'Total Quality Martial Arts uniquely prepares our community for the next millennium of martial art practice. the comprehensive emphasis on sport science, spirituality, and nurturing our collective growth is unparalleled in any other martial publication.'-Michael DePasquale, Jr. Publisher, Karate International

'I consider this book to be a significant investment in the growth of the martial arts. The principles and approach outlined by Chris will help readers of any style or system both in their martial art practice and in daily living.'-Charles I. Staley Vice-President of Program Development, International Sport Sciences Association

Martial arts are about more than just punching and kicking, they are ways of life. Too many martial artists concentrate solely on developing themselves physically. Without personal alignment in other matters of life, those who concentrate solely on the physical dimensions may be unable to address the demands of work, relationships, and personal choice.

Total Quality Martial Arts offers a framework for continuous improvement in both the physical and spiritual dimensions of life. The approach applies to anyone who wants to actualize their potential, regardless of their martial art style. It applies to anyone who recognizes that there is work to be done to fulfill their lives physically and spiritually.

Illustrated with photographs, charts, and graphs, this book lays the groundwork for those interested in balancing their martial art, perosnal, business, and spiritual lives. The exercises and self-tests included herein are pathways to continuous improvement. They are templates for life.

Chris Hess is a 20 year veteran of the martial arts, having practiced such styles as shotokan karate, taekwondo, aikido, tai chi, and jeet kune do. In 1996, Hess became the first certified Specialist in Martial Arts Conditioning through the International Sport Sciences Association. Hess' articles on the martial arts have appeared in Martial Arts Illustrated, Black Belt, Karate International, MA Training, Inside Karate, Karate/KungFu Illustrated, and Wushu KungFu.

Contents

Gratitude
Introduction
Part One: Physical cinsiderations
Introduction
Chapter One Sport science for martial athletes
Chapter Two Creating the annual training plan
Chapter Three Strength and nutrition matters
Chapter Four The total quality performance log
Part Two Spiritual components
Introduction
Chapter Five Assessing potential
Chapter Six Vocation
Chapter Seven Relationships
Part Three Creating our future
Introduction
Chapter Eight For ourselves as martial athletes: the protfolio
Chapter Nine For the community of martial athletes: Choosing to flourish or survive
Chapter Ten In the eye of the public: Enhancing our perception
Chapter Eleven Why martial arts are the best exercise
Closing thoughts
Refenences (bibliography)
Appendix
Index
Photo credits