The Complete Guide to Northern Praying Mantis Kung Fu

Description

Developed by Wang Lang over 300 years ago, Praying Mantis Kung Fu is the only martial art according to the fighting skills of an insect. This fascinating system utilizes swift, methodical movements for defense and offense, and is well respected as an art that helps practitioners develop great strength and perseverance. The Complete Guide to Northern Praying Mantis Kung Fu provides an in-depth take a look at the history and practice of this remarkable martial art. Writer Stuart Alve Olson, a student of T. T. Liang, draws at the lineages of Masters Feng Huan-I and Wang Han-Fon, but includes detailed description of all major schools, styles, and lineages. The first half of the book makes a speciality of tactics and theory; the second one half comprises step by step descriptions of the fundamental Praying Mantis stances, exercises, footwork, and kicks, clearly illustrated by more than 200 photographs. What sets this book with the exception of other works on Praying Mantis is its philosophical depth; Writer Olson gives a clear account of the development of the art and the Taoist principles from which it arose. This book provides the basis for not only mastering the martial art of Praying Mantis Kung Fu but also mastering oneself—the real goal of all martial arts.