Also spelled jujutsu and jiu-jitsu, ju-jitsu is a Japanese martial art focusing on grappling and ground fighting techniques. It emphasizes using an opponent's force against them through holds, throws, and joint locks.
The term ju translates to "gentle" or "yielding," while jutsu means "art" or "technique." This martial art focuses on grappling techniques, including throws, joint locks, pines, and chokeholds. Striking techniques are also used but are usually secondary to grappling.
Ju-jitsu originated in Japan during the Sengoku period (1467-1603), a time of frequent military conflict. Samurai developed it to defeat armed and armored opponents without using weapons. The first formal school of ju-jitsu was established by Takenouchi Hisamori in 1532. Over time, various schools (ryū) emerged, each with unique techniques and philosophies.
During the Edo period (1603-1868), ju-jitsu evolved further. Peace policies reduced the need for battlefield combat, leading to the development of techniques suitable for self-defense and law enforcement. During this period, many of the ju-jitsu schools were formalized, and the introduction of randori (free practice) allowed practitioners to train safely.
Ju-jitsu techniques are designed to neutralize opponents by leveraging their energy. Practitioners use throws, joint locks, and pins to control or incapacitate opponents. Striking techniques, while present, are often used to set up grappling moves. The art also includes defenses against weapons and multiple attackers.
Traditional schools of ju-jitsu include Takenouchi-ryū, the oldest known school, focusing on grappling and weapons techniques; Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū, known for its comprehensive curriculum, including swordsmanship and grappling; and Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, which emphasizes joint locks and the concept of aiki (blending with an opponent's energy).
Ju-jitsu has influenced the development of other forms of martial arts, such as judo, aikido, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Modern ju-jitsu schools often blend traditional techniques with contemporary training methods, creating Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Sport Jujitsu, and Combat Jujitsu.
The philosophy of ju-jitsu revolves around the principle of yielding and using an opponent's force against them. This concept is both physical and mental; practitioners are taught to remain calm and adaptable in the face of adversity. Like many other martial arts, ju-jitsu emphasizes respect, discipline, and continuous self-improvement.
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Ju-Jitsu International Federation
The JJIF is an international sports federation founded in 1998 after the expansion of the European Ju-Jitsu Federation to propagate the modern competitive sports version of Jujitsu, also known as Sport Ju-Jitsu. As a member of the General Association of International Sport Federations and the International World Games Association, the JJIF represents Sport Ju-Jitsu worldwide. Sponsored competitions, rankings, events, and contacts are provided, along with ethics statements.
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United Society of Jujitsu Organizations
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https://usjjo.org/
United States Ju-Jitsu Federation
Established in 1971, the USJJF is the National Member and USA National governing body for USA Ju-Jitsu, USA Jiu-Jitsu, and USA Para Jiu-Jitsu. It provides national training and certification programs for traditional jujitsuka, as well as competition training and events at the state, regional, national, and international levels for sport-focused Jujutsu, Jiu-Jitsu, Ju-Jitsu, and Para Jiu-Jitsu. Memberships, training, black belts, and schools are featured on the site.
https://www.usjjf.org/
