Vital Point Strikes: The Art and Science of Striking Vital Targets for Self-defense and Combat Sports: The Art & Science of Striking Vital Targets for Self-Defense and Combat Sports

by Sang H. Kim

Vital Point Strikes is a guide to pressure point striking for the average martial artist. Sang H. Kim demystifies the lore of vital point striking and shows you realistic applications of vital point strikes for self-defense and combat sports. For those new to the concept of vital points, he begins by examining the Eastern theory of acupoints, meridians and ki (qi) and the Western scientific concepts of the nervous and circulatory systems, pain threshold and pain tolerance, and the relationship between pain and fear. This synthesis of accepted Eastern and Western theories helps the reader understand what makes vital point striking work and why it can be not only useful in fighting, but deadly. Based on this introduction, you ll learn about 202 vital points for use in fighting including the name, point number, location, involved nerves and blood vessels, applicable techniques, sample applications, and potential results for each point. The points are illustrated in detail on an anatomically correct human model, with English, Chinese, and Korean names as well as point numbers for easy reference. In addition to identifying the vital points, Sang H. Kim gives you detailed information about the type of techniques that work for vital point striking including a discussion of fighting zones and ranges, plexus strikes, stance and footwork, bodily weapons, striking directions and angles and dozens of applications for common empty hand, grappling, groundfighting, knife and gun attacks. Based on over thirty years experience in the martial arts and in-depth research, Sang H. Kim has created one of the most complete books available on the art and science of vital point striking.

Genres: Martial Arts, Research

416 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 23, 2008

About the author

Sang H. Kim is a martial artist, author, teacher, motivator, and researcher. He has authored over 20 books including the widely acclaimed Vital Point Strikes and the classics Ultimate Flexibility, Martial Arts After 40, Teaching Martial Arts, and 1001 Ways to Motivate Yourself & Others. Dr. Kim conducted clinical research on the effects of mindful movement and deep breathing (MBX-12) for treating PTSD, and published the results in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, and was featured in CBS News, Huffington Post, Fox News, and others. He was born in South Korea, moved to the United States in 1985, created over 200 martial arts video programs for YouTube.

Reviews

[GORDON · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sober study of vital point (atemi-waza) efficacy by a master martial arts teacher. Drawing from modern anatomy, neurology, hospital reports and autopsies, this book provides a partial explanation for the sometimes baffling texts and reports around the fabled death touch seen in so many Hong Kong martial arts movies and books.

[Jose Rosario · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great illustrations of important strike points and how to attack them. I didn't find the how to attack them section very helpful. But the explanations of the strike points and where they are on the body was helpful. It's a great reference. I wish it would have discussed in more detail the effects of striking each area and why it's a good area to strike. Still a really good quick reference.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for the first time. I really appreciate the concreteness and specificity. It's a book I will return to again, although not cover to cover.

[Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I can retain 10% of it I'll count myself as lucky. Definitely a keeper that I'll go back to.

[Honor Ceh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good technical book for learning more about vital strikes/pressure points.