Differences Between Taekwondo Vs. Ninjutsu

Both taekwondo and ninjutsu can be described as well-aged disciplines, both in terms of the length of time they've existed and the sophistication and nuances of each practice. They are, however, quite different from one another in many respects, including origins, purpose, mechanics and the level of fitness required for their proper execution.

Origins

Taekwondo is fundamentally a Korean martial art form, one that the World Taekwondo Federation states has evolved over the 5,000-year history of Korea itself. Ninjutsu, around 800 years old, is an entirely Japanese art form that has historically been linked to the culture that produced ninja warfare. Each discipline reflects the values of its parent culture in both philosophy and movement.

Physicality and Mechanics

Taekwondo is a highly developed fighting system that relies on high-power punches and, above all, kicks. The word taekwondo translates in English to the "art of the hand and foot."

Ninjutsu -- rather than being a singular, completely coherent system -- is a compilation of skill sets. It incorporates fighting skills from homegrown Japanese systems like judo and jujitsu while, at the same time, emphasizing skills of weapons use, stealth and concealment, as you might expect from the adaptable, secretive and deadly ninja. Also influenced by judo and jujitsu, ninjutsu places greater emphasis on grappling, throws, chokes, joint manipulation and pressure point use than is generally present in taekwondo.

Fitness

Taekwondo is an often intense, dynamic and explosive art. It typically requires high anaerobic and aerobic performance as well as advanced flexibility and muscle power. Karate as used in ninjutsu has similar requirements, while jujitsu requires moderate or even low levels of each. Judo finds more of a middle ground with higher requirements for muscle strength, aerobic and anaerobic capacity, and muscle power but lower demands for flexibility.

Competitive Characteristics

Taekwondo tournaments worldwide use stringent rules for competition; it also has a contemporary presence as an official Olympic event. This is not the case with ninjutsu. Both follow similar systems for belt positions and advancement. Instead of tournament competition, ninjutsu features instructional and cooperative seminars where practitioners share techniques.