What is Jiu Jitsu?

Jiu jitsu is a form of Japanese martial arts developed in Japan in the 17th century. It was developed by the Japanese samurai. The meaning conveyed by the word jiu jitsu is “art of softness”. The main principle behind the form of martial art is to use the opponent’s power and redirect it back to him. It does not oppose the opponent’s power but it utilizes for the defenders benefit. A person practicing jiu jitsu can defend himself against an opponent possessing weapons. The martial art form uses pins, locks and throws for disarming the opponent.

What are the origins of the art form?

The art form was developed by the Japanese samurai. This art form has been as old as the institution of samurai. The term jiu jitsu was coined in the 17th century. It encompassed all the unarmed combat forms of the past. The martial art form was practiced during the Muromachi period which extended from the middle 13th century to 17th century. It was developed by the samurai when they had to tackle a fully armed opponent and they are unable to use their weapons. The art form developed through the ages.

What makes up the Japanese Jiu Jitsu?

The art form mainly concentrates on throwing, pin-downs and joint locking of opponents. The attacker’s energy directed at the defender is redirected to the ground so that the impact will disarm him. The art form also utilizes joint locks to immobilize the opponent and prevent him from using his weapons. The Atemi-waza or the form of punches and strikes were neglected in old times since opponents were armored. However in real life the defender may use these techniques against normal opponents who are not armored.

A soft form of martial arts

Most other martial art forms concentrate on developing speed, power and striking. Jiu jitsu meanwhile focuses on balance, poise and momentum of the opponent. Jiu jitsu is termed as an soft form of martial arts. The art form is mainly taught by observation and imitation. The students only replicate the moves by the sensei. Since many moves are fatal, the students are taught fall breaking techniques to protect themselves. The defender’s poise must be in such a way to utilize the opponent’s power and at the same time minimize the damage to him.

How is Jiu Jitsu propagated?

The Jiu jitsu is propagated through the masses by the establishment of schools or ryus. The teacher develops his own brand of jiu jitsu and incorporates his own modifications. This leads to variety in the practice of the art form. This has lead to the development of many derivative martial art forms from jiu jitsu. Jiu jitsu has been derived into a sport form and is organized by Jui-Jitsu International Federation (JJIF). It is a part of the World games. The sport however has not been part of the Olympics inspite of various other art forms included in the event. Jiu jitsu has evolved so much from the japans culture that it has led to an identity and individual characteristic to the art form.

If Japanese Jiu Jitsu sounds like a martial art you would be interested in, find a Jiu Jitsu School near you. Or discuss Japanese Jiu Jitsu on the forums.