Bujinkan Training | Schools of the Bujinkan | History and Tradition | Guidelines
GENERAL TRAINING
Bujinkan training is focused primarily around efficient body movement (taijutsu) and incorporates injury prevention (ukemi), striking, locks and holds, grappling, throwing, pressure points (kyusho) as well as numerous weapons. Some weapons in the bujinkan include;
Ken, Tachi, Katana, Wakizachi (Swords), Daisho (Long and Short swords)
Hanbo, Jo, Bo (Sticks of varying lengths)
Knife
Yari (Spear), Naginata (Halberd), Bisento (Large Halberd)
Rope, Kusari Gama (Rope and Sickle), Kusari Fundo (Weighted Chain)
Shuriken
Shuko and Ashiko (hand and feet claws)
and others.
Training initially emphasises the basic movements of the bujinkan and the movement into henka (variations) of various techniques. After time, there is a movement away from the form of the techniques and into the basic principles of distance, balance, timing, direction and flow. This is done by teaching the body to move naturally through training.
Joining in a class is the best way to get a feel for what Bujinkan training involves and so we encourage people interested in training to come to a class and participate.
GRADES
Progression in the bujinkan is done through a ‘kyu/dan’ system. There is no formalised testing to receive grades, but rather instructors will issue grades when they feel you have reached the appropriate level.
mu kyu : beginner/white belt
9th kyu – 1st kyu : green belt
1st dan – 4th dan : black belt
5th dan – 9th dan : Shidoshi
judan (5 levels) : Shihan
*To receive godan, a sakki test must be done in Japan
All gradings are done through Hombu Dojo in Japan and grading certificates from Japan are issued. Time to progress through grades is different for different people and it is more important to learn and have a good time than worry what colour belt is holding up your pants.
STUDENTS
Students of the bujinkan are many and varied and bujinkan training can accommodate almost any age, body type and fitness level.
“I really enjoy Bujinkan training. I’m able to learn self defense, embrace Japanese culture and history as well as stay active. The opportunity to travel to Japan to train is also something I enjoy a lot about bujinkan”
“Progressing in the physical body movement and the connection between mind and body is a very enjoyable challenge.”
“Bujinkan training gives me a release from my daily work life and an opportunity to socialise within the dojo and other dojos.”
“I train because ninjas are sweet!”
It is important that people who wish to train with the Bujinkan comply with the Guidelines of Participation. Take time to read through it thoroughly. Shihan and Shidoshi-Kai may request information on backgrounds as a requirement to train, as well as to grade.
INSTRUCTORS
The Bujinkan Sydney Metro Dojos are a group of dojos around the Sydney Metropolitan area supported and instructed by Japan trained Shihan and Shidoshi-Kai. Having instructors that have trained with Soke, Nagato sensei and other Japanese Shihan has asserted the quality of teaching and has genuinely raised the awareness of Bujinkan in Australia.
In addition, The Bujinkan Sydney Metro Dojos also offer the opportunity for students to take training journeys to Japan to train with Soke and other Japanese Shihan.
COME TO A CLASS
Joining in a class is the best way to get a feel for what Bujinkan training involves and so we encourage people interested in training to come to a class and participate.
The Bujinkan Sydney Metro Dojos offer a free introductory lesson to allow prospective students to experience Bujinkan training. At your first class, you will be able to observe training as well as be taken through some of the fundamental components of Bujinkan. When attending your first lesson please wear comfortable clothing suitable for physical activity.
If you are interested in training please contact us.