What’s a good book or DVD to teach myself kickboxing (or some style of martial arts)? Unfortunately, I don’t have the funds or time to join a gym. Mainly, I would like to get in fighting shape (without actually becoming a fighter). I’d also like to learn enough for self defense purposes.
Martial arts is ALL about the time you spend so if your looking to cut corners, you will be disappointed in the end.
I think books/DVDs are great supplements to regular training. Without a teacher and partners to spar/point out your flaws, your fighting skill doesn’t grow as much as it should. In my own experience motivation can sometimes come and go so it’s good to have someone else around to motivate you when your not feeling up to it.
If fitness is your primary goal you will probably be looking at diet and exercises and that is something you can google but it’s better to ask for advice from a fitness professional.
With that said, a couple books that I found to be very interesting are:
US Army Combatives FM 21-150
US Marine Corp. Close Combat manual