The Way of the Warrior - Martial Arts and Fighting Styles From Around the World by Chris Crudelli

By Alain Burrese

The first thing that stands out with Chris Crudelli's new book "The Way of the Warrior: Martial Arts and Fighting Styles From Around the World" is the stunning photographs throughout the entire volume of this coffee table sized visual smorgasbord of martial arts from around the world. It is fascinating to browse and marvel at the wonderful pictures that fill almost every page of this oversized 360 page tomb of martial art information and splendor.

This magnificent visual guide to the martial arts is divided into seven sections, with each section focusing on the indigenous and imported styles synonymous with a particular geographical region. These sections include: India and South Asia; China and East Asia; Southeast Asia and Oceania; Japan and Okinawa; Europe; Africa, Middle East and Central Asia; and finally The Americas. In these seven sections there are descriptions of more than 300 fighting styles. Included are the obvious well known martial arts such as Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, and Aikido. But also included are little know obscure arts like Aki Kiti, Ba Ji Quan, Mizongyi, Taekyon, Banshay, and many others. The book is truly a fascinating look at more martial art styles than most people ever realized existed. Pictures range from ancient drawings, old photographs, and modern photos of stunning displays of martial prowess with fascinating backdrops. There are action shots from competitions and martial art demonstrations as well as those from training sessions and ancient training halls and temples. I can't stress enough what a visual feast this book is for the martial art enthusiast.

The text includes descriptions of the various fighting styles as well as notes on key players in the arts history as well as modern masters. The book illustrates key weapons the various styles are known for and describes the main principles and theories behind the styles. Obviously, due to how the book is organized, the country and culture of each style is also provided. These descriptions are brief, but make for a very interesting overview of the arts to accompany the great photographs.

Scattered among the descriptions and colorful pictures are quotes that capture the spirit of the various arts and warriors who devised them and helped shape the styles into not only methods of fighting but for many a way of life. I was glad to see one of my favorite quotes from Karate Master Gichin Funakoshi, "The ultimate goal of karate lies not in victory or defeat but in the perfection of the character of its participants."

This book is truly a work of art and a wealth of information. It could easily take a place on the coffee table of any martial artist, or a professional lobby or school front for anyone who practices the arts. And it is definitely a marvelous addition to any martial art library. I sincerely thank Chris Crudelli for putting such a book together. I highly recommend this for all martial artists and those who follow the warrior's path.

Alain Burrese, J.D. is a mediator/attorney with Bennett Law Office P.C. and an author/speaker through his own company Burrese Enterprises Inc. He writes and speaks about a variety of topics focusing on the business areas of negotiation and success principles as well as self-defense and safety topics. He is the author of Hard-Won Wisdom From the School of Hard Knocks, several instructional dvds, and numerous articles. You can find out more about Alain Burrese at his websites http://www.burrese.com or http://www.bennettlawofficepc.com

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Some Facts & Tips About Karate Schools!

By Steve Gib

I plan on exposing some flaws and some good accurate points about the different types and styles of karate schools that are probably out there in your town or city. Not all of these dojos are created equally however.



I want to share some advice on martial arts and karate schools so you can get the best self defense training for your dollar and get accurate skills. There are a few misconceptions floating around on what makes a good school.



One myth is that the school with the most trophies doesn't mean much considering the dojo can give their students trophies or just because the student chooses to keep his trophy at the dojo doesn't mean anything compared to reality self defense.



You don't want to fall into the trap of mcdojo karate schools that limit active aggressive sparring until three belts ahead of white is silly and nonsense. You should be sure there is active sparring in the karate school you decide to look into.



Another thing you want to consider is how long the teachers have been teaching and being a blackbelt. A blackbelt karate school instructor with multiple dans on a black belt ensures that you will be learning accurately from a certified instructor.



Another active thing you can do is interviewing your soon to be karate school teacher on why he should teach you and what he has learned himself. You want a teacher that encourages active and aggressive sparring even if it's sport based!



Whatever you do make sure you make the right pick in choosing a karate school!



I have put together free reports, self defense books and martial arts advice over here: http://www.howtofightandwin.com/



You will get a treasure chest filled with real advice for taking your self defense training to a whole new level. I've fought behind prison bars and teach you what works. Be sure to download your free martial arts reports!



Get a collection of self defense tips you need to know now!