I was wondering what everyone would recommend if you could choose one book on kung fu. I’m more interested in shao-lin in particular, but am trying to find any book that gives a good overview of training and conditioning exercises, forms, history, philosophy, and applications of the art. Any recommendations?
Kung Fu: History, Philosophy, and Technique (Kung-Fu) (Paperback)
by David Chow (Author), Richard Spangler (Author)
The Art of Shaolin Kung Fu: The Secrets of Kung Fu for Self-Defence, Health and Enlightenment (Health Workbooks) (Paperback)
by Wong Kiew Kit
Seven-Star Praying Mantis Kung Fu (Paperback)
by Leung Ting
Secret of Seven-star Mantis Style (Paperback)
by Lee Kam Wing (Author)
there’s so many. To ask which is best is like asking which style is best. lol.
The Shaolin Encyclopedia.
Secrets from the Temple by Sin Kwang The’
The Shaolin Grandmasters’ Text: History, Philosophy, and Gung Fu of Shaolin Ch’an
by Order of Shaolin Ch’an
Greetings,
No joking:
Taikiken by Kenichi Sawaii. There is a site that has the entire book on it. check it out before you spend money.
mickey
I would definitely go for either “a sword polishers record” or “Lone sword against the cold cold sky” by Adam Hsu. Would have spared me a lot of time if I had read these books earlier…
Northern Shaolin Long Fist Kung Fu- Dr. Yang Jwing Ming
Bruce Tegner’s Book of Kung-Fu and Tai-Chi
Anything by Dr. Yang Jwing Ming is pretty much top notch.
agreed. Dr. Yang’s books are more like college texts, rather than simple,“How to” books. His Northern Shaolin Long Fist has history, theory,several forms and applications. Definately a must have.
Adam Hsu’s stuff is also quite good.
[QUOTE=saltydeath;890908]I was wondering what everyone would recommend if you could choose one book on kung fu. I’m more interested in shao-lin in particular, but am trying to find any book that gives a good overview of training and conditioning exercises, forms, history, philosophy, and applications of the art. Any recommendations?[/QUOTE]
This is mandatory for our beginners:
[I]Kungfu Basics by Paul Eng
187 PP with 300+ photos/illustrations; softcover; $18, includes shipping in continental US
From basic kicks to training and tournament- everything you need to get started in kungfu.
Learn about:
The origins of kungfu - philosophy, history and different styles
What really happens in a kungfu class - invaluable tips on choosing the right school, getting ready for your first class,and basic training methods
The essential elements of the style - stances, footwork, kicks, and hand techniques, with tips on common mistakes and how to get the most power out of each move.
Drills and conditioning exercises - to complement your training
Effective ways to improve your technique - based on the traditional teaching advice of Chinese masters
Resources that can help you further develop your knowledge and understanding of kungfu[/I]
Yes Kung Fu basics by Paul Eng.
i got a couple for some new starters at the club and it helpped them big time.
regards holymantis:D
I agree
Best book is in a Sifu’s teachings not written on paper. I agree Encyclopedia of Shaolin Martial Arts is a good read, however you must read Chinese. Pictures and diagrams are good but not all complete, there are things in the writings that the illustrations don’t show. Again a good teacher is the best book, as long as they are legitimate