As the growth of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) continues, the original schools of
ground fighting are beginning to become one large conglomeration rather than
individual and separate philosophies. Arts borrow freely from each other and
techniques are adapted or developed to fit the needs of the student. However, there
is a rich history and tradition behind ground fighting.
Today you can find many different styles of ground fighting to study.
Following is a listing of some of the more popular and prevalent schools.
Ju-jutsu
Medieval Japan
was presided over by the martial prowess of the samurai. Most Japanese martial
arts trace their lineage back to the studies of these ancient warriors,
Ju-jutsu included.
The samurai’s studies focused mainly on armed combat using swords, spears,
and archery weapons. Close, unarmed combat was viewed as a last resort and
training in this area centered on facing armored opponents. Gradually this
training grew to include unarmed combat in the palace and other areas where
armor and weapons were not permitted. Yet, despite the growth of ground
fighting and the eventual decline of the samurai, the premise of fighting an
opponent by taking advantage of areas that armor could not protect remained the
same.
Ju-jutsu, (also spelled “Jujitsu”), focuses on throws, locks, chokes, and
striking techniques. While the techniques can be done without it, most
practitioners wear a gi, and so techniques are taught using the opponent’s gi
or clothing against the opponent.
Most schools of Jujutsu also focus on the rich heritage and culture that
surrounds the Japanese martial arts. The classic term “budo” is often used to
describe these martial arts, and the philosophy of the defensive practitioner
rings through.