Ninjutsu is not a sport. It is for self-defense. Ninjutsu uses strikes and kicks to kyusho (pressure points) while setting up for joint locks, immobilizations, or throws. Ninjutsu uses principles of leverage, angling, and physics, instead of brute force. There are many problems with “brute force” because there will always be someone bigger or stronger out there. In order to subdue an attacker larger than oneself, he or she will have to use the principles of leverage, angling, natural body mechanics, and pain points.
A basic Ninjutsu concept is rolling (break falls, tumbling, and flips). This makes for safer training. Also, in the self-defense arena, if you are pushed or fall while defending yourself, you’ll quickly return to your feet. Furthermore, rolling is a very effective way to escape joint locks and throws.
Unlike many styles, kicks, punches, and other various striking methods are not typically the “end all” to a confrontation. Kicks and punches in Ninjutsu, are generally viewed as tools to provide an entrance for advanced grappling. To end a confrontation, one will either walk away or move in to perform joint locks and throws (grappling) or other various taijutsu methods. Ninjutsu does use a great deal of grappling techniques.
The traditional system is made up of nine styles (or Ryu’s) of martial arts. In essence, we study and train on nine different martial arts at the same time. Generations ago, they were taught separately. Now they are under one heading called the International Bujinkan Dojo, (of Noda shi, Japan). Under the direction of the 34th generation leader (soke), Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi.
Our goal is to train exceptional members of society. A background survey must be filled out for official acceptance into this training. This is just one way of “screening” potential students. This is done to make sure that we do not train people that may use this art for the wrong reason. Furthermore, people that work in law enforcement (local, state, or federal) and military personnel have been, and are welcomed to train. Ninjutsu techniques have been proven highly effective by various organizations from Military Special Ops units to local law enforcement. Traditional Ninjutsu also trains with an extensive array of weaponry. Finally, the techniques learned should only be used for self-defense.
– Shidoshi Shihan Rick Spangler