Traditions: Essays on the Japanese Martial Arts and Ways

by Dave Lowry

The goals of the budo—the martial arts and Ways of Japan—lie in refining the body and spirit. The techniques, methods, and rituals of the budo can provide invaluable lessons for today's martial artists—and serve as guides to a well-lived life.

In Traditions , Davy Lowry discusses unique aspects of the budo ranging from hacho , or deliberate asymmetry, to uke-waza , the art of "receiving" an attack. The spirit of ryomi , the process of self-evaluation and improvement, is illustrated through the story of Kaofujita, a master swordsman who never stopped practicing the first movement he learned. You'll also learn the importance of yuyo , the distance where an attacker must focus his strike, from the story of Jubei, whose mastery of yuyo saved him in a life-and-death encounter, and the significance of shikaku —, the dead zone, on maintaining balance in combat and in life.

With its focus on traditional Japanese martial arts, and fascinating stories that illustrate key principles and martial arts philosophy, Traditions will be required reading for serious martial artists.

Genres: Martial Arts, Nonfiction, Audiobook

184 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Psychonaut · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've liked all of Dave Lowry's books so far. He's one of the better writers I've come across in the martial arts non-fiction genre. I respect his emphasis on the traditions of the art, but it's sometimes hard to see past his self righteous and arrogant attitude. I struggle with how to rate his books for that reason. I really wish he could continue to write passionately and informatively about this topic without being condescending to those who don't do things exactly as he does.

[Rachelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

These were great essays about the traditions of Japanese martial arts, written by Dave Lowry who has had training opportunities and experiences not every student/master gets to enjoy.

[Unnikrishnan Prathapadas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful window into the Japanese culture through the medium of martial arts. What adds to the value of this book is the totally unbiased thought process of the author; despite being a martial artist to the core, he is untouched even by martial arts, untouched by the western culture which he is breathing every day, untouched by the eastern culture and it’s approach to martial arts and life which inspired him so much. Society needs such frank authors. This book is a beautiful Japanese poem which flows in between the narrow space between cultural separations that gives us a good insight into where this particular art form stands in this universe...

[Jonathon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal book on Japanese and Okinawan budo. Full of anecdotes and well researched history lessons. Each chapter is a brief, yet thought provoking insight into the martial arts.

[Jeffrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dave's perspective actually runs rather deep & these were enjoyable short articles shared as a book. Very engaging.

[Dwayne Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although not much of this was new, it was very insightful.

[Derrick Cochran · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brings up very good points when studying any form of Japanese / Eastern martial arts. Very few items did I find that were really karate only. Speaks in broad subjects that have to do with many martial arts such as items on learning and how to be a better student.

[Sandra-jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book for anyone involved with martial arts training.