Ninpo Taijutsu TrainingAt this beginning level you will learn an overview of all the 9 schools and their weapons to prepare you for the deeper study of Budo Taijutsu and all the 9 schools wazas and principles.

Shodan Level TrainingNinpo Taijutsu training from 9th kyu to Shodan you learn a strategic systematized overview of the Ninjutsu 9 schools including foundations, postures, punches, kicks, weapon basics, history, stealth, chokes, grappling, throws, meditation, proper body movement and much, much more. Hundreds and hundreds of techniques. On the average our students spend 3 years of solid training on this level as it covers main aspects of Togakure Ryu, Gyokko Ryu, Koto Ryu, Kukishinden Ryu, Shinden Fudo Ryu, Takagi Yoshin Ryu preparing you for a deeper focus of individual schools that you will study at succeeding dan levels.

Kyu Grades are divided into these levels. Once completed you become a Shodan and receive your BlackBelt.

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9th Kyu (Kyukyu)

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8th Kyu (Hachikyu)

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7th Kyu (Nanakyu)

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6th Kyu (Rokkyu)

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5th Kyu (Gokyu)

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4th Kyu (Yonkyu)

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3rd Kyu (Sankyu)

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2nd Kyu (Nikyu)

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1st Kyu (Ikkyu)

Budo Taijutsu TrainingAfter learning a very solid overview of the nine traditions that make up the teachings of the Bujinkan Dojo you will begin to explore the actual school (know as Ryu) material in a more in depth way by studying the deeper principles and partner exchange forms called waza. Unlike a Kata which is performed by oneself to perfection. Wazas are interactive drills that are done with at least 2 persons both in a formal way and with many variations so that the principles of the school can also be learned. Wazas also help you learn timing, distancing, and eventually true budo protection methods. Each of the 9 schools have their own

focuses and attributes and may favor certain weapons.

Nidan Level Training 2nd degree Black Belt training includes Kosshijutsu study of the principles and Gyokko ryu wazas of Jo Ryaku no maki, Churaku no maki and Geryaku/Mutodori gedan plus 29 Kukishinden Ryu Hanbojutsu, Shoden/Chuden/Okuden level wazas. Sandan Level Training 3rd degree Black Belt training includes principles and wazas of Shinden Fudo Ryu Dakentaijutsu, Ten & Chi No Maki, Shizen Shikoku No Kata Jutaijutsu, Shoden Gata/Juroku Gata/Chuden/Okuden levels and from Kukishinden Ryu: Rokushakubojutsu - Shoden, Chuden, Okuden, Kuden levels Yondan Level Training4th degree Black Belt training includes principles and wazas of Takagi Yoshin Jutaijutsu including Shoden No Kata/Chuden No Sabakigata/Chuden No Tai No Gata/Okuden No Kata levels and Eri Shimegata, Moguri levels. Kukishinden Ryu: Yari Jutsu, Kodachi, Muto Dori

Godan Level Training5th Degree Blackbelt training includes principles and wazas of Koto Ryu Koppojutsu Shoden -Chuden-Okuden - Hekuto No Kata. Daishosabaki - Bokuden RyuShiken Gata Shodan thru Kudan levelsAt this time all 5th degree (Godan) tests must be taken in Japan with Soke Masaaki Hatsumi or by Shihan Van Donk in Soke's presence.

Rokudan Level Training6th degree Black Belt training includes principles and wazas of Kukishinden RyuDakentaijutsu including the Shoden / Chuden / Sabaki Gata / Okuden No Kata / Shirabe Moguri Gata levels. Weapon is Naginata and Roikumiuchi.

Nanadan Level Training7th degree Black Belt training includes principles and wazas of Togakure Ryu Happo Hiken Kenpo- Itto giri / Kakushi Iai Sanpo / Ukemi gata / Shinobi Iai Happo Sabaki Happo Bikenjutsu Level 1. Specialties / Ninpo

Hachidan Level Training8th degree Black Belt training is Juppo Sessho and includes wazas of Kukishinden Jojutsu - Shoden Koshiki Gata - Kjui no ho, Kutsu no ho (Joruku gata) Happo Bikenjutsu Level 2plus Jutte and Bisento -

Kudan Level Training9th degree Black Belt training includes

the basic understanding of Gikan Ryu Koppojutsu principles / Jutaijutsu Jodan No Kurai Tehodoki and Taihodoki Kukishinden Ryu: Tessen Jutsu Happo Bikenjutsu level 3 Budo Taijutsu Weapons Ura Waza

Judan Level Training10th degree Black Belt training includes the understanding of Budo Taijutsu Ura Waza principles Happo Bikenjutsu Level 4 and a personal choice of a deep spiritual practice. Take a look at Gyokushin Ryu principles.

This top Shihan ranking will take the signatures of Shihan Van Donk and at least 2 other Judans plus the final agreement of Soke Hatsumi.

Judan has 5 Grade levels

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10th Dan Judan

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10th Dan Judan Chigyo Happo Biken 10th Dan Judan Suigyo Happo Biken

10th Dan Judan Kagyo Happo Biken

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10th Dan Judan Fugyo Happo Biken

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10th Dan Judan Kugyo Happo BikenThe 5 advanced levels of Judan are awarded by Soke Hatsumi at his discretion.While really incorrect they are often referred to 11th to 15th dan, even by Soke Hatsumi as it became easier to say.

IBDATM ranking and study structure goes all the way to 10th degree. There is a lifetime of learning available and we can help you travel the journey as far as you want to go.

HISTORY OF GYOKKO RYUKosshijutsu During the Chinese Tang Dynasty (618 AD - 907 AD), Cho Busho and Yo Gyokko supposedly left warring China and arrived in Japan, bringing with them the foundation upon which the Gyokko Ryu would later be based. Some say that the original techniques from the school were created by a princess in the Chinese Imperial Court who used quick body movements to attack specific targets on the body. Which correlates with the Kosshijutsu striking techniques of this school. History and our research tells us that the oldest martial art schools from India, Tibet, and China where called tiger striking (kosshijutsu) schools and Gyokko Ryu is the jeweled tiger school.

The Kihon Happo is made from the first two levels of the Gyokko Ryu, Ki Gata, and Torite Kihon Gata, which are also the basic techniques of the school. Typical for the Gyokko Ryu are the powerful blocks and balance taking. The school specializes in techniques that involve Kosshijutsu (attack against muscles) and Shitojutsu (use of thumbs and fingers). Kosshijutsu means "to knock down the enemy with one finger". Koshi could also mean ‘backbone’, as Kosshijutsu is the backbone of martial arts. Togakure Ryu Ninpo Taijutsu is a distant branch of the Gyokko Ryu Kosshijutsu.The Gyokko Ryu uses "Ten Ryaku Uchu Gassho" (heaven and universe prayer), Chi Ryaku Futen Goshin Gassho (circle of wind prayer), Jin Ryaku Chi Sui Ka Fu Henka Ryaku (circle of earth, water, fire, wind prayer).Gassho Kuji Kiri is "Kongo' (cloud), Suirin (water ring), Kaku Gassho (fire and winds). These are also called the ‘Sanpo Gassho’ (three treasures) and they also appear in the Koto Ryu.

The Gyokko Ryu is broken down into five levels:1) Ki Gata 5 techniques2) Torite Kihon Gata3) Jo Ryaku no Maki 4) Chu Ryaku no Maki5) Ge Ryaku no Maki5 techniques10 techniques12 techniques8 techniques8 techinquesThe katas of the Koppo San Ryaku Hiden are also known as Jo Ryaku no Maki (higher level), Chu Ryaku no Maki (intermediate level), and Ge Ryaku no Maki (lower level). Each is written as a separate scroll.Also in the Gyokko Ryu is Kurai Dori (sizing up the situation), Shin Shingan (God's heart, God's eyes), Tenmon Chimon (heaven, earth tactics).

The Gyokko Ryu has one fundamental rule: destroy the enemy's power, but leave his life. The Gyokko Ryu states that when a fight is about to start, do not let the opponent win, but take him down with a technique that is only as strong as is needed to match the situation. They also have another saying in the Gyokko Ryu, "Bushigokoro wo motte totoshi no nasu" (The warrior's heart is precious and essential).

The Sanshin no kata is one of the hiden (secret transmissions). Takamatsu taught this only to

Hatsumi Sensei. The following are nine rules of the

Gyokko Ryu:1) The character ‘nin’ means to guard the nation with one's life2) Forget the self, be patient, and do not fear dying3) When in danger say or show nothing4) As a strong enemy comes, keep an indomitable spirit5) Serve and protect the master as you must your own parents6) Vices dissipate your proficiency7) Being drunk affects your judgment8) Destroy your enemy’s power but not his life9) Don't teach to others without the master's permission

HISTORY OF KOTO RYUIt is thought that the Koto Ryu came from China via Korea, brought by Chan Busho, a Chinese warrior. You will notice that the first listed Soke’s of Koto Ryu are also the Sokes of Gyokkyo

Ryu. There are many similarities between the 2 schools.Some of the differences between Koto Ryu and Gyokko ryu are as follows:The Koto Ryu is based on koppojutsu (bone attacking blocks) techniques, where Gyokko Ryu is based on koshijutsu (muscle/organ attacks). Directionally speaking the Koto Ryu is straighter in and the Gyokko Ryu revolves more on a circular basis (either in yourself or in your opponent when taking their balance).The Koto Ryu techniques use short distancing between the two opponents, the Gyokko Ryu uses greater distance. The Koto Ryu techniques are shorter, quick, and straight to the point; the Gyokko Ryu has longer more complicated techniques, and the techniques have more movement. The Koto Ryu concentrates more on striking, and the Gyokko Ryu more on locks and throws. If both schools are studied completely, the student will know all forms of fighting, including distance, striking, throws, and locks. Both schools compliment each other and to study only one is to know only half of one of the two schools.The name of the school, ‘Tiger Knocking Down’, refers to knocking down the tiger with the tips of the fingers (the Chuden Kata techniques sometimes start this way). Attacks to the face, in addition to metsubushi, are common in the techniques of the school.

The Koto Ryu is broken down into five levels wich are as follows:1. KURAI DORI (Five Kamae)2. SHODEN NO KATA (Eighteen Techniques)3. CHUDEN NO KATA (Twelve Techniques)4. OKUDEN NO KATA (Twelve Techniques)

Okuden, and Hekito are the highest levels of training with the school, and contain the secret teachings. The Hekito is unarmed combat against sword, but a skilled member of the school can also do the Hekito with sword against sword.

The Bujinkan Dojo video Koto Ryu Koppojutsu by Soke Hatsumi shows three makimono (scrolls). Two of them have the name of the scroll partially clear and listed as such.:1. Koto

Ryu Koppojutsu......2. Koppojutsu ......The rest is unclear.Typical movement within the Koto Ryu is:

Yoko Aruki (cross stepping), and Toki (stamping on toes).Short distancing, and striking hard.A saying in the Koto Ryu is, "The eyes are everything". Always making the eyes appear blank, so that no telepathic movement can be detected by the opponentLooking at the eyebrows of the opponent rather than their eyes.

The Koto Ryu has a unique form of Kenjutsu (Swordsmanship).

The Koto Ryu also contains kuji prayer forms and they are called Sanpo Gassho (3 treasures). These same kuji also appear in the Gyokko Ryu. They are listed as the Gassho Kuji Kiri (nine symbol slashes prayers).

"Sanpo Gassho"1. Kongo - Cloud prayer2. Suirin - Water ring prayer3. Kaku

Gassho - Fire and winds prayer.

HISTORY OF SHINDEN FUDO RYUThe founder of this school, ‘Izumo’, learned Chinese Kempo boxing. Today some of this is still noticeable within the techniques.Izumo Kanja Yoshiteru is also credited as being the founder of the Kukishinden Ryu Happo Hikenjutsu (Chapter 3).

Above the door of Toda's dojo, there was a nameplate, which read "Shindenfudo Ryu Jutaijutsu". In the dojo there was a set of rules displayed for all of the students to abide by.

These rules are from the Shindenfudo Ryu Densho and are listed as follows:

1. Know wisdom of being patient during times of inactivity.2. Choose the course of justice as the path of your life.3. Do not allow your heart to be controlled by the demands of greed, ease, or pain.4. Sorrow, pain, and resentment should be regarded as natural qualities to be found in life. Therefore, work to cultivate an inmovable spirit (heart).5. Hold in your heart the importance of family loyalty, and aspire greatly for the ways of the pen and the sword with balanced determination.Observing the 5 rules above is the law of the Dojo. Written at New Year, Meiji 23 (1891).Toda Shinryuken Masamitsu

The secret principle of Shindenfudo Ryu is the "Principle of Nature".

The Shindenfudo Ryu has two styles of taijutsu: Dakentaijutsu, and Jutaijutsu. In the Dakentaijutsu there are no formal kamae and the use of natural posture

is emphasized, while in the Jutaijutsu there are 5 kamae.The training levels in the Dakentaijutsu are:

Ten no kata (8 kata)Chi no kata (8 kata)Shizen Shikoku no kata (12 kata)

The training levels in the Jutaijutsu are:

Kamae (5 kamae)Shoden no kata (16 kata)Chuden no kata (11 kata)Okuden no kata (8 kata)

Hojojutsu is also taught in this Ryu-ha. It is used along side the taijutsu, to help restrain the opponent.The school uses several different types of yari, ono (war axe), O-tsuchi (war hammers), and naginata.

HISTORY OF TAKAGI YOSHIN RYUIn 1569 during the Yeiroku era (1568-1579) in the Funagata Yama (mountain area) of Miyagi, there was a Chinese mountain priest from the Abe family called Unryu (Cloud Dragon), who was an expert in the shuriken, bojutsu, yari, naginata and taijutsu from the Amatsu Tatara Rinpo Hiden Makimono. The Amatasu Tatara scroll was kept by the Abe, Nakatomi, Otomo, and Monobe families (Takamatsu Sensei's family and the Kuki family also possessed a copy). The Dai Nippon Bugei Ryu-Ha gives Unryu's name as Sounryu. He was a wandering Taoist monk, living in Rikuzen Funagawa, not far from Sanroku Mountain. Some historians have said that Unryu came from Hieizaenji Yama in Kyoto. He studied Sessho hiden no jutsu, a system that uses the yari. The Sessho hiden no jutsu is also known as the Juppo sessho no jutsu.Unryu taught this system with the yari to a samurai from Katakura Kojuro (in Fukushima province) named Ito Ki-i Morisatada (also called Ito Sukesada). Ito was a famous martial artist of that time (1570's) and the founder of the Itto Ryu Kenko Ryu.The transmission of the Takagi Yoshin Ryu scrolls from Takamatsu Toshitsugu, to Hatsumi Masaaki, took place on a lucky day in the 5th Month Showa 33 (May 1959).

THE LEVELS OF TRAINING IN TAKAGI YOSHIN RYU:Shoden no KataChuden no Sabaki GataChuden no Tai no GataOkuden no KataMoguri Gata Daisho Sabaki Gata14 techniques10 techniques15 techniques8 techniques11 techniques14 techniquesHon Tai Takagi Yoshin Ryu Jujutsu – Ueno Takaschi (Mizuta line).

The Takagi Yoshin Ryu takes its techniques further than those of Judo and Aikido. When the techniques are applied it is made as difficult as possible for your assailant to escape by rolling and breakfalling. This style of Jujutsu comes from training within a building, unlike other styles which originated outdoors. Therefore the techniques result with the opponent being thrown, locked, or held close to the body due to being inside in a more confined area, instead of throwing him a distance away from you as you could outdoors. In the Takagi Yoshin Ryu you are taught to look at the eyes, and use speed. You are also trained to use your opponent's own weight and momentum against him. One of the techniques taught uses something called Rensa Sankaku (Three Sticks), a movement used as a defense against someone with a sword.

HISTORY OF KUKISHINDEN RYUKosshijutsu Before the history of the Kukishinden Ryu can be discussed the history of its parent school, the Kukishin Ryu, must first be examined. The techniques in the Kukishin Ryu are said to come from China, and the lands beyond China.

The ‘Kuki’ (nine demons) in the name Kukishin was given directly to Yasushimaru Kurando by the Emperor after seeing how he fought.

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The Kukishinden Ryu has its roots from the Kukishin Ryu and there are many different branches of the Kukishinden Ryu and the Kukishin Ryu. Some the different schools are listed below:

Kukishinden Ryu Happo Hikenjutsu*Kukishinden Ryu Happo Bikenjutsu*Kukishinden HyohoKukishin Ryu BojutsuKukishin Ryu DakentaijutsuHon Tai Kukishin RyuHon Tai Kukishin Chosui RyuTatara Shinden RyuShinden Tatara RyuNakatomi HyohoTenshin Hyoho Kukishin Ryu

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*The Kukishinden Ryu is known both as Happo Hikenjutsu and Happo Bikenjutsu.

Also in the teachings of the Kukishinden Ryu is the ability to overcome an opponent from a distance, called taoke no jutsu.

Bikenjutsu is the heading for a group that is made up of Kenjutsu, Kodachi, and Jutte. The Juttejutsu is the most important part of the Bikenjutsu. The jutte also has the Tessenjutsu(art of using the fan). This school excels especially in its use of the sword.The Kukishin Ryu has a large weapon called a bisento, which is similar to the naginata.

The Kukishinden Ryu Hanbojutsu is one of the basic weapon forms that is taught to all students of the Bujinkan. The yari waza (sojutsu) and bo waza (bojutsu) of both Kukishinden Ryu and Kukishin Ryu come from the Amatsu Tatara makimono.

Some of the Kukishinden Ryu Densho books appear on the second color page at the front of the book on Bojutsu by Hatsumi Masaaki. These Densho books are titled as such (from left to right):

1. Kukishin Ryu Happo Biken no Jutsu 1.

2. Kukishin Ryu Happo Biken no Jutsu 2.

3. Kukishin Ryu Happo Biken no Jutsu 3.

4. Kukishin Happo Biken no Jutsu 3.

5. Hon Tai Kukishin Chosui Ryu, Kukishin Ryu Dakentaijutsu Gokui no maki 2.

HISTORY OF GIKAN RYUGikan Ryu was founded by Uryu Gikanbo, who was the Daimyo of Kawachi no Kuni (Kawachi province). He lived in the family castle called Uryujo. It is said that Uryu Gikanbo's punch was so powerful that he once broke a sword blade in half. He was also a master of Hichojutsu, and Senban Nage.Gikan ryu contains many special kicks, punches, and throws and its dynamic footwork is used widely within the Bujinkan system. Unfortunately little of the actual techniques have been taught in the west and so little is known. People think that many of the Gikan ryu kamae are off balance because they need extensive practice before they start to "feel" right.One of the special teachings of the ryu is Bufu ni sente nashi (from this side there is not the

first strike) which tells us that this was a defensive, not offensive art.

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THE 5 LEVELS OF TRAINING IN THE GIKAN RYU ARE:1. Shoden Gata2. Chuden Gata3. Okuden Gata4. Kaiden Gata5. Menkyo KaidenThe Makimono scrolls of Gikan Ryu have sections on the kata names, history, secret striking points (kyusho), and strategies used by the ryu, but research revealed that the makimono, when referring to techniques, only mention the names, and do not contain the step by step instructions as do some makimono. This was done in order to keep the teachings of the school secret in case the scrolls were stolen. From what we understand there are no densho in the Gikan Ryu. The whole range of kata for the ryu was taught orally.

HISTORY OF TOGAKURE RYUSoke Hatsumi sums up the Togakure Ryu Ninpo in his book Hiden Ninja Submission by saying:“ It was founded by Togakure Daisuke who was a vassal of Kiso Yoshinaka at the time he lost a war, and, after learning various military arts such as Kosshijutsu and Kenjutsu from his uncle Kagakure Doshi, was in hiding in Iga in the early 12th century. It was initially called Togakure Ryu Happo Hiken but has been called by various names since that time. Iga ninja such as Momochi Sandayu and others studied the ryu and passed it to the Natori family of Kishu and later in the 17th century to the Toda family. Togakure Ryu is known for its use of the Shuko, Senban Nage, Shuriken, and the 4-foot Shinodake used in Suiren. Togakure Ryu Ninpo Taijutsu is a branch of Kosshijutsu.”

The main teachings of Togakure Ryu are:"Violence is to be avoided, and Ninpo is Bujutsu"."Use the sword to be peaceful, and protect country, family, and nature".The term ‘kajo waraku’ is used in the Togakure Ryu meaning, "The enjoyment of peaceful

harmony with the same effortless compassion as that of the wildflowers."

The Sanpo Hiden (three secrets) of the Togakure Ryu is as follows:

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1. SENBAN SHURIKENA four pointed throwing star, the design of which is exclusively unique to the Togakure Ninja.

2. SHUKO (hand needles)Also known as Tekagi. These are metal bands around the palm of the hand with four metal spikes projecting from the palm. Another metal band is around the wrist and a piece of leather joins the two metal bands together. This was a climbing tool, and was also used in defense against sword attacks.

3. SHINDAKE bamboo grassThis is a short bamboo tube 4 foot long (1.20m) used to aid in breathing when hiding under water. It was also used as a blowpipe. Sometimes a broken scabbard was put to use as an underwater breathing apparatus also.Another Togakure Ryu weapon is Tetsubishi with 9 spiked ends, which are sometimes thrown like shuriken.

The Togakure Ryu Ninja were required to master the 18 forms of Bujutsu (Martial arts):1) Taijutsu2) Kenpo / Ninja ken3) Bojutsu4) Shurikenjutsu5) Kusarigama6) Yari7) Naginata8) Bajutsu9) Suiren10) Kayaku-jutsu11) Bo Ryaku12) Cho ho13) Shinobi Iri14) Inton jutsu15) Henso jutsu16) Tenmon17) Chimon18) Seishin teki kyoyoUnarmed combatSwordsmanshipStaff fightingBlade throwingScythe and chainSpearHalberdHorsemanshipSwimmingGunpowderStrategy makingEspionageInfiltrationLying lowDisquisesMeteorology GeographySpiritual refinement

Kyojitsu Tenkan Ho (philosophy) is not one of the 18 forms of Togakure Ryu Bujutsu but it was an important part of the Ninpo training.

TOGAKURE RYU NINPOGotonpo (5 ways of escaping) was the most secret of all the Ninja arts. In the Togakure Ryu there are 12 forms (called the Tonko no Jutsu), which have been handed down since the time of the 4th Soke. The philosophy behind the Gotonpo is based in Gogyo and in the densho these secrets are only mentioned, not really gone into in any detail.Gotonpo’s Tonko no Jutsu is divided into the ura (inside) and the omote (outside). After this there is the Tenton Juppo no Jutsu (10 ways of heavenly escapes) - Sun, Moon, Stars, Clouds, Fog, Thunder, Lightning, Wind, Rain, and Snow. The list is as follows:Mukuton no jutsu, Katon no jutsu, Doton no jutsu, Kinton no jutsu, Suiton no jutsu, Jinton no jutsu, Kinton no jutsu, Nitton no jutsu, Getton no jutsu, Seiton no jutsu, Unton no jutsu, Muton no jutsu

HISTORY OF GYOKUSHIN RYUIt is believed that Gyokushin Ryu's founder Sasaki Goemon was originally from the Gyokko Ryu or that the techniques of the Gyokushin Ryu were based on the Gyokko Ryu.It is not known in the west as to what the fighting techniques of the Gyokushin Ryu are. All that is really known is that it uses sutemi throws. What is known is that this school concentrated more on the espionage side of ninjutsu, rather than the fighting side. It has been said that the specialties of this ryu were the kusari fundo, ninjutsu, koppojutsu, jutaijutsu, kenjutsu and iaijutsu, although we have no confirmation on this.

Hatsumi says this about the Gyokushin Ryu in his book Hiden Ninja Submission:

GYOKUSHIN RYU NINPO"It is a faction of kosshijutsu and was founded by Sasaki Orouemon Akiyari. A characteristic of the ryu is found in the kind of weapons it uses. Gyokushin Ryu is known for its superior use of nagenawa, a lasso."

HISTORY OF KUMOGAKURE RYUIt has been said that this ryu was really created by the Toda family, in the 1600's as a Ninjutsu school of thought, centering its techniques on the non-violent side of Ninjutsu. The Togakure Ryu teaches that violence is to be avoided. This would also explain why the school's taijutsu is similar to the Togakure Ryu, as the Toda were also Sokes of the Togakure Ryu.

One of the special weapons of the Ryu is the kamayari (hook spear). Originally designed for climbing up the sides of ships, it was also used when fighting against swordsmen. The Densho mentions a ninja by the name Sarutobi Sasuke, who came from the Kumogakure Ryu. Sasuke used to jump from one tree to another by using a kamayari to hook onto a branch and then swing from one branch to another, just like a monkey.

Another climbing device is the ippon sugi noburi (single cedar climbing tool). This is a metal tube 25cm long, with three rows of spikes on the outside and a chain running through the middle, with a metal hook at each end.

Another specialty of this ryu is the Demon mask sometimes worn by members of the ryu. The

kikaku ken or "demon horn strike" (head butt), could also give rise to another theory of the demon mask, supposing that the mask, even when not worn, gave the idea to use the head during fighting.

The ninja of the Kumogakure Ryu wore armored sleeves when going into combat to help protect them and also to use in attacking. Outdoor skills such as lighting fires in wet and damp weather and various other aspects of outdoor survival were included in Kumogakure Ryu training. A Kumogakure Ryu taijutsu skill is to do double blocks and strikes.

Another Kumogakure Ryu taijutsu specialty is to jump while fightingIn the Bujinkan Dojo a chant/mantra, “Shiken Haramitsu Daikomyo" is used to open and close the training sessions. As far as the Bujinkan is concerned it is thought that this was first used in the Kumogakure Ryu teachings. Although this sanscrit chant has its roots in the Vedic teachings some say it is waka (poetry), and shows both Buddhist and Shinto attitudes.

9th Kyu DVD - Ninjutsu Beginner's Level 1 DVD - Building your Foundation. Learn the proper Ninjutsu bowing-in procedures, how to tie your belt, how to warm up and stretch before training. YOu learn the basic standing postures of Seiza, Hira & Ichimonji no kamae. This dvd teaches you basic forward & backward rolls and breakfalls (how to go to the ground without getting hurt) as well as the basic punches and kicks of Ninjutsu. Covers how to be out of the way of attacks with proper evasion by using your body effectively. You'll begin learning the Sanshin no kata, a set of 5 elemental movement forms which teach very important principles of movement and feeling. At 9th Kyu level you'll learn the basic Chi or earth feeling form of the Sanshin. Intro Level - Basic Body conditioning, Belt tying, Bowing, Movement Basics, Natural Postures of Shizen, Seiza & Ichimonji, Earth Form, Evasion, Rolling, Basic Punching and Kicking. 1 hour

8th Kyu DVD - Ninjutsu Beginner's Level 2 DVD The focus of this DVD is taihenjutsu or basic falling, leaping & evasion skills. The foundation for all of the more advanced techniques you will learn rests upon

your ability to move fluidly and go to the ground without fear. In 8th Kyu you'll work more on your rolling & body movement skills as well as adding the postures of Hoko, Doko & Jumonji no kamae. You'll learn Omote & Ura Gyaku (inside and outside basic wrist grabs & reversals) as well as Tehodoki (basic wrist escapes) & basic Hanbo (3 ft staff) movements. Continuing the Sanshin no kata you'll learn the basic Sui or water feeling form movement. At 8th kyu you will be introduced to the Kihon Happo movements, the fundamental ways of moving upon which our art and most all of the martial arts are based. From this level on up you will need a partner to work out with. Ichimonji no kata is the first movement drill you will learn from the Kihon Happo. Wrist grabs - Locks and escapes, Cartwheels, Weapon- Hanbo (3ft wooden staff), Water form, Being a training partner (Uke), Blocks, Escape from grabs, Striking techniques. Jumonji, Hoko and Doko No Kamae. 1 hour

7th Kyu DVD - Ninjutsu Beginner's Level 3 DVD Emphasis at this level is on having more flowing body movement with less effort. You need to be able to go to the ground effectively and be able to take your partner off balance using your body movement rather than muscle. You will learn side rolls, more advanced back rolls, standing, forward, backward & sideways breakfalls. The postures of Kosei, Hicho & Ihen no kamae are covered as well as Shuto (cupped hand) strikes & backward and sideways kicks. More punching drills, Kihon Happo & the Sanshin forms of Ka (fire) & Fu (wind) as well as the Gyaku Waza (wrist reversals) techniques of Omote Oni Kudaki & Hon Gyaku. Basic tanto (knife) techniques are also covered. Advanced Rolling methods, Breakfalls, Kicks, Fire & Wind feeling forms (SanShin), Beginning grappling (Kihon Happo), understanding knife attacks, Postures: Ihen, Kosei, & Hicho, Posture flow drill, Oni-

kudaki. 1 hour

6th Kyu DVD - Ninjutsu Course Intermediate Level 4 DVD At this level in your taihenjutsu (body movement skills) you should be able to roll without using your hands so that you can either pick up a weapon or take down an attacker as you are rolling. This dvd covers how to do this as well as Shiho Tenchi Tobi (4-way leaping skills), Shiho Geri (4-way kicking) and Sokoyaku Ken (heel/sole foot dance). You'll learn the last set of the Sanshin no kata, the Ku or void feeling form. From the Kihon Happo you'll practice the Jumonji no kata (crossed hand posture movement drill) & Musha Dori. The Kusari fundo, a weighted chain, is the weapon focus for this level (we always use a rope version for safety when training with a partner). The importance of meditation & diet are briefly covered as well. Leaping skills in several directions, Thumb striking, Void feeling form, Medium level Grappling, Kusari Fundo- (Rope/Chain) techniques, Advanced kicking including 4-way (Shiho tenchi Tobi). Meditation, Diet, More Kihon Happo. 1 hour

5th Kyu DVD - Ninjutsu Course Intermediate Level 5 DVD The focus at this level is learning the Kihon Happo movements with efficiency and knowledge of the Japanese names for each technique. This level is a major step and accuracy as well as good body flow is a must. Advanced kicking & punching methods practiced while going to the ground as well as Muto

Dori Gata (empty handed sword evasion forms) are on this dvd. You will learn how to strike using the Boshi Ken (thumb fist) & Shako Ken (claw fist), and to kick using Kakushi Geri & Sampo Geri forms. Continuing the Kihon Happo you will learn Hicho no kata (flying bird form movement drill) and Ganseki Nage (beginning throwing forms). Basic grappling forms are also covered at this level and the weapon focus for this level is Shuriken (throwing stars). Sword evasion forms, Medium level Grappling (Kihon Happo), Body grab escapes, Shuriken techniques, Beginning throws (Nage), advanced kicking and punching methods also done while falling. 1 hour

4th Kyu DVD - Ninjutsu Course Intermediate Level 6 DVD At this level you need to be proficient at taking your opponent off balance. This DVD reviews how important balance is in your training and in your life. You'll also find jumping kicks, jumping & diving rolls, running up surfaces, wrist breaking techniques, leg sweeps & how to counter kicks all on this dvd. The weapon focus for 4th Kyu is the Rokushaku Bo (6ft staff) and you will learn basic strikes & distancing for this weapon. Jumping kicks, Countering Kicking attacks, leg sweeps, wrist breaking techniques, 6ft bo staff training (basic and advanced), Rolls (jumping and diving), Flying techniques. 1 hour

3rd Kyu DVD - Ninjutsu Course Intermediate Level 7 DVD At this point in your training your attention should be on your partner's body and the effects that your

movement and technique have on your partner. This dvd reviews the importance of this as well as introducing the sword, including how to hold it, 10 different sword kamae (postures) and the basic movements and cuts from each of the 10 postures. Advanced Taisabaki (body evasion) is covered on this tape, paying specific attention to distancing & timing, as well as advanced Ganseki Nage (throwing forms), power moves & damaging blows to crush your opponent. Sword postures (10 different kamae) , basic movement and cutting from each one, Throwing skills of ganseki forms, Silent movement, using nature, Fist and body harmony, power moves, damaging blows crush your opponent. 1 hour

2nd Kyu DVD - Ninjutsu Course Advanced Level 8 DVD This level focuses on advanced falling, leaping, and evasion skills. Kuten (front handspring), Noburi kata (climbing trees, buildings, poles), and Suwari gata (kneeling forms): wrist grabs, reversals, throws and kicks from a kneeling position are shown. You'll learn five new strikes: Shuki ken (hand start fist), Sakki ken (foot start fist), Shishin ken (finger needle strike) and Happa ken (eight leaf fist) as well as Tai ken, the use of the whole body as a fist. Koppo jutsu or bone attacks and Shime waza go kata (the five strangle hold/choking techniques) are also taught on this dvd. Weapon focus on this video is the proper use of Shuko (hand claws) and Kenjutsu Shinobi Iai the art of properly drawing a sword. Short discussion on using dreams as insight into things that are happening in your life. Choking and strangulation holds, Knee and elbow strikes, Bone attacks, Climbing trees skills, How to draw a Sword several ways, Fighting from sitting and kneeling, Hand claws, Dream work. 1 hour

1st Kyu DVD - Ninjutsu Course Advanced Level 9 DVD This DVD covers Stealth movement and Gotonpo (body concealment methods using nature to escape). Koshijutsu (organ and muscle attacks) are taught using points on the wrists, arms, shoulders, throat, face, back, chest and legs etc. Advanced throwing variations (henka) from the Kihon Happo movements of Ura Gyaku, Omote Gyaku, Musha Dori and Ganseki Nage are shown as well as Koshi nage (hip throws), Itami nage (pain throws) and a rare demonstration of Kuki nage (throwing without touching your opponent by using energy and intent only- no body contact). Weapon focus is the Kyoketsu shoge (long rope with circular ring on one end and a double bladed dagger on the other) and how to use Metsubushi (blinding powder). Stealth, Escaping from danger using nature (Gotonpo), Advanced throws (Nage waza), Organ and muscle attacks of Koshijutsu, Variations of advanced grappling forms, Rare Shoge weapon, Metsubushi blinding powders. 1 hour.

Shodan DVD - Ninjutsu BLACK BELT 1ST DEGREE (SHODAN) DVD Knife and gun disarms, how to deal with multiple attackers, Kihon Happo reversing and countering techniques as well as natural taijutsu (body movement) with a gun.Breaking body balance, flowing from technique to technique, capturing the essence of the techniques, and getting your life to work for you are all covered on this DVD. If you have really been practicing, by this level of your training your life should be very different than when you first started training. You will be more

confident, more relaxed and generally a happier, more aware, and more conscious human being. Knife and gun disarms, Handling multiple attackers, Reversing/countering techniques, Natural Gun shooting, breaking body balance, flowing technique to technique, capturing the feeling, Randori. Now you are ready to really train! 1 hour

Ninjutsu (忍術?) ( is the collective name for numerous ( יטסו ' נינג

Japanese martial arts and techniques descended, derived or hypothesized from the practices of the historical Ninja (忍者?) of

medieval Japan.

Contents[hide]

]

1 Background of Ninjutsu

0 1.1 Explanation of the Ninjutsu Japanese Name

J

2 Practicable Ninjutsu

3 Origins

4 Characteristics

0 4.1 Usability

1 4.2 Common principles of Ninjutsu

2 4.3 Inner values

3 4.4 Self defined characteristics

5 Framework of interpretation

0 5.1 Ninjutsu as another required skill in a Complete martial art

1 5.2 Ninjutsu as a complete martial art

a

6 The 18 Ninjutsu disciplines are:

7 Present day schools of Ninjutsu

0 7.1 The Takamazu den

8 Ryu practiced by the Bujinkan and Takamazu - den schools

T

9 Other Ninjutsu schools

10 Verified Japanese origins

11 Modern History of the Takamazu den schools

s

12 Unverified origins

0 12.1 Historical texts mentioning Ninjutsu

N

13 References

Background of NinjutsuPractices of several social groups involved in fighting, either for self

defense or for martial purposes were the precursor of many medieval

Japanese Koryu. The common myth concerning the origin of Ninjutsu

tells of mountain dwelling warriors, who evolved their self defense

practices into specific methods of fighting, non-detection and outdoor

survival techniques. Those practices were influenced by Shugendo, the outside living tradition (修験道?).

The caste of ninjas does probably have some historical base, but the

actual practices of a special branch of military and espionage were

intermingled with the combat techniques of other, regular samurai

practices.

There is, however, no evidence to suggest that the Ninjas of feudal

Japan practiced a distinct martial art called "Ninjutsu". Most likely they

practiced the relevant combat skills and had a generic name for each of

the espionage or stealth techniques they used.

Explanation of the Ninjutsu Japanese Name

The characters comprising the name Ninjutsu in Japanese are a combination of two signs (Kanji), nin and jutsu. The nin kanji - (忍?) -

depicts a heart (shin) under a blade (ha) together with the character of skill (jutsu) ( - 術 - ?) it forms the complete term. The Ninjutsu Kanji has

an ambiguous meaning that can be interpreted as the skill of

imperturbable spirit or winning through silently enduring everything.

Practicable NinjutsuNinjutsu in the common conception refers to the martial arts, practices

and techniques that descended from the mythological ninja. The focus of

practicable Ninjutsu is somehow different as techniques practiced in modern schools stem from a plethora of Koryu (古流?) and not singularly

from Ninjutsu ryu.

Most sources cite the syllabus of the Takamazu den (高松伝?) as a main

link to historical Ninjutsu, but Schools having some Ninjutsu curriculum

are numerous. Some of the Ninjutsu schools tend to shift the name and connotation of Ninjutsu to other, more neutral names see: Ninpo (忍法?),

Budo Taijutsu (武道体術?), Amaterasu (天照?) and Samurai jujitsu).

Ninjutsu derived schools are proliferating in the west and in Japan.

Takamazu den schools or schools derived from other more modern

sources have gained popularity from the ninja boom of the 1980's.

OriginsThe origins of Ninjutsu are shrouded in myth, from teachings originated by Tengu (天狗?), the fierce mythical crow like demons, to martial skills

given by runaway Chinese generals. What is certain concerns the

historical evidence of Ninjutsu skills deployed during the military history

of Japan. From this stems the presence of Ninjutsu as an unavoidable

warrior skill in some renowned Koryu martial arts.

The presence of a special tactical rational, revealed with Reverse kata

analysis of the Ninjutsu ryu Kata in Bujinkan (武神館?), Genbukan (玄武

館?) and Jinenkan (自然舘?) points to a Ninjutsu - like mind set when

these Kata were created.

CharacteristicsUsability

Ninjutsu syllabus includes a wide variety of techniques ranging from

empty hand moves to an extensive Kata collection with weapons. This

wide database holds a promise of a wide base of usability in variable

conditions. Pure Ninjutsu techniques are hard to define; they intermingle

with Other Koryu techniques that are present in the Takamazu – den

syllabus. The background of the ryu studied in the Takamazu – den is very

diverse. Some ryu use techniques fitted for urban environment and deal

with low aggression situations, other ryu originated in battlefield and contain techniques with Japanese armor (鎧?), use of the battlefield

swords (太刀?) and weapons like the Naginata (長刀?).

Some of the systems integrated into the Takamazu – den, are complete

martial arts and include many aspects of the martial spectrum. All

together, they form an immense database of grappling, striking and

armed techniques.

Common principles of Ninjutsu

One of the common principles to all the ryu that comprise the Takamazu – den is the use of movement Sabaki (捌き?) suited for outdoors and an

"anything goes" attitude to combat.

Inner values

Ninjutsu in pre Hatsumi era, (see: Seishin teki kyo yo) (精神的教養?) gave

as its guidelines a vague humanistic point of view. Starting with love of

nature and ending with love to other. It purports the inner values

acquired by present day practitioners. Practicable Ninjutsu, as any other

martial art that includes grappling skills, promotes socialization skills and

patience to the other. This is a martial art practiced mainly in the

company of training opponents.

Self defined characteristics

While some modern day Ninjutsu practitioners maintain the ninja aura of

practicing an invincible fighting art, the Takamazu – den practitioners

view themselves as preservers of an ancient fighting tradition. This

outlook treats the Ninjutsu/ Budo Taijutsu syllabus as a starting point of

martial arts practice

In reality, most serious dojos and instructors practice with little myth,

making no claims to usability in violent situations and treating it as a

peaceful physical activity. Some Takamazu den try to augment the traditional techniques with randori (乱取?) practice, techniques and

training methods from other martial arts.

The emphasis in the Budo Taijutsu dojos that gave up the combative

value of the syllabus has shifted toward accuracy of the techniques and

the spiritual values that stem from peacefully practicing a tradition of

movements.

Those dojos that preach usability of the Ninjutsu syllabus have to

augment the techniques and Kata of the x-kans with research, fitness,

modern training methods and sparring.

The Ninjutsu techniques have an air of usability when done properly. In

randori the able Ninjutsu practitioner uses a lot of Sabaki, or distancing

to better his odds. Ninjutsu practitioner should, optimally, be able to

control a wide variety of moves, from kicks and punches to weapons and

ground fighting.

Framework of interpretationThere are two frameworks in which the Ninjutsu can be understood with:

Ninjutsu as another required skill in a Complete martial art

In some accredited martial arts koryu, Ninjutsu is just one part of the

various skills that were needed to gain a comprehensive knowledge of

the martial arts. In this framework, as just one specified skill inside a

complete martial art, Ninjutsu depicts the skills that relate to espionage,

disguise, concealment, camouflage skills, occult magic, enduring outdoor

living and stealth fighting techniques.

Ninjutsu as a complete martial art

In this framework Ninjutsu is the generic name encompassing all the

warrior skills of the Ninja. This framework is fostered by all the schools

originated by Takamazu: the Takamazu den, or the X-kan.

Viewing Ninjutsu as a complete martial art can be verified with a scroll

(Makimono) from the Togakure ryu, one of the schools comprising the Bujinkan syllabus. In the Togakure ryu the Ninja Juhakkei (忍者十八系?)

was studied together with Bugei Bugei Juhappan (武芸十八般?), the 18

Samurai martial art skills.

The espionage techniques of Ninjutsu are rarely focused on in recent

times, since they serve little purpose to the bulk of modern populations,

and tend to attract negative publicity and students with unrealistic

expectations.

The 18 Ninjutsu disciplines are:

T

Seishin-teki ky ōyō (spiritual refinement) (精神的教養?)

)

Taijutsu (unarmed combat, using one's body as the only weapon) (体術?)

)

Kenjutsu (sword fighting) (剣術?)

)

Bōjutsu (stick and staff fighting) (棒術?)

)

Shurikenjutsu (throwing blades) (手裏剣術?)

)

Sōjutsu (spear fighting) (槍術?)

À

Naginatajutsu (naginata fighting) (長刀術?)

)

Kusarigamajutsu (chain and sickle weapon) (鎖鎌術?)

)

Kayakujutsu (pyrotechnics and explosives) (火薬術 ?)

)

Hensōjutsu (disguis e & impersonation) (変装術 ?)

)

Shinobi-iri (stealth and entering methods) (忍び入り?)

)

Bajutsu (horsemanship) (馬術?)

)

Sui-ren (water training) (水練?)

)

Bōryaku (military strategy ) (謀略?)

)

Chōhō (espionage) (諜報?)

)

Intonjutsu (escaping and concealment) (隠遁術 ?)

)

Tenmon (meteorology) (天文?)

)

Chi-mon (geography) (地文?)

Present day schools of NinjutsuThe Takamazu den

The Bujinkan Dōjō headed by Masaaki Hatsumi (初見良昭) is one of three

organizations frequently accepted as teaching Ninjutsu by the Bujinkan's

members (under the name Budo Taijutsu). However Hatsumi has stated

that he has modified the art of traditional Ninjutsu to better suit modern

ways. Hatsumi calls his derived martial art Budo Taijutsu. Hatsumi's Bujinkan Dōjō consists of nine separate streams (Ryu)（流） of

traditional Japanese martial arts, only three of which contain Ninjutsu

teachings and of these three none passed the strict requirements for an

authentic, living, martial art tradition. The other six martial art streams

are verified Koryu and are also practiced separately out side Bujinkan.

Hatsumi learned a variety of martial arts skills from Toshitsugu Takamatsu (高松寿嗣).

The headmaster of Akban.

Two other Takamazu den organizations are teaching Ninjutsu, or

techniques taken from the syllabus of Bujinkan but labeled with the

exact ryu they were taken from. These are the Genbukan headed by Shoto Tanemura (種村匠刀), who left the Bujinkan in 1984, and the

Jinenkan headed by Fumio Manaka (間中文夫), who left the Bujinkan in

1996.

Ryu practiced by the Bujinkan and Takamazu - den schools

1. Fudo Ryu 〔神伝不動流）

2. Gyokko ryu （玉虎流）

3. Koto ryu （虎倒流）

4. Kukishinden ryu （九鬼神流）

5. Takagi Yoshin Ryu （高木揚心流）

6. Togakure ryu （戸 流）隠

Other Ninjutsu schoolsOther extant traditional martial arts such as the Tenshin Shoden Katori Shintō-ryū (天真正伝香取神道流) contain some aspects of Ninjutsu in

their curriculum, but are not Ninjutsu schools per se.

Several other schools of Ninjutsu purportedly exist, some of which claim

a genealogy traced back to Japanese origins..The last acclaimed Ninjutsu custodian of knowledge, Yumio Nawa (名和弓雄), passed away at the end

of the 20th century without leaving any heir or an augmented body of

knowledge.

Verified Japanese originsMasaaki Hatsumi is Soke (Grandmaster) of the Bujinkan. According to the

Bujinkan, Hatsumi is the inheritor of nine ryu (schools) some of which are

Ninjutsu. He is recognized by many as the foremost authority on

Ninjutsu, Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu, and Shinkentaijutsu. He also claims to hold the Densho (伝書)(scrolls) of the ancient schools that trace his

lineage in the Togakure ryu 34 generations back.

Modern History of the Takamazu den schoolsNinjutsu in Japan went through several phases and the renaming of the

system as Budo Taijutsu. several dojos and schools in the west opened up

their own legitimate interpretation practice. Several western

practitioners studied Ninjutsu with Hatsumi but none of those practicing

with him at the 1960s and the beginning of the 1970s persisted.

Israel was the first place where Bujinkan Ninjutsu was practiced outside

Japan, with Doron Navon pioneering it there in 1974. Doron Navon, a

fourth dan in Judo, was the first non Japanese Bujinkan Shihan. Mr.

Navon no longer teaches from his current day residence in Japan,

Bujinkan Israel is headed by Mr. Moti Nativ, one of the most experienced

Ninjutsu/Budo Taijutsu teachers in the west. The AKBAN organization

uses the Bujinkan curriculum the way it was used before the 1985

emphasizing randori and usability.

Stephen K. Hayes studied intermittently under Masaaki Hatsumi for some

years and is the person who first brought Ninjutsu as a teacher to

America and the west, founding the first Ninjutsu dojo in the Americas in

Atlanta, Georgia, in the end of the 1970s. Mr. Hayes relocated to Ohio

around 1980, where he continued to teach the art for a number of years.

He now teaches a Westernized system, To-Shin Do, in his Quest Centers.

In Europe Mr. Bo Munte started the Scandinavian dojo and handed it to

Mr. Sven Eric.

Unverified origins

There are several persons and organizations that teach martial arts which

they identify as Ninjutsu but who lack any clear lineage to Japanese

teachers. While such arts may still be effective, they lack authenticated

Japanese lineage. Ashida Kim is an American martial artist that has made

unverified claims of cross training into Ninjutsu, as well as

unsubstantiated claims of being the last grandmaster. Frank Dux is

another martial artist whose claims of origins are unverified. Neo-ninja is

a term that refers to modern martial arts schools which claim to teach

elements of the historic ninja of Japan, or base their school's philosophy

upon traits attributed to the historic ninja of Japan.

Some people believe Kōga-ryū (甲賀流) Ninjutsu to have survived into the

mid-20th century, purportedly having been passed to Fujita Seiko (藤田西

湖) by his own grandfather. Seiko had students, but did not pass on this

legacy. Any actual direct lineage of the Kōga-ryū that might have existed

ended with the death of Fujita Seiko on January 14, 1966. Koga-ryu arts

are generally considered to have been similar to the Iga-ryu arts.

Historical texts mentioning Ninjutsu

Other historical origins are written texts which have survived to modern

times. The three most important records of these are:

1. Bansenshûkai (萬川集海)(Historical record of Iga- and Koga-Ninjutsu) from 1676

2. Shôninki (正忍記) ((Historical record of Kishû-Ninjutsu) from 1681

3. Ninpiden (忍秘伝)(Historical record of Iga-Ninjutsu) from 1560

ReferencesMost of these references contain folklore and insights and do not dive

into historical aspects of Ninjutsu

1. Essence of Ninjutsu by Masaaki Hatsumi (ISBN 0-8092-4724-0)

2. Ninjutsu: History and Tradition by Masaaki Hatsumi (ISBN 0-86568-027-2)

Ninpo: Wisdom for Life by Masaaki Hatsumi (ISBN 1-58776-206-4 or

0972773800)

FitnessThe AKBAN fitness program is unique; we want to tell you

why. Of course, we've got all usual credentials: running half

marathons with heavy backpacks, enduring grueling sparring

sessions and sure, some of our veterans are Physical

therapists, Medical Doctors etc. but this is not why it's

distinct.

- This fitness program is unique because we are average

people who learned how to be extremely fit. We've been at it

for years and we offer the data of our training regime freely

so you can use it too.

The AKBAN fitness program is one of the most gradual

fitness programs in the world, it's slow, it's measured, and

we have been honing it to be gradual for more then twenty

years.

We train hard, but most of us are just regular people, not

Olympic medalists, we had to learn how to get into top-

shape and stay there for many years. We did not start as

fitness experts; we turned into ones because we had to. In

our martial art fitness is our safety envelope.

The slow and superb results you get if you follow our fitness

program are necessary. We do not allow ourselves any

injuries.

Constant abilities are needed not only for annual occasions

like the "dreaded 24" but for something much more grueling

- our twice-a-week sparring and training.

Get a thorough physical examination by a doctor, have your

instructor tailor the program for you, and start today, it's

that easy, even we succeeded:

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AKBAN Guidelines Start here, use our tips to develop a lifelong habit. Begin training safely.

l

The basic Strength routine See pictures of the basic stuff we do.

w

The Phase 1 strength table - age under 25 Use our step by step easy strength regime with no weights.

s

The phase 1 strength table - age over 25 Use this table if you are over twenty five years old.

y

The beginners running table Use this table to begin running slowly. Only minutes at the beginning weeks will lead you easily to 20 kilometers at the end of the advanced table.

t

The intermediate running table Use this table after you have finished the beginners table.

The advanced running table Use this table if you are improving your speed running and want to run with a backpack.

Exercises strength table, age – over 30The physical preparation after the age of 30

Get checked by an M.D. - When you begin training or

resume training after more than a year of, you must undergo

a physical examination by a medical doctor, passing a

medical check is necessary, since the effort level is very

high. We recommend that you undergo not only an EKG test,

but also cardiac functions and blood pressure stress testing.

Do get checked frequently, especially if members of your

family have cardiac illness of any kind, if you are overweight,

if you smoke or if you do not engage in regular physical

activity. You must undergo an ergometric test (which is done

on a treadmill) and consult with a cardiologist before and

during training.

This table should be used only under a certified instructor.

Don't do this table on your own. If you don't understand,

please ask your instructors here or an experienced instructor

that you work with. We are here to help, if possible.

How many repetitions?

In order to start the training table, check how much you are

doing usually. And not your maximum, be conservative, do

not rush. If you have been doing one push up a month then

do not start with ten push-ups on the table, start with one. If

you haven't practiced strength exercises for more then a

month, just start at the beginning. Your aim should be

gradual and maintainable practice rather than a short

explosive career.

Strength training is not an option, it's a necessity, and

therefore you have to start gradually in order not to burden

your body and soul. Literally, hundreds of our practitioners

have checked these tables for more then fifteen years.

Push-ups, using fists

week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

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No. of repetitions

3 3 4 4 5 5 7 10

14

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21

25

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55

Push-ups are a much hated exercise because they stress not

only the arm and chest muscles, but also the straight and

diagonal abdominal muscles. The intra-abdominal pressure

goes up considerably during this exercise, which

necessitates contraction of the sphincters in the floor of the

pelvis. In a similar exercise in a gym, the practitioners lie on

their back and are given a bar to be pushed up. The gym

exercise is easier (naturally depending on the weight),

because the internal abdominal muscles and sphincters are

not under as much stress. For this reason we prefer regular

push-ups and, later in advanced levels, regular push-ups

with a weight on the back.

Sit ups

When doing sit-ups, do at least a third of them diagonally,

reaching with your hand towards the opposite knee.

week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

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No. of repetitions

20

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100

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150

Back arches

Back arching, from a prone position (lying on your belly),

with the arms spread to the sides and the back arched, face

looking forward.

week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

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No. of repetitions

10

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Side sit ups

From lying on the side of the body, go up halfway.

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No. of repetitions ((כל צד

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Round push-ups

For veteran practitioners: A third done on folded fingers

(tzuki), a Third on the fists, a third on spread fingers.

week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

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No. of repetitions

5 5 15

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Wide, shallow squats

Assume Wide posture, feet about twice the width of the

shoulders with a natural half turn of the feet, going up and

down maintain an erect upper body posture.

week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

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No. of repetitions

5 5 10

15

15

20

20

25

25

25

25

25

30

30

30

30

35

35

35

40

40

Narrow squats

Keep a narrow posture, feet at the width of the shoulders.

Descend to a full crouch and stand up again.

week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1

No. of repetitions

2 3 4 5 6 810

10

12

15

15

20

20

20

22

25

25

25

25

30

30

Forward neck press

With your hands keep a steady static pressure on the

forehead, alternate with pressure on the chin.

week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910

No. of repetitions

2 2 3 5 10

11

15

15

15

20

Bridge on the head

More than any other exercise, this exercise should be

overseen and corrected by an instructor, which is why it is

not detailed here

week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

No. of repetitions

2 2 3 4 5 5 7 710

10

12

12

12

15

15

15

18

18

18

18

20

Pull-ups

Do it with the back of your hands facing you.

week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

No. of pull-ups

1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 7 7 7 8 8 9 9 10

10

12

12

15

No. of sets, repetitions of the pull-up sequence

2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5

Always do pull-ups in three or four sets. This is the only

exercise that will improve only if you repeat the number of

chin ups again in the same session.

If you cannot do even a single pull-up, begin by holding on to

the bar with both hands. Using your hands, hang from the

bar for 2-3 seconds. In two weeks you can be hanging from

the bar for about 20 seconds. Next, try to achieve at least

one pull-up while twisting your body to assist the hands.

Pull-ups is an exercise that depends on regular training. If

you perform it almost every day, your progress will be fine.

Store-bought horizontal bars which have been installed at

home have already caused some unpleasant injuries

because of incorrect installation. If you use one of those, be

sure to straighten your legs while pulling, that way, in case

you fall, you will not injure your kneecaps.

Priorities of the strength exercise - From the most important exercises to the less important

These requirements are AKBAN's minimum standard, but

you will find that in some cases there is neither time nor

energy to perform even the necessary minimum. Thus,

assuming you have reached a reasonable level of training,

this is the recommended priority, from the most important

exercise to the also important, but not as much. If you have

time for only one exercise do pull ups, if you have time for

two exercises do pull ups and sit-ups, etc.

Running - at the very minimum run twice a week -

according to our tables

Technique - at the very minimum practice one technique a

day

d

Pull-ups - first priority

P

Sit-ups - second priority

S

Push-ups on the fists - third priority

P

Back arching - fourth priority

B

Squatting, narrow posture, up and down - fifth priority

S

Side sit-ups - sixth priority

S

Round Push-ups - seventh priority

R

Squatting, wide Posture, up and down - eight priority

S

Back bridge on the head (no arching of the neck) - ninth priority

Forward neck stressing - tenth priority