Karate's Supreme Ultimate: The Taikyoku Kata in Five Rings

by Patrick McDermott, Ferol Arce

Written by a White Belt and a Black Belt, this book contains the essence of Karate lore. Beginners will find all the basic concepts they'll need to get going. But it will also help higher ranks. As Master Funakoshi said, Taikyoku is a kata "of the most profound character and one to which, upon mastery of the art of karate, an expert will return to select it as the ultimate training kata." Taikyoku are used to introduce technique, but also the history and philosophy of Martial Arts. The authors share with you precepts of a master, insights of a beginner, and some Japanese and Okinawan lore and language picked up because of a life-long fascination with Things Japanese. You'll learn the meaning behind the Japanese words and kanji used in Karate, and improve your pronunciation along with your punches. You can use the book in conjunction with the Wado Ki Kai website at www.wadokikai.com. You'll actually be able to see the kata performed by Sensei Arce, step through it or stop motion to study any position. Whether a beginner just starting Martial Arts or a Black Belt reviewing the lore and language of Karate, this book has something for you.

191 pages, Paperback

First published February 11, 2004

About the author

Patrick McDermott is president of McDermott Computer Decisions, Inc., in Oakland, California. He received his B.A. in Economics from California State University at Sacramento. He has served as director of the Data Management Association (DAMA).