Books by Sang H. Kim

Junsado Fundamentals, Standing and Ground Combat

In tranquility, the body and mind are quiet and settled. Positive feelings prevail over negative feelings, and a sense of connection with the deeper self, and the force of nature rises. In Tranquility Through Movement, Sang H. Kim presents a sequence of 12 mindful movements to promote and sustain a tranquil inner state in the face of stress and uncertainty.

The goal of each movement is to deliberately collect unhealthy tension that is held in the body and disperse it to help your body become tension neutral. These gentle movements can be modified for beginners or done as recommended for a more advanced challenge to balance and coordination. An excellent daily home practice routine that can be done anywhere you can stand and stretch your arms.


Junsado Fundamentals, Standing and Ground Combat

The key to winning a fight is neutralizing your opponent's strengths and using his weaknesses against him. 

In Junsado Fundamentals, Standing and Ground Combat, Sang H. Kim teaches you how to neutralize and destroy your opponent in standing and ground confrontations, including realistic, no-nonsense strategies against tackles, head locks, chokes, arm locks, punches, grabs, low kicks, sweeps, throws, pins and a variety of strikes.

Over 50 standing and ground combat scenarios take you through a wide range of possible attack and defense situations to improve your fighter's instinct. In addition to demonstrating a practical defensive strategy, each scenario illustrates a key Junsado principle in action, building your ability to apply fighting principles across a wide range of situations. Also included is a complete reference to the fundamental skills of Junsado, including: stance, open and closed hand strikes, elbow strikes, low kicks, knee strikes, takedowns, wrist, arm, elbow and shoulder locks and ground fighting skills.

Junsado, founded by former South Korean Special Agent and lifelong martial artist, is a dynamic and direct fighting style. This concise reference will help you hone your fundamental fighting skills, give you a framework for developing your fighting strengths, and reveal core principles that can be applied in the ring or on the street.

Over 650 full-color photos.


Mindful Movement: Mastering Your Hidden Energy

Mindful Movement: Mastering Your Hidden Energy is a guide to invigorating your internal Ki energy flow through a unique sequence of 12 movements (MBX-12) targeting the 12 meridian energy channels. MBX-12 brings together mindful movement and deep breathing to create an active form of moving meditation.

As you learn the exercises that make up the MBX-12 routine, you'll develop an understanding of the mindfulness practice principles of attention, centering and release. Sang H. Kim introduces the movements of MBX with step-by-step practice guidance, focal points, self-assessment criteria, wellness applications and detailed explanations of how mindful movement influences your inner energy flow. You'll also learn 13 MBX Mudras, symbolic hand movements that activate the 6 meridians in the hand and affect energy flow across the body.

Throughout the book, short readings introduce you to the four pillars of energy transformation: mindfulness, movement, breath, and meridians. For experienced mind-body practitioners, MBX-12 is an excellent supplement to other mindful movement practice such as Yoga, Taichi, and Qigong. MBX-12 integrates your moving body with your breath, redirects energy flow along the 12 meridians, and unites the mind with all in the present.

 


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

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.

 


Ultimate Flexibility: A Complete Guide to Stretching for Martial Arts

Ultimate Flexibility is the book you’ve been waiting for. More than a collection of exercises or an explanation of technique, Ultimate Flexibility is a complete guide to stretching for martial arts, from the very basics of why you should stretch to detailed workout guidelines for every style and level of martial arts practice.

Written by acclaimed author and martial artist Sang H. Kim, Ultimate Flexibility is your guide to achieving maximum flexibility in your training. Begin with an in depth look at the hows and whys of flexibility and stretching. Learn about the many types of stretching, which methods are best for beginners, when to graduate to advanced techniques and why you should completely avoid certain types of exercises.

You’ll also find information that you wont find in any other martial art book, including a detailed exploration of how your body works for or against you in your training and how flexibility can make you stronger and faster.

 


Power Breathing: Breathe Your Way to Inner Power

Revitalize Your Energy with Power Breathing! Martial arts expert and Power Breathing for Life creator Sang H. Kim teaches you breathing exercises that you can do anywhere, in as little as sixty seconds, to relieve stress, increase your fitness level and feel better instantly.

New to breathing exercises? Start with Gentle Breathing, a simple way to reconnect with your body and begin your journey toward renewed energy. When you're ready, the core Power Breathing exercises of Steady, Staccato and Explosive breathing combine to create a total body energizing workout that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Finally, give attention to problem areas with Healing Breathing ten exercises to release tension and promote flexibility through controlled breathing. Beyond the exercises and workouts, this book also explains how and why Power Breathing works and how you can get the most out of your breathing practice. It includes variations to make the exercises less strenuous or more challenging depending on your fitness level and walks you step by step through each breathing method using photos, illustrations and easy to understand instructions.

Learn the keys to a successful Power Breathing workout, including the unique concept of condensing that is the secret to building inner power and harnessing your body's core energy. Power Breathing is an excellent way of improving lung capacity, strengthening the core muscles of the torso, increasing stamina, reducing stress and channeling inner energy. Its principles can be applied to martial arts training, yoga, tai chi and many aerobic sports.


Ultimate Fitness through Martial Arts

Ultimate Fitness through Martial Arts is a one-stop reference for martial arts students, instructors and coaches that includes over 200 new and traditional martial arts exercises, games and drills for developing speed, power, flexibility, timing, coordination, agility, balance, and mental strength. Save hours of workout time by doing only the exercises that produce maximum results. Learn to plan your personal workout and track your progress in every area.

• Variations for individuals, partners and groups
• Detailed explanations of fitness concepts
• Injury prevention
• Diet and nutrition
• Beginner, intermediate and black belt workout plans
• Exercise cautions
• Martial arts applications for all exercises
• Instructor guidelines
• Organized for easy reference

• over 200 photos

 


1,001 Ways to Motivate Yourself and Others

Motivation is the key to success in life, particularly in the martial arts. Students need motivation to achieve their goals. Instructors need motivation to give their best to every class. And more importantly, every instructor must understand the keys to motivating their students to stay focused and enthusiastic in their daily workouts. 

1,001 Ways to Motivate Yourself and Others is divided into two types of motivation: the inspiration section, with 100′s of motivational sayings to inspire you and the application section, with 100′s of specific things you can do to get motivated or motivate others. Also includes the theory of motivation and the difference between good and bad methods of motivating others.

 


Taekwondo Self-defense: Taekwondo Hoshinsool

In Taekwondo Self-defense: Taekwondo Hoshinsool, Sang H. Kim adapts traditional Taekwondo skills for the modern day Taekwondo classroom. The self-defense techniques presented blend Taekwondo kicking, blocking and striking skills with locks, throws and takedowns drawn from other Korean self-defense arts.

Learn how to use your Taekwondo skills to defend against a wide variety of common emptyhand attacks including holds, locks, chokes punches, kicks and pins. Plus, learn defenses against an attacker wielding a blunt weapon, knife or gun.

Each defensive scenario is illustrated with high quality photos and explained in step-by-step detail that includes key points to successfully applying advanced techniques, multiple ways of defending against the most common attacks and alternative responses to help you prepare for the fluid reality of a real-life self-defense situation. Taekwondo Self-defense is an invaluable reference for the dojang, promotion testing, demonstrations, and your personal protection.


Complete Kicking: The Ultimate Guide to Kicks for Martial Arts Self-defense & Combat Sports

COMPLETE KICKING: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO KICKS FOR MARTIAL ARTS SELF-DEFENSE & COMBAT SPORTS is a comprehensive guide to the kicks of Taekwondo from white belt to black belt and beyond. Sang H. Kim shares his expert knowledge of fundamental, jumping, spinning and multiple kicks.

You'll get in-depth instruction for over 40 kicks, including the purpose of the kick, key points to pay attention to when practicing, step-by-step execution of the kick, the best targets for each kick, applications for sport fighting and self-defense, plus the most common kicking mistakes and how to fix them. As you progress, you ll also learn exercises designed to improve your kicking flexibility, power, speed and balance.

This book goes beyond the basics and explains the concepts behind awesome kicks including how to generate power using your whole body in every kick, how to generate maximum impact, how to use body mechanics to kick higher, and how to get the most out of every practice session.Complete Kicking is the ultimate reference for martial artists of all styles who want to master the art of kicking.

 


Martial Arts Instructor's Desk Reference

The Martial Arts Instructor's Desk Reference is a complete guide to advanced teaching concepts and martial arts school administration. Author and veteran martial arts instructor Sang H. Kim covers a wide range of essential topics for the professional martial arts instructor including:

• teaching children with ADD, behavioral problems and learning disabilities 
• creating lesson plans and teaching specific curriculum elements 
• combating boredom through hundreds of drills and training ideas 
• marketing, advertising, publicity, staffing and customer service 
• instructor training and evaluation 
• tournament management


 


Martial Arts After 40

Martial Arts After 40 is the first book ever to explore the needs and advantages of the over-forty martial artist. It takes an in-depth look at the realities of training in mid-life including:  

• What type of exercises are beneficial and which ones are dangerous?  

• What are the effects of aging and what impact do they have on training?  

• How can baby boomers keep up in a class of Gen-Xers?

• What types of injuries are common after forty and how can you prevent them?

In addition to providing a wealth of fitness and training information, author Sang H. Kim addresses the fact that many older martial artists are looking for something more meaningful than just a good workout. His positive and knowledgeable approach to taking up or continuing martial arts training after 40 is inspiring, reassuring and informative. This book should be read by every adult martial artist regardless of age.

 


Taekwondo Step Sparring

Step sparring is a traditional form of drill training used by Taekwondo students to practice and perfect stances, blocks, strikes and kicks with a partner. In Taekwondo Step Sparring, Sang H. Kim progressively teaches you nearly 70 step sparring techniques, from beginner to black belt.


The step sparring techniques in Taekwondo Step Sparring incorporate dozens of strikes, blocks, stances, kicks and footwork in sparring and self-defense style partner applications. In addition to detailed instruction, Sang H. Kim shares training tips and mastery points to help you take your fundamental Taekwondo skills to their highest level. Each step sparring sequence is illustrated with clear photos including reverse views, close-ups and transition photos so you can perfect each skill. You ll also learn how to adapt blocks, strikes and kicks for step sparring applications and how to create your own step sparring techniques. This is a comprehensive introduction to step sparring for Taekwondo students of all skill levels.

Learn: * What is Step Sparring? * How to Practice * Step Sparring Etiquette * Practice Progression * Beginner Techniques * Intermediate Techniques * Advanced Techniques * Skills Reference Guide * Variations * Training Tips * Mastery Points * Adaptations * Multiple Views * Teaching Step Sparring * Create Your Own

 


The Art of Harmony

In The Art of Harmony, Sang H. Kim blends the wisdom of east and west to you make sense of the chaos and discord of everyday life. While we all naturally seek harmony, happiness, freedom and fulfillment, they are often elusive, even in the best of times. In this expanded second edition of this popular book, author Sang H. Kim shares insightful anecdotes and explanations building on the original verses from the first edition, shedding light on the roots of harmony and happiness.

Readers have called The Art of Harmony enlightening, fulfilling and heart opening. It is a book that you will come back to again and again, seeking the clarity and simplicity of its approach to living in harmony with yourself and your surroundings.

 


Tae Kwon Do Black Belt Poomsae (Taekwondo Poomsae series)

Tae Kwon Do Black Belt Poomsae is a complete guide to the Black Belt Poomsae (forms) of Taekwondo. Grandmasters Kyu Hyung Lee and Sang H. Kim have combined their extensive knowledge of traditional taekwondo forms to teach you not only the 9 official WT style black belt poomsae, but the meaning of the forms, the principles of Poomsae performance and the philosophy that underlies the techniques. Each Poomsae is thoroughly illustrated with clear and technically precise photos.

The instructional text is supplemented with information about the meaning, movement line and symbol of each of the taekwondo forms as well as the correct execution of each new movement introduced in the form. The following Poomsae are included: Koryo  •  Kuemgang  •  Taebaek  •  Pyongwon  •  Sipjin  •  Jitae  •  Cheonkwon  •  Hansoo  •  Ilyeo


Tae Kwon Do Taegeuk Poomsae (Taekwondo Poomsae series)

Tae Kwon Do Taegeuk Poomsae is a complete guide to the Taegeuk Poomsae (forms) of Taekwondo. Grandmasters Kyu Hyung Lee and Sang H. Kim have combined their extensive knowledge of traditional taekwondo forms to teach you not only the 25 official taekwondo poomsae, but the meaning of the forms, the principles of Poomsae performance and the philosophy that underlies the techniques. Each Poomsae is thoroughly illustrated with clear and technically precise photos.

The instructional text is supplemented with information about the meaning, movement line and symbol of each of the taekwondo forms as well as the correct execution of each new movement introduced in the form. The following Poomsae are included:

• Poomsae Taegeuk Il Jang  •  Poomsae Taegeuk Ee Jang  • Poomsae Taegeuk Sam Jang  • Poomsae Taegeuk Sah Jang  • Poomsae Taegeuk Oh Jang  • Poomsae Taegeuk Yuk Jang  • Poomsae Taegeuk Chil Jang  • Poomsae Taegeuk Pal Jang



 


Tae Kwon Do Palgwe Poomsae (Taekwondo Poomsae series)

Tae Kwon Do Palgwe Poomsae is a complete guide to the Palgwe Poomsae (forms) of Taekwondo. Grandmasters Kyu Hyung Lee and Sang H. Kim have combined their extensive knowledge of traditional taekwondo forms to teach you not only the 8 official Palgwe poomsae, but the meaning of the forms, the principles of Poomsae performance and the philosophy that underlies the techniques. Each Poomsae is thoroughly illustrated with clear and technically precise photos.

The instructional text is supplemented with information about the meaning, movement line and symbol of each of the taekwondo forms as well as the correct execution of each new movement introduced in the form. The following Poomsae are included:

Poomsae Palgwe Il Jang  •  Poomsae Palgwe Ee Jang  •  Poomsae Palgwe Sam Jang  •  Poomsae Palgwe Sah Jang  •  PoomsaePalgwe Oh Jang  •  Poomsae Palgwe Yuk Jang  •  Poomsae Palgwe Chil Jang  •  Poomsae Palgwe Pal Jang

 


Muye Dobo Tongji : Comprehensive Illustrated Manual of Martial Arts of Ancient Korea 

In 1789, King Chongjo, ruler of the Yi dynasty, ordered General Yi Duk-moo to compile an official textbook on all martial art forms then present in Korea to preserve them for future generations. The result, the Muye Dobo Tongji, is the only surviving classical text on the Korean arts of war. Based on the earliest known Korean martial arts treatise, the Muye Chebo written in 1599, the Muye Dobo Tongji clearly shows the influence of the neighboring Japanese and Chinese armies.

Through hundreds of wars and invasions, Korean soldiers adapted battlefield skills and tactics from their enemies, creating a unique system of their own. Organized into 24 distinct disciplines comprised of empty hand fighting, weaponry and horsemanship, this book is an accurate historical snapshot of the warrior arts of the hermit kingdom in the late 18th century.

The release of The Comprehensive Illustrated Manual of Martial Arts of Ancient Korea marks the first time this volume is available in English. Carefully translated from the original text and illustrated with reproductions of ancient woodblock carvings, this book provides fascinating insights into Korea’s martial arts legacy.


Teaching Martial Arts: The Way of the Master

Teaching Martial Arts: The Way of the Master is the classic text for martial arts instructors. In a revolutionary approach, Sang H. Kim Ph.D has blended his extensive knowledge of martial art training with modern and classical teaching methodology to create a system of teaching martial arts for the 21st century. 

This expanded 2nd edition is filled with practical information to help you lead your students from white belt to black belt and beyond including detailed methods for:

• planning classes at every skill level 
• motivating students 
• organizing seminars and demonstrations 
• preparing for competitions 
• reducing dropouts 
• developing your curriculum
• teaching children of all ages 
• effectively using equipment 
• managing disruptive students 
• making classes fun and exciting 

BONUS SECTION: Launching a Martial Arts School, a step by step guide to opening your own martial arts school is included in this second edition. 

 


Taekwondo Kyorugi: Olympic Style Sparring
By Sang H. Kim, Kyung M. Lee, Kuk H. Chung
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Taekwondo Kyorugi: Olympic Style Sparring

Taekwondo Kyorugi: Olympic Style Sparring is classic how-to text on taekwondo sparring. Written by Korean Olympic Gold Medalist Kuk Hyun Chung, WTF Deputy-Secretary General Kyung Myung Lee and Renowned Martial Arts Author Sang H. Kim, it is a direct translation of the original Korean text. 

Learn the skills, drills, strategies and methods used by Korean coaches and competitors for years, including: 

• footwork and kicks 

• hand target drills and heavy bag workouts 

• coaching 

• combinations 

• strategy and opponent analysis 

• conditioning and weight control 

• competition tips 

• scientific analysis of scoring 

• 120 photos of techinques and exercises