David-Dorian Ross

One of the most intimidating aspects of pursuing martial arts is understanding which approach is best for you. Discover an introduction to many styles of martial arts, including kung fu, karate, tae kwon do, judo, jeet kune do, and krav maga. Learn about the physical and mental aspects of martial arts, from the proper form for blocks, kicks, and punches to the necessary self-discipline and focus to succeed. These styles have certain things in common,...

Conclude your exploration of Krav Maga, and the martial arts in this course, as Dr. McKracken leads you through a series of strike rhythms that will get your energy level up and give you a new sense of the power and discipline you have developed throughout the course. Master Ross sums up with a few concluding thoughts about how and why the martial arts matter.

Begin to bridge the gap between individual practice and sparring with a partner by learning how to combine forms and anticipate your opponent's responses. Coach Chang explains the "trigram" of defense and demonstrates basic blocks and kicks, showing you how to "follow the limbs in" to find openings in an opponent's defenses.

Round out your practice of kung fu with an introduction to praying mantis, a complementary style of kung fu that emphasizes bigger moves over longer distances. Sifu Joshua Grant takes you through this exceptionally graceful way to combine a variety of skills, as you literally cover a lot of ground.

Imagine a martial art designed for responding to situations where there are no rules. While not always pretty or elegant, there is nevertheless a strength and grit to the Krav Maga system of fighting, making it popular among law enforcement. Dr. Tammy McKracken examines how to respond to common street attacks that don't adhere to the structured discipline of many martial arts.

Learn how to walk with mindfulness. Then study the first pillar of tai chi practice: forms, which are the choreographed dance-like movements that most people associate with tai chi. For the short form routine, practice Grasp the Bird's Tail on the right side.

Start the first of the qigong exercises, called the Frolic of the Five Animals. You also begin a regular routine of simple tai chi drills. Then learn the first two movements in the 24-movement short form: Opening the Door and Parting the Wild Horse's Mane.

As students advance in tai chi, they move from empty hands forms to weapons play, which has the same elegant choreography but with sticks, swords, or spears. Try out this ancient martial art, seeing how even everyday objects can be used for practice. Then master a new movement in the short form: Rooster Stands on One Leg.

Continue your study of Muay Thai, which (unlike many other martial arts) includes knees and elbows as distinct weapons in the arsenal. Survey combinations and variations of jabs, crosses, hooks, uppercuts, and other hand and foot techniques, and then examine the "why" of different combos.

Discover how to integrate the outlook and practice of tai chi into your work life. Study a routine that you can do in your office or cubicle, as it requires only one step in each direction. Then, learn Looking for the Needle at the Bottom of the Sea.