This is a guide to pressure point striking for the average martial artist. Sang H Kim demystifies the lore of vital point striking & shows you realistic applications of vital point strikes for self-defense & combat sports. For those new to the concept of vital points he begins by examining the Eastern theory of acupoints meridians & ki (qi) & the Western scientific concepts of the nervous & circulatory systems pain threshold & pain tolerance & the relationship between pain & fear. This synthesis of accepted Eastern & Western theories helps the reader understand what makes vital point striking work & why it can be not only useful in fighting but deadly. Based on this introduction you will learn about 202 vital points for use in fighting including the name point number location involved nerves & blood vessels applicable techniques sample applications & potential results for each point. The points are illustrated in detail on an anatomically correct human model with English Chinese & Korean names as well as point numbers for easy reference. In addition to identifying the vital points Sang H. Kim gives you detailed information about the type of techniques that work for vital point striking including a discussion of fighting zones & ranges plexus strikes stance & footwork bodily weapons striking directions & angles & dozens of applications for common empty hand grappling groundfighting knife & gun attacks. Based on over thirty years experience in the martial arts & in-depth research Sang H. Kim has created one of the most complete books available on the art & science of vital point striking.