This book represents an international gathering of friends who happen to be highly qualified martial art scholars and practitioners. We have come together in celebration of the more than twenty years the Journal of Asian Martial Arts inspired scholarship in this field to higher academic standards while encouraging all aspects of responsible practice. Each article was written specifically for this banquet, with topics representing the rich variety found in the Asian martial traditions. But what’s a party without guests? As a reader, you are a special guest and part of this celebration. CONSTRUCTIVE THOUGHTS: 9 articles by leading martial art scholars covering history, media, healing, and spiritual and combative components. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: 27 articles by renowned masters demonstrating their favorite techniques and offering practice tips. ———— REVIEWS: “What a great new book! ... a beautiful combination of so many martial arts with profound background information, written by competent authors.” — Helmut Oberlack (Publisher, Taijiquan & Qigong Journal) “I am happy to see the Journal of Asian Martial Arts [JAMA] finish on a strong note and with great support for this book. I hope that JAMA’s legacy will last for many more generations to come.” — Yang Jwingming, Ph.D. (President, YMAA International) “This volume celebrates the current high standards and promise for continued excellence in academic research and practical application, using a balanced approach in the martial arts as a fighting practice and equally important cultural or civil practices.” — Richard A. Pegg, Ph.D. (Director and Curator, Asian Art at the MacLean Collection) “The greatest compliment I can pay to any book is to recommend it. ... I heartily recommend this to all. Enjoy!” — William Stockey (karate, 10th dan, and kenjutsu, 9th dan) “[A] valuable resource for anyone interested in the subject—whether from a practical or academic perspective.” — Laura Shatzkin (Kodansha USA) "The Journal of Asian Martial Arts has been an important beacon of reason and class. In succession, this new book appears to be a slam-dunk hit.” — G. Cameron Hurst, III, Ph.D. (Professor Emeritus of Japanese and Korean Studies, University of Pennsylvania) “A long-overdue and updated view on the broad field of Asian martial arts from the pioneering publisher in the scholarly approach to martial traditions.” — Allen Pittman (Physical Training Traditions) “This engaging book serves as a capstone to the wonderful and pioneering effort of the Journal of Asian Martial Arts, bringing the study of martial culture into the 21st century.” — Nyle Monday, M.Sc. (Senior Asst. Librarian, San José State University Library)