Karate-Do Kyohan: The Master Text

by Gichin Funakoshi

Book Overview

In the tradition of oral instruction of karate technique and character development, this text explains formal kata exercises in detail. Nineteen kata' ('forms') of karate - the art of self-defense without weapons - are presented here in complete detail. They are the ones selected by the great master and teacher, Gichin Funakoshi, to give comprehensive training in Karate-do, the way of karate.'

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0870111906
• Release Date: January 1
• Weight: 1.98 lbs.

Customer Reviews

I never received the book

I never received the book, hence I have no idea

The Classic of Japanese Karate-do

There are few books which can compare with Funakoshi's master text. Although the style which I practice lies outside of the lineage of the system presented here, I have always admired this book's clean setup and the clear exposition of the principles which epitomize the Japanese style(s). The katas are taught as well as can be expected given a book format. It is clear from the writing that Funakoshi loved his art. It is also clear that he could USE his art if the need arose. A close reading of his explanation of applications will confirm that his knowledge extended beyond the "block,punch,block,strike" stage.

Classic work by the master

This book is a must have for Shotokan as well as other stylists. The photos are excellent and the presentation of the forms is equally good. An important feature is the footwork diagrams, missing in many otherwise good kata books. The book is mostly katas, and up till this time it was the only book documenting the more advanced forms. To my knowledge, it is still the only book that has the Ten No Kata Omote form. There are 19 forms in all. Senior Egami does a great job with the form demonstrations.There are about 30 forms in all in the Shotokan style. I only hope that someone does a book someday with all of them. Nakayama has done some further books with 2 or 3 of the advanced forms per book, but I'd like to see them all under one cover some day. However, someone who masters the 19 forms in this book should have considerable skill and power.

The definitive book on kata by karate's greatest master

Gichin Funakoshi was the founder of modern karate. His style is known as shotokan, from his nickname Shoto. Every karate and tae kwon do style in the world today is descended from Funakoshi. Ancient Korean tae kwon do is a lost art. Modern TKD borrowed heavily from Funakoshi.Nearly 200 of the book's 250 pages are devoted to katas, the choreographed forms of karate. There are 17 katas carefully explained and illustrated. I learned some of these 30 years ago. You forget a lot in 30 years - although not so much if it's been drummed into your head enough. Anyway here they are - move by move, good as new. They are great practice tools for when you don't have a partner. Doing kata is a lot more interesting than repetitive drills.

A must have !

This book is great in every aspect. First, the layout is great, quality paper with very well done illustrations and great photographic material. Second, the text by Masetr Funakoshi is very pleasant and interesting to read, really enjotable. And third the katas are demonstrated with great technique and much detail (written and pictures). Be sure to get this book if you are serously interersted in Shotokan Karate-Do. I must mention although that the book is 3/4 of Katas and 1/4 of everything else, so if you think you will be bored with pages and pages of katas dmonstartion, think about it twice. Overall, I find it excellent.