Ju-Jitsu

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Date of Origin: 12th-14th Century Country of Origin: Japan Technique: Bare Hands and Feet

Ju-Jitsu
What is Ju-Jitsu?

Ju-Jitsu loosely translated means "science of softness" or "gentle art" and is applied to many schools of unarmed and hand-to-hand combat. The soft grappling style was intended to help unarmed soldiers to fight against armed enemies in any way possible, using the least amount of force necessary. Ju-Jitsu was the primary unarmed combat method of the Samurai. Aikido and Judo are both modern day descendents of Ju-Jitsu. Several techniques used are similar to Karate, Aikido and Judo.

Ju-Jitsu emphasizes turning an attacker's own force against him or herself, putting them off balance. Ju-Jitsu also emphasizes certain grappling moves and strikes to vital areas. A Ju-Jitsu student is expected to learn how to gauge the force of an opponent's attack and use it against him, evade attacks, use leverage against an opponent and how to attack nerves and pressure points.

The main goal in Ju-Jitsu practice is to cultivate a person's mind and body: not to use it as a means to vent one's anger, frustration or emotional problems. The use of force is condoned only in self-defense or in the defense of those who are defenseless.