In the Dojo Audiobook By Dave Lowry cover art

In the Dojo

A Guide to the Rituals and Etiquette of the Japanese Martial Arts

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In the Dojo

By: Dave Lowry
Narrated by: Brian Nishii
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Beginning students in Japanese martial arts, such as karate, judo, aikido, iaido, kyudo, and kendo, learn that when they are in the dojo (the practice space), they must don their practice garb with ritual precision, address their teacher and senior students in a specific way, and follow certain unwritten but deeply held codes of behavior. But very soon they begin to wonder about the meaning behind the traditions, gear, and relationships in the dojo.

In this collection of lively, detailed essays, Dave Lowry, one of the most well-known and respected swordsmen in the United States, illuminates the history and meaning behind the rituals, training costumes, objects, and relationships that have such profound significance in Japanese martial arts, including

  • The dojo space itself
  • The teacher-student relationship
  • The act of bowing
  • What to expect - and what will be expected of you - when you visit a dojo
  • The training weapons
  • The hakama (ceremonial skirt) and dogi (practice uniform)
  • The Shinto shrine

Authoritative, insightful, and packed with fascinating stories from his own experience, In the Dojo provides a wealth of information that beginning students will pore over and advanced students will treasure.

©2006 Dave Lowry (P)2014 Audible, Inc. Combat Sports & Self-Defense Eastern Philosophy Sports Writing Martial Arts Philosophy
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This is certainly an educational book more than entertainment. I came into this book with an average knowledge of martial arts. This book gave me some good insight as to the "why" and "where did it come from" type of questions. if you are looking for a story this volume is certainly not for you. But, if you are looking for a deeper understanding of Japanese Marrtial Arts and Culture this book is a good overview.

More Educational than Entertainment.

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great etiquette reference guide while still entertaining. on my top 3 of my budo literature favorites

great

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A great book by a great author. I own the book now I now the audiobook

Great

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Great to learn about the dojo and behavior inside. Not to learn any technical stuff from martial art.

Great to learn about the dojo and behavior inside.

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Educational for the Budo-Ka that is not yet informed of the ways in Japan and Okinawa. Great Narrating too!

Mojo for my future Dojo!

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A treasure of information for those interested in the cultural details of Japanese martial arts, read excellently as usual by Brian Nishii.

Very valuable for serious karateka

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This book was a bit of a disappointment; it seemed half text book and half a old man screaming “get off my lawn”. Though there was good information in there, it all came with a hum of bitterness behind everything as the author longed for the “good old days”, even as he condemn other people for doing the same. Much like how he builds himself up and bashes people for sound practices he does not think is proper, all while saying having a big ego is bad. I did not understand his desire he have Martial Arts teachers to hold to tradition and starve, over evolving so they can stay open to continue to bring these arts to the world while also being able to provide for their families.

Author seem bitter.

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poor layout, and description. just not what I myself was expecting from the author. having read many books by him I was very disappointed with this one

not what was expected based on description

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This was an awful listen. Just couldn't finish it. The author seems to be an asshat.

Super boring and pretentious

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