Rating: 
Summary: fabulous introduction to the topic of personal self-defense
Review: "For the First Time Understand Realistic Self-defense!" is a fabulous introduction to the topic of personal self-defense and the self-defense system of Wing Tsun Kung Fu. The author carefully introduces the potentially confusing and intimidating topics of self-defense. Rather than simply diving into a discussion about Wing Tsun Kung Fu, its advantages, and methods of training, Haenel lays an important conceptual and factual foundation, which supports us throughout the rest of the reading. The book reads easily and the format of the book, which incorporates photos, and amusing and instructive drawings/diagrams, as well as sententious quotes and key phrases (called "Live Facts), allows us to make our way through the book quickly but thoroughly.The book's main strength is that it discusses topics that one might think are peripheral to a discussion of self-defense training, but which turn out to be absolutely crucial to understanding and appreciating what realistic self-defense requires. Such topics include, but are not limited to, the apparent and important distinction between self-defense and martial arts, brain behaviour and function, and also motivation and self-confidence. Indeed, the ideas and suggestions contained in the sections on motivation and self-confidence apply to virtually any aspect of one's life, so even if one does not want to learn self-defense, but is interested in other forms of self-improvement, this book is worth having and reading. As noted above, another of the book's strengths is its format. Paradoxically, the book's format is also one of its weaknesses. (Un)fortunately, Wing Tsun Kung Fu is extremely difficult to understand and appreciate without seeing it live and in person. Of course, since the instructor cannot literally come with the book, Haenel does a fantastic job of introducing and explaining self-defense and Wing Tsun Kung Fu, despite the unavoidable shortcoming. Ultimately the book does what Haenel wants it to do, which is to create in the reader an idea of what self-defense is, introduce us to Wing Tsun Kung Fu, and also to pique our interest enough so that we actually seek out the nearest Wing Tsun instructor to see Wing Tsun Kung Fu in real life action and perhaps even try to learn it. And, again, the book provides us with the essential tools of motivation and self-confidence just in case one decides to pursue Wing Tsun Kung Fu (or virtually any other activity) seriously. What the reader should expect from this book is a very readable and interesting book that introduces both general and specific topics related to self-defense and martial arts, and also introduces the Wing Tsun Kung Fu system, its history, it principles, its theory, and its technical specifications. Moreover, the reader can also expect nothing less than absolutely brutal honesty about the relevant topics dealt with in the book. If the book does not pique the reader's interest in Wing Tsun Kung Fu (or self-improvement generally), then something very important was missed in the first reading! In short, this book has important things to offer anyone who is interested in improving their life, including their body, mind, and personal relationships with family and friends. Take the first forward step and read this book!
Rating:
Summary: fabulous introduction to the topic of personal self-defense
Review: "For the First Time Understand Realistic Self-defense!" is a fabulous introduction to the topic of personal self-defense and the self-defense system of Wing Tsun Kung Fu. The author carefully introduces the potentially confusing and intimidating topics of self-defense. Rather than simply diving into a discussion about Wing Tsun Kung Fu, its advantages, and methods of training, Haenel lays an important conceptual and factual foundation, which supports us throughout the rest of the reading. The book reads easily and the format of the book, which incorporates photos, and amusing and instructive drawings/diagrams, as well as sententious quotes and key phrases (called "Live Facts), allows us to make our way through the book quickly but thoroughly. The book's main strength is that it discusses topics that one might think are peripheral to a discussion of self-defense training, but which turn out to be absolutely crucial to understanding and appreciating what realistic self-defense requires. Such topics include, but are not limited to, the apparent and important distinction between self-defense and martial arts, brain behaviour and function, and also motivation and self-confidence. Indeed, the ideas and suggestions contained in the sections on motivation and self-confidence apply to virtually any aspect of one's life, so even if one does not want to learn self-defense, but is interested in other forms of self-improvement, this book is worth having and reading. As noted above, another of the book's strengths is its format. Paradoxically, the book's format is also one of its weaknesses. (Un)fortunately, Wing Tsun Kung Fu is extremely difficult to understand and appreciate without seeing it live and in person. Of course, since the instructor cannot literally come with the book, Haenel does a fantastic job of introducing and explaining self-defense and Wing Tsun Kung Fu, despite the unavoidable shortcoming. Ultimately the book does what Haenel wants it to do, which is to create in the reader an idea of what self-defense is, introduce us to Wing Tsun Kung Fu, and also to pique our interest enough so that we actually seek out the nearest Wing Tsun instructor to see Wing Tsun Kung Fu in real life action and perhaps even try to learn it. And, again, the book provides us with the essential tools of motivation and self-confidence just in case one decides to pursue Wing Tsun Kung Fu (or virtually any other activity) seriously. What the reader should expect from this book is a very readable and interesting book that introduces both general and specific topics related to self-defense and martial arts, and also introduces the Wing Tsun Kung Fu system, its history, it principles, its theory, and its technical specifications. Moreover, the reader can also expect nothing less than absolutely brutal honesty about the relevant topics dealt with in the book. If the book does not pique the reader's interest in Wing Tsun Kung Fu (or self-improvement generally), then something very important was missed in the first reading! In short, this book has important things to offer anyone who is interested in improving their life, including their body, mind, and personal relationships with family and friends. Take the first forward step and read this book!
Rating:
Summary: REALISTIC SELF DEFENSE
Review: "REALISTIC SELF DEFENSE" answers the question "What is the difference between sport martial arts and real self defense"? The information contained in this volume will empower the novice to discriminate between sport martial arts and self defense classes helping the novice to make a decision which fits his or her interests. The major difference between sport arts and self defense is that sport arts have rules and a referee where self defense takes place on the street and your opponent wants to hurt you. The three things required in self defense are; physical conditioning, skill, and will power. Mr. Haenel explains these qualities in depth. Wing Tsun Kung Fu is self defense in its most uncompromising form. In this volume four black belt holders with well over fifty years of experience in the martial arts world between them, give an eye opening account of their path to Wing Tsun. These men are from three countries and have studied many different arts. Much to his credit Mr. Haenel is very careful to give other styles their due. He explains the forms and programs as well as anyone could when talking about movement, sensitivity, and automatic trained reaction. The system is also explained through a photo series that shows particularly how "close-in" to your opponent you are when performing Wing Tsun. There is a chapter that deals with women in martial arts that is a "must read" for instructors of any style. It covers the things that are relevent for women, and how to coach them to make it a positive experience for you as an instructor and for her as a student. Mr. Haenel is very well read on coaching and positive instruction. Topics such as positive self talk, goal setting, focus, accomplishment, confidence, and leadership are all covered. He comes from the attitude"It is better to aim high and miss than to aim low and hit". This attitude helps to tear down the self imposed limitations that we all have and turns our negatives into positives. There are several methods outlined in this volume to aid you in self mastery to become a more positive and self-confident person. Mr. Haenel outlines what it takes to be a good instructor. He talks of student relationships, student problems, and how to continue your own education. On the business side he talks of what makes an instructor professional and subjects such as marketing, advertising,and promotion. The novice as well as the seasoned instructor can find information helpful to their path in martial arts. I am honored to have been asked to do a review for this publication.
Dan Nase, learning martial arts since 1994.
Rating:
Summary: The subject of self-defense covered in considerable depth
Review: Anyone interested in taking up a martial art would do well to read "For the First Time understand Realistic Self-defense!" While the fascination with martial arts continues to grow, there is still very little information that lets one differentiate among the bewildering number of styles and schools. You can, of course, find books and magazines that categorize the various styles, provide some interesting historical and philosophical background and describe some techniques associated with different styles. Many schools advertise that they offer something for everyone: - fitness, flexibility, and often as an add-on, self-defense. But how does one really find a school that genuinely focuses on self-defense. Ultimately, most people do take up the martial arts for that purpose. Ralph Haenel covers this subject in considerable depth. In fact, there are likely people who have been practising martial arts for years that have never considered the subject of self-defense in so thorough a manner as is covered here. While never disparaging the different styles and schools, he convinces us that Wing Tsun Kung Fu is the superior system of self-defense. His frank discussion about what physical threats really are -, i.e., not launched by nice folks who play by the rules - and how ill-equipped most of us are to defend ourselves, really lays bare the myth that martial disciplines that are focussed on competition or have fitness as their aim can be workable self-defense systems. His assertion that an effective system must be simple and available to anyone regardless of age, gender and condition, is bold and logical and certainly runs counter to the practice of endless drills and techniques and emphasis on strength that is the foundation of many schools. What his book doesn't provide is 'Wing Tsun Kung Fu in ten easy lessons' - only the naive would think this possible. What the book does offer, however, is far more intriguing. He describes a system that is based on principles - not techniques, and one that has such logical heft as to be a metaphor for conducting ones life. But, there is more.
The personal stories of Wing Tsun Kung Fu students, all obviously very experienced in a variety of martial arts really enhance the concepts described . They are very effective proponents of the Wing Tsun Kung Fu system. Women will be especially happy to see that there is genuine discussion of the particular challenges they face in the martial arts. What is inspiring is that most of the dynamic photos feature women applying the concepts. There are other aspects of this book that are refreshingly different. The author is clearly conversant with modern teaching techniques. He understands that people have individual learning styles, have real lives with real demands outside of the training hall, and that motivation plays a key role in learning. A real bonus of the book - and I defy you to find other martial arts books that raise this - is the 'chapter on what makes an instructor professional'. The concept of "professionalism" is key in constructive business relationships. Clarity around cost and value of service or goods being provided, understanding of the expectations, roles and relationship of the parties are only some of the key elements of an effective business relationship. However, in the martial arts world tradition-bound relationships still prevail. Often, 'The Master' is the authority and if he deigns the student worthy, he will pass on his great wisdom. And, some masters charge handsomely for their services. Of course, with this system there are no guarantees. Following the Haenel guidelines for what to look for in a professional instructor offers the lucky student the benefit of making informed and intelligent choices in choosing an appropriate martial art. I cannot help but think that the development of professionalism in the martial arts world can only further their development. And, for some final comments. The style of writing is both accessible and entertaining and the illustrations are simply delightful. I also must mention that Ralph Haenel's openness in sharing his personal story lends credibility to his assertion that the Wing Tsun Kung Fu system is possible for everyone and that it can provide benefits well beyond those of effective self-defense. There is, of course much more, but I recommend you get the book. Personally, I can't wait to read his next book.
Rating:
Summary: The subject of self-defense covered in considerable depth
Review: Anyone interested in taking up a martial art would do well to read "For the First Time understand Realistic Self-defense!" While the fascination with martial arts continues to grow, there is still very little information that lets one differentiate among the bewildering number of styles and schools. You can, of course, find books and magazines that categorize the various styles, provide some interesting historical and philosophical background and describe some techniques associated with different styles. Many schools advertise that they offer something for everyone: - fitness, flexibility, and often as an add-on, self-defense. But how does one really find a school that genuinely focuses on self-defense. Ultimately, most people do take up the martial arts for that purpose. Ralph Haenel covers this subject in considerable depth. In fact, there are likely people who have been practising martial arts for years that have never considered the subject of self-defense in so thorough a manner as is covered here. While never disparaging the different styles and schools, he convinces us that Wing Tsun Kung Fu is the superior system of self-defense. His frank discussion about what physical threats really are -, i.e., not launched by nice folks who play by the rules - and how ill-equipped most of us are to defend ourselves, really lays bare the myth that martial disciplines that are focussed on competition or have fitness as their aim can be workable self-defense systems. His assertion that an effective system must be simple and available to anyone regardless of age, gender and condition, is bold and logical and certainly runs counter to the practice of endless drills and techniques and emphasis on strength that is the foundation of many schools. What his book doesn't provide is 'Wing Tsun Kung Fu in ten easy lessons' - only the naive would think this possible. What the book does offer, however, is far more intriguing. He describes a system that is based on principles - not techniques, and one that has such logical heft as to be a metaphor for conducting ones life. But, there is more.
The personal stories of Wing Tsun Kung Fu students, all obviously very experienced in a variety of martial arts really enhance the concepts described . They are very effective proponents of the Wing Tsun Kung Fu system. Women will be especially happy to see that there is genuine discussion of the particular challenges they face in the martial arts. What is inspiring is that most of the dynamic photos feature women applying the concepts. There are other aspects of this book that are refreshingly different. The author is clearly conversant with modern teaching techniques. He understands that people have individual learning styles, have real lives with real demands outside of the training hall, and that motivation plays a key role in learning. A real bonus of the book - and I defy you to find other martial arts books that raise this - is the 'chapter on what makes an instructor professional'. The concept of "professionalism" is key in constructive business relationships. Clarity around cost and value of service or goods being provided, understanding of the expectations, roles and relationship of the parties are only some of the key elements of an effective business relationship. However, in the martial arts world tradition-bound relationships still prevail. Often, 'The Master' is the authority and if he deigns the student worthy, he will pass on his great wisdom. And, some masters charge handsomely for their services. Of course, with this system there are no guarantees. Following the Haenel guidelines for what to look for in a professional instructor offers the lucky student the benefit of making informed and intelligent choices in choosing an appropriate martial art. I cannot help but think that the development of professionalism in the martial arts world can only further their development. And, for some final comments. The style of writing is both accessible and entertaining and the illustrations are simply delightful. I also must mention that Ralph Haenel's openness in sharing his personal story lends credibility to his assertion that the Wing Tsun Kung Fu system is possible for everyone and that it can provide benefits well beyond those of effective self-defense. There is, of course much more, but I recommend you get the book. Personally, I can't wait to read his next book.
Rating:
Summary: excellent book for beginners and experienced alike
Review: As a student of the martial arts I have read many books on different arts and have found most of them to be endless pictures of techniques that I could never put into practical use.
With Ralph Haenels book I was quite surprised to find that there were comparably few photos and instead chapters on will how to practice and stories of the authors history and how he has learned over the years. I would like to to say that the chapter that has had the most effect on my martial arts practice is the chapter on motivation; I have felt, like everyone else, giving up when class was a little hard or I had a bad day at work however when I read this chapter and especially the part on dream pirates I have managed to pull through difficult times and kept my motivation. I highly recommend this book to anybody in martial arts and am looking forward to more from this author.
Dwight Epp
Rating:
Summary: Definitely a must for anyone interested in martial arts!
Review: As you already know, most martial art books are filled w/ shallow pictures, and flowery poetic lines--and not worth the price paid. FFTURSD by Haenel is a "text-book" sized source of self defense--bringing out the realities of self defense that has been clouded by movies and the many uncredible martial art schools. Experiences from other black belts and students are shared--let alone the way the book opens your eyes. If you're like me, you know that there's always questionable doubt if that new punch you learned will really work in "crunch time". This book answered all of my questions. Of course, there's a huge load of pictures to accompany the theory itself but i must admit--the bulk of this book is written material worth investing in and belonging in your collection. This book is not about how to do a form or how to throw a beautiful kick. It's self defense to a "T" with true kung fu roots not some style some guy made up 2 years ago. If you're looking for theory, opinions, ideas, and understanding--this is something i recommend. I challege all of you guys to check it out and rate it yourself--i know you'll agree with me.
Rating:
Summary: Definitely a must for anyone interested in martial arts!
Review: As you already know, most martial art books are filled w/ shallow pictures, and flowery poetic lines--and not worth the price paid. FFTURSD by Haenel is a "text-book" sized source of self defense--bringing out the realities of self defense that has been clouded by movies and the many uncredible martial art schools. Experiences from other black belts and students are shared--let alone the way the book opens your eyes. If you're like me, you know that there's always questionable doubt if that new punch you learned will really work in "crunch time". This book answered all of my questions. Of course, there's a huge load of pictures to accompany the theory itself but i must admit--the bulk of this book is written material worth investing in and belonging in your collection. This book is not about how to do a form or how to throw a beautiful kick. It's self defense to a "T" with true kung fu roots not some style some guy made up 2 years ago. If you're looking for theory, opinions, ideas, and understanding--this is something i recommend. I challege all of you guys to check it out and rate it yourself--i know you'll agree with me.
Rating: 
Summary: No, No, No
Review: Do NOT be misled by the fact that this "thing" is available from a book-selling site nor by the appreciative reviews. This "book" is just an extended brochure for the author's particular style of martial art and his other money-making enterprises. You will learn no self-defense techniques (there are 14 photo series showing -- but in no way explaining -- a few self-defense situations, but that's the extent of the technical presentation). You will gain no insights into personal safety. It is 90% fluff, including praising essays from students, bizarre graphics, blank pages (that you are encouraged to use as worksheets -- though for what exercises is never explained), press clippings and other filler. Very nice scrapbook for the author; zero value for the purchaser.
Rating:
Summary: No, No, No
Review: Do NOT be misled by the fact that this "thing" is available from a book-selling site nor by the appreciative reviews. This "book" is just an extended brochure for the author's particular style of martial art and his other money-making enterprises. You will learn no self-defense techniques (there are 14 photo series showing -- but in no way explaining -- a few self-defense situations, but that's the extent of the technical presentation). You will gain no insights into personal safety. It is 90% fluff, including praising essays from students, bizarre graphics, blank pages (that you are encouraged to use as worksheets -- though for what exercises is never explained), press clippings and other filler. Very nice scrapbook for the author; zero value for the purchaser.
|
