11 Must-Read Books on Kung Fu for Martial Arts Enthusiasts

Discover the best books on kung fu that delve into martial arts mastery, history, and philosophy, all in a swift, engaging read.
BrandMy RatingPrice
By Moonpeak Library (Author)
Top Frugal Selection
N/A
By Wong Kiew Kit (Author)
Best for Beginners
9.2/10
By Mr. Tyler Rea (Author)
Best for Martial Arts Enthusiasts
9.0/10
By Bruce Lee (Author), John Little (Editor), Linda Lee Cadwell (Introduction), Taky Kimura (Foreword) & 1 More
Best for Cultural Insight
9.4/10
By Clint Sharp (Author)
8.4/10

Best Books on Kung Fu

Discover the essence of martial mastery through our curated selection of the best books on kung fu. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned practitioner, these pages unlock the secrets, stories, and philosophies behind this ancient art with brevity and clarity. Dive in and let your journey into the world of kung fu unfold quickly and captivatingly.

Top Frugal Selection: Kung Fu Training Stats Log

Kung Fu Training Statistics Log Book: Track & Master Every Move. Ideal for Martial Artists, Instructors, and Enthusiasts
Highlights
Concise and informative
Ideal for quick reads
Good for beginners

As our Top Frugal Selection, this logbook offers incredible value for martial arts enthusiasts on a budget.

Its 125 pages of concise tracking space make it perfect for quick, straightforward reference, especially if you're just starting out or prefer a no-frills approach.

The compact size ensures it’s portable enough to carry to training sessions, and it's easy to keep organized.

While it may lack in-depth content, its simplicity and affordability make it an excellent practical tool for beginners eager to chart their progress without breaking the bank.

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Price history for Kung Fu Training Stats Log on Amazon

Best for Beginners: The Art of Shaolin Kung Fu

The Art of Shaolin Kung Fu: The Secrets of Kung Fu for Self-Defense, Health, and Enlightenment (Tuttle Martial Arts)
Highlights
Comprehensive martial arts guide
Clear explanations and tips
Holistic approach to health

As the best for beginners, this guide offers clear, concise explanations that demystify Shaolin Kung Fu without overwhelming new students.

Its holistic approach not only covers techniques but also emphasizes health and mindfulness, making it a well-rounded introduction to martial arts.

While it lacks visual aids and is primarily text-based, the insights are solid and accessible, especially for those eager to start their martial arts journey.

If you're looking for a foundational resource that balances tradition with ease, this book is a fantastic choice to kickstart your training.

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Price history for The Art of Shaolin Kung Fu on Amazon

Best for Martial Arts Enthusiasts: Wing Chun Kung Fu

Wing Chun Kung Fu Bamboo Ring: Martial Methods and Details of the Jook Wan Heun of Wing Chun
Highlights
Easy to follow instructions
Great illustrations
Good for training

This book offers clear, easy-to-follow instructions complemented by great illustrations that make complex Wing Chun techniques more accessible.

It's a solid choice for martial arts enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding.

While it’s not a substitute for hands-on training, it excels as a valuable supplement to your practice routine, helping you refine your skills between lessons.

At just 100 pages, it’s compact and convenient—perfect to toss into your training bag.

Overall, it’s a great resource for those ready to explore advanced techniques and elevate their martial arts journey.

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Price history for Wing Chun Kung Fu on Amazon

Best for Cultural Insight: Bruce Lee

Bruce Lee The Tao of Gung Fu: Commentaries on the Chinese Martial Arts
Highlights
Good biography of Bruce Lee
Insightful philosophy
Historically rich

This book offers a rich cultural and spiritual perspective on Gung Fu, delving into its philosophies and historical roots with finesse.

While it has a strong focus on Bruce Lee, it provides insightful reflections on martial arts philosophy that resonate beyond his story.

The content is thought-provoking but may feel dense for some readers, given its depth and brevity at just 200 pages.

However, its engaging narrative and comprehensive approach make it a top choice for those interested in the cultural essence of Chinese martial arts.

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Kung-Fu The Ultimate Guide

Kung-Fu: The Ultimate Guide to Shaolin Kung Fu Along with Its Movements and Techniques (Mix Martial Arts)
Highlights
Comprehensive overview
Includes warmup routines
Good for martial arts comparison

It offers a comprehensive overview of Kung Fu, perfect for those wanting to deepen their understanding of the art’s history and cultural roots.

The inclusion of warmup routines makes it practical for martial artists eager to incorporate proper preparation into their training.

While it doesn’t detail specific moves, it’s a solid resource for comparison and broad knowledge.

At just 156 pages, it’s a quick read that packs a punch in both content and accessibility.

Overall, a great choice for enthusiasts looking to expand their martial arts perspective without getting bogged down in technical specifics.

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Price history for Kung-Fu The Ultimate Guide on Amazon

Shaolin Kung Fu

Shaolin Kung Fu: The Original Training Techniques of the Shaolin Lohan Masters
Highlights
Practical kung fu info
Clear, simple material
Focus on real Shaolin

This book offers practical kung fu insights rooted in the genuine Shaolin tradition, making it perfect for beginners and fans looking for real, actionable techniques.

Its clear and straightforward approach helps demystify the art without overwhelming, focusing on the fundamentals.

While it doesn’t delve into mystical or advanced moves, it’s a solid choice for those who want authentic info without fluff.

Keep in mind, it's a bit heavy for day-to-day carry, but the content makes it well worth the effort.

A hands-down helpful guide for serious beginners!

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Price history for Shaolin Kung Fu on Amazon

Shaolin Heritage Books on Kung Fu

Authentic Shaolin Heritage: Training Methods Of 72 Arts Of Shaolin (Shaolin Kung Fu Online Library)
Highlights
Comprehensive training insights
Clear, easy explanations
Preserves ancient knowledge

It offers comprehensive training insights that delve into the depths of authentic kung fu techniques, making it ideal for passionate learners eager to understand martial arts on a deeper level.

The explanations are clear and easy to follow, which helps demystify complex concepts without watering down the ancient wisdom.

However, a word of caution—some methods can be potentially dangerous if practiced improperly, so supervision is essential.

Keep in mind, it skews more towards theory than forms, but overall, it’s a fantastic resource for those committed to mastering kung fu fundamentals with respect for tradition.

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Iron Thread

Iron Thread. Southern Shaolin Hung Gar Kung Fu Classics Series (Shaolin Kung Fu Online Library)
Highlights
Thorough written descriptions
Good for gong fu practitioners
Great condition, bargain price

This book delivers thorough written descriptions that help deepen your understanding of kung fu techniques, especially for those who already have some practice under their belt.

It’s a solid choice for gong fu enthusiasts looking to refine their knowledge at home, all at a bargain price.

However, beginners might find it a bit challenging without visual aids, as it offers limited pictures.

Plus, nothing beats learning directly from a skilled teacher.

Still, if you're committed and want a detailed, compact resource, this book is a great value to add to your martial arts library.

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Price history for Iron Thread on Amazon

Tai Chi The True History & Principles

Tai Chi - The True History & Principles
Highlights
Authentic historical texts
In-depth research
Clear descriptive reporting

This book is a treasure trove for those craving authentic historical texts on kung fu.

Its in-depth research and detailed reporting make it a fantastic resource for anyone interested in the martial art’s rich heritage.

However, the language can be a bit challenging, with an academic translation style that might feel dense to some readers.

While it offers little in practical guidance, its value lies in uncovering the roots and evolution of kung fu.

If you're a serious scholar or history buff, this is a must-have in your collection.

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Shaolin Chin Na Fa Books on Kung Fu

Shaolin Chin Na Fa: Art of Seizing and Grappling. Instructor's Manual for Police Academy of Zhejiang Province (Shanghai, 1936)
Highlights
Easy to understand
Nice illustrations
Applicable to serious martial artists

The book is notable for its clarity and accessibility, making complex kung fu techniques easier to grasp.

The engaging illustrations truly help visualize moves, which is fantastic for serious martial artists eager to refine their skills.

However, the photos could use some restoration to bring out more detail, and it doesn’t delve deeply into strength training.

While it’s not the most authoritative resource out there, its compact size and practical focus make it a solid choice for practitioners seeking a straightforward, easy-to-understand guide.

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Tai Chi & Qigong for Seniors

Tai Chi & Qigong — Balancing Exercises for Seniors: Regain Strength and Balance, Reduce Your Risk of Falls, Decrease Pain and Stress, & Improve Cognitive Health! (Own Your Mind And Body Health)
Highlights
Easy to follow instructions
Culturally authentic
Hobbies for seniors

It’s ideal for beginners and offers easy-to-follow instructions that make picking up kung fu approachable and fun.

The exercises are culturally authentic, giving a genuine feel of traditional martial arts, which is a bonus for enthusiasts seeking depth.

It's especially great as a hobby for seniors, promoting gentle activity and mindfulness.

While it may lack advanced techniques and focus mainly on basic routines, it’s perfect for those starting out or looking for a light, engaging introduction. An excellent pick for anyone wanting an accessible, authentic kung fu experience.

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Price history for Tai Chi & Qigong for Seniors on Amazon

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