The Journey to Black Belt
by Kevin Brett
Kevin Brett’s book is the perfect book for anyone who is interested in getting into the martial arts or getting their children started in the martial arts. The Journey to Black Belt covers everything that a potential student needs to know in order to make an informed decision when it comes to selecting the right martial arts style, school, and instructor. He explains the difference in the individual martial arts, as well as guides the reader concerning what he or she should look for when trying to decide on the right instructor. Mr. Brett even covers things such as discovering your true goals and how to achieve your goals.
The book is organized much like an outline with short topic sections throughout. I personally find books which are formatted in this style, especially guide books or resource books, much easier to read and follow. The format and style of this book is perfect.
This is, without a doubt, the most complete book of its kind on the market. I really can’t think of anything that a potential martial arts student would need to know that The Journey to Black Belt leaves out. It is simply that complete! The Journey to Black Belt is divided into six main units, each packed with useful information. These units are as follows:
1) Succeeding in the Martial Arts
2) Transforming Children’s Character with Martial Arts
3) Self-Defense and Combat Situations
4) Key Martial Arts Training Concepts
5) Martial Arts History and Styles
6) Shopping for a School and Style
Mr. Brett has also included several very useful appendix sections which list a great deal of very useful information such as listings of martial arts organizations, martial arts school directories, a dictionary of common martial arts terms, martial arts resources, and even a goal completion worksheet. I found the resources in the back of the book to be a wonderful addition to the book as a whole.
In short, if you are thinking of getting involved in the martial arts or getting your children involved in the martial arts, don’t sign any contract or enter into any training agreement until you have read this book. The Journey to Black Belt will help you avoid the many pitfalls that one can easily step into when it comes to choosing the right martial art school, martial art style, and martial arts instructor. If you want to make an informed decision as opposed to just trusting someone’s sales pitch, you need to get this book! 5 Stars!
