Fight Science

[Indar]

For those living in the UK and with access to The National Geographic TV channel, an interesting looking program at 10 pm tonight (Wednesday)

fight science (http://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/)

[JL.]

Gassho!

That looks interesting. Anyone over there with a digital videorecorder? Because I'd like a copy of that! Thanks.

Kesshu,
______ Jan.

[luar]

This debuted here last month and I heard it was amazing. I've been waiting for it to make it over to DVD.

[imarubber]

Sorry to disappoint, but it's crap. Lots of pseudo-scientific junk, perpetuated myths of martial arts, and a downright fraudulent ninjer to boot. Not to mention t3h d34d1y Dim Mak hammerfist to the vagas nerve to stop the heart. Utter filth.

[luar]

I just found out that segments of Fight Science can be seen on YouTube. In addition, this is somewhat of a rehash of another documentary that was shown on Discovery Channel called, "XMA." I bought the DVD with high expectatons and I thought it was a complete waste of money. The problem is that they never really explain the bio-mechanics. They talk about how a well conditioned martial artist can land a well placed kick at around 35 mph with a force of 2 tons per square inch but never explain how this can be humanely possible. I would have welcomed a discussion on stance, relaxation of muscles, use of the hips, etc.

Too bad :(

[RichD]

Raul,

If its more scientific analysis you want then there is some stuff here:
How Things Work (http://howthingswork.virginia.edu/journal/)
and here:
Kungfu Science (http://www.kungfuscience.org/access_10_calculations.asp)
but it mainly focuses on board breaking.

Also - Martina Sprague has written some books that claim to unravel the science of martial arts. I haven't read any of them and reviews on internet bookshops are mixed.