The Elite Training Centers main martial arts curriculum is To-Shin Do also known as modern Ninjutsu as created by the first American to study and bring the art of the legendary Ninja to the Western world; Stephen K. Hayes. The skills taught in To-Shin Do are very comprehensive in nature, covering a wide variety of techniques that are both practical and effective. The techniques that make up the core of the training method are based on an ancient and well-tested system of warrior disciplines handed down by nine historical Japanese lineages. However the training is built around a very modern approach to handling successfully the kinds of threats and confrontations that are faced in our own contemporary culture. From the very first lesson, students learn methods that they can use right away, regardless of their physical condition or any prior martial arts experience.

The Elite Training Center teaches both the Modern and Classical training forms of the To-Shin Do system.

In the Modern training, students learn methods of defense against:

Grappling, throwing, choking, and joint-locking
Striking, kicking, and punching
Stick, blade, cord, and projectile weapons
Successfully handling multiple assailants and surprise attacks
Overcoming psychological intimidation or bullying

In the Traditional Japanese training, students learn:

Go-Shin Bo Taijutsu – Unarmed combat
Ninpo Taijutsu – Unarmed combat
Kenjutsu – Long and short sword
Bojutsu – 6 ft. Staff
Han-Bo-Jutsu – Short staff and cane
Tanto-Jutsu – Knife
Kusari-Fundo – Chain and rope arts
Shuriken-Jutsu – Projectile weapons
Ukemi – Receiving and break fall skills
Randori – Multiple attackers
Newaza – Ground fighting

Students have the opportunity to learn and become proficient in one or several of the previous areas of specialized study.

What does To-Shin Do stand for?

To - the sword

From the nin-po combat methods of the legendary ninja phantom warriors born of Mt. Togakure and cultivated in the wooded mountains and marshes of Iga comes the core of our physical protection techniques and strategies. To-Shin Do martial arts practice is a great way to reduce stress and increase strength, endurance, and flexibility, while fostering a sense of peace, security, and control in life.

Shin - the focused spirit of intention

From the rigorous kuji intention-channeling training of the shugenja of Mt. Yoshino comes the essence of our program for the discovery and development of the nine key qualities that characterize a fully actualized human being. We can achieve a more focused and disciplined understanding of the cause and effect dynamics that lead to success and fulfillment in life.

Do - the path to mastery

From the originally Himalayan esoteric mikkyo vajrayana mind and spirit sciences of Mt. Hiei comes the technique of cultivating our unlimited physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual potentials. We can learn skillful ways to transform the inner and outer challenges of life into success, and ultimately come to grips with the question of how to experience directly the significance of life itself.