The Martial Art of Jujutsu: A Definition

Jujutsu, the flexible/adaptable art, provides the practitioner with the mental flexibility to easily adapt to changing combative situations or contexts. The term ju in jujutsu does not mean, as many erroneously believe, that the art is about gentleness, although it may appear so when a jujutsuka executes technique with fluency, coordination and good timing. The art encompasses a number of fighting styles of Japanese origin and includes both unarmed combat and the use of weapons. The more well known styles incorporate striking and kicking, throwing, ground fighting, joint locking, strangling/choking, pressure points and, of course, weapons. While the original Koryu (ancient systems) were practiced almost exclusively for combat (Bujutsu), their evolved modern versions (Gendai) stress, in addition to combat/self defense training, personal growth, the development of inner power and the perfection of character (Budo).