tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37203137366174689262024-03-19T00:48:41.570-07:00e NinjutsuNinjutsu Training Tips, Product Reviews, Interesting Articles, News and More!Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-83700745958520052512010-04-20T22:21:00.000-07:002010-04-24T00:49:53.677-07:00New Video Series In The Works! I am currently in the process of creating a new video series for the site! The videos will encompass all the topics this site offers and more. I am sure it will be a great series, so check back soon to see what I come up with! In the meantime here is a sort of trailer I've been working on...hope you like it.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="285" width="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/L6A40WO7fV4&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/L6A40WO7fV4&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="340" height="285"></embed></object></div></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-41500393247923422592010-04-11T15:28:00.000-07:002010-04-11T15:28:33.415-07:00Katana 101 This upcoming series of articles will focus on the katana. From the very basics of the weapon to teaching some Kenjutsu, I hope to bring you loads of great information. Keep checking back for updates to what is sure to be a great series!Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-39621604614579137752010-03-30T17:43:00.000-07:002010-03-30T17:50:15.539-07:00Body Weapons - Spicing Up Your Taijutsu! Some of the taijutsu training that I see focuses on only a few of the body weapons that our art possesses. The different body weapons are usually taught, briefly explained, then virtually unused. The <i>fudo ken</i> (clenched fist) is the weapon primarily used in most of what I've seen, be it demonstrations of techniques, drills, etc. Train as best suits you, but I do feel that training with all of the weapons is essential so as not to limit yourself. Please keep in mind however that I am not suggesting all Ninjutsu students and instructors are doing this, only <b>some</b> that I have seen, and I doubt I can account for all of what they teach. It is simply a humble observation.<br />
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To quote Soke Hatsumi's book "Ninjutsu - History and Tradition"<br />
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<blockquote> "The martial skill of taijutsu is a generalized total body method of dealing with situations that demand response. As such, it is not a specialized system or art form restricted to punches, throws, or holds alone. The total body is used as the defensive weapon."</blockquote><br />
That being said, here are some explanations of the basic body weapons. The first listings include some pictures because they are mostly specific hand positions. The rest are pretty much self explanatory.<br />
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<i>Shitan Ken</i> - (Thumb Pressure Strike)<br />
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Used to hook and grab into softer sensitive areas like the face, neck, etc.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmNE6jVN50-5l3C65ZeJo90oEe3wTY76BRCuAREMEI8bjEC6t3qZ_s1rP-7bSQFxd7Iw6A-mTuCJiu14fJP4ZGumoSIuNxZrjlKwxyrBpblKmPz4AsOH1eeOMLQgSTRm09I7DYKH8hYtz-/s1600-h/Shitan+Ken.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmNE6jVN50-5l3C65ZeJo90oEe3wTY76BRCuAREMEI8bjEC6t3qZ_s1rP-7bSQFxd7Iw6A-mTuCJiu14fJP4ZGumoSIuNxZrjlKwxyrBpblKmPz4AsOH1eeOMLQgSTRm09I7DYKH8hYtz-/s320/Shitan+Ken.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<i>Kiten Ken</i> - <i>Shuto</i> Open Hand Strike (as in <i>Omote Shuto</i>, <i>Ura Shuto</i>)<br />
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Rather than flicking out and back this strike uses the body's motion to knock the opponent off balance. The neck, head, and clavicle are good targets for this weapon.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-g7eA5F88uINWmR1h7upJSTY-kzc7Xd82fSW1wTT44SGwxUr01l_jBYJN3xlv3Bsr345gRf40KCEOUUPqNF-6jQgIXv6_DyhrhcpdUuE43S1U20cJ13n-utfUmYNDLSg9c4wB4-C6el6/s1600-h/Kiten+Ken.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-g7eA5F88uINWmR1h7upJSTY-kzc7Xd82fSW1wTT44SGwxUr01l_jBYJN3xlv3Bsr345gRf40KCEOUUPqNF-6jQgIXv6_DyhrhcpdUuE43S1U20cJ13n-utfUmYNDLSg9c4wB4-C6el6/s320/Kiten+Ken.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<i>Shako Ken</i> - Claw Strike<br />
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Used for softer targets of the body, hitting with the open palm then raking or digging in with the fingers.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikOU2GhBvBQNuQaPoO_WcvA7IaManNpGaUW0A01HmzeVpIHX1QVP2df7XzljthXaAitxG8H8h5VWp7nLJTrmuwGeuhyphenhyphenhrdRHeLEP_21cmOAHg-3qy_m801lVHevlFgrFCQSdOX3NJribTw/s1600-h/Shako+Ken.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikOU2GhBvBQNuQaPoO_WcvA7IaManNpGaUW0A01HmzeVpIHX1QVP2df7XzljthXaAitxG8H8h5VWp7nLJTrmuwGeuhyphenhyphenhrdRHeLEP_21cmOAHg-3qy_m801lVHevlFgrFCQSdOX3NJribTw/s320/Shako+Ken.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<i>Shishin Ken</i> - Finger Needle Strike<br />
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Another soft target weapon. Used for striking the neck, face, underarms, etc.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rMMU6kvcjyDKI3n6pLQTu0UFBCUSrCBHRvM_5j-RLzAZlvLCvMotMFZqgs2Xo4GjqvQ6tDEYsOG8MdMy2DRhsb4hxQg3e2mucNLptB9ScKdeOJk4n0pn8JT0DkaSS8MIp6GzGIYhEbHL/s1600-h/Shishin+Ken.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rMMU6kvcjyDKI3n6pLQTu0UFBCUSrCBHRvM_5j-RLzAZlvLCvMotMFZqgs2Xo4GjqvQ6tDEYsOG8MdMy2DRhsb4hxQg3e2mucNLptB9ScKdeOJk4n0pn8JT0DkaSS8MIp6GzGIYhEbHL/s320/Shishin+Ken.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<i>Shikan Ken</i> - Extended Knuckle Fist<br />
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With this weapon the hand is usually closed until the moment of impact when it opens into shikan ken, driving the knuckles into the target. This can be used anywhere you might apply fudo ken (a punch).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9wwJy47FEuzFqSgZSml8bdVmf8UmKINpTaG8Dt_m21fteSOzFngFZy9Uywm0-7JBXqid-nxx86c0VuEDu0AMELuZgUqZ-en0GS-BjIEdN9HKh8h6t1W9DiQFB7fKD1kOxs86jU25J5cdt/s1600-h/Shikan%20Ken.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9wwJy47FEuzFqSgZSml8bdVmf8UmKINpTaG8Dt_m21fteSOzFngFZy9Uywm0-7JBXqid-nxx86c0VuEDu0AMELuZgUqZ-en0GS-BjIEdN9HKh8h6t1W9DiQFB7fKD1kOxs86jU25J5cdt/s320/Shikan%20Ken.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<i>Shito Ken</i> - Thumb Strike<br />
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Striking with the "point" that the thumb and pointer finger make, this weapon is good for softer or harder targets and can be used to press into sensitive areas and pressure points or to strike at them.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3srFLUyBfAl3iyQHJeWbLq6yoSnFPNVl0BiK8KaFCuUqj4vhj2jtTVE6sMr0U_8ckzhxeHk-X8X3IS53f8G0QLhRF8Rfid70HUsIOPaGVAculDInAeAANUnauoX9KIvTWvGwBrC_F_na/s1600-h/Shito%20Ken.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3srFLUyBfAl3iyQHJeWbLq6yoSnFPNVl0BiK8KaFCuUqj4vhj2jtTVE6sMr0U_8ckzhxeHk-X8X3IS53f8G0QLhRF8Rfid70HUsIOPaGVAculDInAeAANUnauoX9KIvTWvGwBrC_F_na/s320/Shito%20Ken.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<i>Fudo Ken</i> - Clenched Fist<br />
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This is the most basic (at least in my opinion) hand strike. It is pretty much just a clenched fist used for punching. Although I do not mean to play it down by any means, it is very effective against nearly all body targets. Thus it is very basic, but also very utilitarian.<br />
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<i>Kikaku Ken</i> - Head Strike<br />
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Commonly known as "head butting" this strike is pretty straightforward in it's uses. Though it can be used in all directions and not just forwards like the common "head butt". (Please exercise caution with this technique as it could cause severe head trauma if misused)<br />
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<i>Shuki Ken</i> - Elbow Strike<br />
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A good weapon to use if you find yourself too far to your opponent's inside for punching. The elbow is a very hard bone and can strike with great force if applied properly.<br />
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<i>Sokki Ken</i> - Knee Strike<br />
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Again, like the elbow, the knee is good when you are too close for kicking or when the angle is awkward. Many other martial arts use the knee, with devastating effects.<br />
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I will leave kicks and foot weapons for another article, but this should give you a further understanding of the various taijutsu weapons. Remember the quote from earlier? Any part of your body if it applies to the situation (even if it's biting your opponent! although I would leave that out of your drills...) is a taijutsu weapon.<br />
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If you would like further explanation of any of the above or have more to add, please leave a comment!<br />
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<blockquote></blockquote><blockquote></blockquote>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-90279997628732772702010-03-30T13:42:00.000-07:002010-03-30T13:44:50.797-07:00Tachi - What is it exactly?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> Most of you probably know, but if you don't, the <i>Tachi</i> is going to be the weapon for the 2010 Bujinkan theme. Since it isn't a weapon typically taught in Ninjutsu I thought I would go over the details of the weapon in this article.<br />
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The <i>tachi</i> is the predecessor of the katana and some <i>tachi</i> were actually cut down to make <i>katana</i> once the <i>katana</i> became the standard.<br />
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<i>Tachi</i> were typically longer on average than the <i>katana</i>, with the average <i>tachi</i> being roughly 78-80cm while the average <i>katana</i> came in at around 70-72cm. It also had a more pronounced curvature both in the blade and the <i>tsuka</i> (handle).<br />
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One of the most different features of the <i>tachi</i> versus a <i>katana</i> is that the tachi was worn with the blade facing downwards. Hung from the <i>obi</i> (or belt) by ornate hangers the <i>tachi</i> was a good weapon for calvary as the downward facing blade was good for drawing and cutting down enemy infantry. The fittings of the sword also set it apart from the later <i>katana</i> and it seems to me that the <i>tachi</i> was much more ornate than the average <i>katana</i>.<br />
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I'm sure you can find many more facts about <i>tachi</i> if you searched around the net but I think this is enough information to give you a good idea as to what they are. If you are interested in buying one for training this year, you find them reasonably priced at many online sword stores.<br />
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Leave a comment and tell me what you think!Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-5405863685922950802010-03-28T13:32:00.000-07:002010-03-28T13:32:16.401-07:00Shinobi - Winds of the 34 Generations Special Edition From the people who brought us the original documentary "Shinobi - Winds of the 34 Generations" comes an updated 2-disc special edition. The special edition has lots to offer that the original did not. If it is as good as the first it is sure to be worth the $59.95 price tag.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"> You can read more about this fantastic and informative documentary <a href="http://www.shinobiwinds.com/">here</a> at their homepage. Please feel free to check out the trailer below.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="285" width="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0C_VRjGRDAk&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0C_VRjGRDAk&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="340" height="285"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"> I found this video trailer on YouTube <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0C_VRjGRDAk">here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"> It may be worth noting that they also sell a very nice pair of rubber training <i>shuko </i>(hand claws).</div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-31150913130136295972010-03-28T13:06:00.000-07:002010-03-28T13:06:58.380-07:00 This is just a video I thought was kind of cool. It is Shidoshi Rafael Perez working with a <i>kyoketsu shoge </i>at the Japan hombu dojo. The cool thing about it is that it's in slow motion and it gives you a unique perspective as to how the dynamics of the weapon really work.<br />
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I found this video on YouTube <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVXQkOVhFc0">here</a>.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-54689217118453421412010-03-28T12:14:00.000-07:002010-03-28T12:14:42.369-07:00When the myth wears off... In this discussion I would like to talk a little bit about the things I see that sort of disturb me whenever I look around the internet for Ninjutsu related information. Whether they are <i>budoka</i> who insist that Ninjutsu is something it isn't, people with more bad information than good, people who hate for little to no reason at all, or simply "crazies" in black pajamas (and they are there in abundance!). All of these things are not good for our art and should be treated with a certain respect and manner.<br />
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Most of it seems to stem from people thinking they know more than they actually do. They may read an article or webpage and think they have concrete information. Rather than cross referencing this information they post it all over the internet, be it on sites like YouTube, forums, etc. Please double check what you <i>think </i>you know before you start an argument or "flame war" over some tidbit that may not be accurate anyways. On the same note however, practitioners of Ninjutsu, or any martial art for that matter should practice tolerance. Even if someone is wrong and will not accept being corrected sometimes it's just best to let it go.<br />
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We must strive to respect others if we ourselves are to get any respect in return. I often see people leave comments on certain sites that put down other martial arts, simply because they reference Ninjutsu, or call themselves a school of Ninjutsu. This cannot be allowed, and true <i>budoka </i>should know better.<br />
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For example, and you may know the organisation I'm talking about, there is a man who posts free martial arts lessons on YouTube. He once called what he taught Ninjutsu. People attacked him for it (Bujinkan and Genbukan students among them). He went so far as to respectfully change the name of his martial art to suit these people. They still attack him to this day, and the worse thing about it all is that his goal was to offer martial arts training / classes to the poor. Devoting his own time, money, effort, and reputation without any thought of reward or personal gain only got him slandered and attacked from every angle. It is my belief that if Soke Hatsumi knew of this man and his efforts he would praise him, not denounce him.<br />
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As a student of Ninjutsu you must with every action that you make pertaining to it, ask yourself, "Is this in the best interest of the art?". As <i>budoka </i>of this art we all carry the burden of upholding it's honor, and most importantly our own honor as individuals.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-69740176953212615452010-03-27T13:11:00.000-07:002010-03-28T13:08:48.033-07:00Ninjutsu Videos : Old Soke Hatsumi Interview This video is one I thought was kind of cool. It is an old Japanese televison interview featuring a young Soke Hatsumi. It is in Japanese but does have english subtitles. In this interview Soke talks about some of his Ninjutsu scrolls and goes over some of the <i>Kuji Kiri</i> hand positions.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"> I found this video on YouTube <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7A-EJ_trFg">here</a>.</div></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-24483811392500767382010-03-27T12:45:00.000-07:002010-03-28T13:09:54.990-07:00Ninjutsu Videos : Sakki Test This is a great video showing the <i>Sakki</i> test given to <i>Yondan</i> (fourth degree blackbelts). They pass the test by evading a sword blow from behind. If they pass they are awarded the rank of <i>Godan</i> (fifth degree blackbelt) and are issued licenses to teach as Bujinkan instructors. Participants must travel to the hombu dojo in Japan for this test and it is usually administered by Soke Hatsumi or sometimes a Shihan with Soke standing by. It is also good to note Soke's sense of humor during some of it!<br />
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Hope you liked the video! Now go train and maybe some day you'll be knelt in front of Soke evading a sword blow to the head!<br />
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I found this video on YouTube <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLvOZ1O96Jo">here</a>.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-24477250280050647252010-03-27T12:27:00.000-07:002010-03-28T13:16:07.752-07:00Ninjutsu Videos In this new series I will post the Ninjutsu videos that I find on sites like <a href="http://www.youtube.com/">YouTube</a>. They may be of any variety ranging from fun to imformative. They will however all be relevant in some way. You won't find <i>Naruto</i> episodes but rather <i>actual</i> Ninjutsu. Please note that just because both I and this site are of the Bujinkan way of being you should not be surprised if I post videos from other Ninjutsu schools like the Genbukan etc. If I feel the information is good I will post it. If for some reason you do not like a particular video or find that it is not relevant please feel free to either not view it or leave a comment telling me why and I will consider taking it down. I want to keep this site as much yours as my own so what you think always has and always will play an important role.<br />
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Please also note that most of the video I post here will have come from video sharing sites like YouTube and I will never claim ownership of the media that I embed. I will always provide a link to the original media that I used and if for any reason you would like me to take down something I've posted that is yours please leave a comment and I will do so. I don't feel that this will be too much a problem since video sharing sites provide an embedding feature for just this reason and it is quite common place for people to use each others media. Still, if it is a problem, let me know and I will resolve it. Also, any video you find here that is in fact our property, please feel free to use it so long as it is used in a respectful manner.<br />
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Thanks and please enjoy!Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-40550459746425857582010-03-27T12:00:00.000-07:002010-04-09T14:34:01.218-07:00Ninjutsu Discussions : Who were the ninja? This post will be my humble attempt at discussing who I believe practitioners of Ninjutsu in ancient times were. Please note however that this is simply a <i>theory </i>that I have on the subject, and that I am by no means a historian.<br />
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Ninjutsu in itself reminds me of the special forces units that nearly every branch of every military service worldwide possess. You have common soldiers, with their common military training and tactics. Then you have special forces soldiers who are simply common soldiers that have been given more specialized training for more specialized missions and situations.<br />
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My theory is that perhaps Ninjutsu was simply the "special forces curriculum" of ancient Japan's military. Rather than look at Ninjutsu as something practiced in secret mountain villages, by secret mountain people, then hired out to do a lord's bidding, it makes more sense to look at it from the angle of the Samurai themselves practicing Ninjutsu rather than a group of farmers who just so happen to find the time during their schedule (ever worked on a farm?) to create, and train with systems of martial arts. Then they of course would have to constantly deal with the threat of angering someone high ranking with their work and subsequently being put to the sword.<br />
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If you look at the oldest surviving texts that deal with Ninjutsu you will find that they do not cover <i>Taijutsu </i>(body movement) at all. Nor do they cover weapons, or other martial techniques. What they do cover are things like how to infiltrate a castle, stealth tactics, disguise, etc. I think this is because there was no need to teach the martial side of things if the warriors learning Ninjutsu were already Samurai and already highly trained and highly skilled. All they would need is to add the "template" of Ninjutsu (basically special warfare) and they would be ninja. Much like a Marine. They are highly trained and skilled warriors. Add a "template" of scout sniper for example and now you have a Marine of the force recon variety. Still a Marine, just with some specialized training.<br />
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This would also explain how practitioners of Ninjutsu were always close on hand to their respective lords. It would be redundant to have to travel far and wide to the mountains of the Iga or Koga regions to hire a ninja when missions that would require them would probably have been most urgent. Makes more sense to simply call upon one of your Samurai retainers, also trained in Ninjutsu, to get the job done.<br />
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It also comes to mind that most of the scrolls, paintings, wood carvings etc. that I have seen pertaining to Ninjutsu always show the Ninja in Samurai dress. Clothing, armor, weapons, and such that you cannot discern Samurai from Ninja. It is also good to point out that in the Bujinkan for example many of the nine schools we learn from are Samurai schools.<br />
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It is always good to think on the origins of what we learn. To have a grasp of where these things come from is to better know the essence of the thing itself. I hope this article makes you, my readers, think about where it all comes from.<br />
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Once again, this is not meant as an exact history, rather a theory on the subject. If you have a differing opinion please leave a comment and perhaps we can further discuss the matter.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-4349572983936564322009-09-08T16:55:00.000-07:002009-09-08T16:55:02.108-07:00Ninjutsu 101 : Shizen no Kamae This <i>kamae</i> (posture) is achieved by taking a natural, relaxed standing position. The feet are shoulder width apart, both supporting an equal amount of weight. The arms hang at the sides, the shoulders are relaxed. It really is basically just standing there in an unassuming way.<br />
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Shizen no kamae is by far my favorite because of it's appearance, practicality, and resourcefulness. By appearance I mean that this posture doesn't let on that you know anything about martial arts. Whether you are <i>just standing there</i> and attacked, or you <i>take up</i> the posture in knowledge of the situation you always look like you're just standing there (which you basically are). This is good for you as your opponent assumes nothing about your fighting ability, beacause there is nothing to base any assumptions on. However, if you were to jump back into a "flashier" posture your opponent would attack more carefully as now he assumes you are trained in a martial art. By practicality I mean that you are naturally in this posture already most of the time. Whether standing in a lunch line at school or standing on your front porch. So, if you train yourself to react from shizen no kamae, you are in a sense always ready. By resourcefulness I mean that you can assume any position from shizen no kamae. It's kind of like the "swiss army knife" of kamae.<br />
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I could not find any reliable information as to what school Shizen no Kamae is from. The information I was able to gather would suggest that it is from multiple schools (and due to it's nature I would assume it is found quite often in many martial arts, perhaps under a different name). The word shizen in Japanese means "nature" or "natural". Which makes perfect sense that a <b>natural</b> standing posture would be named <b>"natural</b>". (please note that my translation came from sources that I cannot verify as being 100% correct, as I only speak some basic Japanese. I did however cross reference the information with several other sources before putting it in this article, if you know more about it, please leave a comment)<br />
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Have fun and keep training! My advice is that you work with shizen no kamae often in your training, as it really is worth it.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-25880319367303283682009-09-08T15:34:00.000-07:002009-09-08T15:34:05.728-07:00Ninjutsu Product Review : "Ninjutsu - History and Tradition" Written by Soke Masaaki Hatsumi this book is a font of knowledge. It is apparent that this book deals mostly (if not completely) with the <i>Togakure ryu</i>. It delves into the history of the art (I know there are many theories and it may not be 100% accurate) in a way that seems to grasp and keep the reader's attention. Most of the book however deals with the principals, strategies, lore, and technique of the <i>Togakure ryu</i> of ninjutsu.<br />
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With <i>many</i> pictures this book is as fun to read as it is informative. I really enjoyed the pictures (and there are quite a bit) of Soke Hatsumi's private collections of paintings, wood carvings, and equipment. It is also interesting to see pictures of the training from 1981 (when the book was originally published).<br />
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The techniques in the book cover a lot of what many Bujinkan budoka have already trained with. <i>Ichimonji no kamae</i> for example. The book however does seem to expand upon things a bit and gives the reader (atleast it did for me) new insight and ideas for the techniques. It is also interesting to have Soke Hatsumi's thoughts on the various techniques rather than just your instructors'. The many techniques covered in the book range from the basic breakfalls and rolls, to the more advanced. So really any student at any level can learn something from it.<br />
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The book is also interesting because it covers weapons and such that are not seen much in the Bujinkan as a whole. Such as the <i>yumi</i> (bow) and various arrows designed to do all sorts of things from noise making to carrying explosives (all with pictures of course).<br />
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The bottom line is that this book is a great resource for any ninjutsu student, Bujinkan or not. Even if you simply want to learn on your own, this book is fantastic.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-56811368343740540382009-09-08T01:37:00.000-07:002009-09-08T01:53:07.748-07:00Sparring In Your Ninjutsu Training Practitioners of the Bujinkan system of ninjutsu or <i>Budo Taijutsu</i> are generally taught and train without the use of <i>randori</i> (sparring). I know that some Bujinkan schools do use randori in their training and some to great effect. However it is a well known fact that most Bujinkan schools do not. Either way there are points to be made and both sides train the way they feel they should and this is the way it should be. Train in a way that suits you and be better and happier for it. I will make an attempt at addressing some of the issues of both sides in this article. If you feel the need to add something, or if I am in error somewhere please feel free to leave a comment.<br />
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<b>Training Without Randori</b><br />
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<b> The Good:<br />
</b><br />
<ul><li>You don't have as high a risk of injuring yourself or someone else.</li>
<li>For those of you who teach it may keep your insurance premiums down.</li>
</ul> <b>The Bad:</b><br />
<ul><li>You will not be as prepared for a real situation.</li>
</ul><br />
I'm sure I could go on and on but those are the basic reasons behind both sides. It is my opinion that randori should be used at different intensities at different levels of training until you can spar with an opponent at a near full contact pace. Of course using protection such as gloves (think MMA gloves), a mouthpiece, etc. Also of course "pulling" or holding back the use of full force techniques to certain areas of the body such as the head, groin (wear a cup!), etc. As it is <i>training</i> and you <i>don't</i> want to seriously hurt someone. Randori such as this is done in alot of other martial arts and injury does happen although it isn't terribly common place and it is rarely severe. Especially if the two budoka express control and stay at their respective skill levels. Meaning that injury is less frequent when randori is gradually intensified as the students progress. As they progress they become more competent as to what they are doing and can usually express more control.<br />
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I know that many Bujinkan students have been taught that the techniques of Budo Taijutsu (Ninjutsu) are too dangerous to be applied in sparring sessions or competition. My opinion (and it is shared by many, both Bujinkan students and others) is that you won't be prepared for a real life situation if you don't train for it. The drills that most Bujinkan students use in their training where they practice choreographed techniques (which is what drills mostly consist of) are good to use for training the proper application of the technique and your uke should be compliant as you are <i>learning</i> the technique. But to use the same drills to train in the real life application of said techniques is something that is both redundant and dangerous.<br />
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<b>Example A :</b><br />
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<b> </b>Two students engage in a drill. Student A stands in <i>shizen no kamae</i><b> </b>and student B stands in <i>ichimonji no kamae</i>. Student B steps forward and grabs student A by the upper sleeve of his gi. Student A reacts in a moderate pace and applies <i>muso dori</i>. Student B offers little resistance and rolls right over.<br />
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Good job to student A for a nice application of <i>muso dori</i>, and good job to student B for being a good <i>uke</i>. This was a good (and accurate) example of the type of drill we in the Bujinkan and other martial arts use for our training. Both budoka should have learned something and no one was injured. Drills such as these are crucial in the learning process and I am in no way putting them down as I myself use them to great success.<br />
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<b>Example B : </b><br />
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<b> </b>Two students engage in randori (using gloves, etc.). Student A stands in <i>shizen no kamae</i> and student B stands in <i>ichimonji no kamae</i>. Student B kicks at student A only to have it deflected away. His opponent went too far out of his reach so student B decides to retreat a little and regain his footing. Student A suddenly advances and grabs student B attempting to throw him. It almost works but student B was able to resist it fully by changing his footing and lowering his center of gravity. In the midst of having his technique resisted however student A was able to hit student B with a good (but controlled) elbow to the back of his head (something student B will have to work on). Student B shrugs off the blow and attempts to apply <i>muso dori</i> when he feels his opponent still has hold of his gi's upper sleeve. Student A is taken by surprise and although he resists the technique, student B has used enough force to take him to the mat. Student A uses the safe falling methods that he has learned to lessen the impact. Student B then shifts his weight onto student A while throwing multiple punches at his opponent's head. Both students get up off the mat, adjust themselves, and begin another session.<br />
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My question about the two above examples is which pair of students do you think learned more about actually defending themselves in a <b>real life</b> situation? The two practicing drills? Or the two engaged in randori? I would say the students of example B.<br />
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I really do hope no one gets offended by this article. I am in no way saying that drills shouldn't be used. I think they are fantastic and crucial for <i>learning</i> techniques and their various applications. However I do feel that sparring is what will prepare a student for a <i>real fight</i>. You are of course entitled to your opinion and I really do hope that you train in a manner that best suits you. Please leave your comments.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-80507004693985159422009-09-03T16:38:00.000-07:002009-09-08T02:01:44.409-07:00Ninjutsu 101 : Being a Good Uke <i>Uke</i> is the japanese term for the person who receives the attack during training. So it's basically your training partner. Learning to be a good <i>uke</i> is essential for reducing the chance of injury during training. This article will cover some of the basic skills that, in my opinion, a good <i>uke</i> should possess.<br />
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Don't offer too much resistance to your partner's techniques. By this I don't mean that you should crumple to the ground at the slightest touch or soft application of a technique. You need to offer <b>some</b> resistance but finding the proper amount of resistance is key. Offer just enough to give your training partner a good feel for the technique, if you are unsure whether or not you're giving them enough resistance, you can always ask them. If you offer too much resistance you run the risk of your training partner potentially injuring you. This is because the more resistance you offer, the more force they have to put into the technique for it to work. The reason we <b>don't</b> apply full pressure on say, a wrist lock, is because it could potentially damage or break the wrist. Too much resistance on your part means that your training partner would have to get closer and closer to full pressure for the wrist lock to work, which is closer and closer to possibly hurting you.<br />
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If it hurts, tap out. In <i>Budo Taijutsu</i> (Ninjutsu) we use a system of tapping on the ground or tapping on your leg, etc if the application of a technique becomes too intense. <b>Don't try to be tough. If it hurts, tap out</b>. This reduces injury and could save you the down time and money of a broken wrist or torn ligament. If someone you train with <b>purposely</b> doesn't let you go when you tap, I would stop training with them.<br />
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Practice your breakfalls and rolls. <i>Budo Taijutsu</i> (Ninjutsu) teaches us ways of falling (breakfalls) that will help to reduce the chance of personal injury when falling from different angles. When being taken down you should utilize these breakfalls both to protect yourself during training and to generally train yourself to use them if the real need ever arises. Rolling can be useful as well but usually more so when being thrown rather than simply being taken down. Rolls can take the energy (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinetic_energy">kinetic energy</a>) from the throw and transfer it through the roll rather than the abrupt, hard hit of the ground. This is because rolling keeps the energy moving throughout the roll allowing us to end up in a safer, better position.<br />
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Go with the flow. A good <i>uke</i> also tries to go along with whatever technique is being applied to them. This kind of goes back to the whole resistance thing but it is a bit different. Resistance (the way I use the word) refers mostly to joint locks, etc. Going with the flow or making yourself "soft" refers to receiving techniques such as a kick or a weapon strike. For example, if your training partner kicks you the best thing to do is move with it rather than trying to stand firm. This is perhaps better explained using yet another example. If you were to kick a board, the board would break because it is hard. If you were to kick a pillow, the pillow would just bend and absorb the kick because it is soft. <b>Be the pillow</b>. This can be used in a real situation as well and the merits should be obvious (if not leave a comment and I'll try to explain better).<br />
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Well, that just about sums up this article. Have fun and remember to be mindful of how good an <i>Uke</i> you are, both for your safety and your training partners.<br />
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Note: This article is written for <i>uke</i> during <i>drills.</i> Actual <i>randori</i> (sparring), if your school uses it, will be different and intensity should increase as your skill level does (atleast in my opinion).Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-5493292522083991272009-09-03T04:45:00.000-07:002009-09-03T04:53:48.378-07:00Ninjutsu Discussions: What did ninja actually wear? Hello and welcome to the first article of a new series called Ninjutsu Discussions. The goal of this series is to discuss different facets of Ninjutsu from common myths to accepted histories, theories, etc. Please leave comments with your thoughts or questions regarding the articles so we can make this new series an actual discussion and not just general articles.<br />
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So, what did ninja actually wear? This refers to the garb they are depicted wearing in movies and other pop culture. Personally I don't think they wore black "ninja uniforms" at all. The ninja uniforms found today in just about every martial arts supply website or storefront are a direct consequence of what the image of Ninjutsu has been made into for hollywood, rather than what it actually was. Please keep in mind that this is merely my opinion and I really have no concrete <b>proof</b> to offer except for being well informed over years of study.<br />
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I believe they most likely wore a set of "peasant grade" clothing. Hakama would have been worn with strips of cloth to tie the bagginess of the garment down (think knees and ankles) to reduce snagging, and noise. The hakama worn would most likely have been of the <i>umanori</i> variety.<i> Umanori</i> are the type of hakama that have divided legs (like western pants). The kimono (think gi jacket) would have probably been tied with strips of cloth at the elbow and wrist to reduce snagging and noise in the sleeves. The obi (belt) would also have been simple. The coloring of this set of clothes would have varied on what was available, the season, and perhaps other circumstances as well. In my opinion earth tones were probably always used and I doubt the different pieces of clothing matched in color very often, if at all. This is because black stands out at night far more than browns, greens, etc. Even dark red and blue are better than black in the dark (test it for yourself and see). Multiple colors also help to break up the form of a person (which is why camoflage clothing is <b>almost</b> never a solid color).<br />
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As far as tabi boots go, I doubt it. I would have to say they wore tabi socks and straw zori sandals. The sandals were probably "tied" to the legs with hempen rope by attaching the rope to the sandals and then to the ankles to keep them from coming off while running.<br />
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Now, if you look at the "ninja uniform" we just created you have an easy to aquire set of clothes that were not very costly as they are of the peasant variety (who wants to hide in the mud wearing fine silks?), they are camoflaged, they didn't have to be custom made or altered, and the best part is that if you untie the strips of cloth we used for tie downs and hid them inside your kimono you looked no different than a common peasant. Add a rokushaku bo for a walking stick and a knife in your belt and you're ready for action! Without turning any heads.<br />
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That brings me to my next point. The above was simply a breakdown of what I believe ninja "would have" worn <b><i>if </i></b>they indeed wore a "uniform" or a specific set of garb for their "missions". What I really think they would have worn are disguises. Why dress up in some crazy outfit if getting where you need to go is as simple as making people think you are someone you aren't? What's the point of dodging in and out of shadows while running with a sword drawn across rooftops at dusk to get to the other side of town for your super secret ninja mission when all you really have to do is dress normally and walk casually? Hollywood is one of the biggest reasons, but who can really blame them. I wouldn't go see a movie called "Blending In Without a Fight".<br />
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Thanks for reading! Leave a comment and tell me what you think!Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-16677101322297042952009-09-01T17:32:00.000-07:002009-09-03T03:27:31.118-07:00Ninjutsu Product Review: Dragon Fury Katana This review is for the Dragon Fury Katana by Musashi. I purchased the sword from trueswords.com and I've seen it on other sites by different names so it could be called something else if you go through someone other than the site I bought it from. Trueswords.com is a great company that I will deffinately go through again but I'll save my review of them for another article.<br />
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This katana is awesome! It is elegant and beutiful, not to mention sharp, well balanced and of suberb craftsmanship. I really couldn't be happier. The series of swords from Musashi that this particular katana comes from were crafted with the intent of bringing the highest quality katana to the consumer at the lowest possible price. They are very nicely done and are <b>NOTHING</b> like those cheaply made swords you find in most stores or sites for around the same price. This katana looks, feels, and performs like one of it's really expensive counterparts.<br />
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Here are the specs from Musashi :<br />
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<ul><li>Fully Functional "Battle Ready" (they aren't kidding!)</li>
<li>High Carbon Steel Blade</li>
<li>Thoroughly Tempered the Water-Cooled for Consistent Hardness</li>
<li>Can Be Completely Disassembled</li>
<li>Measures 40.5" w/Saya and 39" w/o</li>
<li>Blade is 28.25"</li>
<li>Full Tang w/Dual Pegs Offering Better Stability</li>
<li>Brass <i>Seppa</i> (spacers) and <i>Habaki</i> (blade collar)</li>
<li>Other Fittings Are Made From A Zinc Alloy (this is one way they keep costs/price low)</li>
<li>Real <i>Same</i> (Ray skin on handle, beneath the wrap)</li>
<li>Nicely Detailed <i>Tsuba</i> (hand guard)</li>
</ul> The best thing is this sword, with all the high-end features that it has only cost me around $60! You're probably thinking "Yeah right, at that price this katana is probably horrible". Nope! I would recommend this katana to anyone who is looking for a great, high quality katana without breaking the bank.<br />
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This thing also cuts really well and I plan to put up a video of me doing some cutting with it. Just have to wait for more tameshigiri mats to come in! Here are some pictures for you in the meantime.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2533/3879064463_bddc7edd5e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2533/3879064463_bddc7edd5e.jpg" width="420" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A detailed view of the <i>tsuka</i> (handle) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2645/3879066467_bab2a90c0c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2645/3879066467_bab2a90c0c.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A detailed view of the <i>tsuba</i> (hand guard). Notice the great polish on the <i>saya</i>! (scabbard). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2622/3879072959_edbc56b986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2622/3879072959_edbc56b986.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Detailed view of the <i>habaki</i> (blade collar).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2599/3879071007_e4ec4fe4fd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2599/3879071007_e4ec4fe4fd.jpg" width="420" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Detailed view of the <i>kissaki</i> (blade tip).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That pretty much sums up my review of the Dragon Fury Katana. I hope you found this article helpful!</div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-86536625794177103172009-08-31T00:26:00.000-07:002009-08-31T00:26:13.800-07:00Airsoft Gun Training If you are looking for a safe, but real enough way to see if your gun evasion / disarm techniques really would work I suggest using a low powered airsoft pistol.<br />
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I cannot stress enough that the gun needs to be low powered. Spring loaded is best and cheapest (walmart had them for under $10) and CO2 powered airsoft guns are too powerful to be used safely in my opinion. Safety goggles designed for airsoft are also available usually wherever airsoft products are sold and are also cheap and a must have for safety. <b>If you choose to train with this method, you do so at your own risk!</b><br />
<b>(Also please note that airsoft guns are the type that fire the plastic pellets, do not mistake an actual pellet or BB gun for an airsoft gun!) <br />
</b><br />
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Now that the safety speech is out of the way lets talk about the training method itself.<br />
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The concept is that when used properly the airsoft pistol can show you whether or not you were struck by the "bullet" when you attempt an evasion or disarm technique. Airsoft guns are powerful enough that you will feel the pellet hit you, it can kind of sting a little sometimes but through a gi jacket it shouldn't be that bad. You do however want to get a spring loaded airsoft gun with the <b>LOWEST</b> fps (feet per second) rating available. This rating is always printed on the packaging and if it doesn't say, then don't buy that particular model as it may be too powerful to use safely.<br />
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So, you have your Uke (training partner) "hold you up" at gunpoint and you attempt your evasion or disarm. He will fire the gun just as someone would in real life (trying to hit you) and you can then see if the "bullet" would have hit you or not.<br />
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I know full well that an airsoft gun isn't as powerful as the real thing. A pellet coming from an airsoft gun that's rated at 200 fps is <b>MUCH</b> slower than a real firearm that has an fps rating in the thousands. But for training purposes I feel that an airsoft gun is a good example of what it is like to face off against the real thing as far as timing goes. Because you aren't "dodging" the pellet. If you evade a shot from an airsoft gun that means you were out of the way before the gun fired (or better, the person using it).<br />
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This training model has probably already been used by alot of people. It was only yesterday that the thought crossed my mind so if you have any insight to add feel free to leave a comment.<br />
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Happy (Safe) Training!Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-28602057431606937372009-08-30T23:09:00.000-07:002009-09-02T05:10:31.137-07:00Ninjutsu 101 : Training Tools Welcome to this installment of Ninjutsu 101! In this article I would like to explain the various training tools used during Ninjutsu training and how someone can obtain or simply make them as cheaply as possible. This article is by no means a complete and authoritative list. Many different people train in many different ways. If something you train with isn't listed here feel free to leave a comment and tell us what it is and the merits it brings to the training. (I will include links to sites that offer good deals on each item beneath their entries)<br />
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<ul><li><b> </b>Uniform - The uniforms used by the Bujinkan are a black gi (karate uniform) and tabi boots. Depending upon the brand and weight of the uniform you purchase the cost can vary greatly. The weight of the uniform refers to the thickness of the material the uniform is made from. Higher weight usually means it will wear out slower and can take more of a beating. Tabi boots can also vary greatly in price depending on the brand you choose. I chose the cheapest I could find for my first pair and funnily enough they are still in good shape! I did the same with my first uniform and went with a middle weight. It was inexpensive and is still in good condition. Green belts are used by the Bujinkan to show all ranks from myukyu (meaning "no rank" which is represented by a white belt, which nearly always come with uniforms) all the way to Shodan (which is the first black belt degree). Sizing uniforms can be a little tricky at first, but nearly all websites that sell martial arts uniforms have a sizing chart you can use to determine what size you need. If you are in doubt for any reason it is better to email them and ask first rather than buy something that won't fit properly (trust me...I know first hand!) <a href="http://www.martialartssupplies.com/blackuniform.html">Ninjutsu Uniforms </a> <a href="http://www.martialartssupplies.com/tabilongboots.html">Ninjutsu Tabi</a><br />
</li>
<li><b> </b>Hanbo - The three foot staff. I have always used dowel rods purchased from a hardware store (lowes, homedepot, etc). They last a long time and are pretty cheap. Best of all you can usually find them pre-cut at lengths of three feet and six feet (Rokushaku Bo). You can also purchase a small can of wood stain and a spray can of clear coat to really make a nice training weapon for around a third of the cost of retail versions.</li>
<li>Rokushaku Bo - The six foot staff. (See Above) <br />
</li>
<li>Bokken - The wooden sword. You can get these in many different colors and wood types. Most come with a plastic tsuba fixed to the sword with a band of rubber (making the tsubas removeable). They can get quite expensive but you can purchase them for as little as ten dollars. The bokken I use personally was purchased from a local martial arts supply store for around twelve dollars. I took off the tsuba and stripped/restained the wood. Then I fired up my wood burning tool and burned the Bujinkan kanji as well as the Nin kanji onto the handle. For less than twenty dollars I had a nice custom bokken that has lasted through years of rigorous training. <a href="http://www.martialartssupplies.com/booken.html">Bokken</a></li>
<li>Kusari Fundo - This weapon is simply a length of chain with a weight on either end. For training you should use a length of rope 18-30 inches long with a knot tied in both ends. You can get rope in various colors, thickness, and material at nearly any hardware store. Lots of the bigger stores charge by the foot (they'll cut it for you) so you can get it pretty cheap depending on where you go. Most people already have some rope laying around anyways, or you could always just use the belt for your uniform. <a href="http://www.shinobigear.com/product_p/fundo.htm">Kusari Fundo</a></li>
<li>Knife - The knife or tanto can be any knife you happen to come across. Knives are knives in my opinion and the techniques of Ninjutsu will apply to any of them. From the small pocket knife to the large bowie knife. However, traditional Japanese tanto were single edged and fixed bladed, so some of the techniques may not take into consideration that you are using a double edged or folding blade knife in your training. Thus a few techniques may require extra attention on your part to ensure your safety. Wooden or rubber knives are used during training and both can be found all over the web for relatively cheap (usually shipping costs more than they do!). <a href="http://www.martialartssupplies.com/practiceknife.html">Wooden Knife</a></li>
<li>Shuko - Shuko or handclaws are also easy to find and cheap to aquire. Live versions (real) of these can be purchased from numerous websites for as low as ten dollars per pair. Rubber training versions of shuko however can cost quite a bit more than the real thing. While more costly they are worth the price to avoid any unfortunate training accidents. <a href="http://www.karate-mart.com/ninshokhancl.html">Shuko</a></li>
<li>Shoge - Basically the shoge is a dagger with a sickle blade attached to the side of it. It also has a long length of thin chain or rope attached to it's pommel (cap at end of handle) ending in a weighted ring. These can also be purchased relatively cheap or made yourself. You could cut one out of wood, attach a rope to the handle, then take a peice of hose and fashion it into the ring for the end of the rope. <a href="http://www.wle.com/products/00132.html">Shoge</a></li>
<li>Shuriken - These come in two basic flavors. Bo shuriken, which are throwing spikes, and Hira shuriken which are the flat, pointed metal discs we are all familiar with. There are many types of hira shuriken, the type used by the Bujinkan come from the Togakure ryu and are called Senban shuriken. It can be tricky to find good shuriken but if you look hard enough you can find good deals out there on high quality shuriken. You can attempt to make them yourself but it would take skill in metal working which is not a skill I possess and so I cannot in good faith give advice for it. <a href="http://www.budoweapons.com/Online%20Catalog/Thrown%20Weapons.htm">Shuriken</a></li>
<li>Katana - This is something that I will get into in much detail in a later article in the Ninjutsu 101 series simply because it will take an article in itself to explain the katana fully and to offer advice on aquiring a quality sword.</li>
</ul><br />
I hope this article helped you in some way! Please leave comments with your thoughts or other training tools you think are relevant. I have posted links below each item in the list to sites which I found to have good prices. Except for www.martialartssupplies.com I have not ordered from these sites and I do not know if they are reliable or not.<br />
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To quote Soke Hatsumi, "An unclothed man in an empty room can practice Ninjutsu"Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-86141920828911336692009-08-30T21:22:00.000-07:002010-03-28T13:43:38.620-07:00Ninjutsu 101 : A Primer for Beginners and the Curious Welcome to the primer of the Ninjutsu 101 series. The purpose of this article is to give a basic understanding of Ninjutsu to the beginning practitioner or to those who are simply seeking more information on the subject for whatever reason.<br />
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I would like to start by clarifying that this site, this series, and the author are of the Bujinkan way of being. This means that the way of Ninjutsu depicted and explained here comes from the Bujinkan dojo as taught by Soke Masaaki Hatsumi 34th Soke of 9 Ninjutsu traditions.<br />
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I suppose it would also be a firm place to start by introducing Soke Hatsumi and giving information on the Bujinkan and it's formation.<br />
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Born on December 2, 1931 Masaaki Hatsumi is the founder and soke of the Bujinkan. He teaches out of his hometown of Noda City Japan (Chiba prefecture). From an early age he studied and trained in several martial arts, even training American soldiers stationed in Japan. In 1957 he began taking regular 15 hour train trips to Kashiwabara, in Nara to train with his new teacher Toshitsugu Takamatsu. He did so for 15 years until the death of Toshitsugu Takamatsu in 1972.<br />
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From Toshitsugu Takamatsu he inherited 9 ryus or schools of martial arts. These schools collectively make up the Bujinkan teachings and are as follows:<br />
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<ul><li> Togakure-ryū Ninpō Taijutsu (戸隠流忍法体術)</li>
<li>Gyokko-ryū Kosshijutsu (玉虎流骨指術)</li>
<li>Kuki Shinden Happō Bikenjutsu (九鬼神伝流八法秘剣術)</li>
<li>Kotō-ryū Koppōjutsu (虎倒流骨法術)</li>
<li>Shinden Fudō-ryū Dakentaijutsu (神伝不動流打拳体術)</li>
<li>Takagi Yōshin-ryū Jūtaijutsu (高木揚心流柔体術)</li>
<li>Gikan-ryū Koppōjutsu (義鑑流骨法術)</li>
<li>Gyokushin-ryū Ninpō (玉心流忍法)</li>
<li>Kumogakure-ryū Ninpō (雲隠流忍法) </li>
</ul> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzhoiUJDpGNgzwTVgKMoNIYtbH_EOrHRGA-t6TO638w221H7wsylCx495qJy3W_3btiSMGWdmITl_3oriX8XTIaWvS7Nr7Q_BYryskELsTzBoffNmthOtgBDlZzJflIDr8K9Lv2wmLxjY/s1600-h/hatsumi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOr_LnCyCjlQ8FuYbaia6sVe57If96s5MqhgqW84bHL88byw3Zi8ZlCNwXKfhwiGcZxUI6U7es_-fl6bO2R3y7A_8_YBDbq5wz807_277GzXVVTLDP29Q_eS7HiGn5ApjHhxPpiJLSe-8/s1600-h/Hatsumi&Takamatsu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOr_LnCyCjlQ8FuYbaia6sVe57If96s5MqhgqW84bHL88byw3Zi8ZlCNwXKfhwiGcZxUI6U7es_-fl6bO2R3y7A_8_YBDbq5wz807_277GzXVVTLDP29Q_eS7HiGn5ApjHhxPpiJLSe-8/s320/Hatsumi&Takamatsu.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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The above picture shows Soke Masaaki Hatsumi on the left and Toshitsugu Takamatsu on the right with the Bujinkan kanji between them.<br />
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For more information please visit the following links:<br />
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- <a href="http://www.bujinkan.com/">Soke's Hombu Site</a><br />
- <a href="http://www.ninjutsu.com/">Shihan Van Donk's Site</a> (Also the International Bujinkan Dojo)<br />
- <a href="http://www.winjutsu.com/">Lots of Good Ninjutsu Information</a><br />
- <a href="http://www.kabuto.nu/">Lots of History on the Nine Schools of Ninjutsu</a><br />
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I hope this article has helped you to better understand the art of Ninjutsu and the Bujinkan. For some this article may have been brief, but it was my intention to only give a firm but basic understanding. More will be covered as the Ninjutsu 101 series continues!Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-20056432971252736672009-08-30T19:16:00.000-07:002009-08-30T19:16:56.647-07:00Ninjutsu Product Review : Shinobi - Winds of the 34 Generations This documentary was great! It was very informative and I really enjoyed it from beginning to end. Lots of history and interviews from many of Ninjutsu's most prominent figures.<br />
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I particularly enjoyed the footage taken during training with Soke at the hombu dojo.<br />
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If you are looking at purchasing this great documentary I would say it is a must have for any Ninjutsu enthusiast!<br />
You can see more about it or pick it up <a href="http://www.shinobiwinds.com/">here</a>.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-68101187163875534022009-03-30T23:02:00.000-07:002009-08-30T19:18:53.835-07:00New Bujinkan Hombu Dojo!Soke Hatsumi is now taking donations for the construction of a new hombu dojo. This new dojo will not be for Soke himself, but for the entire Bujinkan.<br />
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You can make donations regardless of your rank or the amount. Also the names of the donators will be recorded and kept forever.<br />
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From what I have heard Soke hopes to build this new dojo within the next 3-4 years and any donations would be appreciated.<br />
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For donation instructions please click <a href="http://www001.upp.so-net.ne.jp/bujinkan/">here</a>.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-33184716387210969912009-03-23T17:53:00.000-07:002009-09-02T05:19:14.495-07:00Ninjutsu Forum Active!Check out our new <a href="http://eninjutsu.iboards.us/">Ninjutsu Forum</a><br />
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Be one of the first people to post on what is sure to become a popular Ninjutsu discussion outlet!Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-17596234591025791782009-03-22T22:49:00.001-07:002009-09-02T05:21:52.735-07:00Ninjutsu Instruction Via Home StudyA debate that I hear often enough is that it is either bad or<br />
impossible for someone to learn Ninjutsu or any martial art for that<br />
matter via home study. While I do agree with the importance of<br />
training in an actual dojo I do believe someone can learn primarily<br />
from home study and be just as effective as someone who has only<br />
trained in a real dojo. The keys (atleast in my opinion) are having a<br />
good Uke (training partner), and visiting a dojo or event every so<br />
often.<br />
Home study instruction is done from two mediums. Video and books.<br />
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Video is the best choice for obvious reasons and training material on video can be found in many places be it purchased or searched for online on sites like <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.youtube.com">YouTube</a>.<br />
Video instruction is much more similar to training in a dojo than<br />
most people would care to admit. The techniques are shown from all<br />
angles, and are carefully explained. Which is much the same as<br />
watching and listening to a live instructor. If you miss something or<br />
need to hear an explanation or see a technique again just rewind the<br />
video. Much the same as raising a hand and saying "Could you do that<br />
again?".<br />
You also have the benefit of training in a martial art that may not be offered anywhere near you. The <a href="http://www.ninjutsu.com/">International Bujinkan Dojo</a> has a very useful forum on their website that you can access with a membership. The information found there coupled with the connection to so many other students really makes it worth the membership and can benefit your training in a very profound way.<br />
So if you are thinking about joining the ranks of the many people<br />
who train from home (and I've done it for years) I hope this article<br />
helped you in your decision. It really is a good and legitimate way to<br />
train.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3720313736617468926.post-25869819421482731052009-03-22T19:51:00.001-07:002009-09-03T03:28:21.384-07:00Ninjutsu Product Review: Ninjutsu Home Study Course (IBDA)My friend and I ordered the <a href="http://www.ninjutsustore.com/store/product.php?productid=5873&partner=orrinkrell">Ninjutsu Black Belt Home Study Course</a> back in 1999. I think we saw an ad for it in Black Belt magazine. It was a bit pricey ($379.00 at the time) especially for two teenagers, but we eventually came up with enough to order it. And we're glad that we did.<br />
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We didn't have the option of the DVD version and it's a shame as the VHS tapes are fine but the quality of DVD is much better. The set came with the ten video tapes, a pretty well put together manual (that was great for quick reference), a shoulder patch (still on my uniform after all this time so as to show it's quality), a year membership to the International Bujinkan Dojo, and it was supposed to have included a Japanese pronunciation audio tape but it wasn't in the package.<br />
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The videos themselves are pretty well put together. The intoductions for each of the videos were the same and while the graphics may have been a little choppy the demonstrations of some of the more advanced techniques were pretty cool.<br />
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The instruction that came from the videos was great. All of it was explained in detail really well and the video quality was really good. I was very pleased and don't regret the purchase whatsoever.<br />
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My advice to anyone debating on whether or not to order the <a href="http://www.ninjutsustore.com/store/product.php?productid=5873&partner=orrinkrell">Ninjutsu Black Belt Home Study Course</a> is to buy it and enjoy the great instruction it has to offer!Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07933032135632872025noreply@blogger.com2