BestBuyMAS Posting Page
Sunday, August 23, 2009

When was the last time you read a book? Admit it. It has probably been quite some time. As a serious martial artist reading books should be a part of your regular training. I'm not saying that reading books should replace training with a competent and qualified instructor, but should supplement your training and help you have a better understanding of your art and others available.


Sir Francis Bacon once quoted, "Knowledge is power." I believe that this statement is very pertinent for any person studying martial arts. The more you know and understand about your art the better you will fair against your opponent. The more you know and understand about yourself will make you an unstoppable force. As a martial artist we must make sure to keep our mind open and be receptive to all types of knowledge.


Right now I am re-reading Zen in the Martial Arts by Joe Hyams. This is an excellent, easy read that every martial artist should dive into. While you won't be given any instruction on how to throw a punch or kick, you will be presented with many stories and nuggets of information and philosophy that will make you want to be a better martial artist.


When you are selecting a book to help you expand your mind, make sure you mix it up. Include martial arts training books, martial arts history books, martial arts philosophy books, and anatomy ones. You never know what will help you out unless you look into it. A great place to start looking is the martial arts books section of this site.


Another book I would recommend you read is the Tao of Jeet Kune Do by Bruce Lee. This is Lee's best selling martial arts book and in my opinion it can be appreciated by every martial artist, no matter what their style.


In parting I would like to tell you to be like a sponge. Soak up any and all information that you can get your hands on. Keep your mind open and always evaluate what you learn. Some information is good while other information isn't (especially if you find it on the Internet). Don't just accept something on blind faith. You are ultimately in control of your martial arts studies so make the most of it.


-The Last Ronin-

http://www.associatedcontent.com/thelastronin

http://roninmma.blogspot.com/



by: BestBuyMAS

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