Comparing Jiu Jitsu to Aikido

Jiu Jitsu originated in the early Samurai period in Japan for warriors to protect themselves when unarmed. Over 1,000+ years of existence, many styles and splinter groups of Jiu Jitsu formed. In the 20th century Jiu Jitsu was modernized into Judo and Aikido. In Westchester, tremendous variety exists among the styles, from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (MMA fame) emphasizing groundwork to Daito Ryu Aiki Jujitsu more closely resembling Aikido. Jiu Jitsu tends to focus on destructive technique first, minimal use of katas, and sometimes uses competition. Weapons practice may or may not be involved and exercise tends to be aerobic.

Today, due to the prevalence of MMA and its ties to Brazilian Jiu jitsu, a distinction has formed between Japanese and Brazilian forms of Jiu Jitsu. In Brazil, Jiu Jitsu was formed both from the ancient Japanese Jiu jitsu and Judo as well. But many different styles and splinter groups exist within Japanese Jiu Jitsu, as the tradition is quite ancient.

Jiu Jitsu Classes in Westchester, NY: Availability

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In Westchester County, Jiu Jitsu may be available in the major cities of White Plains, New Rochelle & Yonkers. The Japanese Jujitsu is less widely available in Westchester NY.

If competition is used as a training method, it is helpful to assess the injury rate of a martial arts school and practices outside of competition such as defense vs multiple attackers and weapons.