Is Ninjutsu a Real Martial Art? - Here's a Case For Why the Answer is "No!"

What is Ninjutsu? Have you ever thought of that?
To some, it's a martial arts choice among martial arts choices. To others, it's the martial art of the Ninja - these superhero, commando, super-warriors capable of taking on an army of "bad-guys," single-handedly.
But, if you're going to master this "thing" called "Ninjutsu," doesn't it seem logical to first know and understand what that "thing" is? Otherwise, especially with something as deep as Ninjutsu, also known as "Ninpo" in it's higher, philosophical, life-mastery form, you could end up wasting a lot of time, effort, and money - and still be no closer than you were when you started!
This article explores the question that is hardly ever asked... "Is Ninjutsu a real martial art?" And, believe it or not...
...the answer comes straight from the Ninja's philosophy - not the author's opinion!
It is also important to note that, regardless of the attempts of a group of instructors to force the Ninja martial art into a formal, "official" structure - a "right" way to do it...
The fact remains that Ninjutsu is unlike any other martial art in existence. So much so that I personally don't believe that it is a "true" martial art at all.
Now THAT is a controversial statement. And here's why I believe that to be true. But that belief is not based on empty opinion, or y own unique way of approaching it - it comes from three decades of exploring, studying, and coming to a direct, real world use and realization of what the ancient masters of the art and it's philosophy and life-ways, passed down to us.
In the realm of conventional martial arts - as opposed to "True Budo" - the real "martial or warrior ways" that were passed down to us from ancient masters - there are certain common factors that are simply outside of authentic Ninjutsu.
Some of these factors include:
1) Adherence to a set, predefined way of doing things. The presence of a "style" mentality.
2) Generally, there is only one school or set of principles being taught. You can see this even in schools where the teacher has attempted to combine styles in an attempt to fill in the gaps of each other.
3) A sport, competitive, or recreational focus, and...
4) Almost entirely limited to the learning of and use of martial, combative, and self defense skills
To be sure, there are many other commonalities among today's conventional martial arts. But the point is that at least these elements run contrary to the focus and ideals of Ninjutsu. The art of Ninjutsu is not, and has never been limited to "fighting" and self defense. Does it have those elements? Absolutely.
But, in the realm of the Ninja's philosophy... The self defense and combat aspects were developed to protect the philosophical teachings - not the other way around.
In fact, in today's world of conventional and sport martial arts, the student learns or develops life qualities as a by-product of the martial training. Completely opposite the fact that the Ninja student learns ancient lessons and strategies for recreating his or her life to be in alignment with their life-purpose and Universal laws - and then the martial skills are there to protect that life from whatever might threaten it.
In conventional martial arts systems, if a student wants personal development training, it has to be added on or he or she must seek it out elsewhere. In Ninjutsu, it is the personal development and life mastery teachings that give a purpose to the self defense skills!
In Ninjutsu, the only purpose for the combat skills is for the protection and preservation of life! Not for rank, trophies, status, or the elevation and glorification of ego!
Very, very different focus altogether. So, are you looking for a martial art where you can be a "tough-guy" - one where you can win trophies and earn a bunch of brightly colored belts... Or are you looking for something deeper, more significant - something that has stood the test of time and produced Warriors - not just "fighters?"

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What Martial Arts System Should You Learn?

In order to attain the most advantages with the martial arts, you will want to determine the system which best matches your desired goals. Considering the fact that there are so many extraordinary martial arts to choose from, choosing the appropriate one might be a daunting choice.

The very first item to think about when selecting a martial art style is what you wish to gain from your time and effort in class. Are you trying to learn about self-defense techniques, or will you be becoming a member of a dojo for exercise purposes? If in case you're looking at the martial arts as a way to step-up your fighting abilities, what sort of punches, throws, or defensive tactics would you want to uncover? We're going to look at several of the more well-known martial arts to enable you to decide what style is ideal for you.

Taekwondo (Tae Kwon Do) is a traditional Korean martial art that's been progressively increasing in popularity during the last sixty years. Traditional taekwondo was first introduced in the nineteen fifties by the South Korean military but a different system has emerged in sport taekwondo. In a lot of taekwondo dojos, they teach components of both sport and traditional taekwondo. This magnificent style is best known for its explosive kicks, extraordinary weapons demos, and nerve-wrangling sparring competitions. It appears to be among the preferred styles to enroll your children in as well.

Karate was first created in Okinawa, Japan and is most commonly known for its punches, chops, and joint locks. Over time, lots of distinct styles of Karate have been developed in countries all over the earth. Some of the most prominent systems of Karate include Budokan, Shorin-Ryu, and Kempo. This is an incredible martial art to investigate if you're in the market to learn about self-defense procedures and powerful combat training.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art system which stresses mostly on grappling and submission wrestling. This awesome style of fighting has existed since the early 20th century, but did not grow to be well-known until the early 90's when Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu veteran Royce Gracie triumphed in the 1st Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC). Ever since then, BJJ has grown to be one of the most favored martial arts and quite a few of its ground submission maneuvers have been incorporated into martial art instructional classes across the globe.

Aikido is a Japanese martial arts style which focuses on redirecting your assailants power to utilize it against them. This system is hugely popular with folks looking for a less aggressive martial art. Aside from its unbelievable joint locks and smooth throws, Aikido if famous for its rich philosophies and spiritual influences.

Kung Fu is a Chinese martial arts style highly regarded for its incomparable animal styles, internal energy development, and amazing Chinese weapon demos. Over the years, Kung Fu has gained an incredible following due to its presence on TV and film. This is a good martial art to explore if you are trying to find great self-defense techniques, religious and philosophical enlightenment, and cardio fitness.

Judo is a popular Japanese martial arts style renowned for its ultra powerful throws and submission wrestling techniques. It is similar to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, but gives a lot more emphasis to holds and take-downs. Despite the fact that strikes are a part of Judo, they are seldom used in practice and never in competition. This is an outstanding martial art to learn, but may be a little overwhelming to people who are not comfortable being tossed to the floor.

Hopefully this short glance into several of the martial art styles has really helped you with your decision. My greatest recommendation would be to check out a couple of martial art schools in your area teaching various systems and watch a few instructional classes. When you select a dojo, don't be reluctant to switch styles if your interests change later on. Many martial art students learn a variety of styles to attain as much education as they can.

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You Can Be a Master of Both Martial Arts and the Martial Arts Business

Masters of the martial arts have devoted a significant amount of time and passion to their craft. They are dedicated to the art and philosophy of the art. But what master wants to sit down and write a business plan? While you don't necessarily have to write out a business plan the true master will know that the business side of running a dojo is the key to running a successful martial arts business.
Succeed on the Mat and in the Office
There seems to be a belief that a great Black Belt cannot be a great business person, as the spiritual and philosophical principles will conflict between art and business. This does not have to be true. Think of it this way: the great artist develops and leads a successful school not just for the financial benefits, but because the need is there in the community. There are people that need the tutoring, the services, and the mentoring of this master of the arts.
The owner of a successful dojo must be a master of his business as well as a master of his craft. After golf, martial arts are the second fastest growing sport in the United States. The market is huge and growing for well-run and inspiring dojos. This business can be financially rewarding at the same time as it provides a rewarding sport to people of all ages.
Translating Skills from One Arena to Another
A great Black Belt cannot automatically be a great business person, but he can apply many of the same principles to their business.
Here are four examples:
1. Discipline: One of the key components to all of the martial arts is the practice of discipline within and without. The idea of discipline is integral to any successful business. Self-discipline is crucial when investing and expanding your martial arts business. The careful control of ambition, budget, business plan, and dojo philosophy is imperative.
2. Clear Vision: Making observable and attainable goals is important in both the art and in business. A thoughtfully-designed and carefully-executed curriculum for your martial arts school will help students envision and work toward their goals. A thoughtfully-designed and carefully-executed business plan will ensure your financial survival and the stability of your school.
3. Learning Never Ends: The skills you used to learn your art are the same skills that can be used to learn the business end of your art. The dojo master who is always striving to improve him or her self, the students, and the school exemplifies one of the central tenets of the martial arts.
4. High Standards: Dedicated martial artists hold themselves to very high standards, believing that they are capable of accomplishing more and living a more virtuous life than the average person. This idea can be directly applied to martial arts business, always striving to make the school the most ethical and viable dojo around.
A martial artist is, first and foremost, an artist, a master of his or her craft. But it is the duty of the martial artist to provide first-class training at a reputable and financially secure school. A successful school, one that is dynamic and financially stable, meeting the needs of its students, will be another example of the martial arts principles put to action.

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10 Greatest Martial Arts Movies Of All Time

After hundreds of movies, thousands of eye-popping fight scenes and millions of punches thrown…which ones are the best? Which ones have I been missing out on my whole life? Which ones must I have in my collection in order to not bring shame upon my family name?

We've scoured the internet. Reviews. Forums. Amazon. Postings. Bulletins. And this list is what we've come up with as the greatest Kung-Fu movies of all time and why you should watch each one. Pay attention to movies involving Yuen Wo-Ping as either director or action director, there's a reason why half this list is movies where he was involved!

If you want to watch trailers of these movies, go to: http://www.experiencemartialarts.com/articles/movies.html

(you can also get directly to these movies in http://Amazon.com from this website)

#1 – Way of the Dragon (1979)

This is the only finished film to be written and directed by Bruce Lee. (Game of Death is the other one but is unfinished) We could write a lot about the plot, characters or fight scenes…but all you really care about is watching Bruce Lee fight Chuck Norris in the final battle.

Martial Artists: Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris
Director: Bruce Lee

#2 – Shaolin Temple (1982)

Depicts the amazing history of the Shaolin Temple, the focal point for Chinese Martial Arts. Think of the Shaolin Monks as Jedi Knights (an elite group of fighters) and the rest of China as the messed-up universe that Star Wars takes place in (people who are afraid of the elite fighters and want to take them out of power). Much work to do, you have, young Jet Li. picture Yoda's accent on that one Define Irony: A movie shot at the site of the Shaolin Temple, telling a story about the fall of the Shaolin Temple, sparks so much public interest that the temple was re-opened shortly after the movie released.

Martial Artist: Jet Li (His debut movie)
Director: Chang Hsin-Yen

#3 – Ong Bak (2003)

Raw action without wires, Tony Jaa brings a new martial arts style to the big screen and does so in style. Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) is stronger and more direct than the Chinese styles you're used to seeing with Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, giving a new look to how a martial arts movie can be done. You'll be seeing more of him…guaranteed.

Martial Artist: Tony Jaa
Director: Prachya Pinkaew

#4 – Iron Monkey (1993)

Doctor by day, thief by night…Iron Monkey is your classic Robin-hood meets Kung Fu. It's an action packed flick that can't go 5 minutes without an excellent fight scene. It all comes down to a battle between Iron Monkey (ie Robin Hood) and an ex Shaolin Monk (remember, these guys are like the Jedi Knights of Chinese martial arts…they're elite). Remember that guy Yuen Wo-Ping I mentioned? Well he's the director in this one, so you know it's good!

Martial Artists: Yu Rong-Guang, Donnie Yen
Director: Yuen Wo-Ping
Action Directors: Yuen Cheung-yan, Yuen Shun-yi

#5 – 5 Deadly Venoms (1978)

No room form "martial arts beauties" in this one, there's so much blood and action that they only cast male actors. Exit the traditional elaborate costumes and enter the muscular, skin-bearing, bloody martial arts style that would become a trademark for director Chang Cheh. Each cast member is trained in an art resembling one of 5 venemous creatures (Scorpion, Snake, Centipede, Gecko, Toad) with the 6th cast member being trained in all 5. Six main martial arts actors = LOTS O' ACTION

Martial Artists: 6 Martial Artists (yes, 6 main characters)
Director: Chang Cheh

#6 – The Seven Samurai (1954)

One of the greatest classic kung-fu movies of all time and arguable Kurosawa's best work. Some Samurai of the time were down on their luck (homeless) and willing to do anything for a meal. A village under attack by bandits recruits a group of seven such Samurai warriors and asks them to help defend their village. The movie is about the Samurai teaching the village how to fight and culminates in a massive battle between a village and almost 50 attacking bandits. The acting is superb, the emotions run high and Kurosawa keeps you hooked from beginning to end.

Martial Artists: 7 Martial Artists (all names you won't know since this movie is so old)
Director: Akira Kurosawa

#7 – Legend of Drunken Master (1994)

Some will say this is the greatest martial arts movie of all time because of it's balance between plot-line, comedy, drama and amazing kung fu sequences. Probably Jackie Chan's best martial arts performance. You're going to love the final scene where you learn what "Drunken Master" really means. We're talking box-splitting, fire-spitting craziness!

Martial Artist: Jackie Chan
Director: Lau Kar-leung

#8 – Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon (2000)

Based on a Pentalogy (yes, that's 5 books) written by Wang Dulu, this movie covers mostly the 4th book. Critically acclaimed to cross international borders with it's amazing character development, intricate plot, martial arts ideals, stunning special effects and quicker-than-the-eye fighting scenes, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon set a new standard for martial arts movies. Telling Zhang Ziyi (the lead female character and an amazing martial artist) to get back in the kitchen would likely cost you 50 punches to the "bags". Be ready for subtitles, ‘cuz turning on the English track is like watching…uh…like watching a kung fu movie in English.

Main Martial Artist: Chow Yun-fat
Other Martial Artists: Zhang Ziyi, Michelle Yeoh, Chang Chen, Cheng Pei-pei
Director: Ang Lee
Action Director: Yuen Wo-Ping

#9 – Kill Bill vol. 1 (2003)

You're going to want your home theatre room for this one. It's tough to beat beautiful women beating the crap out of each other in fast-paced, action-packed, make you cringe, bloody, gory, cut-'em-up (more buzz words go here) movie jam packed with as much martial arts death as possible. Tarantino expertly uses every camera angle and a plethora of special effects to deliver a better-than-real visual experience that gives this blood-and-guts thriller an artistic feel you'll appreciate at the end. Did I mention is has Uma Thurman in it?

("Kill bill vol. 2" brings closure to the set, but hey…we had to choose one movie. Say "Five-Point-Palm Exploding Heart Technique" 5 times fast.)

Actors: Uma Thurman, David Carradine, Lucy Liu, Daryl Hannah, Vivica A. Fox
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Action Director: Yuen Wo-ping

#10 – Fist of Legend (1994)

A classic story of Chinese vs. Japanese martial arts, Fist of Legend is actually a remake of the original Bruce Lee movie, Fist of Fury. If Bruce Lee is like the original James Bond, Jet Li is the Pierce Brosnan. He'll never be the original, but the modern film-making and larger budget bring the entertainment value just a hair above the original Fist of Fury. (The ghost of Bruce Lee is probably going to strike me down for writing that) The Yuen Brothers are known for amazing action choreography, and they totally deliver on this one. (Casting Jet Li may have helped them a little too.)

Martial Artist: Jet Li
Director: Gordon Chan
Action Directors: "The Yuen Brothers"

The fun doesn't stop there.

We tried to stop at only 10…really, we did. But we just couldn't control ourselves.
"Once it hits your lips, it's so good!" – Will Ferrell in "Old School"

To see the movies that deserve "Honorable Mention", go to http://www.experiencemartialarts.com/articles/movies.html

Whether you enjoyed this list or think we snuffed your favorite movie, we'd love to hear what you think. Post your comments at: http://www.experiencemartialarts.com/blog/archives/16

 

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Martial Art Of Kerala

Kerala, along with plentiful of natural treasure troves, is also renowned for its varied martial arts. These ancient form of martial arts are very popular among Keralites. Be it a man or a woman, people of Kerala are very keen to learn the techniques of various martial art forms.
Martial arts of Kerala are inherited heritage that are handed down to one generation from other.
Martial arts are not only physical training but mental training also. If a child starts his martial art training at a very tender age than it is for sure that the child would be well equipped to face any situation of contingency in life. The entire Kerala state is dotted with numerous martial arts training centres which resembles to the Gurukul of ancient time. Parents send their children at a very young age to these training centres. Beside rigorous physical training, Yoga,a thorough knowledge of human anatomy, Ayurveda and herbal healing, are also integral parts of martial art. A intense philosophical, usually religious doctrine is deep-rooted in the people who are engage in martial art. This give them the mind direction and focus.
Some of the commonly practiced martial art forms of Kerala are Kalaripayattu, Onathullal, Parisa Kali, Velakanni, Valeru, Kunderu and Njaninmel Kali etc.
Kalaripayattu: It is the most practiced martial art of Kerala. Kalaripayattu is an ancient form of martial art that originally evolved at Kondotty, 26 km from Malappurram, around 12th century during the reign of Chera rulers. This martial art form was used by the Chera fighters against the Chola warriors. In Malayalam, Kalari means gymnasium, payattu means 'the fighting art'. It is said that, this fighting art is the oldest martial art of world and has great influence over the other form of eastern martial arts. Kalaripayattu, not only teaches how to fight but also with other aspects of physical well being. It also provides complete mental and emotional strength to a person. Kalaripayattu is spread over three stages such as Meippayatt ( exercise to control the body), Kolthari (fighting with sticks).Ankathari (felicity in using metal weapons like daggers and swords). There are three styles of Kalaripayattu that are popular in Kerala are Thekan (southern style), Vadakkan(northern style) and Kathinayoga style(Yogic style). Apart from bare hands, some times weapons like stick of long, medium, short and curved, flexible sword, mace, knife, machete, shield and spear.
Onathullal: It is another form of martial art which is mainly performed during the Onam festival. In this form of fighting, the combatants has to face each other without any weapons. The warriors are dressed in dhotis or plain white cloth worn high like tight shorts around their waists in a sort of bandage around their legs. Wrestlers who are engage in this martial art form has to be flexible and must have exceptional valor, stamina to win the fight. The male members of family handed down to a new initiate. Kurumbranattu and Kunnamkulam are famous centers of Onathallu practice. Central Travancore and the northern regions of Kunnamkulam, Kavassery and Palakkad districts mainlyu organizes competitions of this martial art during Onam festival.
Velankanni: Velankanni is another form of martial art which belongs to Travancore region. It requires excess of physical training and knowledge of use of arms. It is an ancient form of fighting art which was used by Pandavas and Kauravas at the battle of Kurukshetra. Nowadays, it is played during the temple festival at Cherthala and Ambalapuzha as well as Sree Padmanabha Swami temple at Thiruvananthapuram.
So, whenever you visit Kerala, don't miss out to watch these excellent form of ancient martial arts.

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The Importance of Martial Arts Training

The concept of martial arts and martial arts training is not at all new to any one of us. Through movies, magazines, and TV shows, we all have been in touch with martial arts. We have seen Bruce lee's movies in jam packed theaters and even bought DVD's of those movies home and watched them unlimited number of times. We all love martial arts; we admire the various forms of this magnificent art and respect those who have been trained in martial arts. Many people developed interest in this art form and decided to get martial arts training. Today, in every country and city, to locate a martial arts club or school is one of the easiest task. Institutes and schools for professional martial arts training are available almost every where.

Mixed martial arts, Muay Thai Kick boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and grappling, Judo, Karate and Silat are some of the famous forms of this art of self defense. Martial art is a very broad and extensive term used to summarize various practices, forms and styles used in a combat. In martial arts training Weapon training, Grappling and Strikes are three specific areas of focus and interest. These are further divided into sub-forms and styles of martial arts training.

Striking has three major styles which summarize almost every martial art form which includes various types of strikes.

• Kicking: Taekwondo, Savate and Capoeira
• Punches: Wing Chun and western boxing
• Other types of strikes: Karate and Muay Thai

Weaponry Training is sub divided broadly into two divisions- Traditional and modern weaponry. Jukendo, style of martial arts is included in modern weaponry, while Fencing, Eskrima, Kyudo, and Gatka are traditional forms of weaponry training.

Grappling involves pinning techniques (Judo and wrestling), Joint lock (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Aikido and Hapkido) and throwing techniques (Sambo, Glima and Jujutsu).

Importance of martial arts training lies in its ability to infuse in us the proficiency to safe guard ourselves under difficult circumstances.

Those who wish to learn multiple styles of martial arts can go for Silat, which has quite similar moves and techniques to Judo and Muay Thai kick boxing. 

 

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Mixed Martial Arts Techniques

If you want to sharpen your combat skills for self-defense purposes, you can do so with Martial Arts. Consist of several systems of traditions and practices, they are also studied for reasons of mental discipline, self confidence and character development. There are many types or categories of martial arts – each one different from the next. Here are some of the most popular types.

Filipino Martial Arts – because the Philippines was the site of so many battles and combats, it is not surprising that the Filipinos have developed their own style of martial arts. Employing a wide range of methods in training, instructors of this type of martial arts believe that it is necessary to use knowledge and skills when in combat. Traditional Filipino martial arts also uses weapons like the sibat, baston, espada, latigo and lubid.

Chinese Martial Arts – the most famous of all styles are kung fu and wushu. When referring to kung fu, the system of martial arts refers to the accomplishment or skill of the person. On the other hand, wushu is more applicable to martial arts activities in general. In fact, it is considered to be a modern sport, like gymnastics. Chinese martial arts was borne from the need to defend one’s self during ancient China. Soldiers, preparing for war, are trained in martial arts in preparation for hand to hand combat.

Russian Martial Arts – like the Filipino and Chinese martial arts, the Russian martial arts was borne from the necessity for defense. During the ancient times, the Russian military have to protect their lands from invaders. The Russian martial arts is actually a combination of several styles including Japanese and Chinese martial arts. In any case, it resulted to a new style of martial arts and commonly referred to as Russian Sambo.

If you are interested in learning about different fight techniques including these martial arts style, there is only one authority to go to. The Fight Authority is a one-stop resource of all types of fighting techniques including martial arts, street fighting and other hand to hand combat skills. In addition to learning about the different types of fighting techniques, site visitors can also watch martial arts videos including muay thai, jiu jitsu and MMA training.

Learning martial arts is an effective way to protect yourself from situations that require you to stand up and defend your self. On the other hand, you should realize that learning is just the beginning. Martial arts is also an important discipline that requires you to seek out a way to improve yourself and develop your skills. It is a continuous process and should be taken quite seriously.

The Fight Authority will help you with all these things plus provide you with the means to meet other martial arts enthusiasts. The advances in technology have bridged so many barriers including time and distance and you will be able to maximize this particular feature of the internet. And the good news is you do not even have to leave your home to learn about martial arts.

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