ANN ARBOR, Mich. - iSportsWire -- What is jujutsu?

What are common misconceptions about this martial art?

To understand the origins of jujutsu it is necessary to grasp its roots in Nippon, the island nation of Japan. While many Westerners have heard of jujutsu, it is often misunderstood. Among these misunderstandings are the actual roots of Nippon or Nihon jujutsu, and the idea that jujutsu in its original form is a wholly unarmed martial art. Other misconceptions have to do with what constitutes authentic techniques and the original ranking system used in most forms of ancient jujutsu.

"JUJUTSU:" A GENERIC NAME

Within the majority of classical bujutsu ("martial arts"), the study of weaponry was of primary importance, just as it is for modern-day soldiers. However, some ryu ("systems") also included empty-handed techniques, which were married to the ryu's weapons. These forms of grappling were generically called "jujutsu." This very general word didn't exist before the Edo era, after around 1600. The word "jujutsu" may actually stem from non-samurai, who were interested in martial arts, but who weren't often well-versed in the ins and outs of the large variety of dissimilar ryu that existed at this time.

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CATEGORIES OF CLASSIC JUJUTSU

In general, jujutsu during the Edo period was practiced by bushi, ashigaru ("foot soldiers"), torikata ("medieval police"), and civilians. In genuinely old systems it considered the fact that the bushi might be wearing armor and facing a similarly clad opponent, both of whom had to be able to fall safely as well as perform other actions while wearing two swords. The wearing of arms and armor limited how one could grapple and fall as well as the techniques that could be used.

Read the full article on SMAA's website: https://www.smaa-hq.com/articles/article/international-martial-arts-association-jujutsu

Learn More at an International Martial Arts Association

Are you researching a specific ryu, a particular dojo, or jujutsu in general? You can send your questions to leaders in the SMAA Jujutsu Division; we'll be happy to help! For other questions about our international martial arts association, call (734) 720-0330 or submit a contact form here: https://www.smaa-hq.com/contact

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About Shudokan Martial Arts Association: SMAA was founded in January 1994 by a group of martial artists concerned with promoting and safeguarding Nihon budo and koryu bujutsu—the traditional martial arts and ways of Japan. SMAA is a non-profit that aims keep the spirit of traditional budo alive in the West. Anyone can become a member, even if you aren't a martial artist, and SMAA members are from multiple countries across the globe. For more information, visit https://www.smaa-hq.com/about