What is the Difference Between Jujitsu and Jiu Jitsu?

05/15/2025 • Giovanni Medeiros

Jujitsu and Jiu-Jitsu are related but distinct martial arts with different origins, techniques, and purposes. Here are the main differences between the two:

  1. Origins: Jujitsu, also known as Japanese Jujutsu, originated in Japan as one of the first martial arts, developed from samurai hand-to-hand combat. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), on the other hand, was derived from traditional Japanese Jujitsu and was developed in Brazil, primarily focusing on grappling.
  2. Techniques: Japanese Jujitsu is a more comprehensive martial art that incorporates both striking and grappling techniques, as well as the use of weapons like clubs and knives. BJJ, however, is primarily a grappling-based martial art that takes place mainly on the ground, aiming to force submission from the opponent using leverage, grip, and moves like chokes and strangles.
  3. Purpose: Japanese Jujitsu is primarily used for self-defense, fitness, and personal development. BJJ is mostly used as a competitive sport, with a focus on submissions or dominant positions to earn points and determine a winner.
  4. Combat Rules: The rules for competitions in Japanese Jujitsu and BJJ are different. Japanese Jujitsu incorporates a wide range of techniques, including striking and weapons, while BJJ competitions focus on grappling and submissions.

In summary, while both Jujitsu and Jiu-Jitsu share a connected history, they have evolved into distinct martial arts with different techniques and purposes. Japanese Jujitsu is a more comprehensive martial art that includes striking, grappling, and weapons, while Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is primarily focused on grappling techniques and is used primarily as a competitive sport.

Comparative Table: Jujitsu vs Jiu Jitsu

Here is a table comparing the differences between Jujitsu and Jiu-Jitsu:

Feature Jujitsu Jiu-Jitsu
Origin Developed in Japan, roots dating back 2000 years Developed in Brazil, originating from Jujitsu
Techniques Comprises grappling, ground fighting, and striking techniques Focuses on grappling and ground fighting techniques
Emphasis Real-life combat scenarios and includes a broader range of weapons Primarily focused on ground fighting and submissions
Versatility More versatile due to its diverse range of techniques and weapons Less versatile compared to Jujitsu, concentrating on ground fighting
Striking Includes striking techniques Rarely includes striking techniques, focuses on grappling
Competitions Less focused on competition, more on self-defense and martial arts More focused on competition and sport-oriented techniques

Jujitsu, also known as Japanese Jujitsu, is a more versatile and traditional martial art that encompasses a wide range of techniques, including grappling, ground fighting, and striking. On the other hand, Jiu-Jitsu, specifically Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), is a more specialized martial art that primarily focuses on ground fighting and submissions. While BJJ has its roots in Jujitsu, they have developed into distinct styles with different emphases and techniques.

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