Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu vs Japanese Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu are both popular martial arts disciplines that focus on grappling and ground fighting techniques. While they share some similarities, such as joint locks and submissions, they also have distinct differences in terms of philosophy, techniques, and training methods.

General information

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu
Introduction :
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that focuses on ground fighting and submission techniques. Developed in Brazil, it emphasizes leverage and technique over strength, making it suitable for practitioners of all ages and sizes. Widely used in mixed martial arts competitions, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is also popular for self-defense and fitness purposes. With its emphasis on grappling and submission holds, it offers a unique and effective approach to martial arts training.
Introduction :
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is a traditional martial art that focuses on self-defense techniques utilizing joint locks, throws, and strikes. With roots dating back to the samurai warriors, it emphasizes using an opponent's energy against them. Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is popular for its practical applications in self-defense scenarios and is also beneficial for fitness and overall well-being. It has gained recognition worldwide for its effectiveness in real-life situations.
Advantages :
  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is highly effective for self-defense, focusing on ground fighting.
  • It is a great workout, improving strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.
  • BJJ promotes mental discipline and problem-solving skills.
  • It is suitable for all ages and body types.
  • BJJ competitions offer a supportive and inclusive community.
Advantages :
  • Japanese Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes joint locks and throws for self-defense.
  • Focuses on using an opponent’s energy against them, making it effective.
  • Teaches practical techniques for real-life situations.
  • Offers a well-rounded approach to self-defense with striking and grappling.
  • Promotes physical fitness and mental discipline.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited striking techniques compared to other martial arts
  • Emphasis on ground fighting may not appeal to all practitioners
  • High risk of injury due to joint locks and submissions
  • Not as effective in self-defense situations against multiple attackers
  • Requires a lot of physical strength and conditioning
Disadvantages :
  • Limited focus on striking techniques
  • Less emphasis on competition training
  • Lack of standardized curriculum among schools
  • Limited availability of high-level instructors
  • Not as widely practiced or recognized as other martial arts
🟢 Popularity : Very.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a highly popular martial art with a strong following worldwide. It is widely practiced in many countries, with a growing presence in competitive sports and self-defense training.
🟡 Popularity : Somewhat.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is somewhat popular in certain regions, with a dedicated following of practitioners. It may not be as mainstream as other martial arts like Karate or Taekwondo, but it has a strong presence in the martial arts community.


General application

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu
🟡 Difficulty : Average.
Getting started in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu requires dedication and consistency. While the basics can be learned relatively quickly, mastering the techniques and strategies can be challenging and may take time to develop.
🟡 Difficulty : Average.
Getting started in Japanese Jiu-Jitsu requires dedication and commitment to learning the techniques and principles. Basic physical fitness and flexibility are helpful, but beginners can start with introductory classes to build a solid foundation.
🟢 Self defense : Good.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is highly effective for self-defense on the street due to its focus on ground fighting and submission techniques, which can neutralize larger opponents and control dangerous situations.
🟢 Self defense : Good.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is effective for self-defense on the street due to its focus on joint locks, throws, and submissions. It teaches practical techniques for real-world situations, making it a valuable martial art for self-defense.
🟢 Fitness : Good.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is excellent for fitness as it provides a full-body workout, improves cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and mental focus. The high intensity of training sessions ensures a challenging workout.
🟢 Fitness : Good.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is excellent for fitness as it involves a high level of physical exertion, improves flexibility, and enhances overall strength and endurance. It provides a full-body workout and helps in weight management.
🟢 Competitions : Good.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has a well-established competition circuit with events at local, national, and international levels. There are numerous awarding bodies and organizations that host tournaments for practitioners of all skill levels.
🟢 Competitions : Good.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu has a strong presence in sporting competitions with events held at various levels, including local, national, and international tournaments. There are established awarding bodies that oversee these competitions.


Techniques

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu
🟡 Punching : Average.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses more on grappling and submissions rather than striking, so its effectiveness for punching is considered average. While some basic punches are taught, the art does not specialize in striking techniques.
🟡 Punching : Average.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu focuses more on grappling and joint locks rather than punching techniques. While some striking techniques are included, the emphasis is not on developing powerful punches compared to other striking-focused martial arts.
🟡 Elbowing : Average.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is average for punching as it primarily focuses on grappling and submissions. While it does include some striking techniques, such as elbows, it may not provide extensive training in punching compared to striking-focused martial arts.
🟡 Elbowing : Average.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is average for punching. While it incorporates striking techniques like punches and elbows, the focus is more on joint locks and throws rather than developing powerful punching skills.
🟡 Kneeing : Average.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is primarily focused on grappling and ground fighting techniques, so its effectiveness for punching is average. While some striking techniques are taught, the emphasis is not on punching in BJJ training.
🟡 Kneeing : Average.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu focuses more on joint locks, throws, and grappling techniques rather than striking. While some schools may incorporate striking techniques, the emphasis is not on punching, making it average for punching skills.
🟡 Kicking : Average.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses more on ground grappling and submissions rather than kicking techniques. While some basic kicks may be incorporated, it is not the primary focus of the martial art.
🟡 Kicking : Average.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu includes a variety of kicks in its techniques, but the focus is primarily on grappling and joint locks. While practitioners can execute kicks, the emphasis may not be as strong as in other martial arts dedicated to kicking techniques.
🟢 Throwing : Good.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is good for throws as it incorporates a variety of throws and takedowns into its techniques. Practitioners learn to off-balance opponents and execute throws effectively in both standing and ground positions.
🟢 Throwing : Good.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is known for its wide range of throws, including hip throws, shoulder throws, and sweeps. It emphasizes proper technique and leverage, making it effective for throws in self-defense situations.
🟢 Joint locks : Good.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is known for its extensive range of joint locks and holds, making it highly effective for controlling opponents and submitting them through various techniques. It is a key aspect of BJJ training.
🟢 Joint locks : Good.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is known for its extensive range of joint locks and holds, making it highly effective in controlling and subduing opponents. The techniques are well-developed and versatile for various situations.
🟢 Grappling : Good.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is excellent for ground fighting, with a focus on grappling, submissions, and positional control. Its techniques and strategies make it highly effective for dominating opponents on the ground.
🟢 Grappling : Good.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is known for its effective range of ground fighting techniques, including joint locks, chokes, and submissions. It emphasizes control and leverage, making it a valuable skill set for ground combat situations.
🟢 Defense : Good.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is good for defense as it focuses on grappling techniques, submissions, and positional control rather than traditional blocks. It teaches practitioners how to defend against various attacks on the ground effectively.
🟢 Defense : Good.
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is known for its effective range of blocking and defense techniques, including joint locks, throws, and strikes. Its emphasis on fluid movements and redirection of an opponent's force make it a strong choice for defense.


When choosing between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and goals. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is known for its effectiveness in mixed martial arts competitions, while Japanese Jiu-Jitsu offers a more traditional approach with a focus on self-defense techniques. Consider your objectives and preferred training style to make the right choice for your martial arts journey.