the sport the means of smooth transition to more advanced phases of its practice.

Steve Arneil and Bryan Dowler are both experienced karate teachers. Arneil was National coach and Team Manager to British All Styles Karate Team for the World Championships in 1970 and 1972 and continues to coach the team for all international matches. He is 6th dan (karate), the highest non-Japanese grade in Europe. Dowler, who is 2nd dan (karate) and also 2nd dan (judo), has practiced and taught karate and judo for 17 years; he operated three karate dojos in South London. He is chairman of the British Karate Kyokushinkai and Vice-Chairman of the European Kyokushinkai.

Contents

Acknowledgements
Foreword
1 What is karate
Psychological princoples of karate
Physical characteristics and princoples of karate
Karate-do: The spiritual considerations
2 Short history of karate
Historical roots
China: The catalyst
The bridge through Okinawa
Japan: Karate, the eclectic system
3 Calisthenics and body trainng
Correct breathing
Nogare
Ibuki
The importance of kiai
General body training
4 Stances and positions
General explanation
Detailed explanation of main stances
Movement
5 Attacking techniques
Technique classification-Hand technique; Foot and leg technique
Methods of striking
Methods of kicking
Jumping kicks
Basic training
6 Blocking techniques
Classification of hand blocks
Classification of leg blocks
Main principles of karate blocking techniques
Methods of blocking-Hand and arm blocks; Block and retaliation; Foot and leg blocks
Advanced blocking techniques-Simultaneous deflection an counter-attack; Dodging and avoiding techniques; Simultaineous strike
7 Karate forms-kata
Background and purpose
The basic forms-Sanchin and tensho; Taikyoku I, II, III; PInan I-V
Advnaced kata:Saifa
8 Free style fighting and pre-arranged fighting
Free style fighting
Forms of pre-arranged fighting
Stances for free fighting
Position of hands
Glimpses from contest and jiyu kumite
9 Ancillary and advanced training
Use of trainng equipment
Hand conditioning and the use of the makiwara
Breaking (tameshiwara)
Technical principles of breaking
10 Karate etiquette
Difference between karate and sport
The karate dojo
The bow
The karate gi
Tying the belt
The belt system and grade terminology… (lisätietoja)