Discover the Ultimate Martial Arts and Self-Defense Books

Learning martial arts can provide tremendous benefits for personal safety, self-confidence, physical fitness, and mental discipline. With origins tracing back thousands of years, martial arts refer to codified systems and traditions of combat practices. There is a wide range of martial arts across the world, including prominent styles like Karate, Judo, Taekwondo, Jiu-Jitsu, Kung Fu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Krav Maga, and more.

Beyond the physical techniques, martial arts also provide a philosophical framework for pursuing personal betterment and living harmoniously. Studying martial arts requires dedication and perseverance, but the long-term rewards are immense. As Bruce Lee famously said:

“The possession of anything begins in the mind.”

This guide will recommend the best books for beginners and enthusiasts to learn the techniques, history, and philosophy of major martial arts. With the right resources, you can embark on an enriching journey of mastering martial arts and enhancing your self-defense abilities.

Martial arts provide multifaceted benefits:

• Learn effective self-defense techniques and strategies to protect yourself and loved ones
• Achieve peak physical fitness and athleticism
• Gain mental strength, discipline and serenity through training
• Deepen your understanding of a profound philosophical framework
• Master time-tested combat tactics honed by generations of practitioners
• Connect with a passionate community and way of life

The first step is finding the right books to learn the foundations and advanced practices. This handbook will outline the best martial arts books across 15 diverse styles and topics. Let us begin!

Fundamentals of Martial Arts

To start your martial arts journey, you must first learn the basic concepts and foundational techniques common to many styles. Some key fundamentals include:

• Stances: The footwork and body postures used in fighting or forms.
• Strikes: Punches, kicks, knees, elbows, and other offensive techniques.
• Blocks: Techniques to deflect or absorb incoming attacks.
• Movements: Footwork and mobility training.
• Forms: Pre-arranged sequences of movements for practice and performance.
• Sparring: Practice fighting against an opponent.
• Weapons: Traditional weapons like swords, sticks, staffs, etc.
• Tactics: Strategies for offense and defense.
• Etiquette: Customs like bowing and protocols for class.

Here are excellent introductory books to learn these core concepts:

1. “Isshin Ryu Karate: Training Manual” by Bryan C. Winkelman

This heavily illustrated guide provides a comprehensive overview of basic Karate techniques and principles. It takes you step-by-step through fundamentals like stances, blocks, strikes, and kicks. Photos demonstrate proper form, and chapters detail combinations and applications.

2. “Karate: A Comprehensive Guide to Traditional Japanese Karate” by Graeme Lund and Morne Swanepoel

Ideal for visual learners, this book contains over 1000 photos detailing Karate stances, strikes, blocks, and self-defense techniques. The authors are experienced instructors well-versed in communicating complex concepts clearly.

3. “History of Karate and the Masters Who Made It” by Mark I. Cramer

This book combines history and practical guidance, tracing Karate’s origins and development. Biographies of legendary masters like Funakoshi, Mabuni, and Uechi provide inspiration to apply their wisdom.

Studying these fundamentals builds a solid base for mastery. Once you ingrain proper technique, more advanced practices become readily attainable.

The Art of Self-Defense

While competitive combat sports provide tremendous benefits for fitness and discipline, self-defense focuses on practical techniques to protect oneself in dangerous situations. Learning self-defense gives peace of mind and empowers people to live boldly.

Here are top books with essential knowledge for real-world self-defense:

1. “The Gift of Fear” by Gavin de Becker

This bestselling book teaches situational awareness to avoid and de-escalate threats. It advocates trusting your instincts and covers warning signs to prevent violence. Required reading for self-protection.

2. “Fighting Chance” by Loren W. Christensen

Christensen draws from his martial arts expertise and decades in law enforcement to provide concrete drills for prevailing in violent encounters. Scenario-based chapters cover self-defense against armed assailants, gang assaults, domestic violence, and other threats.

3. “The Little Black Book of Violence” by Lawrence A. Kane and Kris Wilder

This handy reference is filled with essential material on surviving violence through preemptive strikes, weapon defenses, and brutal finishing techniques. A controversial book focused on decisively neutralizing attackers with extreme prejudice.

Studying principles and techniques elevates your awareness, readiness, and mental fortitude. Always avoid violence when possible, but be prepared to effectively handle life-threatening situations.

Karate Essentials

Karate is one of the most prominent martial arts that originated in Okinawa before spreading worldwide. Practicing Karate improves fitness, power, agility, and inner strength. It teaches valuable lessons about discipline and humility.

Here are top books to master the quintessential art of Karate:

1. “Isshin Ryu Karate: Training Manual” by Bryan C. Winkelman

This heavily illustrated guide provides a comprehensive overview of basic Karate techniques and principles. It takes you step-by-step through fundamentals like stances, blocks, strikes, and kicks. Photos demonstrate proper form, and chapters detail combinations and applications.

2. “Karate: A Comprehensive Guide to Traditional Japanese Karate” by Graeme Lund and Morne Swanepoel

Ideal for visual learners, this book contains over 1000 photos detailing Karate stances, strikes, blocks, and self-defense techniques. The authors are experienced instructors well-versed in communicating complex concepts clearly.

3. “History of Karate and the Masters Who Made It” by Mark I. Cramer

This book combines history and practical guidance, tracing Karate’s origins and development. Biographies of legendary masters like Funakoshi, Mabuni, and Uechi provide inspiration to apply their wisdom.

Studying Karate’s teachings foster personal growth and martial skill. As Gichin Funakoshi said, “The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants.”

Taekwondo Unleashed

Taekwondo is a popular Korean martial art known for its kicking techniques, competitive sparring, and emphasis on courtesy and discipline. Widespread internationally, Taekwondo improves strength, speed, agility, coordination, and confidence.

These books will help you master the captivating art of Taekwondo:

1. “Advanced Taekwondo”

This extensive manual details Taekwondo stances, blocks, strikes, combinations, forms, and sparring strategies. Well-suited for colored belt students striving to master advanced techniques.

2. “Taekwondo Techniques and Tactics”

This book teaches combat-applicable techniques like combination kick-punch attacks, takedowns, and clinching tactics. Ideal for competitors and those focused on dynamic fighting skills.

3. “Be Water, My Friend” by Shannon Lee

Bruce Lee’s daughter shares insights into her father’s famous philosophy. An excellent supplement for understanding the fluidity and adaptiveness central to Taekwondo and all martial arts.

Regular training cultivates the flexibility, strength, and mental discipline embodied by Taekwondo. Progress patiently through the ranks while maintaining forever-beginner’s mind.

Judo for Self-Defense

Judo focuses on grappling techniques like throws, pins, chokes, joint locks and submission holds. Training builds functional power, balance, and mental toughness. Judo’s techniques are extremely effective for self-defense.

These books teach invaluable Judo skills:

1. “Judo Basics: Fundamentals of Judo” by Eric Dominy

This heavily illustrated guide covers Judo techniques, combinations, drills, and applications step-by-step. Chapters detail throws, pins, chokes, locks, and training exercises for beginners through advanced.

2. “Kodokan Judo: The Essential Guide to Judo by Its Founder Jigoro Kano”

This definitive book compiled by the founder of Judo covers history, philosophies, techniques, contest rules, and gradings. An indispensable resource direct from the source.

3. “The Complete Book of Self-Defense” by Bruce Tegner

A pioneering book covering various arts, including Judo, for well-rounded self-defense. Tegner was one of the first to teach Westerners Asian fighting arts and distill concepts for self-protection.

Judo founder Jigoro Kano said, “It is not important to be better than someone else, but to be better than yesterday.” Keep improving through consistent practice.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Mastery

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) teaches superb ground fighting and submission grappling skills. By training leverage and body positioning, smaller defenders can overcome larger attackers. BJJ is a proven, essential self-defense system.

These are the best BJJ books:

1. “Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide” by Darren Levine

This extensive manual details BJJ techniques and training methods from white to black belt. Covers positions, submissions, takedowns, combinations, and drills for gi and no-gi training. Excellent for self-defense focus.

2. “Visual Jiu-Jitsu: The Art of Memorizing Techniques”

Save time and frustration by learning BJJ’s complex techniques through memory aids instead of rote repetition.

3. “Art of Peace: Teachings of the Founder of Aikido Morihei Ueshiba”

This book reveals the spiritual philosophy and mindset that enables seemingly effortless submission grappling. Learn the principles shared across Japanese martial arts.

As Rickson Gracie said about BJJ: “I don’t stop when I’m tired. I stop when I’m done.” Persevere in training to achieve mastery.

Kung Fu Wonders

Kung Fu refers to the martial arts developed in China over centuries. Diverse Kung Fu styles like Wing Chun, Northern Shaolin, Tai Chi, and Bagua have disseminated worldwide. Kung Fu practices cultivate health, discipline, holistic personal development, and proficiency in close-quarters fighting.

These books unlock Kung Fu’s secrets:

1. “Kung Fu Basics” by Paul Eng

This condenses complex concepts like stances, strikes, combinations, forms, and training methods into concise, illustrated explanations. An easy introduction to Northern and Southern Kung Fu styles.

2. “The Complete Book of Kung Fu” by Wong Kiew Kit

Sifu Wong details fundamental concepts and advanced techniques including qi gong, neigong, traditional forms and weapons. An in-depth guide to Northern Shaolin Kung Fu.

3. “The Tao of Gung Fu” by Bruce Lee

Bruce Lee shares his personal synthesis of Wing Chun, boxing, fencing footwork, and philosophical principles. Gain unique insight into how he revolutionized martial arts.

Kung Fu is a lifelong journey. Patience, contemplation, and incremental progress are essential. There are always deeper levels of understanding to achieve.

Boxing for Beginners

Boxing is the classic Western martial art, known as the “sweet science” for its refined techniques and strategies. Training imparts top-tier conditioning, coordination, reflexes, and mental toughness. Learning sound boxing fundamentals is the perfect complement to any martial practice.

These books provide a knockout curriculum:

1. “Boxing Basics” by Alan Lachica

This practical guide details proper stance, footwork, punches, combinations, defenses, training methods, tactics, and gear. Ideal for beginners before joining a gym.

2. “Championship Fighting: Explosive Punching and Aggressive Defense” by Jack Dempsey

Learn from the legendary heavyweight boxer Jack Dempsey. Read classic instruction on punching power, infighting tactics, feints, combinations, and winning psychology.

3. “Box Like the Pros” by Joe Frazier and William Dettloff

Study Smokin’ Joe Frazier’s signature techniques, rhythms, head movement, footwork patterns, training regimen. Gain priceless insight from the legendary Heavyweight Champion.

Dedicated training sculpts an elite boxer. As Muhammad Ali declared, “I hated every minute of training, but I said ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’” You must adopt a champion’s mindset.

Krav Maga Essentials

Developed for the Israeli military, Krav Maga is based on brutal, efficient self-defense and hand-to-hand combat techniques. No rules or rituals. Just effective, instinctive responses to neutralize attackers. Essential knowledge for self-protection.

These books teach authentic Krav Maga:

1. “Krav Maga: How to Defend Yourself Against Armed Assault” by Imi Sde-Or

The original manual by Krav Maga founder Imi Lichtenfeld. Covers essential techniques against armed and unarmed attacks illustrated with clear photos.

2. “Black Belt Krav Maga” by Darren Levine and Ryan Hoover

This comprehensive guide details core fighting skills, weapon defenses, and scenario training drills. Written by Krav Maga Worldwide chief instructors.

3. “Attack Proof” by John Perkins

Learn proven self-defense techniques optimized for stress inoculation. Practice responding instantly under pressure. Cultivate an indomitable survival mindset.

Train smart. As Imi Lichtenfeld stated, “The training must be simple and effective, so one can quickly learn and perform techniques even under the most unfavorable conditions.” Never hesitate.

Wing Chun Wisdom

Wing Chun Kung Fu is known for efficient, direct techniques reflecting its strategy — “Follow what comes, move with what goes.” Quick reflexes intercept and deflect attacks using economical movements. Refined body mechanics generate surprising power.

These books unlock Wing Chun’s secrets:

1. “Wing Chun Kung Fu” by Yip Chun

Learn the complete system from the legendary grandmaster Yip Man’s eldest son and foremost student. Covers theory, concepts, techniques, and training methods.

2. “Wing Chun: Traditional Chinese Kung Fu for Self-Defense and Health” by Ip Chun and Michael Tse

Yip Man’s eldest son distills Wing Chun principles critical for developing speed, power, balance, and coordination. An excellent practical introduction.

3. “The Tao of Gung Fu” by Bruce Lee

Gain unique insight into Bruce Lee’s personal synthesis of Wing Chun, boxing, fencing footwork, and philosophical principles that revolutionized martial arts.

Wing Chun’s deceptive simplicity contains profound depths. It is the perfect self-defense system once all techniques become instinctual reflexes.

Aikido Harmony

Aikido is a Japanese martial art focused on redirecting an attacker’s force to turn aggression into harmony. Circular movements blend with the motion of an attack, then apply leverage on joints and throws to neutralize threats. It embodies non-resistance and spiritual development.

These books share Aikido’s wisdom:

1. “Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere” by Adele Westbrook and Oscar Ratti

Learn Aikido techniques with illustrated descriptions of stances, falls, holds, throws, and exercises. Outlines philosophical and historical underpinnings as well.

2. “The Art of Peace” by Morihei Ueshiba

The inspirational teachings of Aikido’s founder reveal how spiritual enlightenment manifests through martial training. Essential insights into the unity of all beings and the meaning of true victory.

3. “The Spirit of Aikido” by Kisshomaru Ueshiba

Morihei Ueshiba’s son and successor shares the universal teachings of Aikido and his father’s spiritual philosophy. An excellent companion to physical practice.

As Morihei Ueshiba said, “In Aikido we never attack. An attack is proof that one is out of control.” Never initiate violence, but be ready to complete it.

Muay Thai Mastery

Muay Thai is known as the “Art of Eight Limbs” for its combined use of punches, kicks, knees, and elbow strikes. Developed in Thailand, competitive Muay Thai is an intense full-contact sport requiring formidable conditioning, skill, and mental toughness.

These books provide world-class instruction:

1. “Muay Thai Basics” by Christoph Delp

This practical guide covers everything beginners need, from stance, footwork, and guard to strikes, combinations, pads & bagwork, sparring and clinching.

2. “Muay Thai Unleashed” by Erich Krauss and Glen Cordoza

This comprehensive manual details mastering strikes, combinations, counters and feints. Advanced concepts include targeting, timing.

3. “Muay Thai: A Living Legacy” by Michael Goodison

This book explores Muay Thai’s legendary roots, spiritual traditions, and famous techniques. Essential cultural context for respecting Thailand’s national sport.

As Saenchai PKSaenchaimuaythaigym said, “To be the best, train with the best. Never give up. That is the key.” Seek out excellent instruction and persevere.

Escrima Excellence

Escrima is a deadly Filipino martial art centered around stick, knife and sword fighting. Complex swinging, blocking and disarming techniques develop ambidextrous reflexes and quick, deceptive footwork. Essential knowledge for armed and unarmed combat.

These books reveal Escrima’s battle-tested secrets:

1. “The Secrets of Kalis Ilustrisimo” by Antonio Diego and Christopher Ricketts

Learn solo baston techniques from one of the most respected Masters. Details proper posture, grips, footwork, disarms, sinawalis, and drills.

2. “Complete Sinawali: Filipino Double-Weapon Fighting” by Reynaldo S. Galang

Master double stick fighting techniques, striking patterns, locks, disarms and drills to handle multiple opponents.

3. “Arnis: History and Development of the Filipino Martial Arts” by Mark V. Wiley

Comprehensive overview detailing history, concepts, techniques, and leading styles of Arnis, Kali, Escrima. Outlines weapon and empty hand techniques.

As Grandmaster Remy Presas said, “You must think, act, and move like lightning.” Escrima cultivates lethal reflexes and versatile skills.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Essentials

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) combines techniques from boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, Judo, BJJ and other systems for full-contact competitive fighting. Training mixes conditioning, technique, strategy and mental strength.

These books provide expert MMA instruction:

1. “Mixed Martial Arts For Dummies” by Frank Shamrock and Mary Van Note

UFC champion Frank Shamrock teaches core concepts, techniques and drills to begin MMA training. Covers essential knowledge in striking, grappling, and ground fighting.

2. “The Ultimate Guide to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu” by John Will

Master BJJ techniques critical for MMA competition and self-defense. Covers takedowns, control positions, sweeps, and submissions essential for excelling on the ground.

3. “The Tao of Gung Fu” by Bruce Lee

Lee’s insights into efficiently blending techniques from different martial arts are incredibly relevant to modern MMA training and competition.

Train smart and address weaknesses. As Georges St-Pierre said, “Champions aren’t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them — an inner fire that burns brightly.” Develope an unbreakable spirit.

Beyond Techniques — Mindset and Philosophy

While physical practice is essential, true mastery transcends technical skills. Proper mindset, discipline, and philosophies that guide your training are equally important. Always remember that martial arts are meant to improve lives and avoid conflict.

These books contain timeless wisdom:

1. “The Book of Five Rings” by Miyamoto Musashi

The iconic Japanese swordsman reveals spiritual insights on courage, tactics, swordsmanship principles, and self-mastery that are invaluable today.

2. “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu

This classic text on strategy, tactics and philosophy remains incredibly relevant for martial artists, competitors, business leaders and anyone seeking self-improvement.

3. “The Law and the Promise” by Neville Goddard

Goddard explains how mindset shapes reality. This powerful philosophy enables peak performance and overcoming limitations through mastering your inner world.

Keep learning with an open mind and beginner’s spirit to realize the full potential of training. As Morihei Ueshiba noted, “Loyalty and devotion lead to bravery. Bravery leads to the spirit of self-sacrifice. The spirit of self-sacrifice creates trust in the power of love.” Never stop striving to lift yourself and others higher.

Conclusion

This concludes our comprehensive guide to the best martial arts books for beginners and beyond. The resources shared will provide endless value as you progress in your practice. Remember that styles are simply paths up the same mountain. Seek your own journey, not imitation or limitation. Absorb diverse teachings and discover what works for you.

Most importantly, the true nature of martial arts is to spread peace — first within yourself, then radiating into your community. As Funakoshi said, “The ultimate aim of the art of karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants.” Keep these wise words close to heart.

The books highlighted contain invaluable knowledge passed down from masters across centuries and continents. Learn from their wisdom as you strive to become a master over your own mind and body. Keep persevering even when progress seems distant. With the right mindset and quality instruction, you can achieve levels of skill that seem impossible now.

This journey will demand consistency, patience, humility, and courage. But the personal growth and satisfaction of mastery are immense. You are bravely taking your first steps on a lifelong path that will reveal your best self. Enjoy the process and all that unfolds. Never stop improving. Much wisdom, insight and ability await you if you walk this road with an open heart and focused mind. Keep striving. You’ve got this!