It differs from international boxing because in addition to punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes are permitted. Fights are preceded by prayers. It has changed little from ancient times except that gloves were introduced about 50 years ago in lieu of horsehide straps and hemp sometimes dipped in resin and glass. That being said, there are women's kickboxing classes popping up everywhere that may be more suited to the feminine form. It was utilized by military spies in feudal Japan and is considered an alternative to direct combat.
Ninjas rely on calculation, stealth and trickery over brute strength to achieve their goals.
Ninjas receive training in many different fields including armed and unarmed combat, manufacture of poisons and explosives, wilderness survival methods, geography, meteorology, medicine, concealment tactics, and infiltration skills. The weapons of the ninja are among the most deadly and tricky to use. The throwing star is outlawed in many U. S. states. They can be used to entangle a blade or staff and disarm an attacker. Poison darts could be carried in the mouth to kill at close range or shot with a blowgun.