What are Bujinkan Martial Arts?

Bujinkan can be translated into English as "Divine Warrior Training Hall".

The Bujinkan is the organization led by it's founder Masaaki Hatsumi, in Noda, Japan.

The Bujinkan system is comprised of 9 separate schools of traditional Japanese martial arts.

Each school posses it's own nuances and subtleties that are taught through a instructional framework known as "Kata". 

Kata

From Wikipedia:

"A Japanese word describing detailed choreographed patterns of movements practiced either solo or in pairs. 

Kata originally were teaching and training methods by which successful combat techniques were preserved and passed on. Practicing kata allowed a company of persons to engage in a struggle using a systematic approach, rather than as individuals in a disorderly manner.

The basic goal of kata is to preserve and transmit proven techniques and to practice self-defense. By practicing in a repetitive manner the learner develops the ability to execute those techniques and movements in a natural, reflex-like manner. Systematic practice does not mean permanently rigid. The goal is to internalize the movements and techniques of a kata so they can be executed and adapted under different circumstances, without thought or hesitation. A novice’s actions will look uneven and difficult, while a master’s appear simple and smooth."

Supplemental to Kata training is the development of what is called "Budo Taijutsu" or simply "Taijutsu".

Taijutsu

The word itself is vague. It translates to "body skill". But that is where the simplicity ends.

In Bujinkan training, development of one's Taijutsu is considered the ultimate aim. Taijutsu is a skill developed after extensive study and practice of foundational movements and Kata. The student's task is to take the tactics, strategies and concepts learned through Kata practice and internalize them subconsciously. They will naturally or spontaneously occur without conscious thought or intention. At it's highest level, this imbues the student with sense of freedom, allowing him or her to respond to conflict with relative ease. 

Thus we have the saying, "Ten thousand changes, no surprises".

Joe Peak- Shidoshi, 9th Dan

Joe Peak holds a Shidoshi License. "Shidoshi", translates to "Teacher of the Warrior Ways".

Practically speaking, it grants the privilege to hold classes and instruct students.

Joe has been training for 10+ years and has made numerous trips (6 and counting) to Japan to study at the source of Bujinkan Martial Arts.