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Jeet Kune Do

What is Jeet Kune Do?

Jeet Kune Do (JKD) is a martial arts philosophy developed by Bruce Lee in the late 1960s. It emphasizes adaptability, efficiency, and directness in combat. Unlike traditional martial arts styles that adhere to fixed patterns and techniques, JKD encourages practitioners to use what works best for them, blending techniques from various disciplines to create a personalized approach to self-defense.

Key principles of Jeet Kune Do include:

  1. Simplicity: Techniques should be straightforward and easy to execute.
  2. Directness: Movements should be direct and purposeful, minimizing wasted motion.
  3. Freedom: Practitioners should be free to adapt and change their techniques based on the situation.

Bruce Lee described JKD as "the art of fighting without fighting," emphasizing the importance of mental and physical flexibility. The goal is to be able to respond effectively to any situation, using whatever techniques are most effective, regardless of their origin.

Related Article: Jeet Kune Do: Bruce Lee's Revolutionary Martial Art and Philosophy

I have been given the rare opportunity to teach Jiu Jitsu for a living. This is a privilege that I wake up everyday grateful for, and a responsibility that I hold dearly. I understand how rare it is to be employed through a labor you genuinely love, and one which can be used as a vehicle for positive change in the lives of others. Even rarer still, I am often reminded of the quality of Jiu Jitsu I have learned, and the opportunity to have learned it.
Chris Matakas

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