History of Jujitsu

Literally, Jiu jitsu is the technique or art (jutsu) of suppleness, flexibility and gentleness. Judo founder Jigoro Kano traced the art's emergence to the period between 1600 and 1650. In its golden age, late 17th to mid 19th century, more than 700 jujitsu systems appeared in Japan. Among those mentioned prominently in martial arts chronicles are: Tenjin-Shinyo-ryu , Takenouchi ryu , Sousuishitsu ryu , the Kito ryu (relevant to us), and the Sekiguchi-ryu . Many other ancient and reputable schools, such as the Yagyu-Shingan ryu or the Date clan and the Juki ryu or Sawa Dochi , are listed within the doctrine of jujitsu.

The vital issue in jujitsu was effectiveness in combat. Methods were tested in duels and public competitions among members of various schools. These encounters were frequently lethal. Such testing not only improved weapons and ways of employing them, but established the reputations of the survivors. Jujitsu techniques include kicking, striking, kneeing, throwing, choking, joint locking, holding, and tying, as well as use of certain weapons.

Most traditional systems emphasised only one or two major techniques. Jujutsu was always a secondary method of combat to the warrior, since he relied so heavily on his sword.

As the days of the Samurai moved on, greater emphasis was placed on unarmed as well as non leathal techniques. This paved the way for what we know and recognise today as Jiu jitsu.

Although Jiu jitsu techniques are initially learned individually and in a static position, the essence of Jujitsu is the ability to move from one technique to another to be able to control an attacker.

Although each technique (or waza) is important, more importance in the higher grades is placed upon the principle behind each technique. If this is understood then it can be applied in numerous situations, not just in the manner in which it is learned in a certain technique. Each technique, in fact, is designed to illustrate and teach specific principles.

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