Okinawan Kempo Karate: Choki Motobu [Paperback]

This is a good source document for those interested in studying the history and development of Karate. The Book has a particular focus on Kumite. There are many black and white photos taken in the 1920's (presumably taken on glass plates, where those being photographed had to pose and remain still for quite some time for the photo's to be taken). It demonstrates a type of Kumite that we in our association refer to as 'anyblock'. What may be of interest to those charting the differences between 'sport karate' and 'realistic bunkai', is the much closer distancing between training partners, also the use of the 'hikite' (withdrawing hand). The book is also very descriptive - much of it consists of the original authors writing. An interesting section on the history of Karate, suggesting that some kata are predominantly Chinese, whilst others from Okinawa or Japan. However, I did think that this was overpriced - hence three stars, although it may invaluable to someone carrying out research.

This book is a reprint of Choki Motobu's 1926 original "Okinawa Kenpo Karate-jutsu Kumite-hen", one of the most legendary karate masters to ever live, a true pioneer in martial arts ahead of his time. Motobu sensei was among the first karateka to stress the importance of kumite in the prewar period. The book was reprinted from the original by Master Publication of Canada.
This reproduction of the oldest manual on kumite (sparring) presents the original kumite techniques which were developed in secret by Motobu Sensei through rigorous fights and intense training. They can be definitely described as genuine classical Okinawan kumite, which have little relation to today's sport karate. Motobu Sensei appears himself in the photos, demonstrating the proper execution of the exercises presented.
However the byuer should be aware of a very important fact which is that the photos from the original manual have been severely retouched, meaning that basically they are almost painted sketches from an earlier edition of the book. It is worth noting though that it is a good attempt, considering that some of the photos did not appear in the original and were created based on the context. A vast majority of them still serves its purpose, meaning that they can be easily viewed, however there are some -important in my opinion- details which are gone.
The book has also a nice cover and an insightful forward, plus the very important herb recipies that Master Motobu left.
Personally if I had the option to I would seek the original little booklet with the original photos (even if they had bad quality) but still this book generally holds priceless historic value and it is a must have for any karateka and historian of the art. It is referenced in several martial arts books (rightfully) and we should consider ourselves very fortunate it exists (for the preservation of the original okinawan martial arts). It helps the reader understand the origin and early development of karate.

This book is an essential must for any karate kempo practitioner
Choki motobu one of the less known masters of authentic kempo
Yet in my opinion one of the true masters of effective practical and aunthentic kempo to have left us with a glimpse of how karate looked and was practised in the early days of karate as a true method of self defence rooted in practicality less show more blow
I recomend this to all serious practitioners of the martial arts its a true classic that is needed in your collection