Taekwondo: A Path to Excellence

"The most difficult part of traditional taekwondo is not learning the first kick or punch. It is not struggling to remember the motions of a poomsae or becoming acquainted with Korean culture. Rather, it is taking the first step across the threshold of the dojang door. This is a point where roads diverge, where choices are made that will resonate throughout a lifetime." These words are more than just words they are the building blocks to a journey that begins but has no ending. In his book these are the first words you read under one of his so well written chapters. As a student of Master Cook I have had the privelage and honor to train along side Master Cook to truly experience what Taekwondo and it's history mean to me. When reading Taekwondo, a path to excellence I could never have ever known what a wonderful lesson I was about to be a part of. This journey told by a true practitioner of the art is everything and so much more any reader looking to enhance or learn for the first time about taekwondo from its inception to present time can ever ask for in a book. Filled with the rich history of taekwondo I find this book to be the best book I have ever read on the subject. The book is simply filled with so much detailed information on everything taekwondo in a way that even the first time person being introduced to this powerful majestic martial art would find it very hard to put it down until its read in it's entirety. As one of Master Cooks students I can also say that even those of us who train under the watchful experienced eye of Master Cook find that the words contained in this book are words that we get to really pay tribute to as well as use in our every day training. If I needed to suggest any book that would give the reader a better understanding and inside viewpoint of the world of Taewkondo..a path to excellence by Master Doug Cook would be that book.

I purchased this book as an overview of the tenets of Taekwondo, thinking that it was a thorough guidebook to hard and fast rules of the martial art. I had thought of it as Taekwondo's version of the Samurai's Bushido or the Yogi's Sutras of Patanjali (or even BKS Iyengar's Light on Yoga). It is not. This reads more like an extended journal on Doug Cook's life pursuing Taekwondo.Clearly Cook's life pursuing Taekwondo deserves respect, and he is wise in its practice and philosophy. Yet this is not an organized, clear articulation of what every good Taekwondo practitioner should strive for. It does not present a clear set of rules to follow, nor does it give a clear picture of what it is to study Taekwondo. I do not know what exactly it takes from eastern religions; I do not know how it modifies them.I am sure that it is helpful to those pursuing the martial art, because Cook discusses his story conversationally and in a friendly manner. Yet for someone not studying it, but merely researching it, this left me wanting more. Thankfully, I will get some use from the bibliography: Cook has read extensively and presents some great resources.

Master Cook has done an excellent job with his latest book, Taekwondo: A Path to Excellence. His first two books are both very good books as well and I thought would be hard ones to match... well, he managed to do it with his latest book. In this book he revisits Taekwondo's history as he did in his first two books, however beyond that, this book covers many things he didn't cover in the first two books. In this book he opens up more about his personal journey with Taekwondo focusing on experiences as a dojang owner, instructor, student, and practioner. I personally enjoyed reading about his trip to Korea with his students along with Grand-Master Richard Chun, who accompanied them on the trip. Master Cook also provides a glimpse into the political structure of Taekwondo as they vist the Kukkiwon in Korea and meet the President of World Taekwondo Federation, Dr. Un Yong Kim. Master Cook has done a fine job with his latest book. I highly recommend this book for anyone who has interest in learning more about Traditional Taekwondo.Kamsahamnida Sabumnim Cook!

I would like to add my whole-hearted support and praise of Master Doug Cook's very educational and informative book: Taekwondo: A Path to Excellence.I have been involved with Taekwondo for many years and have read several books about martial arts during that time. It is my sincere feeling that this is one of the best books on the subject that I have ever read and received knowledge from.This book gives you insight into the world of traditional Taekwondo. Master Doug Cook gives you the feeling that you are directly involved with the history of Taekwondo.Among the books I have on this subject, I know I will be referring to Taekwondo: A Path to Excellence on many occasions throughout my career.Thank you Master Doug Cook for a wonderful, inspirational addition to the knowledge and understanding of traditional Taekwondo.Arun Salgunan

Great book. A nice read for any TaeKwonDo enthusiast. Doug Cook's dedication to this martial art is completely evident. He discusses Eastern philosophies as it ties with the discipline of TaeKwonDo, founding history, Poomse (form), etc. I have been studying for a year and a half, and this book has been a nice addition to my growing knowledge.

Master Doug Cook is the most prolific writer on the Art of Taekwondo a must read for every Martial Artist

If you want an insight into Taekwondo and what it can do for you read this

For beginners

I found this both rewarding and easy to read; it has a lot of information and tips for those who are studying taekwondo or who are interested in trying. I think there's also a lot to take away even if you study a different traditional martial art.

I admit I really like Master Cook books, he has a powerful writing and a really profound knowledge and love for Taekwondo. In this book he share also some of his personal experiences and useful tips for those who are fan of an art that is not just sport but is complete in every aspect and holistic for its practitioners. A really good book to read if you love Taekwondo.