This summer, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure with my kids, one that will forever hold a special place in our memories: Ninja training. Yes, you read that right. It wasn’t just a fun summer camp or a casual activity to pass the time. It was a full-blown ninja experience, and I was right there alongside my kids, learning, growing, and sneaking around like we were characters in a martial arts movie. Let me tell you, this summer was anything but ordinary.
It all started with a simple conversation during dinner. My son, who’s obsessed with all things martial arts, asked, “Dad, do you think you could be a ninja?” It was an innocent question, but before I knew it, my wife was grinning, and my daughter was chiming in with ideas about how we could “train” together. I laughed it off at first, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized how fun this could actually be. Why not embrace something out of the ordinary and create some amazing memories in the process? So, I signed us up for a local ninja-themed summer program. What followed was an incredible journey full of life lessons, laughter, and a few sore muscles.
Day One: The Art of Balance
Our training began with balance exercises. It sounded simple enough, but I quickly learned that standing on one foot for an extended period isn’t as easy as it looks—especially when you’re trying to copy a calm, experienced instructor while your kids giggle at your every wobble.
Balance wasn’t just physical, though. As the instructor explained, ninjas need mental balance too. He taught us how to focus on our breathing and clear our minds before each activity. Watching my kids sit cross-legged and practice mindfulness was surprisingly moving. It’s not something we do often in our busy lives, but it set the tone for what this experience was all about—being present and connected, both physically and mentally.
The Stealth Challenge
Next on the agenda was mastering the art of stealth. We were taught how to move quietly and avoid detection. The kids were naturals, sneaking around like little shadows, while I felt more like a stomping elephant trying to tiptoe through a room full of bubble wrap.
One of the more entertaining parts of stealth training involved an obstacle course. We had to crawl, duck, and hide behind objects without being spotted by the instructor, who acted as a guard. My daughter was quick to tease me for getting “caught” more times than anyone else, but I didn’t mind; her delight made it all worth it. By the end of the session, I’d learned to appreciate just how much focus and precision goes into every step a ninja takes.
Strength and Agility (AKA Dad vs. Gravity)
As the sessions progressed, we moved on to strength and agility training. Think climbing ropes, swinging from monkey bars, and jumping across foam “rooftops” without falling. My kids were in their element, scaling obstacles like pros. As for me? Let’s just say gravity and I had a few disagreements.
There was one moment where I attempted a particularly tricky jump. I missed, landing in a not-so-graceful heap on the mat. My son ran over, helping me up with a grin. “Nice try, Dad,” he said, and I couldn’t help but laugh. Despite my less-than-stellar athleticism, it felt good to be out of my comfort zone, trying something new and challenging. My kids’ encouragement was all the motivation I needed to keep going.
Ninja Tools (And a Lesson in Discipline)
No ninja training would be complete without tools. We got to practice throwing foam shurikens—those iconic ninja stars—and wielding wooden katana swords. My kids were thrilled, channeling their favorite action heroes as they practiced their moves.
But this wasn’t just about playing with cool weapons. The instructor emphasized the importance of discipline and respect. He explained that ninjas only use their skills for good, never for harm. It was a powerful reminder, especially for my kids, about responsibility and self-control. Seeing them take this lesson seriously made me incredibly proud as a dad.
The Night Mission
One of the highlights of the program was the night mission. We arrived at the training center after sunset, dressed in all black, ready to put our skills to the test. The goal? Work as a team to retrieve a “sacred scroll” hidden somewhere on the grounds without getting caught by the instructors, who were patrolling the area.
It was exhilarating. We moved in silence, using hand signals to communicate and ducking into the shadows whenever we spotted an “enemy.” At one point, my daughter led us through a particularly tricky part of the course, her confidence shining as she guided us to safety. When we finally found the scroll and completed the mission, we celebrated with whispered cheers and high-fives.
For me, this activity was about more than just sneaking around in the dark. It was a chance to bond with my kids in a way that felt adventurous and unique. Watching them work together and apply everything they’d learned was incredibly rewarding.
Lessons Beyond the Training
By the end of the program, we weren’t just more agile or better at sneaking around. We had gained so much more. The experience taught us about patience, perseverance, and the importance of teamwork. It reminded me of the value of stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new challenges, even when they seem a little silly at first.
For my kids, it was an opportunity to build confidence, learn new skills, and see their dad in a new light—not as a ninja master (far from it), but as someone willing to dive into an adventure with them. And for me, it was a chance to create memories that we’ll all cherish for years to come.
The Final Lesson
On the last day, the instructor spoke about what it truly means to be a ninja—not just in terms of physical skills but in how you approach life. He talked about being adaptable, staying calm under pressure, and always striving to improve. It struck a chord with me. Those lessons felt just as relevant to my role as a parent as they did to our ninja training.
As we wrapped up the program and said our goodbyes, my kids and I couldn’t stop talking about everything we’d experienced. They’ve already asked if we can do it again next summer, and honestly, I’m all in. This adventure brought us closer, gave us a shared goal to work toward, and reminded me of how incredible it is to see the world through their eyes.
So, if you’re considering an epic summer adventure with your kids, I highly recommend ninja training—or anything that gets you out of your routine and into their world. Who knows? You might just discover your inner ninja along the way. Or at the very least, you’ll walk away with some sore muscles, a lot of laughs, and memories that will last a lifetime.
