NINJUTSU
NINJUTSU
1000 years old but BANG up to date
The contemporary martial art “Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu” is the modern-day evolution of 9 Samurai and Ninja schools (Ryuha) under Grand Master Masaaki Hatsumi (Soke)
Often called Ninjutsu, it’s essence is self-protection and self-defence not only of the physical body, but the mind and spirit as well, holistic practices to improve oneself and ones environment. For 1000 years Ninjutsu has meant “the art of winning” - just as relevant now in the modern world, synonymous with the word “Ninja” the ancient group of heroes - fighters for freedom, whose unique self-defence tactics allowed them to prevail against vastly superior foes.
Originally a combat system, Ninjutsu is now taught as a collection of tried and tested, effective self-defence skills and students quickly learn a range of techniques that will enhance their personal safety and confidence, coordination and discipline.
Within the Bujinkan organisation, Ninjutsu students’ study:
· Rolling and gymnastics
· Break falling
· Striking and kicking
· Throwing, locking and balance taking
· the use of and defence against weapons, multiple opponents, etc.
Due to this, Ninjutsu focuses on natural movement principles and biomechanics, being applicable and useful for a huge range of people with different ages and physical abilities.
4th Dan Shidoshi Ho, Bruce Westgate is the founder of Shizukana Tora Bujinkan Dojo (under 15th Dan Shihan Ivan Marovic and Mark ‘Merlyn’ Waters).
Introduced to Ninjutsu in 2000, Bruce attained his SHODAN (First dan) the following year. Travelling to Japan and throughout Europe, he has trained with Soke and top Japanese Shihan plus attending training seminars across Europe delivered by many Shihan.
At his Dojos in the UK and Slovenia, Bruce taught children and adults, plus running Ninjutsu Summer Camps. He has trained with and taught members of the Italian special forces and US Marines, plus UK Marines.
In addition to Ninjutsu, Bruce trained for many years in Wado Ryu Karate and professionally worked as a mental health coach and therapist.