The Art and Science of Staff Fighting: A Complete Instructional Guide

The Art and Science of Staff Fighting is one of the most complete and well laid out training guides I have read! If you train with the staff or want to learn, this book should be considered required reading and added to your library! Joe Varady is one of the most passionate martial artists I have ever met. Spend a minute training with him and his passion for the martial arts is immediately apparent. He has a gift for teaching; he presents material in a very clear and easy to understand way and his enthusiasm is contagious. Joe's passion and enthusiasm on the training floor made the transition to printed form in this fantastic training manual. Joe extensively researched the topic of staff fighting which is evident throughout his book. He includes history of staff use through time and across different cultures. Furthermore, he goes beyond simply trying to explain how to perform a technique; he describes the physics behind the technique to help the reader understand the broader principles needed for mastery of the staff. The addition of history and science provides the reader with a solid foundation for a deeper understanding of staff fighting. Overall the book's layout is exceptional. The chapters (levels) represent increasing levels of difficulty. The numerous photos and illustrations clearly illustrate the topic being discussed. Each of the first 6 chapters end with an excellent workout specifically focused on the subject of that chapter. Throughout the book he identifies training equipment designed to work a specific technique. He provides detailed descriptions on how to make the majority of them yourself. The Art and Science of Staff Fighting is divided into 9 levels, from beginner to expert. Level 1 introduces fundamentals of the staff, and basic blocking, striking, and footwork. Levels 2 and 3 discuss middle grip, double strikes, disarms, and training equipment. Levels 4 and 5 discuss extended grips, snap strikes, thrusting, fencing-style techniques (cutover, beat, change of engagement), and additional training equipment. Level 6 gets serious and fun--combat where you will learn to make padded weapons and get fighting! In Level 7 and 8 Joe provides expert and master level ideas, including advanced guards, close combat, ground work, multiple attackers, and empty hand defense against armed opponents. Level 9 discusses a relative of the staff, the spear, it's similarities and differences, and techniques to incorporate into your training regimen. This book really is a complete instructional guide to the staff. I always look forward to training with Joe each year at the Cuong Nhu International Annual Training Camp and when other opportunities arise. - Mark Brandenburg, Cuong Nhu Oriental Martial Arts 3rd degree black belt, Co-Head Instructor of Kim Hiep Si Dojo, University of Central Florida, Orlando.

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A straight manual about the usage of staff which all martial artists should read and share with students. The book arrived on time and in good conditions.

This is an excellent step by step manual. The Instructor takes you over many many things slowly so you can perfect your style. Be careful of your ceilings. The Foam Bo are perfect for practicing inside

All the books in the series on self defence improvised weapons and unarmed combat are equally superb studies guides. Presented in a no nonsense sensible and encouraging approach style. Both of the staff/stick martial arts studies fighting titles are as good as the companion empty hands self defence martial arts book also is. A very worthwhile set of books. Excellent book series entirely. Probably amongst the very best modern times titles on the subject.