What Is The Difference Between Judo And Jiu Jitsu?
Posted: August 24, 2021
It’s not uncommon from the outset of mixed martial arts for different styles to be compared to each other, and in this case, be questioning the difference. Both Judo and Jiu Jitsu seem to have more similarities than differences.
Key difference: Judo is a modern form of Japanese martial art and a combat sport Jiu Jitsu is the oldest and traditional Japanese martial art form. Judo has its origin from Jiu Jitsu.
In this Ellis Academy blog, we’re going to discuss what is the difference between Judo and Jiu Jitsu, the best form of self-defence, and wherein the Surrey area can you attend classes.
Which Is Better Judo or Jiu Jitsu?
There’s no answer to this question - it just totally depends on the situation you find yourself in, to which skill set would work best. Each martial art has a different focus.
In Judo, much of the emphasis is weighted on standing techniques versus ground techniques. On the other hand, Jiu Jitsu is heavily focused on ground techniques with some standing techniques in the form of self-defence.
Most of the training in Judo is spent on the feet and learning takedowns with some time spent on the ground learning some submissions and pins. You’ll also find yourself doing everything from learning how to fall properly to the footwork needed to execute throwing techniques.
In Jiu Jitsu, you’ll spend some time learning how to take a fight to the ground, but most of your classes will cover how to survive, defend, and attack the ground. In a typical Jiu Jitsu class, you might learn techniques such as how to escape if someone mounts you or how to work for submission if your opponent is in the mount position.
Difference In Technique
Judo and Jiu Jitsu share similarities when it comes to techniques, such as joint locks, chokeholds, and throws. The main difference is how they are executed, from which position you favour them and the stress that each art places on the body.
Like we’ve discussed, Judo focuses on a standing position, therefore an emphasis more on throwing techniques. On the other hand, Jiu Jitsu is mainly groundwork and focuses on submissions, which makes a hell of a difference.
Judo’s strategy focuses on the throwing aspect of performing a successful throw declaring you as the winner. Judo provides you with a firm grip on your opponent, flooring them with a trip or a throw and throwing them off balance.
The person who shows better control and grip ends up winning. One thing to keep in mind is that ground fighting is not the main priority in Judo.
Meanwhile, the Jiu Jitsu strategy is focused more on the ground. Since 90% of Jiu Jitsu matches are on the ground or end up on the ground. In fact, most Jiu Jitsu schools let you start on the ground, but you need to keep in mind that tournaments start while standing, so you cannot avoid the stand-up game either. Your main goal in Jiu Jitsu is to learn how to dominate your opponent by controlling their movement.
Is Judo Better Than Jiu Jitsu For Self-Defence?
There is no straight answer to this. Self-Defence in terms of a street fight is wildly unpredictable and what is best often depends on the fight. We would say if a fight went to the ground, Jiu Jitsu will serve you the best. If you entangle with someone while standing up, Judo can be very handy.
One thing that sets them apart and only by a fraction is Judo is practised and executed with Gi clothing. If you do not know how to get your grips without a Gi, Judo won’t be very helpful for you. Therefore, I would have to give the edge to Jiu Jitsu as a self-defence martial art.
Gracie Jiu Jitsu At Ellis Academy
I hope we have answered your question 'what is the difference between Judo and Jiu Jitsu?' Our focus here at Ellis Academy is self-defence. Our programme is based on Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with easy fundamentals and instinctive movements, our system is designed for a real-life scenario.
All our instructors are certified black belts, qualified, and professionally trained to teach martial arts. Our facility is always clean, and we have an extensive schedule for all age groups.
Our academy is situated in Surrey to find out more about our self-defence programme and the real-life benefits of learning this ‘gentle art’ then don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Alternatively, If would you like any more information, tips or advice, visit our blog page.