Combat pit official logo black
Back to Glossary
Home
Search
Martial Arts Culture and History
Gear and Equipment
Personalities
Skill Development
Mind and Body Connection
Weapons and Traditional Tools
Martial arts map
Complete blog posts directory
Contact

Ju

What is Ju?

In the context of Jujutsu (also spelled Jujitsu or Jiu-Jitsu), the term "Ju" (柔) is a Japanese word that means "gentle," "yielding," or "flexible." This concept is central to the philosophy and techniques of Jujutsu, which is a traditional Japanese martial art.

Jujutsu emphasizes using an opponent's energy and force against them rather than relying on brute strength. Techniques often involve joint locks, throws, and pins, allowing a practitioner to control or neutralize an opponent with minimal effort. The "gentle" aspect of Jujutsu refers to the idea of yielding to an opponent's force and redirecting it in a way that benefits the practitioner.

The full term "Jujutsu" (柔術) combines "Ju" (gentle) with "Jutsu" (art or technique), reflecting the art's focus on skillful and efficient techniques that leverage an opponent's movements.

Related Article: Exploring the Versatile Art of Jujutsu: The Gentle Art of Self-Defense

Judo is the way to the most effective use of both physical and spiritual strength. By training you in attacks and defenses it refines your body and your soul and helps you make the spiritual essence of Judo a part of your very being. In this way you are able to perfect yourself and contribute something of value to the world. This is the final goal of Judo discipline.
Kano Jigoro

Check out the latest blogs

See all articles

Other Glossary terms

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Olympic-style tae kwon do
Olympic-style Taekwondo, also known as World Taekwondo (WT) Taekwondo, is a dynamic and fast-paced martial art that focuses on high, fast kicking techniques.
O
Dōzukuri
Dōzukuri is an essential step in Kyudo, the Japanese martial art of archery.
D
Grappling
Grappling is a term used in martial arts and combat sports to describe techniques that involve manipulating an opponent through holds, locks, throws, and ground control, rather than striking.
G
Tai Chi
Tai Chi, also known as Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan), is a traditional Chinese martial art that is practiced both for its defense training and its health benefits.
T
Dynamic Flexibility
Dynamic flexibility refers to the ability to move a joint or muscle through its full range of motion with speed and control.
D
Ju
In the context of Jujutsu (also spelled Jujitsu or Jiu-Jitsu), the term "Ju" (柔) is a Japanese word that means "gentle," "yielding," or "flexible."
J
Cat Stance
The Cat Stance, known as "Neko Ashi Dachi" in Japanese, is a fundamental stance used in various martial arts, including American Kenpo.
C
Ayumi-ashi
Ayumi-ashi is another fundamental footwork technique used in various Japanese martial arts, including Kendo, Aikido, and Judo. Unlike suri-ashi, where the feet slide along the ground, ayumi-ashi involves a more natural walking or stepping motion.
A
Kenjutsu
Kenjutsu is a traditional Japanese martial art that focuses on the techniques of swordsmanship.
K
Static Flexibility
Static flexibility refers to the ability to hold a stretch in a stationary position, extending a muscle to its furthest point and maintaining that position for a period of time.
S
Wing Chun Stance
The Wing Chun stance, also known as "Yee Jee Kim Yeung Ma" or "Character Two Adduction Stance," is a fundamental aspect of Wing Chun Kung Fu.
W
Palm Sap
A palm sap, also known as a palm sap glove or palm sap weapon, is a self-defense tool designed to be worn in the palm of the hand.
P
Uchiokoshi
Uchiokoshi is the fourth stage in the Hassetsu, the "Eight Stages of Shooting," in Kyudo, the Japanese martial art of archery.
U
Hatakikomi
Hatakikomi is a technique used in sumo wrestling.
H
Shinzen Shobu
Shinzen Shobu is a term used in traditional Japanese martial arts, including Judo, which refers to a formal match or contest conducted in front of a shrine or a sacred place.
S
No Items Found