Jiujitsu is thought to have origins in Japan, China, India and Brazil. It is similar to wrestling in that opponents grapple in hand-to-hand combat on the ground. Jiujitsu techniques are rooted in the principle that timing and leverage are more important than brute strength. Utilizing choke holds and joint locks, a person can grapple a much larger opponent into submission.
Origins
The origins of jiujitsu are controversial, with stories of the sport's beginnings varying between India, Japan, China and Brazil. Some say jiujitsu originated in India and was developed by buddhist monks before its influence spread across Asia. Others hypothesize that the sport originated with martial arts in ancient Egypt and Japan, sharing roots with sumo wrestling.
Grappling
Jiujitsu moves are meant to immobilize opponents by locking and applying pressure on the twisting joints of the body. Knocking down opponents to get them on the ground is also acceptable. An opponent is considered to be in submission when he taps the floor in a visible manner with the hand or foot. The fight may also come to an end if either opponent verbally requests the referee to stop it. Saying the word "ai" during the fight has the same meaning as tapping the hand or foot.
Illegal Maneuvers
While jiujitsu is a sport of hand-to-hand combat, there are maneuvers that are prohibited during a match. For example, opponents may not bite, pull hair, strike the genitalia or stick fingers into an opponent's eyes or nose. The referee has the highest authority on the mat and reserves the right to disqualify competitors during a match.
Variations
Jiujitsu has evolved into a variety of styles. Brazilian jiu-jitsu is most often associated with the Gracie family, who adapted the sport and began teaching students in 1925. Japanese jiujitsu is similar to the Brazilian style, but incorporates more standing moves than the Brazilian version. American jiujitsu follows the traditional style and modifies it to teach students practical applications in street situations.
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