What is Jiu Jitsu?
Jiu Jitsu is primarily a practical self-defence martial art that focuses on the use of locks, throws, strikes and holding techniques to deal with real life situations. Originating from ancient Japanese techniques used by the Samurai when forced to fight without their weapons, Jiu Jitsu teaches you to overcome stronger, larger, more powerful opponents, even armed ones. It is a progressive martial art that offers a means of personal and physical development, as well as an effective system of self-defence.
With over 3000 active members and several hundred instructors - including specialists in modern sport forms, traditional forms, weapons training, first Aid and Shiatsu, The Jiu Jitsu Foundation is the largest single-style Jiu Jitsu organisation in Britain - practising the modern and unique Shorinji Kan system of Jiu Jitsu.
How it works
Based on the principal of using an aggressor’s energy to their own disadvantage, Jiu Jitsu skills can be used by men, women and children to counter aggressive situations ranging from unwanted harassment to armed physical assault.
The core of the art comprises a system of throws, joint locks and strikes. Many of the techniques do not require much physical strength to be efficient.
Is it difficult?
Our instructors were novices once, and we understand that starting a martial art can be daunting. Don’t worry if you are not at the peak of fitness before you join. Regular training can help to improve strength, fitness, flexibility, co-ordination and posture. Moreover, most people find over time that Jiu Jitsu improves their self-esteem and self-confidence.
Is it for me?
Jiu Jitsu training is also great fun and a fantastic way to meet new friends. The Jiu Jitsu Foundation is an organisation with over a hundred clubs in the UK. We offer a vibrant social life out of club training too, with events organised throughout the year. The best way to find out more is to come along and join in. Remember, your first two weeks of sessions are free.
What's Ju Jutsu?
Jiu Jitsu, Ju Jitsu, Ju Jutsu, Jitsu are all different names for the same thing, Jiu Jitsu. The Japanese Jiu Jitsu style we practice is Shorinjikan Jiu Jitsu, and is often referred to simply as Jitsu. For more information about Japanese Martial Arts visit TJJF.
What's the difference between Japanese Jiu Jitsu and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
The jiu jitsu we teach, with it's origins in Japan, is a practical self-defence martial art based on dealing with one or more aggressors who may be armed or not. Although we do practice groundwork - the art of defending yourself effectively from the ground - it is not our primary aim and only makes up 20 - 30% of our syllabus. In contrast, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or BJJ, is primarily a ground based combat sport, where practitioners spend the majority of their time on the floor. Spending a great deal of time on the floor is great in a competition setting for a one-on-one challenge, but less practical for dealing quickly with multiple attackers or indeed aggressors in crowded spaces.
Is Jiu Jitsu like Judo?
Yes and no. Judo was formed by Jigaro Kano and is considered to be the sport form of jiu jitsu, where opponents are not allowed to strike or gauge their opponents. We teach how to deliver (atemi) strikes safely in the dojo setting, but are deadly when needed to be called upon in a real threatening situation. Many of the techniques that one might learn in judo will also be learned in jiu jitsu, just in a slightly different context. For example, in judo you start a throw by grabbing your opponent who is also trying to throw you, in jiu jitsu your opponent is more likely to be trying to punch or kick you. In judo, you will never face multiple opponents or opponents with weapons. We cover self defence situations covering both of these in jiu jitsu. Jiu Jitsu students who have practised judo tend to progress much more quickly due to their understanding of balance taking and posture whilst throwing.