Books: Martial Arts

What follows is a short list of my favorite martial arts-related books:

All of the books authored by Bruce Lee or the Bruce Lee Library.

Explosive Combat: Wing Chung (Volumes 1-2) by Alan Lamb.

A well-rounded introduction to all aspects of Wing Chung by an international master. Included in volume two is a picture-by-picture presentation of Wing Chun's three forms: Sil Lum Tao, Chum Kil, and Bil Jee.

Jeet Kune Do: Hardcore Training & Strategies by Larry Hartsell. Another core JKD book by one of Lee's original students. Included in this book is Lee's mook jong form. Hartsell has authored several books and I recommend them all to any martial artist.

Jun Fan Gung Fu: Seeking the Path of Jeet Kune Do by Kevin Seaman. A solid introduction to core Jun Fan/JKD principles and tactics.

Mastering Karate by Jerry Beasley. Beasley holds dans in numerous arts including karate and Tae Kwon Do. He is also a certified Jeet Kune Do instructor and has authored numerous martial arts books (all of which I recommend). In this book, Beasley applies the philosophy of Jeet Kune Do to core karate techniques. The end result is a book that will help the traditional karate stylist fight smarter in any street situation.

Nunchaku: The Complete Guide by Jiro Shiroma. A solid introduction to nunchaku techniques, katas, and applications.

The Warrior Within by John Little.

A very readable introduction to the philosophy of Bruce Lee. Highly recommended for martial artists and laypersons. Little has authored several other books relating to Bruce Lee and I recommend them all.

Modern Arnis: The Filipino Art of Stick Fighting by Remy Presas.

A good introduction to single and double stick fighting techniques; which, when viewed through the lens of Jeet Kune Do, can enhance nunchaku or Wing Chun's 8-cut butterfly knives techniques.

Wing Chun Kung-Fu, Volumes 1-3 by Dr. Joseph Wayne Smith.

V. 1 Basic Forms & Principles

V. 2 Fighting & Grappling

V. 3 Weapons & Advanced Techniques

This is an excellent overview of Wing Chun forms, principles, and strategies. Moreover, Dr. Smith takes a scientific approach to the biomechanical theories behind Wing Chun while yet preserving its tradition. Finally, in the spirit of advancing the art, Smith incorporates his knowledge of White Crane kung fu and Thai kick-boxing in an effort to add to the art.