15 Best Books for Learning Martial Arts and Self-Defense

Martial arts have become increasingly popular in recent years for both their benefits related to personal safety and their value as effective forms of physical fitness. 

Beyond practical self-defense applications, martial arts provide a means to improve confidence, mental focus, discipline, and overall well-being. 

With countless styles to choose from – including Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, Kung Fu, and more – there are excellent books available for beginners looking to get started as well as experienced enthusiasts hoping to build on their existing foundation.

The purpose of this blog post is to recommend the most informative, helpful, and engaging books to learn martial arts and self-defense. 

The best resources cover foundational concepts and techniques while also conveying the richness of these arts through their history, culture, and philosophies. 

Whether your goal is street-applicable self-protection skills or a lifelong journey toward self-mastery, the books featured in this guide will point you in the right direction.

Fundamentals of Martial Arts

To gain proficiency in any martial art, one must first develop a strong foundation regarding stances, footwork, punches, kicks, blocks, grappling and other key elements common across styles. The following books offer an excellent introduction to the basics:

A. "Isshin Ryu Karate: Training Manual" by Bryan C. Winkelman

This manual offers a comprehensive overview of Isshin Ryu Karate with detailed instructions and photos demonstrating proper technique for stances, strikes, blocks and combinations. As one of the most accessible primers on fundamental karate skills, it is a valuable resource for beginners.

B. "Karate: A Comprehensive Guide to Traditional Japanese Karate" by Graeme Lund and Morne Swanepoel

Providing extensive coverage of kihon (basics), kata (forms), kumite (sparring) and more, this book is ideal for anyone looking to establish a strong technical base in traditional karate. The authors break down complex concepts clearly with a learner-focused approach.

C. "History of Karate and the Masters Who Made It" by Mark I. Cramer

While teaching practical martial arts skills, this book also gives important historical context on the origins and evolution of karate. By highlighting legendary masters like Funakoshi, Mabuni and Miyagi, it connects today's practices to the source.

The Art of Self-Defense

Though martial arts have great benefits for health and self-cultivation, they originated as combat systems designed to protect oneself from harm. The following books focus on no-nonsense self-defense skills applicable to real-world violent confrontations:

A. "The Gift of Fear" by Gavin de Becker

More a work of psychology than martial technique, this book teaches awareness and threat assessment to avoid violence altogether. It provides an essential perspective for completing self-defense training.

B. "Fighting Chance" by Loren W. Christensen

A former police officer and martial artist, Christensen cuts out the fluff and shares street-proven tactics to defend against headlocks, chokes, grabs, punches, weapons and multiple opponents.

C. "The Little Black Book of Violence" by Lawrence A. Kane and Kris Wilder

Trained in various martial arts and defensive tactics, Kane and Wilder pack this concise manual with highly effective, easy-to-learn techniques to counter violence and escape dangerous situations.

Karate Essentials

As one of the most popular martial arts in the world, Karate deserves special attention for its diverse styles, practical self-defense value and widespread appeal. For foundational Karate skills, the following are excellent choices:

A. "Isshin Ryu Karate: Training Manual" by Bryan C. Winkelman

As discussed previously, this book offers superb introduction to Isshin Ryu Karate's core techniques, stances and principles. The clear instructions and photos make it ideal for beginners.

B. "Karate: A Comprehensive Guide to Traditional Japanese Karate" by Graeme Lund and Morne Swanepoel

The kihon, kata, kumite and philosophical aspects covered in this guide provide a well-rounded foundation in traditional Karate's physical and mental elements. The historical knowledge is also valuable.

C. "History of Karate and the Masters Who Made It" by Mark I. Cramer

Supplementing the technical instruction of the other books, this work connects today's Karate practices to their origins through profiles of key figures like Funakoshi, Mabuni and Oyama.

Taekwondo Unleashed

Developed in Korea, Taekwondo is renowned for its emphasis on fast, powerful kicking techniques. For students seeking to hone their skills, the following books offer stellar guidance:

A. "Advanced Taekwondo" by Marc Tedeschi

Providing an in-depth look at Taekwondo skills for colored belt grades, this book teaches highly effective kicks, strikes, blocks and strategies for sport competition and self-defense.

B. "Taekwondo Techniques and Tactics" by Patrice Eiazel-Secor

This handbook breaks down Taekwondo techniques using a chess analogy, helping students approach training and competition with greater tactical sophistication. Highly informative and well-organized.

C. "Be Water, My Friend" by Shannon Lee

Bruce Lee's daughter provides rare insights into her father's life and philosophy, enriched with principles like adaptability that made his Jeet Kune Do so effective. An invaluable book for martial artists.

Judo for Self-Defense

Known for its grappling and throwing techniques, Judo is an art optimized for control and leverage in close quarters. For students interested in Judo's self-defense applications, these books are excellent picks:

A. "Judo Basics: Fundamentals of Judo" by Eric Dominy

Providing clear instruction for beginners, this book covers stance, movement, falling techniques, grappling skills and ground work essential for a solid foundation in Judo principles.

B. "Kodokan Judo: The Essential Guide to Judo by Its Founder Jigoro Kano"

This indispensable manual compiled by Judo's founder covers all aspects of the art and its philosophical roots. It belongs in the library of every serious Judoka.

C. "The Complete Book of Self-Defense" by Bruce Tegner

Informed by his studies in Judo and Jiu-Jitsu, Tegner emphasizes leverage and efficiency in this invaluable self-defense manual covering throws, holds, chokes and ground fighting.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Mastery

Among the most effective grappling arts for ground fighting and submission holds, the intricate techniques of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are extensively covered in these exceptional books:

A. "Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide" by Darren Levine et al.

As an encyclopedia of BJJ techniques photographed in detail with competitors and instructors, this book is unmatched for depth and breadth of material. A must-have for serious grapplers.

B. "Visual Jiu-Jitsu: The Art of Memorizing Techniques" by Jake Watson

Using a color-coded visualization system, this innovative book aims to accelerate BJJ learning by creating strong mental references for techniques. A unique approach.

C. "Art of Peace: Teachings of the Founder of Aikido Morihei Ueshiba"

Beyond the physical, technical excellence in the martial arts requires spiritual development. This compilation of Ueshiba's wisdom beautifully conveys the profound philosophy underlying the greatest achievements in BJJ and other arts.

Kung Fu Wonders

With the spectacular kicks, strikes and forms portrayed in classic martial arts movies, Kung Fu captivates the imagination of students worldwide. To learn authentic Kung Fu skills, these books deliver beyond expectations:

A. "Kung Fu Basics" by Paul Eng

Covering the five basic animal styles of Kung Fu – Tiger, Crane, Leopard, Snake, and Dragon – this book provides the strong foundation that opens the door to mastery in this ancient art.

B. "The Complete Book of Kung Fu" by Wong Kiew Kit

Sifu Wong shares the comprehensive curriculum, techniques and training methods of Shaolin Kung Fu in remarkable detail. All the material comes directly from his decades of first-hand practice and instruction in China.

C. "The Tao of Gung Fu" by Bruce Lee

Though best known for Jeet Kune Do, Bruce Lee's early years were defined by rigorous training in Wing Chun Kung Fu. This book offers invaluable insights into the speed, power and philosophy central to his martial arts brilliance.

Boxing for Beginners

As one of the foundational disciplines of combat sports, boxing is an outstanding choice for students seeking effective striking skills with fast footwork and fluid combination punching. These books deliver the goods:

A. "Boxing Basics" by Alan Lachica

From protective gear to punching fundamentals to advanced training methods, this book guides the novice boxer through all the steps to develop technical skills and ring savvy.

B. "Championship Fighting: Explosive Punching and Aggressive Defense" by Jack Dempsey

In this timeless instructional manual, the iconic heavyweight champion Dempsey shares his hard-hitting secrets for developing power, speed, footwork, and defense.

C. "Box Like the Pros" by Joe Frazier and William Dettloff

Want to perfect your left hook or uppercut technique? Get pointers straight from the source as former heavyweight king "Smokin" Joe Frazier breaks down the nuances of delivering fight-ending blows.

Krav Maga Essentials

Developed for the Israeli military, Krav Maga has gained immense popularity for its brutal simplicity and extreme effectiveness in real-world self-defense scenarios. These books are mandatory reading for Krav practitioners:

A. "Krav Maga: How to Defend Yourself Against Armed Assault" by Imi Sde-Or

As the pioneering text by Krav Maga's founder, this book lays out the system's core principles and techniques for defending against myriad threats. It remains an indispensable resource for training.

B. "Black Belt Krav Maga" by Darren Levine and Ryan Hoover

Providing the complete Krav Maga curriculum and training methods, this in-depth guide builds exceptional skill and self-defense ability through clear, systematic instruction.

C. "Attack Proof" by John Perkins and Matt Numrich

Incorporating principles from various martial arts, this street-smart system readies practitioners both physically and mentally to fend off sudden assaults and stay safe in hostile environments.

Wing Chun Wisdom

Known for direct and efficient attacks along the centerline, Wing Chun Kung Fu is a close-range fighting system made famous by Bruce Lee. For core skills, these books hit the mark:

A. "Wing Chun Kung Fu" by Yip Chun

Providing a complete overview of Wing Chun techniques and training methods from the son of Grandmaster Yip Man, this book is rich with insights into the art's essence and principles.

B. "Wing Chun: Traditional Chinese Kung Fu for Self-Defense and Health" by Ip Chun and Michael Tse

In this modern, easy-to-understand guide, Grandmaster Ip Chun conveys Wing Chun principles and techniques in detail to help practitioners develop proficiency for self-defense or sport.

C. "The Tao of Gung Fu" by Bruce Lee

Though moving on to create Jeet Kune Do later in life, Bruce Lee's early mastery of Wing Chun Kung Fu was pivotal. This book provides a fascinating look into the roots of his exceptional skill.

Aikido Harmony

Emphasizing the principle of harmonizing with an attacker's force to execute effortless throws and locks, Aikido is a unique martial art for self-defense and spiritual development. These books do it justice:

A. "Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere" by Adele Westbrook and Oscar Ratti

Regarded as a classic text, this book co-authored by Aikido master Ratti brilliantly conveys the techniques, concepts and philosophy that make the art profound, sophisticated and effective.

B. "The Art of Peace" by Morihei Ueshiba

Compiled from the teachings of Aikido's founder, this book insightfully expresses the universal principles and enlightened wisdom that underlie the intricate techniques of the art. An inspirational read.

C. "The Spirit of Aikido" by Kisshomaru Ueshiba

Written by the son of Morihei Ueshiba, this book provides a concise yet insightful overview of Aikido's essential teachings, history and founder's profound life philosophy.

Muay Thai Mastery

With its devastating array of punches, kicks, knees and elbow strikes, Muay Thai has established itself as one of the most effective and exciting stand-up fighting arts. To excel in "the art of eight limbs," study these superb guides:

A. "Muay Thai Basics" by Christoph Delp

This clearly written manual covers all the fundamental techniques, combinations and training exercises needed to develop skills for the ring or the street. An excellent starting point.

B. "Muay Thai Unleashed" by Erich Krauss and Glen Cordoza

From basic strikes to advanced clinch tactics, this comprehensive text leaves no element of the Muay Thai arsenal uncovered. The descriptions and photos ensure superior learning.

C. "Muay Thai: A Living Legacy" by Michael Goodison

Beyond the physical techniques, this unique book explores the cultural richness of Muay Thai through profiles of historic and contemporary masters who represent the heart of this revered Thai art.

Escrima Excellence

The Filipino arts of Kali and Escrima specialize in stick, knife and machete fighting with an emphasis on rapid, destructive strikes. To wield these weapons:

A. "The Secrets of Kalis Ilustrisimo" by Antonio Diego and Christopher Ricketts

Step behind the curtain to learn battle-proven methods of one of the most effective, no-nonsense Filipino systems. Densely packed with elite techniques and principles for weapons mastery.

B. "Complete Sinawali: Filipino Double-Weapon Fighting" by Reynaldo S. Galang

Master the elegant, intricate weaving patterns and striking combinations of Sinawali stick fighting through detailed instruction and high-quality photography. The essential Sinawali resource.

C. "Arnis: History and Development of the Filipino Martial Arts" by Mark V. Wiley

Providing extensive historical context, this book promotes deeper understanding of Eskrima/Kali/Arnis. It broadens student's appreciation for the cultural roots intertwined with the technical aspects they train.

Mixed Martial Arts Essentials

As a combat sport, MMA combines techniques from boxing, wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Karate and other arts. To get well-rounded skills:

A. "Mixed Martial Arts For Dummies" by Frank Shamrock et al.

This excellent primer covers core techniques, tactics and training protocols to build a broad-based skillset for competing in MMA under unified rules.

B. "The Ultimate Guide to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu" by John Will

A superb resource for developing high-level grappling skills for MMA competition through submissions, sweeps and positional dominance on the ground.

C. "The Tao of Gung Fu" by Bruce Lee

Though not an MMA "how-to" manual, Bruce Lee's reflections on martial arts philosophy in this book will surely resonate with and inspire those training for the mental challenges of competition.

Beyond Techniques – Mindset and Philosophy

While physical prowess is crucial, martial arts mastery ultimately requires focused mind, clarity of thought, and strength of spirit. These exceptional books guide students to greater mental and philosophical depths:

A. "The Book of Five Rings" by Miyamoto Musashi

This classic text by Japan's most legendary swordsman conveys profound lessons on technique, strategy, discipline, and transcending conflict that are applicable to martial arts and life.

B. "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu

Filled with timeless wisdom on strategy, positioning, and human nature, this ancient Chinese military treatise is invaluable reading for understanding the psychological and spiritual dimensions of martial arts.

C. "The Law and the Promise" by Neville Goddard

While not a martial arts book, the teachings of this modern mystic have incredible relevance regarding the role of human consciousness and imagination in manifesting reality. Martial arts empowerment starts in the mind.

Conclusion

The books showcased in this guide represent the tip of the iceberg in terms of available literature on martial arts and self-defense. However, the resources recommended herein were carefully selected for their effectiveness at conveying core techniques and concepts to engender real skills and personal growth on the journey from white belt to black belt.

With a library of knowledge built through these exceptional manuals, the long path of mastery waits to be walked one step at a time. Progress will require commitment, perseverance and the right mindset, but the wisdom of past masters contained on these pages - along with wise teachers, sparring partners and personal experience - can transform raw beginners into martial artists of the highest caliber. Now equip yourself with the right knowledge and get started! The journey of a lifetime awaits.