The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts Exploring the Connections Between the Cognitive, Physical, and Spiritual Aspects of Martial Arts

Through the lenses of Shotokan Karate and biomedicine, sensei and biomedical scientist Alex W. Tong shows readers how body, mind, and spirit can be developed through martial arts practice.

Through the practice of martial arts, a person can realize their full potential--not only in body, but in mind and spirit. The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts shows readers how. Author, sensei, and biomedical scientist Alex W. Tong delves into the physical, mental, and spiritual components of martial arts and integrates contemporary sports psychology, kinesiology, and neuroscience into a nuanced and illuminating understanding of what martial arts practice can be.
 
Structured into three sections, Tong discusses:

The Mind: The dao of martial arts, mental tranquility, contemporary neuroscience, and warming up the brain

The Body: Posture and stance, breathing in martial arts, and the physics of mastery and effort 

The Spirit: Soul, spirit, and moving zen; nature and manifestations of the spirit

 
Each section includes observations on martial arts origins, physiology, and tangible results on martial arts training. Blending traditional and contemporary approaches, knowledge, and research, The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts builds a vision of practice that elevates physical performance, awareness, decisiveness, and strength of spirit.

ALEX W. TONG, PhD grew up in Hong Kong, immersed in the city-state's heritage of Chinese and European cultures. He started formal karate training while an undergraduate at the University of Oregon. A career opportunity brought him to Texas, where he founded the Japan Karate Association of Dallas while leading a highly productive cancer immunology research program at the Baylor Sammons Cancer Center. JKA Dallas celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2022, having graduated 30 black belts and produced many world-class competitors. Tong has practiced Nishiyama Shotokan Karate for 50 years. He holds the rank of hachidan (eighth-degree black belt). Tong is the current President of the American Amateur Karate Federation, the oldest national governing organization for karate competition in the United States.