Ninjutsu

At its core, Ninjutsu (忍術, נינג'יטסו)was a huge skill-set and, nowadays, a martial art that emphasizes resourcefulness, fighting spirit, and practical gains rather than glory.

Although the Ninja figure is shrouded in myth, Ninjutsu techniques are grounded in documented scrolls and teaching lineages that have been pressure tested for effectiveness. AKBAN, and other schools, approach Ninjutsu as a comprehensive system that cultivates physical fitness, mental resilience, and emotional balance, transcending mere combat skills.

Table of Contents

• Origins
• Principles and Techniques
• The AKBAN Perspective
• Modern Applications
• The 18 Ninja skills
• The Spiritual realm of the Ninja

Origins

Founder of Modern Ninjutsu
Masaaki Hatsumi

Ninjutsu originated in feudal Japan as a comprehensive skill set closely aligned with guerrilla warfare, counterintelligence, and the clandestine lifestyle of the Ninja warrior. Historical Shinobi were hidden in plain sight and more complex operators than just shadowy figures. Ninjutsu techniques have been preserved in various Samurai martial arts, such as Katory Shinto Ryu.

The AKBAN academy has made it a goal to preserve diverse teaching lineages that have contributed to Ninjutsu, including the Bujinkan school, which has been a significant part of our heritage. Bujinkan encompasses nine different martial systems, including the Togakure system that focuses on Ninjutsu. While the Togakure system has a rich history, it lacks formal recognition, as martial arts lineages can vary depending on accrediting organizations and their criteria.

Crow Tengu, Yamabushi Ninja

Peeling back the layers of myth, some trace the origins of Ninjutsu to mountain-dwelling ascetics known as Yamabushi. These ascetics were practicing Shugendō, a Japanese religious practice that integrates self-preservation, non-detection, outdoor survival techniques and religious practices. In AKBAN, we see these historical and spiritual roots not as mere myths, but as integral aspects of our practice today.

Historical Context

While it's tempting to romanticize the role of Ninjutsu practitioners in feudal Japan, the truth is, much of what we know is based on fragmented historical records and educated guesses. We approach this history with a critical eye. What can be deducted is that these operators likely had a pragmatic approach. Then, like today, operators needed much more than military skills but also a nuanced understanding of human psychology, geography, and even rudimentary chemistry.

Principles and Techniques: The AKBAN Perspective

Totoku stance - Ninjutsu

Ninjutsu encompasses a wide range of techniques, from unarmed combat to proficiency in various weapons. However, the art extends beyond physical maneuvers, incorporating an understanding of human psychology, emotion, and the environment. At the AKBAN academy, these principles are structured into the Methodical Pyramid, a framework for teaching combat skills, resilience, and emotional regulation. This holistic approach reflects the depth of Ninjutsu while adapting to the challenges of modern life.

Core Techniques and Modern Adaptations: The AKBAN Approach

Although techniques in Ninjutsu may vary depending on the school, core principles remain consistent: strikes, throws, armlocks, and weapon techniques. However, the physical moves are only part of the equation; mindset is equally important. At the AKBAN academy, we emphasize "goals, not glory," advocating for minimal aggression whenever possible (link to ethical code). This aligns with the covert warrior ethos, where the objective is to achieve the mission with as little conflict as necessary while striving to do good when possible.

Another crucial aspect is the importance of community trust and communication. Historically, ninjas operated in close-knit groups, often outside of conventional military structures, requiring a high level of trust and effective communication. We uphold these principles in our modern practice.

Furthermore, we aim to maintain the legendary adaptability of the ninja to new technologies, particularly in this age of rapid technological advancement. From the mythic diving apparatus and poison bombs of the past to the utilization of modern tools and even artificial intelligence, we believe in staying ahead of the curve. This forward-thinking approach makes Ninjutsu, especially as practiced in AKBAN, a continually evolving and relevant martial art.

The AKBAN Approach

At AKBAN, Ninjutsu is more than just a martial art—it's a comprehensive system for developing physical and emotional resilience. Our team, which includes board-certified physical therapists and medical doctors, has been refining our methods since 1986.

Blending Tradition and Modern Science

We have distilled the core principles of Ninjutsu and enriched them with state-of-the-art fitness methodologies and emotional regulation techniques. Our unique regimen, backed by in-house biofeedback technology, offers a training experience that goes beyond self-defense to enhance overall well-being.

Modern Applications: The AKBAN Vision

In today's world, the principles of Ninjutsu extend far beyond the dojo. While the art is globally practiced for self-defense, fitness, and spiritual growth, AKBAN sees it as a blueprint for fostering a more resilient and compassionate society.

Humanizing Martial Arts

Our vision transcends the traditional boundaries of martial arts. By integrating modern scientific insights and ethical considerations, we aim to contribute to a world where the martial ethos serves not only individual practitioners but also society at large. At a time when resilience and resourcefulness are more crucial than ever, we believe that the AKBAN approach works for us.

The 18 Ninjutsu Skills:

We believe some of these disciplines have cultural importance but the list was shortened in all the modern Ninjutsu schools.

1. Seishin-Teki-Kyo‘yo‘ (精神的教養)
2. Taijutsu (unarmed combat, using one's body as the only weapon), (体術}})
3. Kenjutsu (sword fighting) (剣術)
4. Bōjutsu (stick and staff fighting), (棒術)
5. Shurikenjutsu (throwing blades), (手裏剣術)
6. Sōjutsu (spear fighting), (槍術)
7. Naginatajutsu (naginata fighting), (長刀術)
8. Kusarigamajutsu (chain and sickle weapon), (鎖鎌術)
9. Kayakujutsu (pyrotechnics and explosives), (火薬術)
10. Hensōjutsu (disguise & impersonation), (変装術)
11. Shinobi-iri (stealth and entering methods), (忍び入り)
12. Bajutsu (horsemanship), (馬術)
13. Sui-ren (water training), (水練)
14. Bōryaku (military strategy), (謀略)
15. Chōhō (espionage), (諜報)
16. Intonjutsu (escaping and concealment), (隠遁術)
17. Tenmon (meteorology), (天文)
18. Chi-mon (geography), (地文)

Seishin Teki Kyoyo - The Spiritual realm of the Ninja

Seishin Teki Kyoyo represents the spiritual foundation of authentic Ninjutsu practice. These seven principles transcend combat techniques, forming a philosophical framework for both martial and personal development. While often overlooked in modern interpretations, these principles were and are essential to the shinobi's survival and effectiveness.

1. Self-knowledge:

   The shinobi's path begins with honest self-examination. Through physical challenges and meditation practices, practitioners confront their limitations and discover capabilities. At AKBAN, this introspection happens within a community where feedback from training partners reveals blind spots and accelerates growth that is impossible in isolation.

2. Understanding Nature:

   The historical ninja was a master of terrain and natural law. AKBAN's desert training grounds serve as our dojo for developing environmental awareness, teaching practitioners to read landscapes, weather patterns, and natural cycles. This understanding extends to human nature - recognizing that efficient movement and effective techniques work with natural biomechanics rather than forcing artificial patterns.

3. Fate:

   In combat and in life, circumstances often defy our expectations. Rather than resisting inevitable change, the practitioner develops the mental flexibility to adapt instantly when plans collapse. This principle teaches us to prepare thoroughly while maintaining detachment from outcomes, allowing perception and decisive action even when faced with overwhelming opposition.

4. Harmony:

   The most advanced expression of martial skill isn't domination but integration with opposing forces. Training progresses from mechanical technique to flowing responses that neutralize conflict with minimal force. The ethical framework demands greater restraint as skill increases—the more capable the practitioner, the greater they must preserve life and dignity, especially from positions of advantage.

5. The Heart:

   Courage in Ninjutsu isn't fearlessness because fearlessness is a sister to stupidity. The heart is the capacity to act effectively despite fear. The actual training is an exposure to controlled stress. Hench, emotional resilience alongside physical capability. The community aspect of training provides both the challenge and the support - pushing practitioners while ensuring safety.

6. The Eye:

   Combat depends on perceiving reality without distortion. Ninjutsu training develops both literal vision (Vision of the Ninja - read here) and metaphorical insight (recognizing patterns and anticipating probable outcomes). These skills transfer beyond dojo to enhanced awareness in everyday situations, helping practitioners navigate social dynamics and potential dangers.

7. Love:

   Perhaps the most misunderstood principle, the ninja's concept of love manifests as devotion to community and craft. This principle lifts martial training from self-centered, self-defense, pursuit into service - developing not to dominate others but to preserve what's good in a chaotic world.

These seven spiritual principles form an integrated system rather than isolated concepts. Each principle reinforces and balances the others, creating a comprehensive approach to martial arts practice that develops the whole person. At AKBAN, techniques serve as vehicles for exploring these deeper principles, connecting practitioners to the authentic essence of Ninjutsu.

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• Ninjutsu Category