Ninjutsu Course Guidebook Black Belt Curriculum
You can access the entire ninjutsu course guidebook and online videos offered at Bushindo University. Bujinkan video lessons are available online at the Ninja Dojo Portal and on DVD. Their video training tools feature formal and fight-ready ninja martial arts techniques and self-defense or traditional Japanese weapons training opportunities. Rank Testing and membership in the Bujinkan and the IBDA (International Bujinkan Dojo Association) is available! You can join the online Ninja Dojo for a free trial!
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THE ENTIRE CURRICULUM AVAILABLE FROM BUSHINDO UNIVERSITY:

What Ninjutsu Course Training is available?
The Ninjutsu course curriculum for any of the black belt courses provides hours of video lessons that you purchase and watch forever. And ever. Optional home-video rank feedback whenever you are ready and course purchases include access to the International community online at the International Bujinkan Dojo Association (IBDA.) All the courses form a lifelong Ninja Training video encyclopedia that you simply buy to own, and you just watch them whenever you want. Rank testing is available when you want and you can continue training all the way through 15th Dan (Fifteenth Degree Bujinkan Master black belt), Weapons Master Certification, Advanced Sword Training. You can even become a Ninjutsu Instructor through the programs at Bushindo University.
ABOUT SHODAN LEVEL TRAINING AND RANK TESTING
AT BUJINKAN DOJOS ALL AROUND THE WORLD
All dojos and instructors utilize different Ninjutsu course curriculum and testing practices in the Bujinkan. At most, schools Shodan rank can only be awarded through genuine testing procedures, eventually in person. Generally, a student who can learn the material presented in the Ninjutsu course videos are well on their way to knowing how to pass rank testing at any Bujinkan dojo. (If combined with serious hands-on training with other experienced students and instructors.) Bushindo University offers various opportunities for rank testing. Other dojos may agree to offer you in-person training support and rank testing for a fee. Ninja Learning Network welcomes contact from instructors or students who would like to get on our dojo and training partners map. The training map is great for finding referrals for training and testing students who are studying this program but who have no local dojo.
Below you can read about the entire Ninjutsu Course Guidebook for the complete Black Belt Curriculum for First Degree (shodan) below:
Ninjutsu Course Guidebook Black Belt Curriculum
Junan Taiso – Body Conditioning
Kamae Plus Dojo Phrases – Postures and Basic Dojo Terminology and Etiquette
Ukemi – Breakfalls
Kaiten – Rolls
Dakentaijutsu – Striking Techniques
Tai Sabaki and Zanshin – Body Movement/Evasion and Awareness
Basic Dojo Phrases and Concepts
Domo arigato gozaimashita – Thank you very much
Yame – Stop
Hajime – Start
Ichi – 1
Ni – 2
San – 3
Shi – 4
Go – 5
Roku – 6
Shichi -7
Hachi – 8
Ku – 9
Ju – 10
As a beginner you should wear the black Gi (uniform) with a white belt. You can graduate to a green belt after passing a ranking test to do so. Black belt is awarded after you pass testing for Shodan level, which is equivalent to all the instruction featured in this curriculum. Female Bujinkan students, called Kunoichi, may opt to wear the red belt in lieu of a green or black one, but should start with white belts.
Once you enter the dojo there are “bow in” and “bow out” procedures to follow. Bow toward the kamiza (in the shrine area) before stepping onto the training floor and also when leaving it. When starting a lesson, students line up and “bow in” with Sensei to start the lesson – and when bowing out at the end. Students are positioned according to rank in front of Sensei. As you face Sensei, the most experienced students sit on the right side of the dojo and should line up according to their status and experience as you go down the line. When arriving late, you must wait outside the training floor area until Sensei indicates that you may be permitted to join the session. There is more etiquette to learn once you join a dojo for training.
The Kamae – “Postures”
Shizen No Kamae – Natural Posture
Seiza No Kamae – Correct Seat Posture
Ichimonji No Kamae – Figure Number One Posture
Hira No Kamae – Flat Posture
Jumonji No Kamae – Figure Number Ten Posture
Hicho No Kamae – Flying Bird Posture
Hoko No Kamae – Encircling Posture
Kosei No Kamae – Aggressive Posture
Hantachi No Kamae – Half Standing Posture
Fudoza No Kamae – Immovable Seat Posture
Doko No Kamae – Angry Tiger Posture
Ihen No kamae – Changing Posture
Bobi No Kamae – Defensive Posture
Hanza No Kamae – Half Seated Posture
Mastering Basic Kamae:
Understand the importance of proper Kamae – they are basic balance structures for the body that are used during most maneuvering against opponents.
Try all Kamae on one foot and in motion from one to the other.
Weapons also have their own specific “Kamae” stances, some of which are directly related to these basic ones, so prepare to learn weapon-wielding variations.
Taihenjutsu
“Body Movement / Body Position Changing Techniques”
The Basic Ukemi – “Breakfalls”
Zenpo Ukemi – Forward Breakfall
Koho Ukemi – Backward Breakfall
Yoko Ukemi – Sideways Breakfall
Yoko Nagashi Zenpo Ukemi – Sideways Flowing Forward Breakfall
The Basic Kaiten – “Rolls”
Zenpo Kaiten Naname – Forward Diagonal Roll
Koho Kaiten – Backward Roll
Zenpo to Koho Kaiten – Forward to Backward Roll
Sokuho Kaiten – Sideways roll
Yoko Nagare – Sideways Flow
Oten – Cartwheel
Hicho Kaiten – Flying bird roll
Jun Nagashi – Turning Flow
Shikko – Knee Walking (Note: Shikko is not technically Kaiten, but its handy here)
Mastering Basic Kaiten and Ukemi:
Practice first using both your hands, use both left and right sides. Later you will attempt with one hand or no hands.
Understand the principles of Ukemi – At first, learn this as a safety method to escape attack maneuvers. Later you will use Ukemi to also attack an opponent.
Understand what makes a good “Uke” – The concept of “Uke” and “Tori” can’t be translated simply, but for beginning training purposes “Uke” generally refers to the person who “receives” an attack while two people are training. The other person is referred to as “Tori.” Sometimes it seems like Uke is initially attacking in training maneuvers, so this can be confusing at first. (When seen as a term for a maneuver such as “Jodan Uke” it has a different meaning but is grounded in the word “receiving.”)
Dakentaijutsu – “Striking Techniques”
Jodan Uke – Upper Level Receiving
Gedan Uke – Lower Level Receiving
Fudo Ken – Immovable Fist
Jodan Tsuki – Upper Level Punch/Thrust
Zenpo Geri – Forward Kick
Mastering Basic Dakentaijutsu:
Practice Left and right sides, incorporate Taijutsu, be aware of the potential to change your
Angle/Distance/Timing.
Basic Tai Sabaki – “Body Movement/Evasion
Practice evasion from attacks by stepping at a 45 degree angle, or other angles, off of the straight line between you and your attacker. This type of stepping out at an angle is called “stepping offline” in much of the video instruction by Sensei Roemke.
Zanshin – Awareness
Keep your mouth closed to protect your teeth from getting cracked if you are hit, and keep your back hand up, ready to protect your face and body.
Bujinkan History
Research who Masaaki Hatsumi and Toshitsugu Takamatsu are and what they have done.
Begin by understanding the identity and importance of Masaaki Hatsumi and Toshitsugu Takamatsu. Hatsumi is the current Soke, or Grand Master, of “Bujinkan,” also referred to as Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu. Hatsumi was taught by Takamatsu. The origin and importance of certain ancient scrolls of the Ryuha, (“The Nine Schools”) that comprise Bujinkan learning were passed down from traditional sources to ultimately be used in Hatsumi’s overall instruction. Hatsumi is current Grand Master of each of the Nine Schools of the Bujinkan.
The scrolls and the origins/legitimacy of Hatsumi’s knowledge are a topic of great discussion in the field of Ninjutsu and martial arts. Because such scrolls have been among the most secret and protected documents in the history of the world until recently, the legitimacy of such documentation cannot be presented in the same way that other arts can do – so they are debated about frequently. Understanding why Hatsumi decided to take this art out of secrecy and to make his “ninja” teaching available to the public is important and should be researched on your own, primarily by reviewing the books and DVDs published by Hatsumi himself.
Some describe Hatsumi’s motives as an attempt to unleash the power of his techniques to do good against evil, one reason why persons with a criminal history are not permitted to learn from any legitimate Bujinkan Sensei. This is a direct and intentional contrast to the historical perception that the Ninja, descended from the ancient, destroyed system of the Japanese Samurai, worked only for dark motives with questionable intent.
There is a fundamental ethic among most modern “Ninja” students based on honorable intent and the opportunity/necessity to use the art for defense against evil-doers (or to achieve personal enlightenment.) Students who demonstrate aggressive, violent intent are usually asked to leave their dojos and some have been expelled from the Bujinkan community by Japan. Bujinkan maintains a non-competitive philosophy and therefore hosts no competitions whatsoever, only engaging in demonstration events called “tai kai” designed primarily for learning. Studying Bujinkan technique and philosophy is nothing like studying modern-day “MMA” in any way.
HISTORY OF THE 9 SCHOOLS OF THE BUJINKAN:
Click to find books about Ninja history not explained in ninjutsu course guidebooks.
Hoken Juroppo Ken – The 16 Hidden/Secret Fists
Keri – Kicks
Uke Nagashi – Receiving Flow
Kihon Happo – The Eight Basic Ways (part one)
San Shin – The Three Hearts Form
Hanbo – The Half Staff Weapon
Dakentaijutsu
Hoken Juroppo Ken – “The Sixteen Hidden/Secret Fists”
Kikaku Ken – Demon Horn Fist
Shuki Ken – Hand Wake Up Fist
Fudo Ken – Immovable Fist
Kiten Ken – Turn Causing Fist (Shuto, when in motion – Ura or Omote)
Shi Shin Ken – Finger Needle Fist
Shitan Ken – Finger Tip Fist
Shako Ken – Claw Fist
Shito Ken – Finger Sword Fist (Boshi Ken, when in motion)
Shikan Ken – Extended Knuckle Fist
Koppo Ken – Bone Principle Fist
Happa Ken – Eight Leaf Fist
Sokuyaku Ken – Dancing Foot Fist
Sokki Ken – Leg Wake Up Fist
Sokugyaku Ken – Foot Reverse Fist
Tai Ken – Body Fist
Shizen Ken – Natural Fist (Kiai was mentioned here – battle cry screaming)
Mastering Striking:
Note that “Ken” is often translated as “fist” but can refer to any part of the body that is used to strike against the opponent including feet. You may come across the term “Ken Tai Ichi Jo” which means “the body and fist move as one” – be prepared to incorporate your entire body into your strikes, not just the hand or leg that is indicated in the form you see in the video.
Practice striking from all Kamae and also practice striking in all directions, at different heights levels and from different distance ranges.
Begin to understand how to vary the important components of all maneuvers, especially the “Angles/Distance/Timing” as you practice.
Keri – “Kicks”
Sokuho Geri – Sideways Kick
Koho Geri – Backwards kick
Happo Geri – Kicking in Eight Directions
Sukui Geri – Scooping Kick
Mastering Keri (kicking)
You should be able to do these very slowly, controlling all muscles and balance points of your body at every moment. Try to move very slowly while aiming and controlling your strike, even holding the body still at various moments during the maneuver. At first this is more important than attempting maximum power. You will achieve maximum power later anyway if you first master control, speed, balance and targeting.
Uke Nagashi – “Receiving Flow
Jodan Nagashi – Upper Level Flow
Gedan Nagashi – Lower Level Flow
Keri Kudaki – Crushing the Kick
Ken Kudaki – Crushing the Fist
Mastering Uke Nagashi:
Train using both inside and outside angles and become fluent with alternating both the hands and feet. Also focus on changing Angle/Distance/Timing.
Kihon Happo – “The Eight Basic Ways”
Koshi Kihon Sanpo – “The Three Basic Ways of Striking”
Ichimonji No Kata – Figure Number One Form
Torite Goho Gata – “The Five Forms of Grappling”
Omote Gyaku – Outside Reversal
Ura Gyaku – Inside Reversal
Omote Gyaku Ken Sabaki Gata – Outside Reversal Fist Evasion Form
Use extreme caution while training for Kihon Happo. The joints and bones of you and your grappling partner are at great risk of injury. Train very slowly with maximum control.
San Shin No Kata – “The Three Hearts Forms”
Chi No Kata – Earth Form
Sui No Kata – Water Form
Ka No Kata – Fire Form
Fu No Kata – Wind Form
Ku No Kata – Void Form
Mastering Basic San Shin No Kata:
The San Shin is considered one of the most fundamental aspects of movement in this art. In the future, you will vary these motions and add weapons to them, etc. For now, learn the basic forms until they become second nature to you.
Weapon: Hanbo – “The Short staff”
The Kamae for Hanbo:
Kata Yaburi No Kamae – Form Breaking Posture
Munen Muso No Kamae – No Thought No Intention Posture
Otonashi No Kamae – Soundless Posture
Practice striking from all Hanbo Kamae in all directions and feel differences of
Angle/Distance/Timing. Train with a partner for grappling, countering your opponent’s
various grabs and strikes, and vice versa.
The Nine Schools of the Bujinkan – The Ryuha
Research and understand the history and significance of The Nine Schools in Bujinkan History.
Six of the schools are Samurai schools, three are Ninja (Ninjutsu) schools. You should research the history and development of Samurai and Ninjutsu traditions.
Know the basic purpose of each school. Be able to name each one. They are:
“Hidden Door School (Ninja)”
Togakure Ryū Ninpō Taijutsu (戸隠流忍法体術)
Said to be the source of most early Ninjutsu techniques and weapons, the strongest basis for modern Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu instruction.
Hatsumi Soke is the 34th generation Grand Master.
“Jewel Tiger School” (Samurai)
Gyokko Ryū Kosshijutsu (玉虎流骨指術)
Focuses on the muscular system, has major influence on unarmed basics such as the San Shin No Kata and Kihon Happo, striking with fingers and toes, etc.
Hatsumi Soke is the 28th generation Grand Master.
“Nine Demons School” (Samurai)
Kuki Shinden Ryū Happō Bikenjutsu (九鬼神伝流八法秘剣術)
Sometimes called The Samurai School, famous for military tactics, weapon techniques associated with the Samurai such as the sword, spear, sword, staff, fire, rope.
Hatsumi Soke is the 28th generation Grand Master.
“Tiger Falling School” (Samurai)
Koto Ryū Koppōjutsu (虎倒流骨法術)
Focuses on skeletal and bone structures, bone manipulation and breaking, pain/weakness points, unique cross-stepping footwork and unusual sword technique.
Hatsumi Soke is the 18th generation Grand Master.
“Immovable Tradition School” (Samurai)
Shinden Fudo Ryū Dakentaijutsu (神伝不動流打拳体術)
Focuses on natural movement and the study of nature, striking and kicking, the art of defeating a stronger opponent by pretending weakness.
Hatsumi Soke is the 26th generation Grand Master.
“High Tree Raise Heart School” (Samurai)
Takagi Yoshin Ryū Jūtaijutsu (高木揚心流柔体術)
Known for its Samurai style jujutsu, unarmed combat at close range and against swords.
Hatsumi Soke is the 26th generation Grand Master.
“Regarding Justice School” (Samurai)
Gikan Ryū Koppōjutsu (義鑑流骨法術)
Focuses on skeletal structure. Features many kicks, throws and strikes. Not commonly taught.
Hatsumi Soke is the 15th generation Grand Master.
Jewel Spirit School (Ninja)
Gyokushin Ryū Ninpō (玉心流忍法)
Referred to as holding Ninjutsus many secret philosophies and tactics. Not commonly taught.
Hatsumi Soke is the 21st generation Grand Master.
“Hidden Among Clouds School (Ninja)”
Kumogakure Ryū Ninpō (雲隠流忍法)
Referred to as Ninjutsu with unique Taijutsu, particularly leaping, used of hooked spears. Specializes also in field craft and espionage. Not commonly taught.
Hatsumi Soke is the 15th generation Grand Master.
Hajutsu Kuho – The Eight Techniques and Nine Ways
Katana Kamae- Sword Postures
Katana Giri – Cutting with the Sword
Katana Nuki – Draws with the Sword
Shinken Muto Dori Gata – Sword Evasion Techniques
Katana Parts and Etiquette
Finishing Pins
Taihenjutsu
Kiten – Flips
Kuten – Handsprings
Yoko Aruki – Sideways Walking
Shinobi Aruki – Silent Walking
Shiho Tenchi Tobi – “The Four Ways of Heaven/Earth Leaping”
Zenpo Tobi – Forward Leap
Koho Tobi – Backward Leap
Migi Tobi – Right Leap
Hidari Tobi – Left Leap
Fudoza Tobi – Immovable Seat Leap
Chi Tobi – Earth Leap
Mastering Basic Leaping and Flipping:
Practice the Taihenjutsu section movements listed above from all Kamae, and one handed, landing at different angles, etc.
Koshi Kihon Sanpo
Jumonji No Kata – Figure Number Ten Form
Hicho No Kata – Flying Bird Form
Torite Goho Gata
Ganseki Nage – Rock Throw
Musha Dori – Warrior Capture
Hajutsu Kuho – “The Eight Techniques and the Nine Ways”
Tehodoki – Wrist Escapes
Katate – One hand, same side
Gyakute – One Hand, cross side
Morote – Both Hands
Ryote – Two Hands
Taihodoki – Body Escapes
Oyagoroshi – Killing the Parent
Kogoroshi – Killing the Child
Taihodoki – Body Escape
Koshi kudaki – Hip Crush
Use extreme caution while training for Hajutsu Kuho. The joints of you and your grappling partner are at great risk of injury. Train very slowly with maximum control.
Shinken Mutodori Gata – “Sword Evasions” (From Kamae)
Ichimonji – Figure Number One Posture
Hira – Flat Posture
Jumonji – Figure Number Ten Posture
Use extreme caution while training with ALL weapons shown in this course. Be aware that most of them may be illegal where you live. Ninja Learning Network recommends that you contact government agencies for regulations in your area and do NOT use illegal weapons.
Katana Kamae
Daijodan no Kamae – Great Upper Level Posture
Seigan no Kamae – Correct Eye Posture
Chudan no Kamae – Middle Level Posture
Gedan no Kamae – Lower Level Posture
Tosui no Kamae – Water Ridge Posture
Ura Gedan no Kamae – Outside Lower Level Posture
Hasso no Kamae – Eight Apparitions Posture
Tenchi no Kamae – Heaven and Earth Posture
Kasumi no Kamae – Mist Posture
Totoku Hyoshi no Kamae – Sword Hiding Catapult Posture
Uke Nagashi no Kamae – Flowing Block Posture
Ichimonji no Kamae – Figure Number One Posture
You should also watch our Youtube video on wearing katana and other katana videos.
Katana Nuki – Draws with the sword
Nuki Uchi – Drawing Cut
Tate Nuki Uchi – Vertical Drawing Cut
Gyaku Kesa Bato – Reverse Angle of Monk’s Robes Drawing Cut
Gyakute – Reverse Hand
Gyaku – Reverse (can refer to a direction of handwork, footwork, etc.)
Katana Giri – Cutting with the sword
Kiri Oroshi – Dropping Cut
Kiri Age – Rising Cut
Kesa Giri Migi – Cutting the Angle of Monk’s Robes from the Right
Kesa Giri Hidari – Cutting the Angle of Monk’s Robes from the Left
Do Giri Migi – Sideways Figure Number One Cut from the Right
Do Giri Hidari – Sideways Figure Number One Cut from the Left
Gyaku Kesa Giri Migi – Reverse Cutting the Angle of Monk’s Robes from the Right
Gyaku Kesa Giri Hidari – Reverse Cutting the Angle of Monk’s Robes from the Left
Tsuki – Thrust
Katana – Parts Terminology and Etiquette
Tsuka – Handle
Tsuba – Handguard
Saya – Sheath
Sageo – Cord for sheath
Tsuka Kishiri – Handle Endcap
Ha – Blade edge
Mune – Back of sword
Kisaki – Point of sword where it starts to become the tip
Hi – Blood Gutter
Hamon -Temper line
The way you sit, bow and position your sword are strictly defined and may vary according to the status of the relationship between you and others in the room.
Mastering basic sword maneuvers and sword care:
Be aware that advanced sword art requires far more precision of movement than shown here.
Using a rubber or wooden training sword or similar prop is perfectly OK at first. Do not handle any sharp blades at this stage in your training. Training to understand and perform sword maneuvers is tricky and highly formalized. There are different names for different kinds of blades and many martial art forms that use the sword have incredibly high standards regarding the perfection of your motions. Here, we are only making you aware of the basic terms and moves needed to begin handling a basic samurai sword.
Practice Ukemi and Kaiten with the sword.
Try bringing the Saya up with the sword and and pull the Saya down to draw it out.
Learn to also step back instead of stepping forward to draw the sword.
Practice draws from all the different Katana Kamae.
Train by trying different attacks from each stance.
Understand alternative combat uses for Saya, Tsuka, Tsuba and Sageo that go beyond the sword structures itself, i.e., pinching with a Tsuba, clubbing with a Saya or entangling with a Sageo.
Learn how a sword cuts as opposed to hacking with the blade.
Practice grappling while wearing a sword – from grabs, strikes, etc.
Learn basic sword care related to handling, oiling, storing, etc.
Finishing Techniques (Pins)
Omote Takeori – Outward Breaking Bamboo
Ura Takeori – Inward Breaking Bamboo
Omote gyaku – Outward Reversal
Ura Gyaku – Inward Reversal
Oogyaku – Great Reversal
Do Gaeshi – Turning the Body
Use extreme caution while training for pins. The joints and bones of you and your grappling partner are at great risk of injury. Train very slowly with maximum control.
Taihenjutsu No Hands – Advanced Ukemi and Kaiten
Dakentaijutsu and Ashi Sabaki – Strikes and Leg/Foot Movement/Evasion
Gyaku Waza – Reversal Techniques
Nage Waza – Throwing Techniques
Rokushakubo Kamae – Long Staff Postures
Rokushakubo Spins
Rokushakubo Strikes
Advanced Ukemi and Kaiten
Carefully practice high-fall Ukemi and Ukemi/Kaiten with no hands (only with an experienced partner)
Vocabulary Note: Ryote (two hands) , Katate (one hand) Mute (no hands)
Juji Geri – Cross Kick
Kakushi Geri – Crescent Kick
Kagato – Heel kick from behind
Mastering Advanced Dakentaijutsu:
Learn to strike from different footwork and practice “hidden strikes” (where Uke cannot see your strike coming.)
Begin to inflict multiple strikes without retracting your arms or legs (i.e., Shuto to Uko followed by Boshi Ken to Kiri Gasumi without retracting the striking hand at all.)
Drill striking in all directions and from all Kamae and Ukemi (i.e., punch while going into Zenpo Kaiten Naname, or kicking out while doing Koho Nagare Kaiten.)
Ashi Sabaki – “Leg/Foot Movement/Evasion”
Ashi barai – Leg hooks
Keri kaeshi – Kicking Counters
Mastering Ashi Sabaki:
Try Ashi Sabaki from all Kamae, on different sides of the body, etc.
Gyaku waza – Reversal Techniques
Take Ori – Breaking Bamboo
Oni Kudaki – Demon Crusher (Omote and Ura)
Hon Gyaku – Base Reversal
Musodori – No Thought Capture
Oogyaku – Great Reversal
Perform all Gyaku Waza from all Kamae and from different attacks.
Nage waza – “Throwing Techniques”
Oosoto Nage – Major Outer Throw
Seoi Nage – Shoulder Throw
Ganseki Otoshi – Dropping a Big Rock
Ganseki Ori – Breaking a Big Rock
Ganseki Oshi – Pushing a Big Rock
Advanced Karuma Gaeshi Nage – Advanced Wheel Turn Throw
Juji Nage – Figure Number Ten Throw
Morote Gyaku Ippon Zeoi Nage – Two handed Shoulder Throw on Reversed Arm
Yoko Nagare – Sideways Flow
Tachi Nagare – Standing Flow
Tachi Nage – Standing Throw
Temakura – Hand Pillow
Koshi Nage – Hip Throw
Ippon Seoi Nage – One Arm Shoulder Throw
Ippon Zeoi Nage – One Arm Back Throw
Gyaku Ippon Zeoi Nage – Reversed One Arm Back Throw
Itami Nage – Pain Throw
Katate Nage – One Handed Throw
Oosoto Guruma – Major Outer Wheel
O Uchi Gake – Great Striking Hook
Tomoe Nage – Circle Throw
Karuma Nage – Wheel Throw
Sui Nage – Water Throw
Harai Goshi – Sweeping hip throw
Hiza Guruma – Knee Wheel
Hane Koshi – Popping hip throw
Uchi Mata – Inner Thigh Throw
Yoko Seoi Nage – Sideways Shoulder Throw
Kubi Nage – Neck throw
Gyaku Ippon Seoi Nage – Reverse Number One Shoulder Throw
Empi Nage – Elbow Throw
Taki Otoshi – Cataract Drop (Is actually a category of throws)
Ura Nage – Reverse Throw
Begin to think about targeting where Uke lands after throw.
Use extreme caution while training for Nage Waza. The joints and bones of you and your grappling partner are at great risk of injury. Train very slowly with maximum control.
Weapon: Rokushakubo
Rokushaku Bo Kamae – Long Staff Postures
Jodan no Kamae – Upper Level Posture
Chudan no Kamae – Middle Level Posture
Seigan no Kamae – Correct Eye Posture
Gedan no Kamae – Lower Level Posture
Ihen no Kamae – Changing Posture
Hira no Kamae – Flat Posture
Hira-Ichimonji no Kamae – Flat Figure Number One Posture
Heito no Kamae – Being to Overthrow Evil Posture
Tenchijin no Kamae – Heaven, Earth, Man Posture
Also understand how to bow and roll with the Rokushakubo.
Spinning the Rokushakubo
Forward spin
Backward spin
Side to side spin
Bo Furi Gata (2 people striking with bo) also called Men Uchi Harai
Spinning from one spin into another
Striking with the Rokushakubo
Shomen Uchi – Strike to the Crown
Yokomen Uchi – Strike to the Temples
Do/Kote Uchi – Strike to the Body/Wrist
Age Uchi – Rising Strike
Ashi Barai – Leg Sweep
Tsuki – Thrust
Mastering basic Rokushakobo techniques:
Practice striking from all Kamae and all spins, in all directions. Roll and fall with it.
Grapple from grabs and strikes with the weapon, against someone else who has the weapon, against other weapons, etc.
BSan Shin Gokui – Inner Essence of San Shin
Knife and Shoto
Advanced Knife Techniques
Kyusho Points – Weakness Points
Ukemi with all weapons: Changing distances and speeds while falling and rolling (long vs. short rolls, slow vs. fast) Learn to fall and roll quietly. This not only helps mask your presence but indicates good technique. Try it on hard surfaces and up/down inclines to force yourself not to pound into the surfaces or rely strictly on your momentum. Control all aspects of the movement for perfect speed, placement and silence, according a variety of potential self-defense scenarios.
San Shin: Gokui
Analyze and train to understand the “Gokui” (inner essence) of each element (understanding the dynamics of where power is generated from)
Train with multiple blocking and striking scenarios (i.e., step back into Bobi twice and then step forward with Sanshitan Ken for Chi No Kata)
Knife and Shoto Introduction
Tanto – “Knife”
Three basic grips and the advantages and disadvantages of each grip
Nine basic cuts (same as sword)
Ideal targets for cuts (arteries, tendons, airway)
Grappling from grabs and strikes with the knife
Shoto – “Short Sword”
Similar to a modern machete, the actions for handling it are similar to knife/sword, but adjusted for the different length
Mastering short blade weapons:
Understand each weaponss range and assess your danger and prognosis if attacked by these weapons (i.e, just run if hes got a knife. Really.)
Practice the Kihon Happo maneuvers against these weapons.
Kyusho – “Weakness Points”
Kyusho points are weakness spots on the body used to inflict pain, distraction and confusion in the mind of your enemy.
Nagare – On the forearm, below the elbow where muscles come together
Uko – Muscle on the side of the neck
Sui Getsu – At the Solar Plexus in the Chest
Jakkin – Inside of Bicep
Kasumi – Temples of the Head
Sai – Outer Thigh Where the Canter Muscles Bundle
Kaku – Knee
Kobura – Center of the Calf
Shichibatsu – Upper Ridge of Pelvic Bone at the Back
Hadome – Under the Cheekbone, Under the Eye Area
Here are 5 more not included in the videos that you should learn:
Yubitsubo – The Ridge of the Thumb Muscles
Hoshi – The Inner Bottom Part of Elbow
Gorin – Five Points in a Pentagon Pattern Around the Navel
Kage – The Bone Above the Solar Plexus
Wakiboshi – At the armpit
Koe – Hip/Leg Joint at front of the body
Butsumetsu – The floating ribs at the bottom of the rib cage
Jinchu – Just under the nose where it joins to the face
Kiri Gasumi – Just underneath the ear lobe
Suzu – Testicles
Asagasumi – Chin
Tenmon – Bridge of the nose
Omote Kimon – Upper pectoral
Ura Kimon – Below the nipple
Ryumon – Above the collar bone where it meets the shoulder
Toki – Top of foot
Dokkotsu – Throat
Murasame – The Divet Where the Clavicles Meet
Matsukaze – Adam’s Apple
Yaku – Outside of shin
Kihon Happo
Drill the Kihon Happo from all Kamae, using: one hand, 2 hands, no hands, and with other body parts
Advanced San Shin
Vary the footwork, distancing and speed of all Kata (i.e., start by stepping forward or with Yoko Aruki, etc.)
Kusari Fundo – Metal Weights on the Ends of a Chain
Learn to use it for strikes and grappling against grabs and punches.
Multiple Attacker Strategies
Begin to understand the different strategies and Angle/Distance/Timing awareness needed to inflict strikes and engage in grappling against multiple attackers.
Advanced Ukemi
Start to “freestyle” more when training with a partner. Rather than just performing any given maneuver with strict formality, start to break into more spontaneous counter-attack strategies. For example, as “Uke” (receiver) you should be ready to hit “Tori” (aggressor) with a surprise maneuver if you see an opening or they dont have you actually controlled with their attacking move. Go beyond “rote demonstration of maneuvers” and begin to counterattack with your own unpredictable moves.
Advanced San Shin
Drill San Shin with all weapons and from all Kamae. Use it against attackers.
Ashi Sabaki
You should be able to step on your opponents feet without looking at them.
Think about new Zanshin concepts explained in all other moves.
Jime Waza – “Choking” waza
Hon Jime – Base Choke
Gyaku Jime – Reverse Choke
Itami Jime – Pain choke
Sankaku Jime – Three Pointed Choke
Do Jime – Body Choke
Gyaku Juji Jime – Reverse Figure Number Ten Position Choke
Katate Jime – One Handed Choke
Practice these from all Kamae and from various attacks.
Weapons: Kunai (also Tessen, Jutte)
Medium-sized, metal, hand-held weapons usually used for grappling
Strike with these weapons in your hands. Practice grappling from grabs and strikes with an opponent.
Weapons: Shuriken, Knives and Axes – Throwing Blades
Senban Shuriken – Flat throwing blades, especially “Ninja Stars”
Bo Shuriken – Throwing Spikes
Sharpened Throwing Knife
Axe
Learn to throw these into targets at different distances, change hands.
Use them in your hands while grappling and striking.
“Walking”
Learn to do Bujinkan techniques while constantly in motion, never stopping. Go beyond rote performance of maneuvers and begin to take more control of your opponent by utilizing constant motion to vary Angle/Distance/Timing.
Zanshin TIP
Be able to do all techniques without directly looking at the opponent, with one eye closed, with both eyes closed, blindfolded, etc. Start to think about “feeling” other similar “peripheral” awareness cues when moving your body or any part of it. Be able to assess all the input your brain can receive about all objects and conditions of your environment without your vision.
Kuzushi – “Off balancing”
Use both physical and psychological techniques that will stop the intended motion of your opponent.
Begin to understand and practice different physical types of Kuzushi (i.e. forward, backward, sides, down, etc.) and the importance of space and momentum of both yourself and your opponent. Start to master the “third leg” concept about the invisible “third balance point” that exists with you and your opponent, and how to keep your opponent from stationing him/herself comfortably within this tripod of balance points.
You are one point, your opponent is the second point, and the third leg or balance point is where your momentum would go together for you to both stand solidly with no chance of falling off balance. Take your opponent away from this third point by controlling the space and momentum of your motions. Equally important, if not more so, is surprising your opponent with psychological strategies like metsubishi “fake moves,” etc.
Weapon: Metal Claws for the Hands
Practice grappling and strikes and be able to slide them on and off without looking.
Climbing with them is one traditional use but that is very painful to the hands.
Weapon: Yari – Spear
Reiho – Bowing
Tate Rei – Standing Bow
Za Rei – Kneeling Bow
Yari Kamae
Tate No Kamae
Tachi No Kamae
Seigan No Kamae
Gedan No Kamae
Chudan No Kamae
Jodan No Kamae
Butto Nino Tachi
Rui Sui No Kamae
Taihen No Kamae
Weapon: Naginata
Polearm weapons – Similar to the Yari, with a Different Metal Head
Naginata Kamae:
Tenchi No Kamae
Gyaku Ihen No Kamae
Hasso No Kamae
Ichimonji No Kamae
Seigan No Kamae
Mastering basic Yari and Naginata weapon concepts:
Practice striking with both ends and middle of the shaft, using as a lever between the feet, etc.
Maintain point/blade control (i.e., keeping the blade facing the opponent while changing attack sides.)
Practice grappling from grabs and strikes with and against these weapons. Learn tactics, advantages and disadvantages of each.
Try holding back multiple attackers who are using various weapons.
Practice weapon-against-weapon scenarios with a partner (i.e, against Kusari Fundo or Bo)
Weapon: Kyoketsu Shoge
Metal Ring and a Special Blade on Opposite Ends of a Rope
Spinning the Kyoketsu Shoge
Over hand and under hand
Overhead and on each side
Forward and backward
Strikes with Kyoketsu Shoge
Strike from all spins in all directions.
Grappling with Kyoketsu Shoge from grabs and strikes
Use all components of the weapon: grab with the ring, hook with the blade, snare with the rope, etc.
Advanced Weapons Techniques
Non-lethal use of lethal weapons
Drawing and using weapons while keeping them hidden from view
Drawing weapons with natural movement
Countering Counter-attacks
Go beyond mere performance of strictly defined maneuvers. Begin to take your opponent off-guard when they are trying a counter attack by adding another spontaneous counter attack of your own. This is the level when you should be able to stop thinking about particular maneuvers that you are practicing and start just using techniques randomly according to what might be effective for vanquishing your opponent. In other words, use your training to PLAY!
Shodan Level Training
(After the 9 kyus, before blackbelt test)
Your video assignment for Shodan Level instruction is to subscribe to Ninja Learning Network’s Youtube channel at www.youtube.com/user/ninjalearningnetwork.
Visit often for updates, new lessons appear nearly frequently.
DON’T WAIT until you finish studying the 9 kyus to start learning from that great resource and also research other Ninjutsu videos, weapons info and read audience comments.
Or follow the Ninja Training Video Blog at TWITTER (@NinjaNetwork) or FACEBOOK
BUJINKAN IS NOT LIKE THE OTHERS…
Remember that, in Bujinkan, every dojo is free to design their own curriculum – and they vary widely. Every Sensei who has been authorized to do so by Hatsumi Soke is permitted to grant rank for any reason. Generally, after the 1st kyu is complete, instructors offer an additional “level” of instruction, called “Shodan” level, in anticipation of developing technique proficiency worthy of a 1st degree blackbelt (that is what “shodan” refers to.)
This level often contains a wide variety of instruction that increases weapons knowledge and encourages more training variations (henka) of the basic waza, kata, etc. from the Kyus. At this more advanced level students become fluent with responding to real scenarios that require “out of the box” thinking and more spontaneous responses to attacks, not mere performance of Kamae and so forth.
Also, utilizing standard maneuvers and their variations would be explored under various unpredictable, real-life scenarios (such as performing the Kihon Happo while in car seats or using ballpoint pens at the office to defend against attackers.) Obviously, more advanced training and philosophy of movement for real-life survival is incorporated at this level. Students who complete training of the 9 Kyus may even be expected to start instructing beginning students as part of “Shodan Level” training experience. Mainly, HANDS ON TRAINING and spontaneous movement is intensified at this level.
We recommend you subscribe on our Youtube, Twitter, Facebook or Bloggit sites for updates – and to participate with the comments of other more experienced Bujinkan students.
Invent your own Kihon Happo Henka (“variations”)
Perform all techniques from kneeling, in a chair, in a car and from the ground, etc…
Learn about Firearms Training from Firearms professionals
Handgun and Rifle
Safety and Handling
Shooting and Targeting
Disarms
Understanding Distancing
Firing at a Range
Disarming with Live Airsoft Pistols
Invent uses and techniques with “Improvised Weapons”
(Note: due to terrorism, Hatsumi Soke and others are not currently teaching explosives technology or poison techniques and the like…)
Chopsticks
Fork
Pen
Bottle
Book
Newspaper
More: invent some from the everyday environment
Teach beginning students, under the supervision of qualified instructors.
Increase your conditioning and improve the speed control and smoothness of all your movement. Explore more Taijutsu and Angle/Distance/Timing control.
Ninjutsu Course Review: Practice all Kyus and schedule an in-person rank test.
(Black belt rank is never performed via video, you will have to schedule an in-person training and ranking situation. Inquire with us for assistance.)
Many Ninjutsu Course students do not have access to a nearby dojo or instructor and feel they have enough drive or experience in other martial arts to learn the basics of Bujinkan “at home.” These students WILL need feedback about their progress (perhaps via video analysis) and will also need assistance finding in-person training opportunities, rank testing and official registration with The Bujinkan Honbu Dojo in Japan.
Remember that, unlike other martial arts, Bujinkan is not highly structured and students should expect flexible and customized planning with their Bujinkan education.
In practice, belt rank testing in particular is not structured like other arts such as Karate. Authorized Sensei have complete authority to award rank as they see fit but are expected to adhere to general Bujinkan guidelines and philosophy.
Our goal is to promote effective, safe and authentic Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu. Students who are in pursuit of belt rank testing “merely for the sake of receiving the belt rank itself” will not be considered serious students and will not be supported if their skills and efforts do not warrant it. But by cooperating with our strict learning requirements a student may ultimately receive a genuine and universally respected belt rank. (Be aware that some Ninjutsu schools who offer distance training via video and who easily award belt rank via mere video testing are criticized in the Bujinkan and students with rank from them are not always respected. Ninja Learning Network expects students to train with real people while using video.)
Find in-person training opportunities near you
Ninja Learning Network will contact dojos or instructors in your area (if there are any) and introduce you to those people. (If you decide to train or test with them they will likely charge you their usual training and testing fees.) You can also be listed on our “Find Ninja Training Partners” Map if you like. We can’t guarantee that we will find someone to train with you, there may not be anyone, or they may be located farther away than you are willing to travel.
Ninjutsu Course Guidebook Safety Warning and Liability Disclaimer
WARNING!
PRACTICE AT YOUR OWN RISK, AND ONLY UNDER DIRECT, PHYSICAL SUPERVISION BY QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS!
The videos and written text or images featured or mentioned in this course material are intended to be used as mental reference only. Your decision to re-enact any of the material is solely your responsibility and you are solely liable for all consequences of doing so under any circumstances.
Do not rely on any of the actions shown in this material as a method of self defense for yourself or others. These activities are demonstrations of theoretical situations by trained professionals only.
Ninja Learning Network does not advocate the use of martial arts for any aggressive behavior against people, animals or property.
Some weapons or techniques may be ILLEGAL in some states and we discourage illegal use, transport or possession of any weapon. You are solely responsible for understanding all legal implications of using or possessing anything depicted in this course. Check with your local and state authorities.
Martial arts training is dangerous! Do not attempt to re-enact any activities shown in the videos without direct supervision by an experienced instructor. We are not responsible for any potential lack of good judgement on your part about how you attempt to practice anything featured in this video course. You are solely responsible for accidental harm or damage created by your attempts to emulate material from the videos or written material.
This video and curriculum guide is intended for informational purposes only – it is your responsibility to refrain from attempting to enact anything shown in the videos or curriculum in an unsafe manner and/or without first consulting with a trained professional. Use all course material as mental reference material only.
Consult your physician before beginning Bujikan training, or any other physical training program.
Ninja Learning Network and/or individuals and affiliates associated with those entities are not responsible for injuries or damages to yourself, other people or any property caused by any type of re-enactment of anything in this video, whether accidental or intentional.
WARNING! PRACTICE Ninjutsu Course Techniques AT YOUR OWN RISK, AND ONLY UNDER DIRECT, PHYSICAL SUPERVISION BY QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS!
Read the complete safety and liability disclaimer at the end of this document. You are hereby informed that any attempt to train yourself in this martial art is a vigorous physical activity and is extremely dangerous to yourself and others. You are solely responsible for injury or damage to people or property that occurs by attempting any of the information demonstrated in this document or associated videos. We provide this information as mental reference information and demonstration material only.
The purpose of this study is to learn awareness and techniques conducive to self-defense, both physical and psychological. The first rule is to attempt to avoid physical contact and conflict in all cases. Ideally, an effective Bujinkan practitioner would never need to use damaging force to control any threatening situation. He/she would be able to diffuse trouble or get away from it before trouble even begins.
Bujinkan is not intended to be an aggressive art and your mental capacity to control a situation is always the first line of defense – not violent control maneuvers. However, if unbalanced individuals in the environment are determined to create safety problems for you or people around you, it may become necessary to implement your physical training to diffuse their attack. The non-violent methods taught in Bujinkan are always the first type of response you would attempt to use in threatening situations. But, if attackers do escalate a situation to the level that people are in imminent and unavoidable danger, then you may be compelled to counter them with forceful methods, even using weapons. Only if necessary.
Students who are not prepared to train under this philosophy may be considered unsuitable for training and their opportunities to study with authentic sensei can be revoked.Read the Bujinkan Guidelines from the Honbu Dojo in Japan
About the NINJUTSU Course Guidebook List
The Ninjutsu Course Videos supplied by Bushindo University are highly recommended by Ninja Learning Network.
Their Ninjutsu video black belt course instructs students all over the world who are on their way to earning a first degree black belt, also known as “Shodan” rank, in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu, ancient art of the Ninja (aka Ninjutsu.) Purchase of the videos does not include or guarantee any rank testing or rank, it’s just the videos. But read below about getting additional and optional video assessment and rank assessment services.
Knowledge of the Ninjutsu course curriculum and terminology, proven ability to perform the maneuvers, fluency with the maneuvers with other students, and the adherence to the tenets of Bujinkan as disseminated by Hatsumi Soke in Japan are all required for a student to pass their first degree black belt Shodan rank test at any Bujinkan Dojo.
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This video above is from the Basics of Ninja Training black belt Ninjutsu course.
The Basics of Ninja Training black belt course is no longer available. For information about Mark Roemke, please contact his dojo