The Secrets of Chinese Karate was written in the early 60's by Senior Grandmaster Ed Parker Sr. Mr. Parker reveals the amazing techniques of Karate as developed and practiced by the Chinese - the true pioneers of the martial art of self-defense. Mr. Parker elaborated on the theories of various styles that occurred prior to the time of Shao-lin and how they were based on imitating the movements of animals such as, the deer, tiger, bear, monkey and bird. It was surmised that the various animals chosen, depicted different characteristics. For instance, the leopard's movements were used to develop speed as well as strength. Tiger movements were formed to develop the bones, dragon movements to develop alertness and snake movements to develop temperament and endurance. Through the years of experimentation, the Chinese discovered two types of strength-inner and outer strength. Inner strength-denoting hidden power. One such form of inner power was Dim Mak, the study and art of " Touching nerve points" which involved a detailed analysis of nerve points as well as developing the skills of the herbalist-a form that was only taught to the most patient peaceful exponents. Natural weapons used anciently by the Chinese were listed in charts and highlighted in terms of possible historical applications. The formation of natural weapons, as used by the Chinese shows the versatility with which body parts can function effectively in combat along with diverse methods of execution. Instruction is offered on the ranges within which an exponent could utilize such weapons with minimum force to maximum effect. In conclusion Mr. Parker included various tests, formalities, rituals, and ancient Chinese customs of related interest.
About the Author: Edmund Kealoha Parker Sr. was born on March 19, 1931, the sixth of seven children in Honolulu, Hawaii. Growing up in the harsh Honolulu environment, young Edmund had many opportunities to defend himself, his principles, and his honor. Edmund attended Kamehameha High School, he excelled in sports, becoming an accomplished athlete. He became a judo black belt by the age of fifteen, as well as an amateur boxing champion. He competed in track and field, and became a member of the Junior Varsity Football Team. Edmund was born and raised in a devout Mormon household. He graduated from Kamehameha High School served his country in the Coast Guard for three years. He worked hard to achieve his Black Belt Certificate from Professor William K. S. Chow June 5, 1953. During his high school and young adult years he dated Marguerite Leilani Bertelmann Yap. He graduated from Brigham Young University and married Marguerite Leilani Bertelmann Yap in December 28, 1954 in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake, Utah Temple. Edmund opened the first Karate Studio in Pasadena, California in 1956. Karate was unknown in California. Terry Robinson a close friend who owned a private health club in Beverly Hills, the Beverly Wilshire Health Club. Introduce Edmund to many celebrities whom Edmund taught, Bob Wagner, Natalie Word, Mac Donald Carey, Elkie Sommers, Blake Edwards, Frank Lovejoy, Audy Murphy, Nick Adams, Gary Cooper and Elvis Presley. Edmund when meeting and becoming close friends with Bruce Lee introduced Bruce to the directors who eventually cast Bruce Lee in the TV show the Green Hornet. Edmund appeared in many movies and television shows, including Revenge of the Pink Panther and The Curse of the Pink Panther. He also was on The Lucy Show where he taught Lucille Ball and Ethel Mertz. He was in The Courtship of Eddie's Father and I Spy. Edmund taught many thousands all over the World. He frequently put on Seminars and Demonstrations in Australia, England, Ireland, Spain, Chile, Venezuela, Sweden, Holland and Greece. For many years Mr. Parker authored many books which still sell very well all over the World. Basic Booklet on Karate, Kenpo Karate Law of the Fist, The Women's Guide to Self Defense, Secrets of Chinese Karate, Infinite Insights into Kenpo 1-5 volumes, The Zen of Kenpo, The Encyclopedia of Kenpo, Roots & Branches (his family history), Inside Elvis, the Accumulative Belt Journals from Yellow belt to 5th degree Black. He Directed and Narrated 2 videos Sophisticated Basics #1 Stances & Sophisticated Basics #2 Maneuvers.