Making of a Butterfly: Traditional Chinese Martial Arts As Taught by Master W. C. Chen

Making of a Butterfly: Traditional Chinese Martial Arts As Taught by Master W. C. Chen
Average customer rating:

IIlluminating and entertaining stories from a great martial artist and teacher

A student-eye view of solid martial arts instruction.

I strongly recommend this book

A great book for ALL Martial Artists.

An excellent read!
Making of a Butterfly: Traditional Chinese Martial Arts As Taught by Master W. C. Chen
Phillip Starr
Manufacturer: Blue Snake Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Sports | Humor | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
General | Martial Arts | Individual Sports | Sports | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1583941517
Release Date: 2006-04-07

Book Description

The only American heir to W. C. Chen, Phillip Starr continues the master’s teachings in this useful guide that also profiles the exciting early years when martial arts were still new in America. Through this entertaining collection of personal anecdotes involving Master Chen, the author, and his classmates, readers learn a particular aspect of the traditional martial arts. Included are explanations of the importance and meaning of courtesy and the custom of bowing, the significance of training with weapons and how it impacts bare-handed skills, and the value of traditional forms and how they relate to actual combat.

Customer Reviews:

IIlluminating and entertaining stories from a great martial artist and teacher.......2007-03-18

I had the good fortune to train under Sifu Starr for a couple of years in the early 90's before time and circumstance took my life in other directions. From personal experience, I can attest both to his great skill as a martial artist and healer, and to his teaching presence in the dojo. I will always remember him with great fondness and respect, which is odd when you consider that he spent most of my time in his school kicking my butt with old school traditional kung fu training protocols. I think that is what the Zen tradition calls "grandfatherly kindness" - where a lot of martial arts diploma mills just put you through the motions and handed you your black belt, Sifu Starr assumed that you were worth the investing the time and effort to really TRAIN.

This book brings back a lot of memories from that time; it is very much written in Mr. Starr's "voice", and it showcases his wry humor, zest for life and training, and his larger than life personality. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone interested in what really goes into the training of a real martial artist. I also hope that the book brings Sifu Starr some of the recognition and acclaim he deserves after a long, distinguished career.

A student-eye view of solid martial arts instruction........2006-12-03

As a ShoDan-level assistant karate instructor, I'm always looking for good books to help me become a better teacher and practitioner. I've found martial arts-based memoirs to be particularly helpful and encouraging. I recently stumbled across "The Making of A Butterfly," and it was no exception.

Phillip Starr began his martial arts journey in the 1950s. His family moved a lot due to military service, so he studied at a couple of different clubs. In 1961, his parents finally settled into a more permanent living situation in McLean, Virginia. There, the author began looking for yet another dojo (they weren't easy to find back then). He finally found a karate school and resumed his training. However, Mr. Starr was fascinated by kung-fu, and so after more searching he discovered a Chinese Sifu (master) who taught out of his home.

Mr. Starr approached Sifu Chen and respectfully asked for instruction. After some initial rebuffs to test his resolve, he was taken on as Sifu Chen's only Caucasian student. Sifu Chen demanded much from his students, so the training sessions were often physically and mentally challenging. Despite some resentment from the other Asian students, Mr. Starr eventually earned their grudging respect. And more importantly, he became a surrogate son to Sifu Chen and his wife Mei. He often learned as much at their dinner table as he would during a typical class.

Mr. Starr writes well - the book is an easy and informative read. Each chapter encapsulates a principle learned from Sifu Chen, such as chi, discipline, and courtesy. Of course, these lessons were usually learned the hard way. Sifu Chen used many methods to impart both his knowledge and his character to the author. I found the inclusion of Mr. Starr's thought responses toward his teacher (denoted by italics) to be quite fascinating. It was easy to identify with his honest internal expressions of incredulity, or appreciate ah-ha! moments when a lesson hit home.

Unfortunately, Sifu Chen passed away in 1971 from a kidney ailment. But in 1982 Mr. Starr took what he learned from Sifu Chen and created another martial art called Yilichuan (One Principle Boxing), thereby continuing his teacher's legacy. "The Making of A Butterfly" lets us in on Sifu Chen's timeless martial arts principles, and provides insight into a good student's mentality. It's a recommended addition to every martial artist's library.

I strongly recommend this book .......2006-08-25

Pete reminded me that it has been over 38 years we have know each other, and I stand corrected. On the third reading of the book I began to remember myself as one of Pete's students and how he taught us with the nearly same mannerisms of his teacher. I having no experience then in the arts, learned not only the physical rigors of the training but of the philosophical aspects as well. What age has taken from me, the knowledge still remains strong .

Now it has been almost 40 years later and I still can visualize the teachings, both mental, spirtual as well as physical. This book is valuable for the stylist as well as a parent wishing to know how to work with or understand their teenagers. The method and learning is the same nurturing Chen gave to Pete, and Pete sharing it with us.

I gave a copy of it to one of the people I work with and it is a copy in my classroom as well for my more difficult students to read as well.

A great book for ALL Martial Artists........2006-07-25

This was an absolutely wonderful text. It really drives home what the martial arts teach. The stories are thought provoking, entertaining, humorous and motivational. Thanks Sifu Starr!

An excellent read!.......2006-06-07

Sifu Starr has captured the experience of studying with an exceptional master and described his becoming one himself. This book is not the "nuts and bolts" technique oriented manual that too many bookshelves hold, but the personal insights, stories, and discoveries of an experienced martial artist as he masters the art. Sifu Starr writes in an engaging and descriptive manner that makes the book hard to put down. Yet, the chapters are written so that one can read a quick single chapter, or settle in for a couple hours and imagine the smell of incense and sweat. Starr also shows his humor and humility that is rarely expressed in popular masters-- his personal thoughts, doubts, and insights are counterpoints to the events he writes about. I have been a student/instructor of t'ai chi for about 40 years and this is one of the best books I have read. I have recommended it to all of my students, and hope that Sifu Starr will continue his writing career. I strongly recommend it.

The Shaolin Arts: Master Answers Series - Shaolin Kungfu, Taijiquan, Qiqong and Zen (Master Answers)

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Master Answer

The Shaolin Arts: Master Answers Series - Shaolin Kungfu, Taijiquan, Qiqong and Zen (Master Answers)
Wong Kiew Kit
Manufacturer: Cosmos Pub Inc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Zen | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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The Complete Book of Tai Chi Chuan: A Comprehensive Guide to the Principles and Practice (Tuttle Martial Arts)

ASIN: 9834087926

Book Description

The Master Answers Series is a selection of answers to questions written by various people all over the world to Sifu Wong, who is a celebrated Shaolin Grandmaster.

The publication of these questions and answers will prove invaluable to everyone who is interested in the Shaolin arts. This book introduces Shaolin Kungfu, Taijiquan, Qiqong and Zen Buddhism, and the various styles in these respective arts and training methods.

The book includes:

- Legends, history and personalities who were behind development of these arts
- An in depth study of these arts, including form and internal force training, energy management and healing, weapons, strategies, tactics, spiritual joy, and meditation to achieve Enlightenment, which is the ultimate prize
- Case studies to prove that practitioners of these arts, especially qiqong, can successfully overcome so-called incurable diseases, maintain their health and manage stress effectively
- Stories on "Satori" or Awakening experienced by Sifu Wong's students and disciples

Customer Reviews:

Master Answer.......2005-09-12

This book works as a supportive material. It is very useful for looking into past training questions. It covers many different questions from martial arts training to taoism.

Average customer rating:

An excellent work from our main archivist.
NEEDUM PICTURES!!!
Bringing it all back
Every Picture tells a story...
A picture is worth a thousand words

Kung Fu San Soo's Basic 45 Lessons
Master Ronald L. Gatewood
Manufacturer: Walgate Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Kung Fu San Soo Fighting Forms, Book 1 (Book 1)
Sudden Violence: The Art Of San Soo
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San Soo Of Jimmy Woo - 2 DVD Set

ASIN: 0967528313

Book Description

The term Basic 45 Lessons is really an understatement. Within these 45 well explained techniques you can develop an arsenal of skills that are invaluable. This book thoroughly explains the details within eah lesson so you will understand why and how the technique is performed effectively. An introduction to Kung Fu San Soo is included for those new to this devastating and highly effective art.

These lessons are shared with you by a San Soo Master who studied directly with Grand Master Jimmy H. Woo in El Monte, CA for over 28 years. The author taught these lessons to his students for years so you can be assured of their accuracy.

Customer Reviews:

An excellent work from our main archivist........2004-01-04

While Grandmaster Jimmy H. Woo (Lo Sifu Chin Siu Dek) was teaching in Southern California a variety of students recorded the lessons. Since Grandmaster Woo was the first to teach this martial art to anyone who wasn't Chinese, no one was sure about what was the best way to write out the techniques in English. So, those records vary greatly in the quality and clarity of what was written. Master Gatewood kept meticulous records, including many 8mm films and later video tapes. I have a number of copies of these lessons from varying sources and feel that Master Gatewood's book explains the lessons with particular clarity and stresses the priceless principals involved with each technique.

Some reviewers have complained about the book lacking enough photographs. That would be true if one were trying to learn Kung Fu San Soo from a book alone. You can't, there's too much to it. If you are an experienced martial artist, looking to gain a familiarity with Kung Fu San Soo, this book will be very informative about our basic techniques. (There are hundreds of Kung Fu San Soo techniques-- the Basic 45 are the foundation for the rest.) So, if you want to learn Kung Fu San Soo, you must learn it from a knowledgeable instructor. For anyone who is, this book is very well written and invaluable.

NEEDUM PICTURES!!!.......2003-11-09

Ah, fourty-five self defense moves. Shame that there are only thirteen pictures in it! OK, the book had some good concepts, and I'm sure that most of the self-defense lessons are servicable. However, the lack of photos is more than disappointing. I did like the fact that after every lesson, there was a "Concepts to Learn" portion. I'd like to see that in more books like this. In the beggining of the book, concepts, basic striking tools, and stances are covered, though not very well. Many of the terms used in the book are not explained well, or sometimes not at all, and this makes reading difficult. It's an OK book for a martial artist to use, mostly to incorporate into his self-defense studies, and also gives some insight into San Soo, but in that respect is by no means complete. It's a little useful, but may not be worth the price.

Bringing it all back.......2003-11-08

I have been out of the art for over 13 years for a variety of reasons and was lucky to find this book. Starting with lesson one, it all began to come back. I recommend this book for anyone interested in the art of Kung Fu San Soo.

Every Picture tells a story..........2002-11-28

I agree without pictures it is very hard to visualize exactly how do to do the lessons that are presented. Someone should revise it an do it justice by adding pictures to it to make it more understandable.

A picture is worth a thousand words.......2002-06-02

The care taken to convey the material as accurately as possible is evident. However, without step by step pictures it is still hard to follow. I was a little disappointed.

Book Description

Thirteen-year-old Yoh, injured by Ren in a previous fight, has teamed up with his fiancée Anna - also a shaman - to fight a Hong Kong film star brought back to life as a kung-fu zombie to carry out the Ren family's grudge.

Customer Reviews:

The best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2005-02-14

I am the frickn biggest fan of shaman king i have read every single shonen jump until i forgot about the 2nd volume when i read this i thought that it was awsome pretty long fight but interesting this volume has yoh,len.bai long,and a couple of more people but it is awsome it also tells you about bai longs kung fu master shalin (joto one).

Love Shaman King.......2004-09-24

I love Shaman King and everything but this book was just one long fight, even though the fight was really kool and everything it got boring after a while so if you like loooooonnnnngggg battles then this is a good book

I love it!.......2004-08-29

This was a great comic book, It shows you Yoh when he was 4, he was so cute! I say, if you like shaman king, buy it!

Thought it might be interesting!.......2004-07-20

Ok, here in the latino paradise I live in, there are no comics or books or nothing of Shaman King, only T.V series. Are there T.V series os SK in the states? Anyways, the names are somewhat different too, what you all call Asakura Yoh is "Io Asakura", his spirit that's with him, which in spanish is called "espiritu acompa?ante", is named "amidamaru". Then what's his face, no idea what his english name is, the dude with the the one-spike on his head, his name is "Len Tao", spirit? "Baz-n". Blue haired guy, "Horo Horo" (dont know what name his spirit holds but she keeps saying: cucurucu!), the gay guy, "Ryu". 'Lizer", the green haired guy, fairy's name is "Morfin". "Ana", "Io"'s girlfriend. "Manta", "Io"'s best friend, the little guy. And the cheetah kid, the one that tells jokes, "Chocolo" is his name, and he wants to bring: "la brisa de la risa". 'Jun Tao", "Len"'s siter. "Horo Horo"'s sister? no idea. And anyways, there weren't anymore series after Io finished with Hao (twin brother). So! not really sure what the other characters are! except for "Los soldados X", the group Lizer joined ages ago, with the leader princess character, "La Doncella"!

More Shaman King Goodness!.......2004-05-16

If you haven't experienced the power of Shaman King yet, this second volume may or may not be a good place to start, but for all you action-buffs out there, Volume Two is right up your ally.

Starting after Yoh's fight with Ren, the reader is treated to a flashback to when Yoh was a young child and how he becomes obbsessed with his goal to becoming the Shaman King. We also get two new characters added to the already likeable cast: Anna, Yoh's strict and bossy fiancee and Jun, Ren's older sister who controls the corpse of famed action star Lee Bailong. Again, we are treated to another impressive battle with lots of hard punches, kicks and ghostly matches.

While this volume is basicly one big action-packed fight, a lesson is taught and learned (a common theme, no?). Still, one cannot admire and praise the art, story and characters that has put Shaman King on the map. More of the main character's personalities are revealed and Manta truly outshines Yoh in this department. While in the first volume he is shown as a wet blanket, he proves that this wet blanket has a strong backbone and will do anything for his friends! He proves this by risking his own safety while requiring a replacement sord for Yoh by getting into a fight with Ryu. Hey, what are friends for?

For anyone who became a fan through the anime, give the manga a go and see what you have been missing. For those who are already a fan of the manga, sit back and relax and take in all the action of this volume!

Ip Man - Portrait of a Kung Fu Master
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First book I bought off Amazon

First book I bought off Amazon

Interesting Look

Rare Insight

Great subject poorly executed
Ip Man - Portrait of a Kung Fu Master
Ip Ching , and Ron Heimberger
Manufacturer: Cedar Fort
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1555175163

Book Description

A Master's gift to the world is his life. By seeing his life or at least by seeing the portrait of his life as painted in the stories of those who knew him, a Master's life becomes a sketch of a path to Mastery.

From stories shared by his son, this book paints a portrait of the famous Wing Chun Grand Master, Ip Man, providing a set of fifteen principles as a guide to mastery. While there are broad lessons to be learned from this portrait, the details must be savored. Many of the great figures of history are shrouded in the mists of aggrandizement, but here the details, the fine strokes of the portrait, have remained to show the humble seeker something about the life of a Master.

Each chapter provides a principle or set of principles to contemplate. You will be richly rewarded if you seek to discern the principles and the man who strove to embody them.

These stories and the principles drawn from them are commended to you for your benefit and learning and enjoyment. Let them guide you in your journey, but do not look for them to tell you every step. In this portrait are great treasures for the taking—but not simply for the asking.

Customer Reviews:

First book I bought off Amazon.......2003-03-09

This is the first book I purchased off Amazon and read it in a day. While a thin book, it is an interesting read. The book talks about the life of the late, Great Grandmaster [Y]Ip Man, how he came to learn Ving Tsun Kung Fu, how he lived and what he was. While you could easily find a life story of him easily by a net search, this book shows more a philisophical response to his life and decisions he made, something that is not in other stories I've read on him.

First book I bought off Amazon.......2003-03-09

Interesting Look.......2001-09-13

I enjoyed reading the book and learning more about Ip Man. I am a disciple of Wing Chun under Sifu Sam Chan (but not his best student) and found this book very informative giving a look into the life of the man who is considered by many the Father of Wing Chun. I strongly recommend this book if you enjoy the history behind Wing Chun as I do.

Rare Insight.......2001-08-07

As the only teacher of Kung Fu superstar Bruce Lee, Wing Chun Kung Fu Grandmaster Ip Man made a very significant contribution to the Martial Arts world. This is the first book written about his life. The book gives rare insight into the life, and teaching of this amazing man. Ip Man - Portrait of a Kung Fu Master is authored by Ip Man's own son, Wing Chun Grandmaster Ip Ching, and one of his top disciples, Master Ron Heimberger. These two men represent the greatest living source of Ip Man's teachings. This book is a guide for those who wish to follow in the footsteps of one of Kung Fu's greatest Masters.

Great subject poorly executed.......2001-08-02

If you are looking for a collection of pictures of the all time wing chun master, the book is fine. But if you are looking for wing chun content, in terms of theories, old fashion training (the way wing chun was traditionally taught, before the bad influence of the american way of life.....not being patient for the necessary time, etc); To clarifying the big public about, who were in fact the students who had a very near relation to the grandmaster. Then you will be very dissapointed with this book. It does not add anything to what was written before.

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Kung Fu Cult Masters
Leon Hunt
Manufacturer: Wallflower Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1903364639

Book Description

From the balletic intensity of Bruce Lee to the gravity-defying swordplay of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, the Chinese Martial Arts film has captured audiences' imaginations around the world, while absorbing influences ranging from Beijing Opera to computer games. Its global impact can be seen in the Hollywood crossover of stars like Jackie Chan and Hong Kong-influenced films like The Matrix. In this wide-ranging study, Leon Hunt looks at the mythic allure of the Shaolin Temple, the 'Clones' of Bruce Lee, gender-bending swordswomen, and the knockabout comedy of Sammo Hung, bringing new insights to a hugely popular and yet critically neglected genre. In addition, he considers the impact of new technologies on a genre focused on physical performance, from the 'wire fu' of Jet Li to the digital 'stars' of console games like Tekken. Films discussed include both popular and cult classics like Game of Death, Fist of Legend, The 36th Chamber of Shaolin and Drunken Master.

Spies, Vixens, and Masters of Kung Fu: The Art of Paul Gulacy

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Poor Man's Steranko
A BRILLIANT ARTIST GETS HIS DUE

Spies, Vixens, and Masters of Kung Fu: The Art of Paul Gulacy

Manufacturer: Vanguard
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1887591745

Book Description

Star Wars, Batman, 007, The Terminator, Master of Kung Fu, Catwoman--illustrator and graphic novelist Paul Gulacy has built his reputation on these megaproperties. Spies, Vixens and Masters of Kung Fu examines Gulacy's work in all its glory, with a gallery of 140 of his incredible drawings and paintings--some never before published. This is the first monograph on the artist whose innovative and surreal designs made director Quentin Tarantino say, "Master of Kung Fu....hands down my favorite comic book." Let Gulacy inspire a new generation of artists with Spies, Vixens, and Masters of Kung Fu.

Customer Reviews:

Poor Man's Steranko.......2006-02-22

One has to admiire the longevity of Paul's career, but most of the images just lacked the dynanmic impact of Steranko or Neal Adams(2 industry icons)...not many can come close to these guy's but Paul's work always looked stiff and expressionless to me, although sometimes very pleasantly stylized. His finest work to me was the SABRE graphic novel and the MASTER OF KUNG FU comic series. the book just didn't do it for me. But do check out VANGUARD's other books, there are many treasures to be found.

A BRILLIANT ARTIST GETS HIS DUE.......2005-11-30

I first started collecting comic books in the early 1970's and then sold the bulk of my collection several years later to pay for my first car when I was in high school. One of the runs I held onto, however, was Master of Kung-Fu, and the main reason I kept those books was the outstanding art of Paul Gulacy. Master of Kung Fu was unlike any other title in the 1970's. Far different than the primarily super hero and horror titles of the time, this was a gritty, action filled thriller, long before books like Sin City and others came out. In fact, Frank Miller's art on Sin City was strongly influenced by Gulacy's work on this title.

"Spies, Vixens, and Masters of Kung Fu: The Art of Paul Gulacy" is the latest outstanding title from Vanguard Productions. The book covers Gulacy's mercurial career starting with his getting assigned to Master of Kung Fu at the age of twenty, along with writer Doug Moench. Gulacy's style was unlike any other artist of the time. His fight scenes were choreographed like a Hollywood film with an emphasis on realism and his depiction of the menacing villain Fu Manchu recalled the days of sinister "yellow menace" pulps. If Jim Steranko (who provides the Afterword to this book) introduced pop art to comics then Gulacy introduced a truly cinematic approach to comics. Sitting down and reading a run of MOKF was like watching a good movie. This title was often worth buying just for the Gulacy covers and splash pages alone.

The book then goes onto cover Gulacy's post MOKF life on projects such as Sabre for Eclipse comics and then onto his short, but memorable time working on projects for Jim Warren in the pages of Eerie. Gulacy was always one to experiment with new techniques and his work on those issues of Eerie showcase him using lamp black washes on the stories for an exceptionally unique look. The book provides several examples from the stories so you can see what I mean. It's gorgeous work! Gulacy would to on to do several runs on various Batman titles for DC Comics including the recently completed Batman/Ra's Alghul mini series just this year, as well as stints on Legends of the Dark Knight in 1900 - 1991. Never was there an artist more suited to draw Batman than Gulacy.

The last third of the book is sure to delight his legion of fans as it provides a dazzling gallery of Gulacy's work including paintings and numerous comic covers from books such as Catwoman, Vampirella, Sabre, Batman, and of course, The Master of Kung Fu. The cover to MOKF #64 is included and has always been one of my favorite pieces featuring Shang Chi holding a pair of Escrima sticks as he descends a set of steps in Fu Manchu's palace.

The book is filled with commentary by Gulacy's peers such as Tim Bradstreet and Steve Rude who discuss how Gulacy's art has influenced their own and no less than director Quentin Tarantino has called Master of Kung Fu his favorite comic book. Like most of the books from Vanguard Productions it is also available in a hardcover edition, as well as a limited, signed hard cover edition. A first class production!

Reviewed by Tim Janson

The Tao of Health and Fitness: The Kung-Fu Master's Workout

Average customer rating:

Exceptional
Fair Guide to Basic Chinese Martial Exercises
These exercises are really helpful

The Tao of Health and Fitness: The Kung-Fu Master's Workout
Jiawen Miao
Manufacturer: Unique Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

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Accessories:

Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor

ASIN: 1892515199

Book Description

For centuries, China's martial arts masters have been famous for maintaining extraordinary health, vitality and fitness into advanced old age. Their secret? -- A series of traditional exercises that strengthen and tone muscles, promote better circulation and breath control, and create a mental state of relaxation and invigoration. This book, illustrated with over 350 photographs, reveals each of these exercises. Readers will find the exercises simple and not too taxing to perform, and will be amazed at the beneficial effects of incorporating them into a regular workout routine.

Customer Reviews:

Exceptional.......2005-08-26

I bought this book in the hope that it would provide a daily routine of exercises that incorporated both the Eastern health and well being style as well as something more Western in the sense of muscle development. I wanted instruction in an exercise set I could practice myself, with repetitive and intelligent movements. This is exactly what I got with this book.
Perfect for the martial artist looking for a routine to incorporate into his/her daily training, and also perfect for someone looking to get fitter and healthier.
Exceptional book.

Fair Guide to Basic Chinese Martial Exercises.......2003-03-08

The brief introduction contained in this volume describes the exercises within as simple, requiring no martial arts experience to learn. In reading through this volume, I found that to be accurate--If you're already studying a traditional school of Chinese martial arts, this book probably isn't going to offer you anything new. However, this book is perfect for anyone with little or no background in Chinese martial arts who is looking for a decent low-impact workout.

This no-nonsense 130-page volume is a collection of rudamentary exercises taken from a variety of different Chinese chi-gung and martial arts sources. The focus of this book is entirely upon the physical exercises themselves, you will find nothing on history or philosophy. Illustrated with numerous easy to follow photographs demonstrating the techniques, each sequence is accompanied by succinct descriptive narratives.

This volume contains 11 chapters of exercise "sets" presented in 2 sections. In the first section are: 1. Breathing Exercises (2 exercises), 2. Stretching Exercises (9 movements), 3. Waist Exercises (5), 4. Leg Exercises (7), 5. Arm and Finger Exercises (5), 6. Ankle Exercises (2), 7. Full Body Exercises (4), 8. Relaxation Exercises (2), 9. Dry Bath Exercises (4), and two advaced exercise sets, 10. Tai Chi Chuan Exercises (10), and 11. Sinew Transforming Exercises (14).

These exercises are really helpful.......2000-09-05

The correct way to master the art of traditional Chinese exercises is to begin with a stationary pose and some simple repeated exercises. Some people might think it is a waste of time learning and practicing these simple exercises, but actually you will find it very helpful for keeping fit and mastering some more complicated skills. The breathing exercise in this book is the essential exercise for mastering the exercises that follows. It helps you to sink the chi into dantian and to build a correct pattern of breathing. The dry bath exercises introduced in the last chapter help you to relax after hard work and clean up the way for chi. The rest of the exercises can help you either to stretching your tendons or strengthen your muscles. You might have noticed that Chinese Kung-Fu masters although not look very strong and their vessels not protruding under the skins, they are very powerful even when they getting old. One of the major reasons is they benefited from these simple exercises.

Shang-Chi: The Hellfire Apocalypse (Shang-Chi: Master of Kung Fu)

Average customer rating:

MEDIOCRE WRITING, GREAT ART
Could Have -- Should Have -- Been Great, But Misses The Mark
Good Action Book
You really can't go home again

Shang-Chi: The Hellfire Apocalypse (Shang-Chi: Master of Kung Fu)
Doug Moench
Manufacturer: Marvel Entertainment Group
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0785111247

Book Description

Comics pre-eminent star of martial arts action -- Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu -- is back. If Moench and Gully's seminal Master of Kung Fu successfully tapped into the Bruce Lee kung fu craze and popular James Bond spy flicks, then their revamped MOKF will appeal to the folks who are packing the seats for the latest Jet Li flick, or "Mission Impossible" sequel.

Customer Reviews:

MEDIOCRE WRITING, GREAT ART.......2005-04-09

As most fans know, this team produced a (justly) critically acclaimed "Master of Kung Fu" comic in the 70's. Too bad their legacy regarding Shang-Chi is tarnished by this tale.

While Gulacy's art is dependably excellent, Moench's plot and scripting are hackneyed. The fights seem forced and endless. Do these stories need action and conflict? Sure. Was this the way to do it? No. You'll want to take a pass on this one unless you're a real disciple of Gulacy.

Could Have -- Should Have -- Been Great, But Misses The Mark.......2004-04-14

This is a project that should have been a new classic, but falls well short of that mark by a misguided and ultimately failed attempt at pandering to the perceived wants of current comics readership.

This book features two superb craftsmen returning to the title where they earned their reputations 30 years ago. Think of O'Neal and Adams reuniting on Batman, or Claremont and Byrne going back to the X-Men. Anticipation warms the heart and gets the blood pumping. You know it will never be as good as you remember, but certainly it'll be much better than most of what's offered on the bookshelf today. Unfortunately, that didn't prove to be the case, and sadder still, it could easily have been otherwise.

The work starts off strong, with Moench's taut pacing and spot-on dialogue, and Gulacy's strong storytelling steering your eye, and then it veers terribly off-course. The introduction of Morgan Spetz and his Omega team of over-muscled/under-dressed WWF cast-offs jars the book from "realistic" spy thriller to virtual parody. The Spetz subplot seems completely forced and doesn't ring at all true to the rest of the piece, even as a failed attempt at comic relief. It's like Moench submitted his original script to Marvel and the editors convinced him he needed these steroid-popping oafs to attract the 12-year-olds (who shouldn't be reading this "Mature Audience" title in the first place). Their inclusion slows the pace to a crawl and dumbs-down the plot, leaving the reader with a sour aftertaste of disappointment and frustration at a glorious storytelling opportunity lost.

Unlike the original source material that still resonates in the minds of collectors 30 years later, this current offering is cranial candyfloss, empty intellectual calories that will have completely faded from your memory before your next meal.

It's a good Saturday afternoon read, but unlikely a book you'll ever pick up again.

Good Action Book.......2003-09-04

After deciding to live in peace following a violent lifestyle, Shang-Chi must now return to action to stop evil. MI-6 has learned of a new underworld mastermind who brainwashes assassins to do his will, and Shang-Chi is the only one who can stop him if he gets his hands on a powerful weapon that can destroy the world. Chi must reunite with old team members and face old relationships before the final confrontation with his powerful adversary.

Classic Shang-Chi creators Doug Moench and Paul Gulacy return in this new action, spy thriller. The typical 'evil genius who wants to rule the world' spy theme is evident here as James Bond, espionage, and kung-fu fans should feel right at home. Moench's fairly generic spy plot isn't exactly innovative or deep, but it is a good fit for this action story and Paul Gulacy's great artwork. Gulacy's pencils and Palmiotti's inks clearly convey all of the many action scenes as well as the overall characters. Paul Mounts' dark but vibrant colors also do a good job of matching with the story.

Comic readers searching for a good, action based comic in a market filled with many dialogue heavy titles should look no further than "Shang-Chi: Master of Kung-Fu."

NOTE: This is a Marvel MAX book and is suggested for older readers due to language and violence/gore (a comic book equivalent to an R-rated movie).

You really can't go home again.......2003-07-06

When I became a certified comics fan in the late 70s, there were two comics outside of the "mainstream" superhero fare that I loved. One was Howard the Duck, a satirical comic about politics and society. The other was a comic about family, albeit one in which the father was the ultimate evil and the son had been raised to be the perfect assassin, who then rebelled against his father. Of course, Master of Kung Fu also had the big action sequences as well as secret service intrigue as well, but I suspect it was that idea of the son not exactly wanting to follow in his father's footsteps that a psychiatrist would have a field day with if I ever found myself on the couch.

Marvel's recent successes on the movie screen along with the burgeoning market for graphic novels has them looking to the past for their future. They also, obviously, believe that since the audience that grew up on these comics are older, that such audience also wants their return to be "mature" as well, and to that end Marvel has a new line of comics called "MAX" to distinguish comics with "mature" themes. I've only read two of the MAX titles--the original creators returning to my favorite books, Howard the Duck and Master of Kung Fu, and I'm starting to think ol' Tom Wolfe was right, and you can't go home again.

It's not that Master of Kung Fu (subtitled "The Hellfire Apocalypse") isn't well done. Moench and Gulacy are a wonderful team and the intervening years have not diminished their ability to portray in flat panels the fluidity and excitement of a martial arts epic. But something is missing, and I think it's the cliffhangers and surprise of the monthly comic. Collected together in this graphic novel, the monthly wait to see just how Shang-Chi, Weiko Lu, Clive Reston and Black Jack Tarr were going to get out of this dire calamity is gone. But even then, it wasn't that cast, nor Fu Manchu, that drew me to the comic, but the ancilliary ideas, just as it isn't James Bond or Blofield that brings you back to 007, but the gadgets. "The Hellfire Apocalypse," although it tries hard, is warmed over kung fu--there's nothing in this book that we haven't seen time and time again since Moench and Gulacy took their leave of us 20 years ago.

It makes me wary to re-read any of those 1970s/1980s originals, to see if my memory has failed me and that those comics weren't as great as I remember.

Secrets of the Shaolin Masters
Average customer rating:

Another Good intro.

Great Book for the Money

It's a good book
Secrets of the Shaolin Masters
Paul Koh
Manufacturer: Unique Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Wing Chun Kung-Fu: Basic Forms & Principles (Chinese Martial Arts Library)

ASIN: 0865680027

Customer Reviews:

Another Good intro........2003-09-25

I've had the book Wing Chun Kung Fu by J. Yimm Lee for some years. Then I recently saw Sifu Wongs book at the book store for only $6.50. This book in another good intro to Wing Chun. It gives the reader a briefing on the history and theory of this style and the entire second empty hand form Cham Kui, you'd learn. Unfortunately, [as with all martial arts books] it's only good as a referance to a class. Mr. Lee's book cited above is also recommended.

Great Book for the Money.......2003-04-17

This book is well worth the cost, and should set an example to other author's and companies. Gives historical perspectives of Wing Chun, Wing Chun theory, basic blocks and strikes, good chapter on wing chun kicks, unusual for a wing chun book. Demonstrates the second form of Wing Chun, which is slightly modified to include more kicks, just a Master's preference. Good chapter on applications. The book has a lot of general info, or will just briefly mention a topic. Pictures are small and grainy. One thing to note is Wong authors the book as Sifu Douglas Wong, in Chinese culture, they don't refer to one's self as sifu, it is considered arrogant and concieted. Other wise a good humble book on Wing chun, which makes for a decent reference to the second form.

It's a good book.......2000-03-21

The Deceptive Hands of Wing Chun displays information on exactly what the book says it contains, deceptive hands of Wing Chun. It gives the layman a good and concise idea on what the hands of Wing Chun are capable of.

Overall it is a book worth getting. Sifu Douglas Wong is very helpful with the way he explains things, as I previously said this book is very concise and a very helpful.

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