Martial artist Doug Cook publishes second book

Warwick — In recent years, the sport of taekwondo has had surging participation, due in part to the appeal of competitions. However, many techniques of defensive value have been stripped away or forfeited altogether in favor of those certain to score in the ring. In his new book, “Traditional Taekwondo: Core Techniques, History and Philosophy,” Master Doug Cook of Warwick describes in detail the evolution of taekwondo from its ancient roots to modern day applications. Also included are exercises in Ki (internal energy) development, meditation practice, and self-defense strategies. The book, published by YMAA of Boston, focuses on the traditional aspects of taekwondo rather than on its sportive component. The principles and techniques of traditional taekwondo, which have been handed down over decades, if not centuries, emphasize a defensive strategy. Taekwondo, the national Korean martial art and newly-appointed Olympic sport, can be literally translated as foot-hand-way, or the way of smashing with hands and feet. In his 276-page book, Cook states that “such descriptive nomenclature arguably implies a curriculum rich in self-defense. Too often, however, this is simply not the case. Given the current popularity of sport competition in the martial arts, many techniques of defensive value have been stripped away or forfeited altogether in favor of those certain to score in the ring. While the thirst for Olympic gold has clearly played a significant role in propelling taekwondo into the forefront, it should be noted that this native Korean martial art contains over 3200 distinct self defense techniques truly qualifying it as a practical martial art and not simply a sport.” Publisher David Ripianzi from YMAA commented that, “Doug’s first book ‘Taekwondo: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior’ met and exceeded all of our expectations, and has become recommended reading in taekwondo schools worldwide. We are confident that his second book will be equally as successful and act as a compendium to his earlier work.” Owner and head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy, located at 62 Main Street in Warwick, Cook labored for three years, here and in Korea, the homeland of taekwondo, to complete the work. For further information regarding his books or the training curriculum at the Chosun Taekwondo Academy, call 986-2288, or visit www.chosuntkd.com. Cook holds a fourth degree black belt in taekwondo, and is certified as an instructor by the U.S. Taekwondo Association and World Taekwondo Federation. He is a contributing columnist for Taekwondo Times, and director of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy. He recently received a special citation from the Korean government for forging a stronger relationship between the two countries through the martial arts. To celebrate the release of his second book, Cook will appearing from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 29, for a book signing at The Bookstore at 20 Main Street in Warwick. The Albert Wisner Public Library will host Cook for a book singing and demonstration at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 11, at 2 Colonial Ave. For more information, call 986-8880 or write to notes@warwick.net.