Aikido to Zen: The Story of Martial Arts

Martial arts, both traditional and modern styles, enjoy widespread popularity, and many people practise them non-competitively whether for self-defence or physical development. Stars like Bruce Lee and films such as The Karate Kid have further contributed hugely to the perception of martial arts in Western popular culture. Aikido to Zen explores the development of martial arts across the world, from the Shaolin Monastery in China to the present day, and considers how they deploy intuition, rapid physical reaction and mental awareness. It also shines a light on the variety of communities who practise, including women, the young and people with disabilities. With viewpoints from practitioners across the world, this book offers a fresh look at martial arts’ significance culturally, physically and psychologically.