When you hear the word “Ninja,” an image of a traditional Japanese spy or a bit of an action hero comes to mind.
They are known for their unique skills and covert actions and have appeared in many stories throughout history.
Meanwhile, the modern sport of parkour is gaining attention for its dynamic movements in urban environments.
In this issue, we will explore the similarities and differences between ninja and parkour, focusing on the history and actual movements!
Ninja acrobatics and their purpose
Ninjas were active mainly during the Warring States period (15th-16th centuries).
They required advanced physical skills to carry out special missions such as infiltrating enemy positions, reconnaissance, and escape.
Their movement developed based on specific objectives.
- Wall-climbing skills
The ninja had a technique for quickly climbing vertical walls and cliffs. This skill is similar to the “wall run” (the movement of running up a wall) seen in modern parkour. - Leaping skills
Ninja training also included the art of leaping, which involved jumping over large ditches and moving quickly to higher ground. These skills were essential for staying undetected by the enemy. - Covert operations
The ninja had the art of moving low and quietly so as not to be noticed by their enemies. These movements are similar to the skills of movements while maintaining a low center of gravity in parkour.
These skills of the ninja were practical and truly the key to successful missions.
These skills were acquired through steady training.
The origins of parkour and its philosophy
Parkour is a sport that developed in France in the late 1980s and 1990s.
One of its founders, David Bell, was influenced by the military training and nature-based training philosophies his father learned during the Vietnam War.
And parkour has several important characteristics.
- Efficient Movement
The purpose of parkour is to reach your destination in the shortest distance possible. The movements to efficiently overcome obstacles such as walls and railings are similar to the practical movements of the ninja. - Simplicity without using tools
In parkour, movements are performed with our physical, without using tools. This contrasts with the ninja’s use of hooked ropes and other tools. - Overcoming Fear
Mental strength is required to overcome fear when jumping over high places or passing through narrow spaces. In this respect, it also shares the ninja’s ability to remain calm and assess the situation.
Parkour is a sport that not only trains physical skills but also mentality.
Similarities and differences between ninja and parkour
Similarity
Ninja and parkour have a surprising number of similarities.
- Physical Techniques
Running up walls, maintaining balance, moving through tight spaces, and utilizing leaps to overcome obstacles are some of the basic skills shared by both movements. - Mental Concentration
During their missions, ninjas had to calmly assess the situation and choose the best course of action. Similarly, parkour athletes also concentrate and make split-second decisions.
Differences
On the other hand, some differences exist between ninja and parkour.
- Differences in Purpose
The main purpose of ninja movements was for concealment and survival. Parkour, on the other hand, is aimed at self-expression and physical performance. - With or without tools
The ninja utilized tools such as grappling ropes and rope ladders, but in parcours, tools are not used.
Ninja and parkour techniques utilized in modern life
The movements and spirit of the ninja and parkour are still being used today in many different fields.
For example, in action scenes in movies and television, the covert movements of the ninja are combined with the dynamic movements of parkour to captivate audiences.
Ninja training methods can also be applied to modern fitness, and they help to build a healthy body by developing flexibility, balance, and agility.
By incorporating parkour, you can learn how to use your body in ways that are useful in everyday life.
The possibilities offered by ninja and parkour skills
Ninja and parkour are physical skills that, although born in different eras, share a surprising number of similarities. Both focus not only on the beauty and efficiency of movement but also on the training of the mind.
Knowing the history of the ninja further deepens the appeal of parkour, and vice versa. By learning about our ninja heritage and the spirit of parkour, we can train our bodies and minds to become freer and stronger in the modern world.
It might be interesting to incorporate such techniques into our daily lives for a little bit!