Are Jiu Jitsu and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu the same thing?

Jiu Jitsu is a martial art that originated in Japan and gained immense popularity worldwide. However, it can often be confused with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), because although similar in some respects, they are actually quite different. Let's look closer at these martial arts forms to shed light on the matter. 

Origins and Evolution

Jiu jitsu or JuJutsu has been around since medieval times with several books referencing arts practiced by both samurai and peasant classes in feudal Japan. Jiu Jitsu being the more common term is generally associated with the unarmed combat used by the infamous Samurai. In more recent times from the 19th century onwards Jiu Jitsu became practiced as martial art and influenced the development of other arts such as Aikido, Karate and Judo. 

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu on the other hand is a modern art, its roots beginning in Brazil in the 1920’s and came about due to Japanese cultural expansion programme at that time. The most prevalent of the families learning these arts were the Gracie family. 

Techniques and Focus

The Gracies put an emphasis on self-defence but dominated with their skills and tactics when taking a fight to the ground. The message was that mechanical leverage, using as they termed in Jiu Jitsu technique would overcome strength, and therefore the smaller, opponent could best a larger untrained adversary. They proved this many times! Japanese Jiu Jitsu is more of a complete system in that it covers a wider range of self-defence scenarios, however it is not usually tested against 100% resistance, which most BJJ is. 

Sport vs. Self-Defence

Over the decades the sport of Jiu Jitsu has taken precedence over the idea of self-defence for the majority of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Schools, while the more traditional Jiu Jitsu systems still incorporate striking, weaponry, throws, locks and some ground work.

Uniform and Ranking System

There are many different ranking systems with Japanese Jiu Jitsu, but generally there are multiple belts (8-10), red often being the first colour and white the second, while BJJ has just 4 ranks prior to black belt starting at white belt.

Both arts wear a kimono usually referred to as a Gi.

So, you can see why Jiu Jitsu and BJJ are so easily confused!

• They share historical, technical, uniform and ranking connections but have actually evolved into two distinct martial arts forms
• Brazilian Jiu Jitsu emphasises ground fighting, positional dominance and self-defence
• Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is highly popular as a televised sport with its own rule set.

Regardless of the path chosen, both martial arts offer valuable training, self-discipline, and physical fitness benefits. Whether you decide to pursue Jiu Jitsu or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the journey of self-improvement and personal growth awaits on the mats.

If you’re ready to try BJJ, we have free trial classes for children, adults, beginners and improvers. Please just let us know, and we look forward to meeting you.