Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) and Japanese jiu-jitsu, also referred to as jujutsu or jujitsu, are two martial arts with a long and illustrious history. Both disciplines have their origins in traditional Japanese jujutsu, but they have developed into separate martial arts with their own special traits. In this article, we will examine the distinctions between jujutsu and BJJ and respond to frequently asked queries regarding the usefulness of these martial arts in everyday life.
Are Japanese Jujutsu and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu the same?
No, Japanese jujutsu and Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) are two distinct fighting styles. These martial arts have evolved into different disciplines with their own unique traits, despite having their roots in traditional Japanese jujutsu. Jujutsu is a martial art that was developed for self-defense and tactical use in conflict, in contrast to BJJ, a contemporary combat sport that places a significant focus on ground fighting and submission holds.
Brief History of Japanese JuJutsu
The martial art of Japanese jiu-jitsu, also called jujutsu or jujitsu, has its roots in Japan. The samurai class of ancient Japan used this system of close combat techniques for both self-defense and battle strategy. The origins of jujutsu can be traced to the samurai warriors of ancient Japan, who created a number of methods for defeating an adversary whether they were armed or unarmed. These methods were created to be used in circumstances where the samurai was at a disadvantage, like when facing off against numerous foes or without weapons. Jujutsu became a more organized martial art over time, with schools (ryu) teaching particular styles and techniques. Jujutsu was taught to the common people as a form of physical education and self-defense during the Edo period (1603–1868), when it was widely practiced by the samurai class and at its height in popularity.
Brief History of BJJ
Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport that originated in Brazil in the early 20th century. It was developed by the Gracie family, who were descendants of Scottish immigrants to Brazil. The Gracie family, especially Carlos Gracie, came up with a way to defend yourself that was more effective and could be used by smaller, weaker people against bigger, stronger people. The sport came to the United States in the 70s and grew in popularity during the 90s when it took center stage at the first UFC events. It has since become one of the most popular martial arts around the world.
Main Differences between Jujutsu and BJJ
Jujutsu and BJJ differ significantly in a number of important ways. Their intended use is one of the key distinctions. A martial art called jujutsu was created for self-defense and battle strategy, and it includes techniques for neutralizing an opponent’s attack and retaliating with one’s own. Contrarily, BJJ was created especially for sport grappling and places a lot of emphasis on ground combat and submission holds.
Fighting Style
The two arts are distinguished from one another by their differing fighting philosophies. Jujutsu practitioners use moves like throws, blows, joint locks, and chokeholds to protect themselves from an armed or unarmed opponent. On the other hand, BJJ practitioners focus on pinning an opponent to the ground and using submission holds to end a fight or make an opponent tap out. Jujutsu techniques include a wide range of strikes, throws, joint locks, and chokeholds. BJJ techniques, on the other hand, focus mostly on fighting on the ground and getting someone to submit.
Rules and Competition
Jujutsu and BJJ have different competition opportunities and rules. In contrast to BJJ, which is run by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and has standard rules and competitions for people of all ages and skill levels, jujutsu competition rules can be different depending on the school or organization hosting the event.
Belt System and Promotion
The belt and promotion systems in jujutsu and BJJ are comparable, with practitioners earning various colored belts as they advance through the ranks. To move up to the next belt level in either art, practitioners must show that they have mastered the techniques and understand the ideas behind them.
Uniform and Attire
Though similar, JuJutsu and BJJ have slightly different uniforms. One difference is the material of the uniforms. BJJ uniforms, or gis, are typically made of heavier cotton or a cotton/polyester blend. Jujutsu uniforms, or keikogi, are typically made of a lighter weight cotton or a cotton/polyester blend.
Another difference is the cut of the uniforms. BJJ gis have a more fitted cut, with pants that are tapered at the ankle and a jacket that is shorter in length. Jujutsu keikogi have a looser fit, with pants that are flared at the ankle and a jacket that is longer in length.
There may also be differences in the color of the uniforms. BJJ gis are often white, blue, or black, while jujutsu keikogi are usually white or off-white. Some jujutsu schools may also have students wear colored keikogi to indicate rank or seniority.
Is Japanese Jiu Jitsu better than BJJ?
Both jujutsu and BJJ are powerful martial arts with a long tradition and history. BJJ has developed into a contemporary combat sport over time. Jujutsu is a more conventional martial art. Therefore, in a modern combat standpoint – learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will likely yield more results.
In the end however, it comes down to taste and what a person wants to get out of their martial arts training. Jujutsu’s more traditional and ancient elements may appeal to some people while BJJ’s sport and competitive elements may appeal to others. When deciding which martial art to practice, it’s crucial to take the practitioner’s individual objectives and driving forces into account.
Is Japanese Jujitsu effective in a street fight?
Jujutsu techniques are meant to be used in close quarters combat, but they can also be used for self-defense. But it’s important to remember that martial arts techniques should only be used as a last resort in a real self-defense situation. It is always preferable to try to avoid conflict or, if at all possible, defuse it. It is challenging to predict how a situation will play out in a street fight because there are so many unknowns and unpredictable elements involved. Because of this, it’s important for people who practice any kind of martial art to be aware of their surroundings and have a good understanding of basic self-defense ideas like situational awareness, verbal de-escalation, and, if at all possible, escaping or avoiding a dangerous situation.
Why is Japanese jiu jitsu less popular?
Japanese jiu-jitsu may not be as well known as other martial arts like BJJ or karate for a number of reasons. One explanation could be that compared to other martial arts, Japanese jiu-jitsu is less frequently taught. For instance, BJJ has grown in popularity recently as a result of its success in MMA matches and UFC and its emphasis on sport grappling. People might also think that Japanese jiu-jitsu is less exciting or flashy than other martial arts that focus more on striking. Japanese jiu-jitsu’s traditional teaching methods may not be appealing to everyone as well because they frequently call for a long-term commitment and can be physically and mentally taxing. Japanese jiu-jitsu schools may also be harder to find, especially in areas where there is not a strong Japanese community.
Where Can I Learn Japanese Ju Jutsu?
Japanese jujutsu is still practiced today, albeit not as widely as BJJ. Finding a Japanese jujutsu school in your area is possible using a few different methods. One option is to look online for martial arts schools in your area that teach jujutsu. You can also see if any nearby jujutsu schools are listed with any local Japanese cultural associations or community centers. Another choice is to try getting in touch with a nearby judo school, because many of them also teach jujutsu techniques.
Judo vs JuJutsu vs BJJ
All three of these martial arts—judo, jujutsu, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ)—have their roots in traditional Japanese jujutsu, but they have grown into separate styles with their own characteristics. The focus of the martial art of judo, which was created in Japan in the late 19th century, is on throws and grappling techniques. A martial art called jujutsu was created for self-defense and battle strategy, and it includes techniques for neutralizing an opponent’s attack and retaliating with one’s own. BJJ is a contemporary combat sport that places a lot of emphasis on grappling and ground fighting. Even though there may be some similarities between these three forms of martial arts, they are all different and have their own techniques and ideas.
