Judo vs. Jiu Jitsu — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on December 12, 2023
Judo is a martial art focusing on throws and groundwork; Jiu Jitsu emphasizes ground fighting and submissions. Both originate from Japan.
Difference Between Judo and Jiu Jitsu
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Judo, a modern martial art and Olympic sport, focuses primarily on throws and takedowns to subdue opponents. Jiu Jitsu, often referred to as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) in its modern form, centers around ground fighting and submission holds, including joint locks and chokeholds.
Judo typically involves significant stand-up grappling, aiming to throw or trip an adversary to the ground. Jiu Jitsu, on the other hand, involves extensive ground grappling, aiming to control and submit the opponent through various techniques.
Judo was developed in Japan in 1882 by Jigoro Kano and emphasizes the principle of "maximum efficiency, minimum effort." Jiu Jitsu, although originally from Japan, was popularized in Brazil and focuses on the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant.
Judo rules in competition discourage prolonged groundwork, promoting a fast-paced, dynamic combat style. Jiu Jitsu competitions allow extended ground fighting periods, leading to a strategic, patience-testing battle.
Judo training is disciplined and hierarchical, often involving a ranking system indicated by belt color. Jiu Jitsu also follows a belt system but is typically more informal and open-ended, with a focus on practical self-defense techniques.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Japan
Japan, popularized in Brazil
Focus
Throws, takedowns, and controlling opponents
Ground fighting, submissions, self-defense
Competition Style
Timed matches, points for throws and holds
Submission wins, positional control points
Philosophy
"Maximum efficiency, minimum effort"
Technique and leverage over brute strength
Training Environment
Formal, traditional, rank-focused
Informal, practical, self-defense-oriented
Compare with Definitions
Judo
Judo emphasizes the principle of "maximum efficiency, minimum effort."
In her Judo practice, she learned to leverage her opponent's force against them.
Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu teaches that a smaller person can overcome a stronger opponent with technique.
Through Jiu Jitsu, he was able to control the match despite his size disadvantage.
Judo
Judo uses a system of promotion represented by various colored belts.
After years of training, he finally earned his black belt in Judo.
Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu is a martial art focusing on ground fighting and submission holds.
She uses Jiu Jitsu to build confidence and learn self-defense.
Judo
Judo is a Japanese martial art focusing on throws and takedowns.
He's been taking Judo classes to improve his balance and coordination.
Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu competitions prioritize submissions through joint locks or chokeholds.
The Jiu Jitsu tournament ended with a stunning armbar submission.
Judo
Judo is an Olympic sport known for its competitive grappling.
The Olympic Judo champion demonstrated exceptional skill and strength.
Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu training emphasizes live sparring, or "rolling," to practice techniques.
Regular rolling sessions in Jiu Jitsu classes helped her improve rapidly.
Judo
Judo teaches discipline, respect, and physical fitness through martial arts.
Taking up Judo has greatly improved his overall discipline and respect for others.
Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu is known for its practical application in self-defense situations.
Learning Jiu Jitsu has equipped him with practical skills for real-world scenarios.
Judo
A sport and method of physical training similar to wrestling, developed in Japan in the late 1800s and using principles of balance and leverage adapted from jujitsu.
Jiu Jitsu
Alternative spelling of jujitsu
Judo
A Japanese martial art and sport adapted from jujutsu.
Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Judo
A sport adapted from jujitsu, originally a method of self-defense without weapons, and similar to wrestling; it was developed in Japan.
Judo
A sport adapted from jujitsu (using principles of not resisting) and similar to wrestling; developed in Japan
Common Curiosities
What is Judo?
Judo is a martial art and Olympic sport focusing on throws, takedowns, and controlling opponents using their own force.
Can Jiu Jitsu be used for self-defense?
Absolutely, Jiu Jitsu techniques are practical and effective for self-defense, especially against larger opponents.
How long does it take to advance in Jiu Jitsu?
Progress in Jiu Jitsu depends on frequency of training, individual ability, and effort.
Can Judo be practiced recreationally?
Yes, Judo can be practiced both competitively and recreationally for fitness and personal development.
How does Jiu Jitsu differ from Judo?
Jiu Jitsu focuses more on ground fighting, submissions, and practical self-defense, while Judo emphasizes throws and stand-up grappling.
How physically demanding is Judo?
Judo is physically demanding, requiring strength, flexibility, and endurance, but can be adapted to different fitness levels.
Is Judo suitable for children?
Yes, Judo is practiced by people of all ages and teaches discipline, respect, and physical coordination.
Does Jiu Jitsu have a belt ranking system?
Yes, Jiu Jitsu practitioners progress through a series of belt colors, denoting their level of expertise.
Are there different styles of Jiu Jitsu?
Yes, there are various styles, including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), Japanese Jiu Jitsu, and others, each with unique techniques.
What’s the learning curve like for beginners in Judo and Jiu Jitsu?
Both Judo and Jiu Jitsu can be challenging for beginners but are gradual and rewarding learning processes, with consistent practice being key.
Do I need to be strong to start Jiu Jitsu?
No, Jiu Jitsu techniques rely on leverage and skill, not just physical strength.
Are there weight classes in Judo competitions?
Yes, Judo competitions typically have weight classes to ensure fair matchups.
What are the main techniques used in Judo?
Judo techniques include throws (nage-waza), groundwork (ne-waza), joint locks, and chokes.
How is a winner determined in a Judo match?
Winners in Judo matches are determined by points, penalties, or a successful throw resulting in an ippon (instant win).
Is Jiu Jitsu effective in real combat situations?
Jiu Jitsu's emphasis on ground control and submissions makes it highly effective in real combat.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
