Ninjutsu vs Aikido

Aikido and Ninjutsu are both traditional Japanese martial arts with unique philosophies and techniques. Aikido focuses on using an opponent’s energy against them, while Ninjutsu emphasizes stealth, espionage, and unconventional warfare tactics.

General information

Ninjutsu
Aikido
Introduction :
Ninjutsu is a traditional Japanese martial art focused on stealth, espionage, and unconventional warfare techniques. It emphasizes adaptability and using the environment to gain an advantage over opponents. With a rich history dating back centuries, Ninjutsu is often used for self-defense and personal development. While not as widely practiced as some other martial arts, it has a dedicated following of practitioners who appreciate its unique techniques and philosophies.
Introduction :
Aikido is a Japanese martial art that focuses on using an opponent's energy and movements against them, rather than relying on brute force. It emphasizes blending with an attacker's movements and redirecting their force to neutralize the threat. Aikido is known for its circular and flowing techniques, making it a popular choice for self-defense and personal development. It is also practiced for its physical and mental health benefits, promoting flexibility, balance, and mindfulness.
Advantages :
  • Ninjutsu emphasizes stealth and deception techniques, giving practitioners an edge in surprise attacks and self-defense scenarios.
  • The art includes a wide range of combat techniques, from strikes and throws to joint locks and weapon use, providing versatility in combat situations.
  • Ninjutsu training focuses on developing mental discipline and awareness, enhancing overall mindfulness and self-control.
  • Practitioners learn to adapt to various environments and use everyday objects as weapons, making them resourceful in real-life confrontations.
  • Ninjutsu’s emphasis on strategy and tactics allows practitioners to outsmart opponents and gain an advantage in combat situations.
Advantages :
  • Aikido focuses on redirecting an opponent’s energy, making it effective for self-defense without causing harm.
  • Aikido techniques emphasize joint locks and throws, providing practical skills for real-life situations.
  • Aikido promotes mental and physical balance, improving overall well-being.
  • Aikido training enhances flexibility, coordination, and agility.
  • Aikido emphasizes harmony and non-violent conflict resolution.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited emphasis on striking techniques
  • Lack of competitive sport aspect
  • Limited availability of qualified instructors
  • Emphasis on secrecy and tradition may hinder practical application
  • Requires extensive training and dedication to master
Disadvantages :
  • Limited focus on striking techniques
  • Less competitive opportunities compared to other martial arts
  • Requires significant time and dedication to see progress
  • Emphasis on joint locks and throws may not be practical in all self-defense situations
  • Limited availability of Aikido schools in some areas
🟡 Popularity : Somewhat.
Ninjutsu is somewhat popular, with a dedicated following of practitioners worldwide. It may not be as mainstream as other martial arts but has a strong presence in certain regions and among enthusiasts.
🟡 Popularity : Somewhat.
Aikido is moderately popular worldwide, with a dedicated following in many countries. It may not be as mainstream as some other martial arts, but it has a strong presence in the martial arts community.


General application

Ninjutsu
Aikido
🟡 Difficulty : Average.
Getting started in Ninjutsu requires dedication and patience. Basic techniques can be learned relatively quickly, but mastering the art and its various skills and strategies can be challenging.
🟡 Difficulty : Average.
Getting started in Aikido requires dedication to learning the techniques and principles. While some basics can be learned quickly, mastering the art takes time and consistent practice. Physical fitness and flexibility are beneficial.
🟢 Self defense : Good.
Ninjutsu can be effective for self defense on the street due to its focus on practical techniques such as strikes, joint locks, and throws. Its emphasis on stealth and deception can also be advantageous in real-world situations.
🟡 Self defense : Average.
Aikido can be effective for self-defense on the street due to its focus on redirecting an opponent's energy. However, its lack of striking techniques and emphasis on joint locks may not always be practical in real-world situations.
🟢 Fitness : Good.
Ninjutsu is a good way to keep fit, with high levels of exertion and focus on flexibility, agility, and strength. Training involves a variety of movements that can improve overall fitness levels.
🟢 Fitness : Good.
Aikido is a good way to keep fit as it involves dynamic movements, joint locks, and throws that require strength, flexibility, and endurance. It provides a full-body workout and can improve overall fitness levels.
🟡 Competitions : Average.
Ninjutsu competitions exist but are not as widespread or organized as other martial arts. They vary in format and rules depending on the organization hosting the event, making it somewhat challenging for consistent competition.
🟢 Competitions : Good.
Aikido has a variety of accessible sporting competitions at different levels, organized by various awarding bodies. Competitions provide opportunities for practitioners to test their skills and progress in the art.


Techniques

Ninjutsu
Aikido
🟡 Punching : Average.
Ninjutsu focuses more on stealth, evasion, and weapon use rather than punching techniques. While some schools may incorporate basic punching strikes, it is not the primary emphasis of the art.
🟡 Punching : Average.
Aikido is not primarily focused on punching techniques, but some schools may incorporate basic punching drills. However, compared to other martial arts like boxing or karate, Aikido's punching techniques may be considered average in effectiveness.
🟢 Elbowing : Good.
Ninjutsu incorporates a range of striking techniques, including punches, that are effective in combat situations. The use of elbows and combinations enhances the power and versatility of punches in Ninjutsu.
🟡 Elbowing : Average.
Aikido is not primarily focused on punching techniques, but it does incorporate some striking movements using open-hand strikes and combinations of elbows. It is more known for joint locks and throws.
🟡 Kneeing : Average.
Ninjutsu is known for its diverse range of striking techniques, including punches. While it incorporates punches in its arsenal, it may not specialize in them compared to other martial arts specifically focused on punching techniques.
⚪ Kneeing : Unknown.
Aikido focuses more on joint locks and throws rather than punching techniques. While some schools may incorporate striking, it is not a primary focus. The effectiveness of Aikido for punching may vary depending on the instructor and school.
🟢 Kicking : Good.
Ninjutsu incorporates a variety of kicks, including low kicks, high kicks, and spinning kicks. Practitioners are trained in precise targeting and powerful strikes, making kicking an effective aspect of this martial art.
🔴 Kicking : Poor.
Aikido is not known for its kicking techniques. While some basic kicks may be incorporated, the art primarily focuses on joint locks, throws, and pins rather than extensive kicking techniques.
🟢 Throwing : Good.
Ninjutsu is good for throws as it incorporates a wide range of throwing techniques, including joint locks and takedowns. The art emphasizes stealth and efficiency, making its throws effective in close combat scenarios.
🟢 Throwing : Good.
Aikido is known for its extensive range of throws, including joint locks and pins. It emphasizes blending with an attacker's energy to execute throws effectively. Aikido practitioners often combine throws with strikes for self-defense.
🟢 Joint locks : Good.
Ninjutsu incorporates a wide range of joint locks and holds, making it effective for controlling opponents and manipulating their joints. Its emphasis on stealth and deception adds to the effectiveness of these techniques.
🟢 Joint locks : Good.
Aikido is known for its extensive range of joint locks and holds, making it effective for controlling opponents through manipulation of their joints. It emphasizes fluid movements and leverage for effective joint techniques.
🟡 Grappling : Average.
Ninjutsu can be effective for ground fighting due to its range of techniques and emphasis on adaptability. However, it may not have as strong of a focus on ground fighting as other martial arts specifically designed for that purpose.
🟡 Grappling : Average.
While Aikido does incorporate some ground fighting techniques, it is not the primary focus of the martial art. It may be effective in certain situations, but other disciplines may offer more comprehensive training in ground fighting.
🟢 Defense : Good.
Ninjutsu is known for its range of effective blocking and defense techniques, including strikes, locks, and evasive maneuvers. It emphasizes quick reflexes and adaptability, making it a strong choice for defense in martial arts.
🟢 Defense : Good.
Aikido is known for its effective range of blocks and defense techniques, utilizing circular movements and joint locks to neutralize attacks. The combination of techniques makes it a strong choice for defense in martial arts.


Ultimately, the choice between Aikido and Ninjutsu depends on individual preferences and goals. If you seek a more harmonious and defensive approach to self-defense, Aikido may be the right choice. On the other hand, if you are interested in a more versatile and strategic combat system, Ninjutsu could be the better option. Consider your objectives and training style before making a decision.