Each martial art has its own unique techniques, skills, and strategies. Within the art of ninjutsu – the art of the ninja, self-protection methods are known as ninpo-taijutsu.

This article describes the 16 “fists” or “body weapons” of the shinobi warrior. After reading this list, you’ll have a much better idea of ​​why the ninja is at the top of the martial arts “food chain.” But remember, this list is only the beginning of what a true ninja is capable of using to defend himself or others!

Each of these fists is a “perfect fit” for different targets on the opponent’s body. While some are general purpose weapons, others have very specific uses and applications to maximize damage and create the best results.

The Ninja Juroppo-ken (“16 Ninja Fists/Body Weapons)

1. Kikaku-ken (aka Zutski) Headbutt

2. Fudo-ken (also known as Nio-ken or Kongo-ken) “Immovable (Clenched) Fist”

3. Shikan-ken ‘4 Ring Fist’

4. Boshi-ken (also known as Shito-ken) Hand-operated fist (refers to the piercing end of a blade)

5. Shako-ken Palm-strike/claw-hand fist

6. Kiten-ken (also known as Shuto) Knife-hand

7. Shitan-ken Finger-spear/thumb-grip

8. Happa-ken “8 leaves” Open hand (slap)

9. Koppo-ken “Bone Method Fist” Thumb-Knuckle Fist

10. Shishin-ken “finger needle” fist

11. Shuki-ken ‘Elbow-gun’ (Elbow and forearm)

12. Sokki-ken Knee and Shin

13. Sokuyaku-ken Heel of the foot

14. Sokugyaku-ken Ball of Foot and Toes

15. Shizen-ken “Natural Weapons” (basically anything not on the list!)

16. Taiken “Body as a weapon”

This is the list that is presented to beginning students in the early stages of their training in the art of Ninjutsu. Of course, each of the 9 martial lineages that make up the ninpo-taijutsu of the Bujinkan Dojo brings other special fists. These are found in the “shizen-ken” list or added to the previous list.

The goal of the training is for the ninja student to learn to focus on options, rather than set techniques. He or she also focuses on precision and matching the right tool or weapon to the target to maximize power and damage with every blow to the body of their opponent.