Jiu-jitsu, also known as jujutsu, is a martial art that began in Japan. It is a method of combat between an armored or armed opponent and an opponent who is unarmed or possesses only a small weapon. As with many other martial arts, jiu-jitsu evolved from the traditional combat form of Japan known as samurai. Techniques include throwing, pinning, kicking, grappling and other aggressive tactics.
Purpose
As with all martial art forms, jiu-jitsu was originally developed as a method to practice combat against opponents. One form of jiu-jitsu is mainly to throw and kill your opponent, while in another form the motive is to simply capture your opponent, and yet another style involves striking the opponent's vital points for the purpose of killing him. Aside from the aspect of physical combat, jiu-jitsu is used as a form of physical training, self-discipline and mental training. Ingenuity is required in jiu-jitsu as well as the use of many tricks, moves and devices. Jiu-jitsu is also characteristically known for throwing, immobilizing, pinning, joint-locking and strangling techniques.
Early History
Jiu-jitsu has seen generations of evolution and change through the ingenuity of many people. According to author Jigoro Kano in the book "Mind Over Muscle: Writings from the Founder of Judo," some claim that a man named Chen Yuan Ping traveled from China to Japan in the 17th century and introduced his technique of jiu-jitsu to the people there. Others are of the belief that a doctor from Nagasaki, Japan, named Akiyama Shirobei, went to China and learned hakuda, and created the technique of jiu-jitsu on his return to Japan.
Brazillian Jiu-jitsu
In 1897, 19-year-old Mitsuyo Maeda began his training under the tutelage of Jigoro Kano, widely known as the father of judo. Kano's method of teaching judo to his students was unconventional and different in comparison to the teaching styles of his teaching peers. Maeda became one of Kano's star pupils, and upon being asked to spread the word of master Kano's style, Maeda traveled to many countries to perform this different martial art form. In 1914, Maeda traveled to Brazil as part of a large Japanese immigration colony, where he befriended and was financially assisted by Gastao Gracie. In return for Gracie's generosity, Maeda offered to teach Gracie's son, who in turn taught his brothers. Maeda established a jiu-jitsu academy, where many, including the Gracie brothers attended. The passion, determination and competitiveness of the brothers became unquenchable, and they began to compete in combat matches to prove their strength and skill.
Modern Jiu-jitsu
Over 100 years later, jiu-jitsu is still practiced, both in modern and traditional styles. Modern styles of jiu-jitsu are often referred to as "gendai jiu-jitsu" for their modern twists to the traditional sport. Competitive and sport jiu-jitsu is practiced today, and is even an officially recognized sport in the World Games. Many countries around the world accept and use jiu-jitsu as a martial art, but have adapted and redefined some of the rules of competitive jiu-jitsu to suit cultural differences.
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