The Differences Between Ju-Jutsu and Jiu-Jitsu: A Comprehensive Comparison
Ju-Jutsu and Jiu-Jitsu are two martial arts that share a common origin but have evolved into distinct forms over the centuries. Both emphasize grappling, submissions, and using an opponent’s energy against them. However, their differences lie in the nuances of their history, techniques, and cultural development. In this article, we will explore the key differences between Ju-Jutsu and Jiu-Jitsu, from their origins and countries of development to their modern-day popularity, technical differences, and notable practitioners.
Origins and Country of Development
Ju-Jutsu:
Ju-Jutsu (also spelled “Jujutsu” or “Ju-Jitsu”) originated in Japan during the feudal era, likely around the 15th to 17th centuries, although some historical records suggest that its roots could be even older. Ju-Jutsu developed as a martial art used by the samurai warriors. These warriors needed a way to defend themselves when they were disarmed, making Ju-Jutsu’s grappling-based techniques practical in close combat, especially when facing opponents armed with swords or spears.
The term “Ju-Jutsu” translates to “gentle art,” which reflects the art’s emphasis on using leverage and an opponent’s force rather than relying solely on strength. The techniques of Ju-Jutsu allowed practitioners to neutralize an enemy using throws, joint locks, and submissions. Over time, various schools (ryu) of Ju-Jutsu emerged, each with its style and philosophy.
Jiu-Jitsu:
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), often simply called Jiu-Jitsu in modern discussions, has its roots in Ju-Jutsu but was developed and refined in Brazil during the 20th century. It came to Brazil via Mitsuyo Maeda, a Japanese Judoka and Ju-Jutsu practitioner, who taught the art to the Gracie family. The Gracies, particularly Carlos and Hélio Gracie, adapted the techniques of Ju-Jutsu and Judo to create what would eventually become Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
While traditional Japanese Ju-Jutsu was more focused on self-defense in combat, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasized groundwork (newaza), submissions, and techniques that allowed smaller, weaker individuals to defend themselves against larger opponents. This evolution took place in Brazil during the early 1900s, and it became widely known as a combat sport in the latter half of the 20th century.
Popularity and Global Reach
Ju-Jutsu:
While Ju-Jutsu has ancient origins and deep cultural significance in Japan, its popularity has waned in the modern era, especially after the rise of Judo, which was created by Jigoro Kano in the late 19th century as a safer, sport-oriented version of Ju-Jutsu. Many techniques from Ju-Jutsu were incorporated into Judo, and as Judo became an Olympic sport, it overshadowed traditional Ju-Jutsu.
Today, Ju-Jutsu is still practiced, but it is not as widespread or globally popular as other martial arts like Judo, Karate, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Traditional Ju-Jutsu schools (Koryu) continue to teach the art, often with a focus on preserving the historical techniques used by samurai, but these are typically niche practices compared to modern combat sports.
Jiu-Jitsu (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu):
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has seen explosive growth over the past few decades and is now one of the most popular martial arts in the world. This rise in popularity is largely due to its success in mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions, particularly in the early days of the UFC, where Royce Gracie used BJJ to defeat much larger opponents. BJJ’s focus on effective self-defense, especially on the ground, and its accessible nature to people of all sizes has made it a favorite among martial arts enthusiasts.
Today, BJJ schools are found in almost every country, with competitions held at local, national, and international levels. The rise of BJJ academies and global organizations, such as the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF), has helped solidify its place as a mainstream martial art and sport.
Differences in Techniques and Approach
Ju-Jutsu:
Traditional Ju-Jutsu focuses on a wide range of techniques, including strikes (atemi-waza), joint locks (kansetsu-waza), throws (nage-waza), and ground techniques (newaza). However, it is much more comprehensive in terms of covering both standing techniques and ground fighting. The emphasis is often on quick, decisive movements to disable or immobilize an opponent in a self-defense scenario. Ju-Jutsu also includes techniques for dealing with armed opponents, such as disarming sword or spear-wielding enemies.
Ju-Jutsu practitioners train with the mindset of battlefield self-defense, so the techniques are often designed to be more lethal or disabling. For example, joint locks in Ju-Jutsu are frequently applied with the intention of causing permanent damage to the opponent. The training methodology often reflects this focus on self-defense rather than sport.
Jiu-Jitsu (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu):
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has a much narrower focus on ground fighting and submissions, making it distinct from its Japanese ancestor. While BJJ does teach some standing techniques, such as takedowns and throws, the art is best known for its mastery of ground control. BJJ places a strong emphasis on positional dominance, transitions between positions (such as mount, side control, and guard), and submission holds like arm locks, chokes, and leg locks.
BJJ training typically focuses on live sparring (rolling), where practitioners test their skills in a controlled environment against fully resisting opponents. This practical, hands-on approach to training allows students to apply techniques in realistic scenarios. BJJ’s submission techniques are designed to control or incapacitate an opponent without causing serious harm, aligning with its development as a sport rather than a battlefield art.
Where They Stand Today
Ju-Jutsu:
Ju-Jutsu remains a traditional martial art, primarily practiced by those interested in classical Japanese martial systems or self-defense. There are still several schools in Japan and abroad that preserve the art, particularly the older Koryu styles. However, it does not have the same competitive aspect or global presence as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It is often practiced as part of a larger curriculum that includes other Japanese arts like Aikido, Kenjutsu, or Ninjutsu.
Jiu-Jitsu (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu):
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, on the other hand, is flourishing in the modern era. Its integration into MMA and its application as a highly effective grappling art has helped it grow internationally. Major tournaments like the IBJJF World Championship, ADCC, CJI, and various superfight organizations have turned BJJ into a professional sport, with athletes training full-time to compete at the highest levels.
BJJ continues to evolve, with new techniques and strategies being developed regularly. Leg locks, for example, have seen a resurgence in recent years, with practitioners like Gordon Ryan and Craig Jones popularizing advanced leg lock systems.
Conclusion
While Ju-Jutsu and Jiu-Jitsu share a common ancestor, they have developed into distinct martial arts with different focuses, techniques, and global popularity. Ju-Jutsu remains a traditional Japanese martial art, rooted in self-defense and battlefield techniques, while Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has become a modern, sport-oriented martial art with a heavy emphasis on ground fighting and submissions. Both arts have their place in the world of martial arts, and their unique contributions continue to influence practitioners around the world.