This book is the second in a series devoted to the martial art Hwa Rang Do. This book contains detailed information about Hwa Rang Do Joint Manipulation from multiple situations. This book is a must for your Hwa Rang Do collection, and contains detailed photos of these joint manipulation techniques.
Spotlight customer reviews:
Customer Rating: Summary: One of the first books I ever owned on the martial arts! Comment: 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. Customer Rating: Summary: Practical Self Protection from Korea Comment: Originally published in 1978 by Ohara and since re-released by JL Publications, this is the second in a three volume series by Master Teacher Joo-Bang Lee. Volume Two covers joint locks, self-defense against grabs (including locking and throwing), defense from disadvataged positions (sitting, etc), and defense against kicks and punches which include a variety of detailed sewwping, throwing, locking and striking techniques put into practice. Each photographic sequence is well-detailed and clear. As with the first volume in the series, the majority techniques are clearly demonstrated by Master Joo-Bang Lee himself. Volume One of this series covers history, Theory, Stances, Falling, Striking/punching, Kicking, and blocking. Volume Three covers throwing, defense against weapons, striking vital points, a few cane and baton techniques, choking, opponent control, and defense against more than one opponent.
Although there is some debate as to the historicity of Hwarang-Do as an "ancient" Korean martial art separate from Hapkido and Taekwondo --Lee claims Hwarang Do has a completely separate native Korean origin despite its remarkable similarity to other forms of Korean martial art such as Hapkido and Kuk Sool-- this debate does nothing to detract from the technical expertise evident in the presentation of this book and the two which follow it. Author Lee Joo-Bang was at one time a direct (and senior) student of Hapkido founder Choi Yong-sul, and part of an original core group of dedicated martial arts men in Korea who traded techniques with one another in a progressive and friendly manner. Eventually due to competition these bonds of brotherhood dissolved, and today there is a lot of mystery and quarreling over what happened in those early days to cause so much dissention.
Among the few faults I can find with this series of books is the repetitive inclusion of the sections on history and theory in each of the three volumes. Certainly a more specific and inclusive history of Master Lee's own experiences, along with photos from his extensive historic collection could only benefit this series. The format of these books as well (not the actual layout) would benefit greatly by being reintroduced in a larger format. Hwarang-Do is certainly worthy of a nice large, hardcover volume built to last. Then again, these paperback editions offer affordability and easy access to the general public. For that reason and for the quality and scope of technique presented, Lee's three volume collection is absolutely worthwhile including in any martial arts collection.
