An effectively delivered kick can mean life instead of injury or death in a self-defense situation, and glory rather than shame in the ring. When an individual is attacked by a larger or more powerful opponent intent on inflicting harm, the superior length and strength of your legs can be used to tip the balance in your favor. However, gaining proficiency takes training and insight. The Essential Book of Martial Arts Kicks has one purpose: to help readers hone their kicking proficiency so that they can readily deploy the most powerful tool in the fighter"s repertoire, and press their advantage. With 250 full-color photos, 400 detailed diagrams and a companion DVD, this repository of information will be a boon for every martial artist looking to sharpen and expand their kicking skills.