Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it’s definitely worth owning. One such book is Joo Bang Lee’s, "The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do; Volume Two."

This volume, like the other two in the series, starts out with an outstanding section that gives you a detailed look at the history of Hwarang Do and its progression over the centuries from ancient times to the present day. You are then presented with the theory and internal dynamics which make up this very impressive art. The basic principles of training sections were also very good and offered excellent advice that should be implemented during training. The following is a brief overview of each chapter in the book and what it contains.

7. Joint Breaking Techniques:

a. In this section, the author gives 5 detailed examples of joint breaks that target the fingers, wrist, and elbow.

8. Self-Defense Against Grabs:

a. This section if without a doubt one of the best sections in the entire series with detailed examples of over 30 different defenses against various types of grabs ranging from simple wrist grabs and clothing grabs to head locks.

b. Almost all of the defensive moves in this section end up with some sort of joint dislocation or break. Although each of these can be modified to result in a less serious result. These techniques are easy to follow, and if you have a little previous knowledge in joint manipulation, very easy to execute.

9. Self-Defense from Disadvantaged Positions:

a. This section I found to be rather unique as you rarely ever see this particular issue addressed when talking about self-defense and that is defending yourself in any position other than the typical standing position.

b. Demonstrated in this section are 7 defenses that can be used if attacked when lying down.

c. 7 defenses are also shown from a seated position.

d. Now this small section was particularly interesting in the fact that it showed 4 examples for defending yourself while only having the use of one arm. This might come in handy if one of your arms was injured or inoperative for some reason.

10. Self-Defense Against Punches and Kicks:

a. This section although a little brief, demonstrates several different techniques for defending yourself against a variety of punches and kicks. I particularly liked the detailed photographs that are prevalent throughout the entire series of books, not just this section.

One of the things that I particularly liked about this book, and the others in the series, is the fact that there are no “sport” techniques in these books. All of the techniques shown are meant to be used in actual combat and self-defense situations. When you look at the art of Hwarang Do, you could make the comparison that this art form includes not only the strikes and kicks of Tae Kwon Do, but also the throwing and grappling techniques of Judo and the joint techniques of Aikido. Hwarang Do is truly a well-rounded and complete martial art.

This and its two companion volumes were some of the first books that I ever purchased years ago when I was in high school and starting to learn about the martial arts. These books give a very good overview on the art of Hwarang Do and are very informative. If you are interested in this art form, or any of the Korean arts, I would definitely put these books on your too buy list.

Shawn Kovacich has been practicing the martial arts for over 25 years and currently holds the rank of 4th degree (Yodan) black belt in both Karate and Tae Kwon Do. Shawn has also competed in such prestigious full-contact bare knuckle karate competitions as the Shidokan Open and the Sabaki Challenge, among others. In addition to his many accomplishments, Shawn is also a two time world record holder for endurance high kicking as certified by the Guinness Book of World Records. Shawn is the author of the highly acclaimed Achieving Kicking Excellence™ series and can be reached via his web site at: http://www.kickingbooks.com

To learn more about the author or HwarangDo, please visit this web site at: World Hwarang Do Headquarters