Jiu Jitsu is a japanese martial art which uses a number of different techniques and body blows with the aim of defeating or immobilizing the opponent.
Etymologically, the Japanese expression jiu jitsu can be literally translated as “art of gentleness” or "technique of gentleness", a reference to the character and philosophy of this martial art: the balance and total control of the body.
Jiu Jitsu Technique and Strikes
Jiu jitsu is a martial art originally used in wars, where the warrior uses his strength through blows involving the joints, strangulations, immobilizations, twists and levers in the body of the adversary.
In contemporary jiu jitsu combats there are some moves that are not valid, they are even considered disloyal ones, such as biting, sticking fingers in the eyes, hitting the genitals and twisting the opponent's fingers, by example.
History of Jiu Jitsu
It is not known for sure where and when jiu jitsu emerged, but it is believed that they originated from several different peoples who lived in regions ranging from India to China, probably between the 3rd and VIII.
However, the development of jiu jitsu techniques and strikes took place in Japan, through the schools of samurai, the country's official warriors in the time of Feudal Japan.
In Japan, at that time, jiu jitsu emerged as a martial art that clashed with rigid techniques, such as kenjitsu, where combatants had to use weapons such as swords or daggers.
However, initially jiu jitsu was seen as a marginalized fighting style. Until a master named Jigoro Kano revolutionized combat techniques, transforming it into Judo, which uses the same combat principles as the old jiu jitsu.
In Brazil, jiu jitsu gained a specific style, known as BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu), a combat sport of fighting and self-defense that emerged in the beginning of the 20th century, from Judo.
See also the meaning of BJJ.
Jiu Jitsu Belts
The level of dexterity and knowledge of jiu jitsu techniques is ranked among fighters through the use of different tracks, each representing the practice time and skill of the athlete.
The bands also symbolize a hierarchy system, where the less experienced must always respect the more advanced in the technique.
• White – For any age;
• Gray – Between 4 years to 6 years;
• Yellow – From 7 to 15 years old;
• Orange – From 10 to 15 years old;
• Green – From 13 years to 15 years;
• Blue - It varies with the athlete's potential, usually those who practice from 1 year and a half, to 2 years, and from 16 years of age;
• purple - It varies with the athlete's potential, usually 2 years old, and from 16 years old;
• Brown - It varies with the athlete's potential, usually 1 year and a half, from 18 years old onwards;
• black - From 19 years old;
• Coral - Teacher;
• red - Great Master.
Learn more about meaning of martial arts, Boxing and Krav Maga.