Via Media: Your One-Stop Publisher for Asian Martial Arts Books

Few subjects marry philosophy, discipline, history, and physical expression quite like the martial arts. Documenting one of the world’s most widely practised forms of self-defence, Via Media Publishing has long served as a trusted source for high-quality, deeply researched books on Asian martial traditions. Whether you're a student looking to refine your form, a teacher passing on techniques, or simply fascinated by the cultural roots of martial disciplines, Via Media offers a range of books to inform and inspire.

A Legacy of Scholarship & Skill

Founded in 1992, Via Media first rose to international prominence through its quarterly Journal of Asian Martial Arts, which went on to be published in Greek and Spanish, in addition to English. At a time when most martial arts magazines were mass-market and overly commercialized, the Journal broke the mould: it provided articles that met academic standards, written by scholar-practitioners, people who both studied and lived the arts they wrote about.

Each article featured proper references and in-depth analysis, grounded in field experience and hands-on combat training. This unique scholarly-practical blend helped establish Via Media’s reputation as a publisher of serious, authoritative work in the field.

From Journal to Anthologies and Beyond

After ceasing publication of the journal in 2012, Via Media began curating its rich archive into 61 themed anthologies, making nearly 500 articles accessible by topic. These anthologies cover a range of styles and subjects:

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  Chinese martial arts like taijiquan (tai chi), xingyi, wing chun, and kuntao
• Japanese traditions such as judo, karate, aikido, and kobudo
• Korean styles including taekwondo and taekkyon
• Southeast Asian disciplines like silat, arnis, and muay thai
• Plus, systema, sambo, MMA, women in martial arts, and martial arts for children

Each collection offers a focused dive into the philosophies, techniques, and histories behind these martial systems.

For Learners, Teachers, and Thinkers

Via Media’s publishing model is designed to serve every level of martial artist, from beginners looking to grasp the basics, to instructors developing curricula, to researchers seeking deeper historical context. Their books go beyond instruction to provide cultural insight, biographical depth, and practical application, making them invaluable tools for anyone engaging seriously with martial traditions.

Explore More

You can browse their complete catalogue, categorized by region and discipline, on our website. Whether you’re seeking the roots of taijiquan or the philosophy behind aikido, the publisher’s curated selection helps you deepen both your practice and understanding.

Interested in building a well-rounded martial arts library?

Start with Via Media Publishing, where tradition meets scholarship, and every page teaches more than technique.