Ninjutsu Vs. Wrestling

Wrestling and ninjutsu are both martial arts. In that way, they are similar. In most other ways, the differences between these styles of fighting outweigh the similarities. Each has its own signature moves, underlying philosophy and framework. The best choice for you will depend on your needs, preferences and reason for wanting to learn a martial art.

History

Ninjutsu is a martial art from Japan, practiced by a sect of scouts and assassins during their feudal "Warring States" period. Its roots are in guerrilla warfare, in many ways similar to the training received by modern special forces soldiers. Wrestling is a sporting event dating back at least to competitions in ancient Greece. For thousands of years, it has evolved primarily as an athletic contest.

Purpose

The purpose of wrestling training is to win a match with clearly defined rules. This leads to a specialized form of training centering around a small variety of techniques with a limited range of applications. Ninjutsu is a combat art based on battlefield techniques used in actual warfare. It consists of a wider variety of techniques, to be applied in a broader selection of applications.

Techniques

Wrestling techniques include takedowns, escapes, reversals and pinning combinations. These techniques are each intended to achieve a specific condition that scores points or wins matches. Ninjutsu practitioners use kicks, punches, joint locks, throws, rolls and weapons to achieve their combative goals. Depending on the technique, the intent can range from distracting an opponent to achieving pain compliance to maiming or killing an enemy.

Effectiveness

Combative effectiveness is an important factor for many people considering a martial art. In terms of training techniques, ninjutsu teaches more moves that have direct application to a self-defense scenario. However, ninjutsu practitioners spend considerably less time in competitive or contact practice. Wrestlers are more likely to be better conditioned and more accustomed to the impact and pain of an altercation. The one that prepares you better for a life-or-death situation will depend on what attributes you need to develop.

Esoterica

In martial arts, esoterica refers to the noncombat aspects of a style's training methods. For example, ninjutsu training often includes study of stealth, psychology, ethics, history and even improvised munitions. Wrestling contains very little esoterica outside of fitness training and strategy that applies directly to the sport.