
Look past the legends & learn about the REAL ninjas of feudal Japan with this entertaining, illustrated ninjutsu guide. Ninjutsu, the least understood of the Japanese martial arts, is an ancient fighting style emphasising natural movement, responsiveness to adversaries, & absolute practicality. In feudal Japan, ninja were feared for their skill in espionage &, particularly, assassination. Masters of weaponry, stealth, & martial techniques, ninja were credited with supernatural powers because of the near-invincibility of their unique & deadly art. In The Ninja & Their Secret Fighting Art, Black Belt Hall of Fame member, Stephen K. Hayes, reveals the secrets that lead to the perception of the ninja as warriors of almost sorcerous skill the art of invisibility, special tools & weapons, & psychological training enabling the ninja to gain advantage in any situation. Chapters include: Perspective Origin; Organization; Training; At the Height of Power; The Decline; Ninjutsu in the Modern World Search for the Ninja Unarmed Combat The Ninja Fists; Fighting Postures; Other Factors Weaponry Chains & Cords; Sticks & Staffs; Canes with Concealed Weapons; The Ninja Sword; Throwing Blades The Way of Invisibility Sense Deception; Phantom Steps; Reconnaissance; Blending with the Night; Attacking the Eyes; The Art of Disguise Shadow Warriors Espionage; Commando Tactics The Realm of the Spirit Psychological Warfare; The Force of the Killer; The Great Harmony