Review:

Whether you are a novice in the Dojang or an intermediate looking to refresh some sparring skills, Sihak Henry Cho's "Tae Kwon Do: Secrets of Korean Karate" could be your tool in unleashing the tiger within. He is considered to be one of the world's top experts in Tae Kwon Do and his credentials include: chief instructor of the Karate Institute in New York City; organizer of some of the first open karate tournaments in the United States; president of the United Karate Federation; and captain of the Korea University Tae Kwon Do team.

Cho starts his book with the philosophy of the ancient Korean martial art and its different practices. After explaining the importance of the mind of this self defense technique, Cho moves onto the basics for beginning a karate workout.

Packed with illustrations, the book allows the reader to follow Cho step by step on how to properly stretch before beginning any Tae Kwon Do workout. The examples included show popular techniques on how to stretch alone or with a partner. These stretching exercises are not limited to the realm of martial arts and its practitioners; they can be used before a morning run, a long cycle, or just shooting some hoops on the weekends. They are practical, easy and can make a big difference no matter what activity you choose.

Every student in martial arts starts out with basic blocks, punches and kicks. Cho follows the same regime by illustrating through a series of pictures how to deliver successful, powerful, basic maneuvers. With the pictures guiding the reader, there are tips on which part of the body to use to execute a successful inward block, sidekick and backhand, for example.

After diligently practicing the basics, you may find yourself wanting to learn some self defense and perhaps practicing with a partner. The latter half of the book focuses on sparring techniques and putting to use all of those kicks blocks and punches you practiced in the first half.

What makes this book fantastic is Cho not only helps the reader out with illustrations, but also explains the advantages and disadvantages of each move. Also, the basic forms in this book are not only instrumental in getting under way in a karate program or self defense, most of the basics are universal in other forms of martial arts such as kung fu.

So whether you are aspiring to be the next Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan, or are just looking to have fun and get in shape, this book will help you get on the road to success.

- Sam De Palma
Wellness Junction

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