What Are Martial Arts?

A Martial Art can be defined as a system of techniques - physical and mental exercises - developed as a successful means for self-defense, both armed and unarmed. Some fighting styles emphasize weaponless techniques while others teach the use of weapons. Some styles focus on grappling while others put their emphasis on striking. Weaponless systems use hand, arm, foot, shin, and knee striking and blocking techniques. Some weapons that may be used are the staff, sword, knife, dagger and chain.

While most martial arts developed from training methods for teaching combat, other martial arts developed as a means for spiritual and physical development.  In more recent times, many of these arts transitioned from a focus on combat to training for competition or sport.  Thus, today, the martial arts are practiced for health and fitness, sport, law enforcement, spiritual benefits as well as for self-defense.

Is this a Traditional Art or A New Style?

Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu is a Japanese martial art stemming from 9 traditional Japanese ryu, or martial schools. Six of these ryu were originally Samurai ryu, while three originated with the legendary Ninja warriors. These ryu date back to as far as the 1100's and were taught with actual combat in mind. Although the traditional techniques remain in practice, variations of the techniques are also adapted for use with modern weaponry. This ability to adapt to current weaponry has allowed the art to survive while maintaining a continual link with its roots.