I am always on the lookout for books that teach honestly,
truthfully and effectively. They have often been hard to find. Stephen K. Hayes is well known in the Ninjutsu
community and in the martial arts field and has numerous books and videos on
Ninjutsu. I have read most of his books and seen several of his dvds. I like Mr. Hayes approach and teaching
methods. His coaching skills are excellent and very professional. Most
importantly any good coach or instructor has to have the ability to communicate
with his students and get his points across.
There are many things to like about this book. Besides the
clear instructions and the color photos showing each technique, this book also
includes an excellent (almost 70 minutes) DVD which reinforces the techniques
and tactics explained in the book. The
book and Dvd set approaches the subject of self-defense in a unique and
interesting way. Mr. Hayes has created a simple and effective method for the
average person to avoid trouble and defend themselves in numerous situations by
applying traditional principles of ninjutsu to the possible conflicts we may
find ourselves in today’s world.
“The Ninja Defense” covers preparation for real threats and
not just from a physical aspect but from a mental and psychological aspects as
well , making the choice to fight, winning mentality, how danger
escalates. Also defense postures, five phases of the fight,
forward strikes and kicks, front arm captures and restraints, front body holds
and restraints, captures and restraints from behind.
Mr. Hayes is open and honest that this is level one training
or a beginner level and that there is more, much more to learn. I believe this to be for anyone interested in
learning a simple and effective self-defense method but also for the serious
martial artist.
The material on the DVD ties in directly with what you're
reading in the book and brings it to life. The DVD shows each technique
numerous times and again the instruction by Mr. Hayes and his instructors are
clear and concise. The teaching and coaching style again is excellent I see a
lot of positive reinforcement which makes for a more productive presentation of
his modern ninjutsu applications.
The last chapter deals with why the ninja approach may in
our day and time be better than the samurai approach. Ninjutsu has very little
to do with proving yourself the toughest guy on the block at every chance. Mr. Hayes applies traditional ninjutsu to
modern self defense as well as takes into account things like the laws we live
under. The Ninja Defense by Stephen
Hayes book and DVD is full of quality
information and quality instruction and for the price is an absolute steal.
