Introduction to Jujutsu
Ju jutsu (Ju jitsu) is a Japanese martial art from feudal Japan. It translates as gentle or “soft” art, do not be deceived by this though, the gentle refers to the martial artist manipulating the opponent’s force rather than meeting force with blunt force.
It’s origins are not known exactly but it is thought to have been developed round about 12th century CE, by the Japanese nobility warrior class known as the samurai. It’s a part of Budo or Bushido, “way of the warrior” a code of practice expected that all samurai live by and must master certain skills such as Ju jutsu, iaido, horseback riding/ archery, kobudo etc.
Ju jutsu was used on the battlefield, when a warrior dropped his sword or didn’t have to time to sheafe he would use this martial art. Samurai armour was too strong which deemed striking useless, which is why Ju jutsu incorporates joint locks, takedowns, throws etc. No matter how strong armour is or how large an opponent, everyone’s joints bend the same way whereas some people can take a lot more strikes than others, making Ju jutsu a combat effective art.
Although there may be variations depending on what school or style of Ju jutsu, here is the grades:
White belt
Yellow belt
Orange belt
Green belt
Blue belt
Purple belt
Brown belt
Black belt (Shodan)
Sometimes if students are younger they will do half grades (except for black) so it’s easier for them to remember. In training usually most of the practice is doing techniques on a partner rather than katas.
