Jujutsu

Bundesarchiv Bild 102-00504, Berlin, Turn- und Sportwoche im Lustgarten

Enseignement méthodique et pratique du jiu-jitsu (1911)

Kano Jigoro

Mitsuyo Maeda

Anatoly Kharlampiev and Alfred Karashchuk. 1957.

Jujutsu (柔術), also known as jujitsu or jiu-jitsu, is a Japanese martial art and a method of close combat for defeating an armed and armored opponent in which one uses either a short weapon or none. The word jujutsu can be translated to "gentle art" in English. This martial art's philosophy emphasizes the principle of using an attacker's energy against them and applying joint locks or throws to neutralize them, rather than relying on brute strength.

History

The origins of jujutsu can be traced back to the Sengoku period in Japan, a time of civil war and military unrest during the 15th to 17th centuries. It was developed as a means for samurai to defend themselves in situations where they were disarmed and unable to use their swords. Over time, jujutsu evolved, incorporating techniques from other martial arts, including Kenjutsu (the art of the sword), Judo, and Aikido, making it a comprehensive hand-to-hand combat system.

Techniques

Jujutsu techniques are categorized into three main groups: nage-waza (throwing techniques), katame-waza (grappling techniques), and atemi-waza (striking techniques). These techniques are designed to turn an opponent's force to one's advantage rather than confronting it with direct force. Practitioners learn to fall safely (ukemi) to reduce the risk of injury from throws and takedowns.

Nage-waza

Throwing techniques involve using the opponent's weight and balance against them, often by leveraging and timing rather than sheer strength.

Katame-waza

Grappling techniques include holds, joint locks, and chokes, aimed at controlling or incapacitating the opponent.

Atemi-waza

Striking techniques are used to weaken the opponent or to create openings for throws or joint locks. These include punches, kicks, and strikes with the knee or elbow.

Training

Training in jujutsu varies between schools but generally includes forms (kata), sparring (randori), and drills to practice techniques. Safety is emphasized, with practitioners learning to break falls and execute techniques in a controlled manner.

Modern Developments

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, jujutsu underwent significant transformations. Jigoro Kano, a jujutsu practitioner, founded Judo as a refinement of jujutsu, focusing on the sport and physical education aspects. Similarly, Morihei Ueshiba developed Aikido, emphasizing harmony and the spiritual aspects of martial arts. Jujutsu also influenced the development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which has gained international recognition as a sport and self-defense system.

Cultural Impact

Jujutsu has had a profound impact on the global martial arts community, influencing the development of several modern martial arts and combat sports. It is also featured in various forms of media, including movies, television shows, and manga, contributing to its popularity and the spread of its philosophy.

See Also

• Martial arts
• Samurai
• Self-defense
• Combat sport