Taekwondo: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior

by Doug Cook

Book Overview

Although millions of people around the world practice the fascinating art of Taekwondo, so little is known about its history, principles or philosophy. It is time to find out just what Taekwondo is all about Learn how principles such as honor, perseverance, and dedication will enhance your daily life, how the philosophical and physical tenets combine to form not only a way of living, but a solid system of self-defense, and why these concepts are...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1886969930
• ISBN13: 9781886969933
• Release Date: October 2001
• Publisher: YMAA Publication Center
• Length: 240 Pages
• Weight: 0.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.9" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

I was awash in a sea of sports

I was so pleased to read a book that focused on the art of taekwondo rather than simply the sport. Bravo, Doug Cook for bringing to light that there is more to taekwondo than competition. I highly recommend this book to anyone who seeks more from the martial arts than sport sparring.

Finally, a book covering the philosophy of taekwondo

If you are a taekwondoist that realizes there is more to the martial arts than kicking and punching, then this is the book for you. The author covers everything from training hall decorum to the elusive internal energy known as Ki. This book will remind older practitioners why they continue to train in spite of the aches and pains. It will also teach younger students more about taekwondo than most teachers are able to transmit. It has clearly revitalized the way my students and I train. Only those exclusively seeking huge trophies and points in the ring will find little value here. However, this is a treasure trove for everyone else wishing to gain a full understanding of the Korean martial art and sport of taekwondo. Doug Cook, master instructor and columnist from Taekwondo Times magazine, has done a phenominal job.

The Do (Way) of Martial Arts Training

There have been nights while driving home after a trying workout that I asked myself "why am I training in Taekwondo?" Reflecting on the class I ponder...Perhaps my steep learning curve was kicking in on a new from, or I faltered while performing an old one I hadn't practiced in a while. Maybe I took a few hard shots while sparring or my middle aged body was just sore. It's then the true martial artist wields his (or her) "soul sword" and perseveres to the next class. Not only does Mr. Cook's book address these issues but it provides the martial artist (regardless of chosen style) a framework around why one should train and its benefits outside the dojang as well. Read it with a highlighter in hand, you'll want to go back often!

Tae Kwon Do: an approach to living

I came to this book with little knowledge of the martial arts in general or Tae Kwon Do in particular. By the time I finished the last chapter I had begun to share the author's knowledge and to understand his passion for the discipline. Taekwondo, Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, covers a lot of ground. One chapters offers practical advice on how to choose a dojang (school). Another deals with Tae kwon do's ethical values and basis. A third talks about Ki energy and meditation. Throughout the book, the historical roots of Tae Kwon Do are explored and related to the art as it is currently practiced. Perhaps the most striking feature of the book is the explanation of how the discipline, ethics, focus and determination required by Tae Kwon Do, can be used as a pattern for living in the modern world. Certainly Doug Cook has taken advantage of these tools to create a clear and focused work, which I read with pleasure and enthusiasm.

Finally, a TKD book that speaks to me

I read Doug Cook's book as soon as I saw that it was available. I was intrigued by the title. I often seek out those works that I believe will offer some releveance for me between the traditions that some of us adhere to in the martial arts and the modern day world. I was not disappointed by Mr. Cook's work.My martial arts library consists of over 100 books, but none of them have been as readable and meaningful as his. At times I felt as though he was talking directly to me.He validated for me a lot of the thoughts and feelings I've had in my 15 years in TKD. He reminded me why I still train in spite of advancing years and diminishing physical capabilities. He inspired me to continue on the "way" despite my occasional lapses.His is a book I will come back to from time to time to bolster the spirit. Read this one if you ever find yourself questioning the relevance of martial traditions and rigorous training.