Frequently Asked Questions

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We generally welcome students ages 12 and above. However, we do make exceptions based on individual maturity, especially if a parent or older sibling is training alongside them.

Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Sweatpants and a long-sleeve shirt are great options, as techniques vary with and without sleeves or hoods. For safety, please remove jewelry, tie back long hair, and wear gym shoes or thick socks.

We focus on practical, real-world self-defense. You’ll learn striking, grappling, submissions, weapons training, situational awareness, and de-escalation tactics. Our primary system is Ninpo Budo Taijutsu, but we draw on concepts from Boxing, Jujutsu, Karate, and Judo. Training is structured around the Godai, or five elemental intentions, to help you adapt techniques to various situations and mindsets.

There are no specific fitness requirements—our classes cater to all fitness levels. Each student progresses at their own pace, and we focus on improvement, regardless of where you start. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, gain strength, or recover from an injury, our system can help. Many practitioners stay fit and active well into their senior years, using techniques that enhance everyday movement.

1. Expert Instruction: Our instructor has extensive training in various martial arts and is certified in teaching. With a background in Anthropology and Social Studies, as well as over a decade of football experience, he brings a unique perspective on movement and strategy.

2. Practical Self-Defense: Our techniques are rooted in real-world situations, designed for life-and-death scenarios. You’ll learn to personalize techniques and strategies to suit your individual needs, with access to a network of experts in specific areas of interest.

3. Personalized Growth: We emphasize non-competitive, personal growth. The curriculum focuses on intentions rather than strict physical techniques, allowing students of all sizes and abilities to succeed. Each belt color represents a different elemental intention, helping you stand your ground, create distance, or take control depending on the situation.

Yes. Initially, students focus on building fundamental movements and techniques. As you progress, intensity increases, and proper distancing and angling are introduced. At the third level, we begin sparring, or Randori, where we apply techniques against an uncooperative partner. This step-by-step approach ensures you’re prepared to handle real-life situations with confidence.

We train with a wide range of weapons, starting with the shuriken (throwing stars), three-foot staff or cane, knife, and edged weapons like swords. Other tools include the kusari fundo (weighted chain), six-foot staff, spears, and even unconventional items like ropes or clubs.

Ninpo Taijutsu is a physical martial art passed down through generations of trial and error, often associated with the Ninja, or Shinobi, of Japan. The art was shaped by nine different schools, each with its own focus on weapons, tactics, and philosophy. Today, we organize this vast knowledge using the Godai, or five elemental intentions—Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, and Void—each representing a different way of moving and thinking.

At the heart of Ninpo Taijutsu is the concept of Ninpo Ikkan, which embodies the idea of enduring and excelling in all aspects of life. Our goal is not just to win in competition, but to constantly improve and help our training partners grow alongside us.

May you find the Treasure of Nin.

Ninpo Ikkan—Keep Going Excellently!