<< 1 >>
Rating: 
Summary: an excellent reference for karate students of all levels
Review: In classical karate, the student proceeds through a syllabus of kata (prearranged sequences of defensive and offensive techniques), basic techniques, and kumite (sparring practice).The Japan Karate Association syllabus is set out, in substantial part, in this book and its companion volume. The author is an instructor of the highest level of authority in the world of Shotokan Karate. While no book can substitute for regular training with a competent instructor, this book and its companion represent a remarkable reference work, and contain a large amount of information of the highest quality. This book and its companion are excellent references for the experienced karate student, and will help the student maintain correct technique. For the beginning student of karate, the book provides a map showing the territory the student will cover over the first years of instruction, and shows the quality of technique that can be attained with correct instruction and serious application.
Rating: 
Summary: Don't Bother
Review: This book is actually very, very low on content. To give you an idea of the amount of content, it took me 20 minutes to fully digest the book. Having gone through almost all of the belt tests covered, so much has been left out that the book is of little value in assisting the student in preparing for his or her belt tests. The actual standard for each kyu and dan rank is not even mentioned. The only notable feature of the book, other than its publishing quality, is the photography. Frankly, I expected more. Indeed, this book could have been so much more had its author decided to write a book rather than pose for photographs.
Rating:
Summary: Don't Bother
Review: This book is actually very, very low on content. To give you an idea of the amount of content, it took me 20 minutes to fully digest the book. Having gone through almost all of the belt tests covered, so much has been left out that the book is of little value in assisting the student in preparing for his or her belt tests. The actual standard for each kyu and dan rank is not even mentioned. The only notable feature of the book, other than its publishing quality, is the photography. Frankly, I expected more. Indeed, this book could have been so much more had its author decided to write a book rather than pose for photographs.
Rating:
Summary: a fine reference for all levels of karate student
Review: This book sets out much of the beginning syllabus of Shotokan Karate, setting out the appropriate kata (prearranged sequences of offensive and defensive karate techniques), basic technique, and basic prearranged sparring sequences. The author is one of the most senior and technically proficient of the Japan Karate Association instructors. While no book can substitute for actual training with a competent instructor, this book and its companion by the same author provide an excellent reference manual of orthodox technique for the experienced student. For the beginner, this book and its companion provide a road map of the territory to be covered over the first few years of training. These are excellent books with extremely high production values, and contain a remarkable amount of high quality information.
<< 1 >>
| 
