Jiu-Jitsu: Its Benefits As A Fighting Style and Way of Life

Jiu-Jitsu

Jiu-jitsu is a form of Japanese martial arts that originated in the 1500s . The fighting method is designed for close combat against an armed or armored opponent using only bare hands or a short weapon.

The name jiu-jitsu was derived from two Japanese words: ‘jiu’ and ‘jitsu’. The word ‘jiu’ means ‘gentle’ while ‘jitsu’ roughly means ‘art’ or ‘technique’. The name itself provides a general description of the method, which can be described as using the energy of the attacker to immobilize or neutralize him, instead of fighting directly against it.

Jiu-Jitsu and its History

A Japanese military tactician named Hisamori Takeuchi was credited as the founder of jiu-jitsu. This fighting style was invented out of necessity during feudal Japan. As the samurais at the time were wearing armor to protect themselves from strikes, Hisamori Takeuchi developed a method that focused more on body throws, joint locks and choking or strangling.

With its successes in the combat field the martial art gained popularity and spread throughout Japan. It became widely used in actual combat by samurais and was also used as a means for recreation during peace time.

In the early 1900s, its popularity spread to the west, and now its modern version is a popular Olympic event. It is also taught in military training school in different countries all over the world, a proof of its effectiveness in real combat situations. In many areas of the world, women also undergo jiu-jitsu training to protect themselves against rape and other forms of violence.

Jiu-jitsu is a fighting style that is continuing to evolve and and its popularity is rapidly expanding all over the world. It has also influenced the development of other forms of martial arts like judo, brazilian jiu-jitsu and aikido. Aside from its usefulness in combat, it also offers a lot of benefits as a sport.

Jiu-Jitsu – The Benefits of Learning

Self Defense – The system may be hundreds of years old, but the techniques will still be very applicable today in a wide range of situations when an individual has no other option but to fight.

Overall Fitness – Training in jiu-jitsu involves many fitness exercises that were designed to minimize the possibility of injuries during friendly matches or competitions. Doing the exercises will have the overall effect of improved fitness to practitioners.

Confidence – This martial art develops confidence in the body and mind of practitioners. Since they are subjected to the physical and mental rigors of training on a regular basis, practitioners become more confident that they can handle other challenges in life.

Mental Strength – Japanese philosophy co-exists with its martial arts. As such, relaxation and concentration techniques are integrated in training programs. This is an opportunity for students, not only to improve their physical prowess, but also their mental strength. Training in jiu-jitsu can lead to improved concentration, decision-making and stress management skills.

Enrolling in A Jiu-jitsu Training Program

A number of jiu-jitsu training schools are spread in major towns and cities. Club membership and training fees are usually available at reasonable prices. Training programs may also be designed for various age groups and various fitness levels.

When choosing where to enroll or attend a training program, the main thing to look for is compliance to government standards of safety, and an affiliation to international governing bodies. When these are verified, a student is on their way to reaping the benefits that jiu-jitsu has to offer.

Jiu-Jitsu: Its Benefits As A Fighting Style and Way of Life