In 1999 I began my study of Togakure Ryu Ninjutsu. For those unfamiliar with the Bujinkan, it is an association run by Masaaki Hatsumi for the preservation of traditional ninja martial arts.  The system includes a variety of categories of study, including traditional striking techniques, grappling, various weapons, and other more esoteric skill sets.  The “look” or “feel” of traditional Ninjutsu is intentionally difficult to describe.  At times it mimics the movement styles of traditional Samurai arts, occasionally it looks similar to Okinawan karate forms, and from time to time it bears a strong resemblance to movements found in traditional kung-fu styles.  More often than not, Ninjutsu is meant to be use as part of an economy of energy, which means that adherents use minimal movement combined with physics for maximum effect.