A new email arrived today in Best Self Defense Weapons Mailbag. The message reads, “Is there a difference Between Jiu-jitsu and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu?”
General Distinction Between Jiu-jitsu and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu
Although Jiu-jitsu and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu have almost similar names, the disciplines are distinct from each other. In general, jiu-jitsu is a traditional martial arts introduced in Japan during the prominence of the Samurai, which are warriors who belong in the elite class of the Japanese military during the medieval era of Japan. Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, on the other hand, is a variation of the art introduced in Brazil and popularized by the Gracie family.
Key Differences in Techniques of Jiu-jitsu and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu
Jiu-jitsu or Jujutsu is a Japanese martial arts that employs moves derived from Judo. Aside from throwing, it also makes use of hands striking moves, kicking, locks, joint manipulation and disarming techniques. Some schools even utilize unorthodox moves (like gouging and biting) and train students with the use of melee self defense weapons.
Jiu-jitsu was originally developed as a Samurai hand-to-hand combat technique that aims to provide an easy way to beat a heavily armored opponent as the basic defense of soldiers during the early times mostly depend on bulky armors.
Brazilian Jiu-jitsu or BJJ puts more emphasis on grappling and ground fighting. Although it has its roots from Judo (particularly the Kodokan Judo) and Jiu-jitsu, it does require direct opposition to the opponent’s strength. BJJ was made to focus more on technique and bringing the fight to the ground. However, shades of other martial arts like Judo, Jiu-jitsu, wrestling, Sambo and other grappling arts are very evident within the techniques taught in BJJ.