Complete Idiot's Guide to Karate

Complete Idiot's Guide to Karate
by Randall G. Hassell, Edmond Otis

Complete Idiot's Guide to Karate
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Book Summary Information

Author: Edmond Otis, Randall G. Hassell
Edition: Mass Market Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2000-07-05
ISBN: 0028638328
Number of pages: 384
Publisher: Alpha

Book Reviews of Complete Idiot's Guide to Karate

Book Review: Aka The Dojo for Dummies
Summary: 5 Stars

When it comes to Karate, I am a complete idiot. I have a white belt, which essentially means I have mastered elementary bowing. So when I saw this title, it was a natural. And I really like it. It is quite user friendly, filled with humor, written well, and fully illustrated with drawings and photos.

If you have absolutely no experience with karate, and, like me, you are simply wondering if taking up karate is right for you, this is a great start. The introductory chapters are basic introductions to this martial art - from ettiquitte at the Dojo, to what a Dojo is (the place karate is taught and practiced); from the benefits of self defense, to who can succeed at this martial art (and the answer is, you guessed it, almost anyone! ...even me...); from the history of the martial art, to the hierarchy of belts and grading; from a glossary of terms and phrases, to the basics of competitions and sparring. This book has everything for the beginner.... from kata to kumite.

Then again, this book is written by experts in the field, so even advanced belts and experts can benefit from this guide. My significant other, who has practiced karate for 23 years, also enjoys it; I have caught him reading it on several occassions. But do not worry, oh fellow white belts, it is also written so that anyone can understand it. Even me.

My favorite part of this book is the "Sensei says" sections. These are user friendly tips and tidbits - in cartoon form - that anyone and everyone should know when starting out. I have even started my own personal list of these for myself, and posted them on my fridge. They are not as good as those included in this guide, and are even more basic... such as "Sensei says do not practice karate in the bathtub..." and "Sensei says do not do karate while operating a motor vehicle..."

But then again, I am the complete idiot when it come to this stuff.

Summary of Complete Idiot's Guide to Karate

Interested in the Japanese martial art of karate, but just haven't gotten around to taking a class? The Complete Idiot's Guide to Karate follows up our other proven guides to martial arts. This is one of the most popular sports for young adults and grown-ups alike. This CIG has:
-- Lots of instructional photos to take the reader step by step through the process of learning karate.
-- Information on using karate for self-defense, fitness, and just plain kicking the blues away.
-- Practical advice on how to use karate to control anger and fear.
-- Blow-by-blow descriptions of the various black belt ranks and how to achieve them.
-- Information on karate schools -- where you can go to get the most "punch" for your dollar.
-- Answers on what to do if you feel you've mastered the sport and want to take it to the next level -- competing!
-- Background information on the history of karate in Japan, and how it became the popular sport it is today.

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