Shinigami have the main task of eradicating Hollows and guiding souls so they can leave the world in peace. The average Shinigami has enormous spiritual energy as well as high-level fighting skills.
In fighting, Shinigami master four basic techniques known as Zankensoki. Zan refers to sword techniques. Ken relates to hand-to-hand combat. So relates to movement techniques and Ki refers to Kidō.
You can see more about this below.
1. Zanjutsu
Zanjutsu is the art of swordsmanship as well as a basic technique that must be mastered by Shinigami. If they do not master this technique, they will not be able to use their Zanpakutos to their full potential in battle.
There are many strong Shinigami who are very skilled with swords. For example, we can see Zaraki Kenpachi who can fight brutally with his sword. He could slash his enemies without flinching.
2. Hakuda
Unlike the previous techniques, Hakuda is a technique that relies on bare hands in battle. This technique is similar to taijutsu which requires a strong and trained physique.
One of the most powerful Hakuda users in the story is Sui-Feng. He is able to move at high speed and attack enemies unarmed. Apart from Sui-Feng, Mashiro Kuna also prefers to use physical-based attacks rather than sword techniques.
3. Hohō
Next, there is a basic technique called Hohō which focuses on using the legs. Speed as well as agility is the key to this technique. If a Shinigami masters this technique, his movements become difficult for the opponent to predict.
We can see the application of this technique through the Shunpo technique. At least, there are two of the most powerful Shunpo users in Bleach. They are Yoruichi Shihōin and Tenjirō Kirinji.
4. Kidō
Kidō is a combat technique based on the use of spells. Shinigami can use their Reiryoku or spiritual energy to create a Kidō spell which is very useful in battle.
Kidō is divided into two categories, namely Hadō which serves to attack and Bakudō which is useful for defense. In addition, Kidō spells also have a certain code according to their power level.