5 comments about Back Kick (Achieving Kicking Excellence, Vol. 1).

1. This is Volume One of ten books devoted to mastering kicks. Shawn Kovacich devotes this book to the back kick: simple, deceptive, but effective. This review examines Shawn's book from a practical stand point--how well does this book enable me to learn the back kick?
   I'm 50, 6'3" tall and 220 pounds, but I'm not an athlete--just healthy. I cannot perform the back kick higher than my own waist right now--I'll need to improve my flexibility. It isn't too much of a handicap for self defense--or active military service--but for those of you involved in karate matches, you need the high kicks for the match-winning points. The back kick is deceptive because most people are no threat when approached from behind. Employing the back kick can get you inside your enemy's OODA loop (John Boyd's Observe, Orient, Decide, Act cycle) and deliver the fight-winning initiative. Of course, if I fall to the ground or can hold onto something, my kick gains stability, height, and power--at the cost of being fixed in position for an instant. I'll need to work on my back kick more. Shawn's book has persuaded me that the back kick is worth mastering.
   I have training prejudices: I like to employ mirrors, a video camera or two, a minimum of one sparring partner, and at least one referee when I train. Multiple sparring partners are to keep me from getting stuck kicking at the same height each time, and because in the real world, my problems usually come in bunches. Often, I must train alone or not train at all, so I have to limit my training intensity for safety. A second set of eyes can help spot flaws--and prevent injuries. It is very hard to dial 911 when one's back is thrown out. These kicking techniques can injure the practitioner if done incorrectly. I like both mirrors and video because when I initially practice, I can watch myself in the mirror. For realistic practice, I need to concentrate on technique and the target instead of watching my own reflection--instant video playback aids me in spotting what happened. I can even figure out if my kick was in the right place or not! Shawn wrote about the "crawl, walk, and run" phases of training and the basic and advanced kicking techniques are covered in detail. Exact detail. Train at your own risk. I perform a risk reduction prior to training--assess the risk level and employ risk reduction techniques to make training safe. Remember that training is synthetic reality, intended to be less expensive than gaining real-world experience.
   I think that "Achieving Kicking Excellence: Back kick" is well organized. There are ten chapters. The introduction defines the kick and advises how to use the book. Chapter One is kick anatomy: bones and muscles. Chapter Two recommends warm up and stretching exercises. Chapter Three is Basic Principles: striking surface, target areas, and 11 other key points. Clear graphics left me with little doubt about what part of the foot to apply and where to hit my opponent. Chapter Four covered the primary kick technique. Again, the graphics are very clear. They include "dance step diagrams" showing where the feet go--footwork is critical to effective kicking. The photos have numbered labels stressing correct positioning of each part of the body. Chapter Five is variations of the primary technique. Chapter Six covers training and practice techniques to achieve skill, strength, speed, and power. Chapter Seven is a trouble-shooting guide. Chapter Eight is applications: how to use this in competition or combat. Chapter Nine is Shawn's awards and accomplishments. Chapter Ten previews the next volume in the series. There are a table of contents, a recommended reading list, and an index.
   This is an excellent study guide. I can train some now, on my own, and when I find training partners (sparring partners and a referee) I might even get proficient!



2. If you are a novice martial artist, a kick-box exercise video nut, or someone who wants to advance their knowledge of martial art kicks, this book looks as if it would be very helpful.
   
   The series of books is organized by type of kick: back, wheel, axe, crescent, reverse crescent, front, hook, hatchet, roundhouse, side kick. Ten books in all.
   
   The volumes are absolutely loaded with pictures of not only kick technique but also of helpful strength-with-weight exercises, especially gym exercises with machines like the hack squat and leg press sled and of course the all-important lunge. So you get not only a discussion of how-to, but of what exercises can improve overall performance by gaining muscle strength. There are pictures with overlays of angles and axes, giving you an idea of proper form, though there is no substitute for a sensei giving you real-time feedback, of course. So these books are a good adjunct to martial arts class in the dojo; something to read and then take to practice and work on with real-time help.
   
   There is a section on sparring--right and wrong. There is a suggested reading list in the back. A very complete series.
   
   The only thing these volumes suffer from is slightly dark and low contrast black and white photograph reproduction due to pictures being on paper stock and not glazed plate stock, in order to keep costs reasonable for publishing. And the cover photo is wonderful but the graphic design (showing the title being shattered by the someone doing the title kick) was a GREAT concept but you can't read the title on the front cover (because it's being kicked to bits!) This is annoying; you have to read the spine to see which kick the book is about. If this bugs you, it's easily fixed: get some stickers or a Sharpie and mark the front cover with something like SIDE KICK VOL 10 or whatever works for you.
   
   Author Kovacich is a black belt in both Karate and Tae Kwon Do (which of course is one of the martial arts for which the kick is the premier technique.)



3. I've been practicing the martial arts for over 20 years and the back kick is one of my specialties so I was most eager to read what Shawn Kovacich wrote. I was impressed at the level of detail and the proper foot positioning and distribution of weight. His pictures clearly demonstrated how to execute a proper Ushiro geri as well as variations such as the jumping back kick, the step in back kick, the step back, the offset, the jump 540 (actually the jump 360), the switch back kick, etc. He also devotes quite a lot to conditioning.
   
   Now here are the draw backs of the book.
   
   -Too much repetition (he repeats the same sentences over when explaining the proper mechanics of kicking technique)
   
   - There is no mention of practicing with your back to the wall. This is a technique I've learned in order to condition myself to draw my knee in close to my body.
   
   - Only 30 - 100 squats?? That's child's play. In the dojo, we do 300 - 400.
   
   - The fighting stance he demonstrates is most suited for point fighting. In full contact tournaments and other styles like Kyokushin and Enshin, that stance makes one more susceptible to low kicks and sweeps. The stance should be lower. Even in JKA (Shotokan) style fighting, the stance is lower.
   
   The author states that the book was written for all styles, yet he fails to mention that in many styles, the practitioner is on the balls of his feet much of the time while fighting. Hence it's important to practice this way as well to get used to executing the kick under less than ideal circumstances.
   
   Over all, this was a good book.



4. I have a vast library of martial arts books and I must say that this is by far the best book that I have ever read on kicking. To start with, let me confess that at first I was more than a little skeptical about another book on kicking, especially one which covers only one specific kick. I couldn't imagine how there could be enough information on one kick to fill an entire book. Well, now I know. This is the most complete book on the back kick that I have ever seen!
   
   This book leaves nothing out. It covers everything including the anatomy of the leg, stretching, vital targets, foot positioning, timing, distancing, and the importance of correct recoil. Shawn Kovacich covers variations on the back kick which I haven't considered before, and I have been studying martial arts for 25 years. He also delves into training drills, weight training, speed training, and covers several ways to develop your kicking power.
   
   Back Kick is very well written and easy to follow. So many of the technical martial arts books are so dry and boring that is is a struggle to get through them, but Back Kick uses a lot of analogies and great photographs which make it interesting and easy to follow the author's points. I especially found the "did you notice anything wrong photographs" and the trouble shooting section to be very helpful. The pictures really helped to drive home specific points and demonstrated specific mistakes, as well has how a good back kick should look.
   
   Shawn Kovacich obviously knows his stuff! I am totally impressed with this book and plan on reading more of the series. I highly recommend this book to every martial artist who wants to improve his or her kicking skills.



5. Like all the titles in Shawn Kovacich's Achieving Kicking Excellence series, book 1 Back Kick is a comprehensive study of one of the important kicks used in modern martial arts today. The book is incredibly thorough with numerous photos demonstrating the every aspect of the kick in minute detail. Mr. Kovacich knows his stuff and it is obvious that he has spent many hours honing his technique. The book provides an in-depth study of the bones, muscles and mechanics involved in the kicking technique.
   
   In addition, the book contains a wealth of supplemental information on strength, speed and power generating exercises to enhance the technique. There is also a section on stretching as well as the application of the technique.
   
   This book is ideal for any martial artist who wishes to perfect their back kicking ability. The beginner will find a wealth of information to assist in developing proper mechanics while the advanced practitioner will glean some vital knowledge from an accomplished teacher.
   
   Be sure to check out the other books in this series. You are sure to find one that addresses the specific kick that you need work on.
   
   Aaron Hoopes
   author of Zen Yoga: A Path to Enlightenment through Breathing, Movement and Meditation

2 comments about Felinestein: Pampering the Genius in Your Cat.

1. This book has some interesting ideas about how to increase your cat's intelligence, but.... I guess my cat is just a big dummy. I don't think any of the techniques worked. I'm just proud of having taught my cats how to open doors.... but this book would make an excellent gift for your cat-loving friends who has everything.



2. If you're like me, and you demand excellence from your pets, FELINESTEIN is the perfect guide. For many years I suspected that my cat wasn't living up to his potential. He would do little more than sleep on the windowsill and lick himself occasionally; he was using large quantities of catnip; he stopped associating with other cars; and he lost all interest in his favorite toys--the scratching post and the little rubbery thing on the end of a stick. I suspected that, deep down, he wanted more out of his life. He was tired of the humdrum existence, but was unable to express himself clearly. Now, after just six months of using the puzzles in this book, my cat can open doors, flush toilets, play hide-and-seek, operate the remote control, and even has a rudimentary understanding of the answering machine. He shows more self-assuredness now with other cats, and--with his added confidence--has apparently impregnanted many of the neighborhood she-cats who previously wouldn't look at him. The book is by no means a guidebook to TRAINING your cat; so, rest assured, your felinestein will remain as independent as ever. In fact, now that my cat can open doors, I haven't actually seen him for several days. I know he's in the house, because he goes through the refrigerator at night, and sometimes leaves a mess in the kitchen. But this is a small price to pay for the satisfaction of knowing that your cat is happier, more fulfilled, and better equipped for his life, both on the windowsill and out in the world.

1 comments about Ain't Misbehavin': The Groundbreaking Program for Happy, Well-Behaved Pets and Their People.

1. Hearing Dr. Wright speak, I bought this book on the spot. Dr. Wright does a great job applying behavior principles to common situations, in language non-behaviorists can understand.

   You'll take away from his book the idea that you should look at your own unique pet in your own unique circumstances to pinpoint any behavior problems you may be having, letting just exactly what is happening, when, and where help you guess _why_. If you can guess the why, you can plan a way to intervene that will be effective -- and you'll learn how best to decide if you are indeed being effective.

   Dr. Wright also emphasizes assessing the mood of your dog and changing a bad mood to a good one in order to facilitate behavior change. He further gives good research-based information about reading dogs' body language and how to respond if a dog is fearful, aggressive, etc.

   But Ain't Misbehavin' doesn't just address problems such as aggression or separation anxiety. On the contrary, how to build a positive relationship with your pet (so problems don't appear) is a primary focus.

   In sum, a really good dog AND CAT training book that both gives you guidelines for living happily with your pet and offers suggestions for responding to serious problems.

1 comments about The Cat Rules: Virtues of the Feline Character.

1. "Cats are angels with fur" is the first quote (attributed to Sark) in this charming little book, which in its 96 pages, is full of marvelous photography and clever sayings that apply to the wise and always fascinating feline.
   There are 13 categories, like "Serene", "Curious", and "Independent". The photos depict many types, from the "mutt" variety to pure bred, and you are sure to find one that looks just like your beloved fur friend. The adorably plump shorthair tricolor playing with a squirrel, on page 17, looks exactly like my buddy Liddy !
   It has a nice layout for such a small book, and good quality glossy paper; it would make a fine stocking-stuffer for the Holidays, and as Leonardo da Vinci said, "The smallest feline is a masterpiece".

1 comments about Guide to A Well-Behaved Cat (Pet Series: Training).

1. You must be friends with your cat in order to train it.
   
   Sorry - no miracles here. Phil Maggitti will teach you how to work with your cat, not how to overcome its basic nature and turn it into a dog that meows. That one sentence above perhaps best exemplifies why I love this book so much: Mr. Maggitti understands cats. And so will you, by the time you're done reading this book.
   
   Having problems convincing your cat to use the litter box? Maybe it would help to know why he isn't using it. In this book you'll get a guide to many of the reasons why cats stop using litter boxes. You'll also find a whole lot of suggestions for how to fix such problems. (Hint: stop scolding your cat. Start being sneakily manipulative instead!) You'll even find out why traditional recommendations for teaching your new kitten to use his box might do more harm than good.
   
   Having trouble getting your cat to sit still for grooming? There are two pages on that, including a guide to useful grooming products to have. There's information on how to clip a cat's claws safely (for both you and the cat), combing and brushing techniques, bathing your cat (although the book will point out that this shouldn't be necessary very often at all), routine ear care... and that's all before you get to "Basic Cat Training, Part I."
   
   You'll learn about bridging stimuli, intermittent reinforcement, and other simple concepts that are incredibly useful when trying to alter a cat's behavior. (To be honest, this book did a better job of explaining intermittent reinforcement schedules than my psychology textbook did!) You'll learn to see "misbehaviors" as natural cat behaviors, and then find ways to work with or around them to avoid future problems.
   
   There's a good discussion of possible motivations for training - which "tricks" you might want to teach for which reasons, and which tricks it's just silly to teach your cat if you don't have a reason for it. Mr. Maggitti did not write this book so that people could teach their cats stupid pet tricks - he wrote it so that we could better understand and live with our furred companions.
   
   I love the author's tone. He has a quirky sense of humor that lightens the dry material considerably. He has a strong sense of what is good and not good for a cat, but doesn't get condescending and overly-moralistic about it (so maybe people will be willing to listen to him). The sense of scathing sarcasm he applies to certain, ahem, "training aids" and training methods is well-deserved, and hopefully will help new cat owners to get a better sense of the appropriate treatment of a cat. The author very clearly has a deep understanding and appreciation of cats.

1 comments about Adopting Cats and Kittens: A Care and Training Guide.

1. i liked this epic adventure of *Space Cat* and friends. SACK the samurai agent cat kitten. i like kittys!

2 comments about Cat Conundrums: Simple Solutions to Everyday Problems (Pet Peeves).

1. This is a great book! Dr. Sampson takes the mystery out of cat behavioral problems in a way cats would approve of - by pointing out that it's often human misbehavior (or misguidance) that's causing the problem. Not only is this book extremely helpful, it is also incredibly funny! Whether or not your cat is about to push you over the edge, you will appreciate the humor and the sage advice regarding behavior modification. Every person who belongs to a cat can learn something from this book.



2. This book gives you valuable information on cat behavior with a twist of humor. It gives a little insight on why sometimes cats behave the way they do. I really enjoyed reading this as a pet owner and can relate to one chapter in particular. Dr. Sampson has helped me work with my cat with some behavior problems and he know his stuff!!! Great book and highly recommend it!

No comments about Basic Training for Trainers (Infoline).

2 comments about PETiquette: Solving Behavior Problems in Your Multi-Pet Household.

1. This book was a Godsend. I found it the day before I finally, overwhelmed, had scheduled to put my 11 yr old cat to sleep after trying many strategies (vet check, diff litters, boxes, odor removers, special food, etc.,etc.) The book led me to a website about a special cat litter called Cat Attract, which to my shock, has saved our cat and our happy home! The book also had other suggestions which I employed as well, probably contributing to this success. Very clear and practical, tips I had not read in other sources.



2. (Note: Review below sent to author's website, posted with permission)
   
   This is one dang fine book!! It's comprehensive, full of more than useful information, and a ''must'' for suckers like me who can't pass up a needy critter. It's written so that anyone can understand it, and it's clear in its message. You have written THE book for people who love animals and see them as family members. Thank you for what will be (for me) a useful tool in helping Sparky, Poky, Molly, Shadow, Bachi, and Pepper co-exist. You're good at what you do!!
   
   A fan,
   
   Humphrey Fish

4 comments about How To Say It to Your Cat: Understanding and Communicating with Your Feline (How to Say It...).

1. Not content to put words in cat's mouths, pet psychic-style, she introduces the lunacy of Bach flower remedies and the nonsense of Tellington Touch (what you and I call "petting) to compound a worthless book.

   "How to Talk to Your Cat" by Jean Craighead George is more reliable. Or even Roger Caras' "A Cat is Watching"

   If you want reliable information in this format try "100 Questions Your Cat Would Ask Its Vet" by Bruce Fogle.




2. This book is full of valuable information and advice about understanding your cat. Each complete, yet short chapter covers a different issue or problem, with ideas on what your cat is trying to tell you, how you can best deal with the situation, and what problems and pitfalls to avoid.

   There are more than 50 chapters to help you understand just about anything you might face with your cat. From litter box problems, to grooming, to hairballs, it's all covered! Adams offers great insights and a variety of options to solve problems and prevent them in the first place. Her advice is cat-friendly and helps you strengthen the bond with your favorite feline.

   I've had cats my whole life, and this book is my new favorite resource when I have a question or concern about my two current cats. It's also a great book for the person new to cats. I have two copies -- one to loan out, and one to have on hand when I have a question myself.




3. Practical, fun, and perceptive, Janine Adams' contribution to the "How to Say It" books is an invaluable resource for cat lovers everywhere. This book is chock-full of practical advice, invaluable resources and straight-forward descriptions, all in a delightful format. I particularly appreciate Ms. Adams' holistic, positive and caring approach - it is obvious that she loves and understand cats. 4 paws up!



4. Finally! a book that explores feline health, behavior and feline/human communication with intelligence, sensitivity and humor. I initially purchased the book searching for practical solutions to some behavioral problems we were experiencing with our family cat (they actually worked!) but learned much more about what our cat was trying to tell us in the process. The format makes the material incredibly accessible, and the quality of information makes this book a must-have resource for both the experienced and novice cat owner alike. It also makes a perfect gift for friends welcoming a new cat into their lives.