Comprehensive Applications of Shaolin Chin Na (Qin Na: The Practical Defense of Chinese Seizing Arts for All Martial arts Styles)

Rating:
Summary: A useful resource
Review: This impressively lengthy work acts as almost a textbook on chin na, to which one may refer in times of confusion. Dr. Yang's knowledge is impressive, his explanations of techniques are satisfactory and the photos are clear. However, many techniques are repeated in the book simply started from different attacks (eg. from a punch, from a stab etc) which although useful to the beginner as it shows the vast range of applications of a single technique, an advanced practitioner may find this frustrating. Nevertheless, this book promotes thought and encourages one to develop beyond the scope of the book. It has much to offer and is the best of Dr. Yang's books on the subject.

Rating:
Summary: Advanced Knowledge For Grapplers
Review: US martial artists won't find much of the material in this book elsewhere. Those studying advanced judo, jujitsu or other grappling arts will find techniques that enhance basic techniques already in use. I found the sections on attacking tendons especially well done. No surprise that successful application requires significant strength in the fingers and wrists. Not recommended for beginners.

Rating:
Summary: Best Kung-Fu training manual ever written
Review: Yes, it is true that some of the sequences are the same technique with different attacks, but there are over 300 sequences with at least 120 unique techniques. In authentic Shao-lin training you are only normally exposed to 30 Chin-Na techniques. The level of technical explanation is unmatched in this book. You will truly understand the purposes of each movement including pressure points, methods of training, and historical development. If you complement this book with it's companion videos (1&2) you will have more comprehensive Chin-Na instruction than you would ever have without studying directly with Dr. Yang. Train with the book and videos (which show close-ups, slow motion, and full speed demonstration from different angles)and you could truly master Shao-Lin Chin Na. THEY ARE THAT GOOD.