When it comes to learning anything, the process is faster and easier with the help of a qualified instructor. If you want to learn jujitsu, your best bet is to find a class. However, not everybody lives near a jujitusu class, and those who do may not have money to spare or a schedule that works with the class.
Available Instruction
Unlike during most of the 20th century, video instruction for jujitsu is easily available on the Internet. The United States Judo Association and the Gracie organization both produce instructional videos, and free tips and techniques are available on most video-sharing websites. Although this isn't a replacement for a live instructor, it does provide much of the information you need to learn jujitsu.
Training Area
You can learn karate or boxing on a regular floor, but jujitsu requires a softer landing area. Much of jujitsu training involves falling or being thrown to the floor, so you'll need a wrestling or judo mat for your training area. This doesn't make training alone at home impossible, but it does make for a barrier to entry that can cost several hundred dollars.
Training Partner
Unlike many other martial arts, the key components of jujitsu involve manipulating and locking out the joints and bones of a partner. These locks, holds and throws are nearly impossible to learn if you don't practice them on a live, responsive training partner. This is probably the greatest challenge of learning jujitsu on your own. You need a partner to truly understand how the techniques work.
Bottom Line
It's true that the training materials for leaning jujitsu at home are readily available and inexpensive. Some jujitsu organizations even offer a distance-learning class that can promote you through the ranks without even entering the same zip code as a dojo. However, the fact that jujitsu relies on working with another person's body makes it difficult to practice this alone.
References
- Dave Coffman; Martial Arts Instructor; Bushido Martial Arts; Hillsboro, Oregon
- "USJA Basic JuJutsu Manual"; Phillip Porter; 1996
- "The Tao of Jeet Kun Do"; Bruce Lee; 1978
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