Summary

A detailed model helps locate problems, isolate them and focus on their solution. One of the main problems, unnecessary injuries, can be located at every level and fixed. Recognizing causes of injury is the first step to diminishing injuries as a result of body misuse, advancing too fast and misconfiguration of the progress target.

The Methodical Pyramid aims to facilitate not only safe, target oriented, progress but also communication amongst planners. Agreement is not a prerequisite—the progress model is open to criticism, but mutual understanding is needed in order to avoid mistakes made by others in the past. If one realizes the inevitable necessity of proper basic preparation, then it is no longer important whether preparation is geared for Ninjutsu or for other activity.

Understanding the benefit of Kata practice, it no longer matters whether these are individually-executed or partner-synchronized. And most importantly, in our specific field, if the difference between sparring and real fighting is understood, training addresses violent reality but without bringing its chaotic, uncontrolled, face into the place where the method is practiced.