Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Training with Bobby Calvert AKA Ninja Bob & The Black Scorpion Ninjutsu Society:
Starting a martial arts journey is exciting, but it’s completely normal to have a dozen questions before you even step into class. Whether you’re looking for fitness, self-defense, or a new hobby, this page covers the most common concerns for beginners.
Do I need to be in shape before I start classes?
Absolutely not. This is the most common myth! You don’t get in shape to do martial arts; you do martial arts to get in shape. Classes are designed to build your cardio, flexibility, and strength gradually.
Am I too old to start training?
Martial arts is for everyone. Most schools have students ranging from age 4 to 74. While your goals might differ from a 20-year-old’s, the benefits of balance, mobility, and mental sharpness apply to every age.
What gear do I need for my first day?
Usually, just comfortable clothes (no zippers or buttons) and a water bottle. If you stick with it, you’ll eventually need a uniform (Gi), hand wraps, or gloves depending on the style.
Do I have to compete in tournaments?
No. While many schools offer the opportunity to compete, the vast majority of students train for personal growth, fitness, and fun without ever stepping into a competitive ring.
Will I learn how to use my hands effectively?
Yes. Under Ninja Bob’s guidance, you will learn "functional" punching. This means hitting with precision, using the knuckles correctly, and understanding how to generate power from the hips. It is "Boxing for the Street" rather than "Boxing for the Ring."
Do you use boxing equipment?
As a modern Ninjutsu dojo, we utilize heavy bags, focus mitts, and Thai pads to build the same explosive power and cardio that boxers have, but the application is focused on self-defense.
How long does it take to get a Black Belt?
On average, it takes 3 to 5 years of consistent training in arts like Karate or Taekwondo. In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, it often takes 10 years or more. Remember, a black belt doesn’t mean you’re a "master"—it usually means you’ve mastered the basics and are now ready to truly begin learning.
Why is the "Rising Sun" included on the membership patch?
The Rising Sun honors the Japanese roots of the Ninjutsu lineage. It symbolizes energy, vitality, and a new beginning. In our Society, it represents the light of knowledge and the "awakening" of the student as they progress through the ranks of the system.
What exactly is "Black Scorpion Ninjutsu"?
This style is a modern evolution of Ninjutsu. While it draws from traditional Japanese lineages, Ninja Bob’s approach often emphasizes practicality and adaptability. It covers the "18 Skills" (Ninja Juhakkei), which include striking, grappling, weaponry, and psychological tactics.
Who is Bobby Calvert (Ninja Bob)?
Bobby Calvert is a veteran martial artist known for his "no-nonsense" approach to Ninjutsu. He is the founder of the Black Scorpion Ninjutsu Society and has spent decades distilling complex ancient techniques into methods that work for modern self-defense. He is known for an accessible, community-focused teaching style.
Is this just about "hiding in the shadows"?
Not at all. While Ninjutsu historically involves stealth, modern training focuses on situational awareness, evasion, and ending a conflict as quickly as possible. You will learn how to use your environment, stay off the "tracks" of an attacker, and maintain a "ninja mindset" (resilience and focus) in daily life.
Do we use weapons in class?
Yes. Ninjutsu is famous for its tools. You will likely be introduced to the Bokken (wooden sword), Hanbo (3-foot staff), and eventually specialized tools like the Kunai or Shuriken. For beginners, training usually starts with "dummy" versions for safety.
Is there a heavy focus on "Katana" (Sword) work?
While sword work is part of the tradition, the Black Scorpion curriculum prioritizes tai-jutsu (unarmed body movement) first. The philosophy is that if you cannot move your own body effectively, you cannot use a weapon effectively.
How does Muay Thai & Ninjutsu work together?
Think of Muay Thai as your delivery system for power and Ninjutsu as your strategic toolkit. Muay Thai gives you the ability to end a fight with a single leg kick or knee, while Ninjutsu teaches you how to disappear, use the environment, or apply a joint lock if the fight goes to the ground.
Why does a Ninjutsu society teach Muay Thai?
Because Ninjutsu is about using whatever works. Muay Thai is globally recognized as one of the most effective striking arts. By teaching it, Ninja Bob ensures that Black Scorpion students have the "engine" of a high-level striker combined with the "tactics" of a Ninja.
What is the significance of the "Black Scorpion" name?
In many martial traditions, the scorpion represents a small but formidable opponent that waits for the right moment to strike with precision. It symbolizes the Ninjutsu philosophy of using a smaller force to overcome a larger, more aggressive one.
What is the "Ninja Mindset" regarding survival?
It is called Fudoshin (The Immovable Mind). It means staying calm when everyone else is panicking. Whether you are lost in the woods or stuck in an elevator, we teach you how to control your breathing, assess your situation, and take decisive action.
Will I become more flexible?
Flexibility is a requirement for Ninjutsu. We use "Dynamic Stretching" to ensure you have the range of motion for high kicks, low rolls, and escaping joint locks. You don't need to be able to do the splits on day one, but you will notice your mobility improving within weeks.
What is the meaning of the "Nin" kanji & Why is it part of the Membership patch?
This is the heart of Ninjutsu. The character is made of two parts: a "blade" over a "heart." It translates to endurance, perseverance, and heart under the blade. Under Ninja Bob, this reminds students that a warrior must remain calm and keep their heart steady even in the face of danger.
Can martial arts help with mental health and stress?
This is one of the biggest fitness benefits. Hitting the pads is an incredible stress reliever. Furthermore, the Survival Skills and Mindfulness taught in the Black Scorpion curriculum help lower cortisol levels and build "Mental Fitness," allowing you to stay calm during a stressful workday or a survival emergency.
What is "Urban Survival" in a Ninjutsu context?
It is the art of navigating and surviving modern environments. This includes situational awareness (spotting threats before they happen), understanding "escapology" (getting out of restraints like zip-ties or duct tape), and knowing how to find exits and resources in a chaotic city environment.
Why is survival training part of a martial arts society?
Because a warrior who can fight but cannot find clean water or stay warm is not a complete warrior. Ninja Bob teaches that "The Art of the Ninja" is 10% fighting and 90% staying alive. Survival training builds the mental toughness and resourcefulness that makes your Ninjutsu and Muay Thai even more effective.
Are there outdoor "Survival Camps" or seminars?
The Black Scorpion Society often takes training "off the mat." We host specialized workshops in the woods where you can test your skills in real-time—practicing stealth movement through brush, tracking, and overnight survival.
On your patch, what does the Scorpion silhouette signify against the sun?
The silhouette represents the shadow warrior. While the sun is bright and visible, the scorpion is a dark, focused shape within it. It symbolizes the ability to operate "within the light" but remain a dangerous, tactical mystery to an opponent.
"Nature doesn't care about your belt rank."
Ninja Bob emphasizes that survival is about adaptability. In the gym, we train the body; in the wilderness, we train the spirit. By the end of this training, you won't just know how to throw a punch—you'll know how to sustain a life.
"It’s better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war."
Training with the Black Scorpion Society is often described as a brotherhood/sisterhood. The focus isn't just on physical prowess, but on developing the "Ninja Heart"—the endurance to persevere through any obstacle.
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