Walking Meditation: Pakua-The Martial Art of the I Ching

I agree with Mr. Laruso's review that this book is a great study guide for the student, as for Mr Yeung's review I would make the comment that it seems that the core of the arts origin is from the Taoist community whose main goal is longevity. Their is some information on fighting but rely on going to a teacher for that.

This may be one of Paul Crompton's best books. He writes about the meditative and health aspects from a perspective of many years of experience in martial arts. The book is well researched and contains some diagrams which appear to have come from his friends book published in the late eighties. Unfortunately the nuances of the physical conditioning and cerebral pulse work will only be grasped by those who really spend a lot of time circle walking. This book is rare because it only addresses the transformational and health aspects of Pakua. But this is a very important and overlooked subject. It is also an effective way to introduce Pakua to a broader audience of normal people seeking the yoga of walking. Pakua is an art that could easily surpass Tai Chi Chuan as an effective alternative exercise and health tool. Serious practioners of the art should take a closer look at this book as a means of expanding the popularity of this incrediable art.The book provides some great history and information that will be beneficial to all people interested in internal arts.

Paul Crompton has written a truly fine piece on BaguaZhang. This book should enlighten and guide both the novice and skilled martial artist alike. The book explains the art well; I highly recommend its reading and study.

Walking Mediation Pakua The Martial Art Of The I Ching is an excellent book for any beginning student seeking to explore this soft martial art. It is well written by an experienced martial art teacher and author. The book covers the history, the health benefits of practicing Pakua, the circle walking steps, a touch of Taoist philosophy, and the relationship of Pakua to the I Ching. There are sufficient illustrations of the Pakua movements that the reader will not have any difficulty following. The author has included the spinning step that is rarely found in other Pakua Chang books. There is a section for self defense application which may be useful for those seeking Pakua as a fighting art.