Japanese Jiu Jitsu vs Judo. A Clear Comparison
- Bushido Martial Arts
- Jan 20
- 3 min read
People researching martial arts often ask about the difference between Japanese Jiu Jitsu and Judo. The two arts share many commonalities, and that is not by accident.
Judo evolved from Japanese Jiu Jitsu and was formally founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano. Because of this shared history, both arts emphasise balance, control, leverage, and safe training methods. Where they differ is in purpose, structure, and how techniques are applied today.
This article compares the Japanese Jiu Jitsu taught at Bushido Martial Arts with judo, including clear pros and cons for each, so you can make an informed decision.
A Shared History With Clear Common Ground
Japanese Jiu Jitsu is the older system. It developed as a comprehensive method of self defence that included throws, joint locks, controls, and strikes.
In 1882, Jigoro Kano refined elements of Japanese Jiu Jitsu into what became judo. His aim was to preserve effective techniques while creating a safer, more structured system suitable for education and widespread practice.
Because judo grew directly out of Japanese Jiu Jitsu:
Both arts teach balance and posture
Both use throws and off-balancing
Both rely on leverage rather than strength
Both teach breakfalls for safety
These shared foundations explain why judo and Japanese Jiu Jitsu often look similar to beginners.
What Is Judo?
Judo focuses primarily on:
Balance and posture
Throws and takedowns
Pins and limited groundwork
Breakfalls for safe falling
Modern judo training is strongly influenced by sport competition and Olympic rules.
Pros of Judo
Excellent development of balance and coordination
Strong emphasis on safety and falling skills
Clear structure and progression
Olympic sport with competitive pathways
Widely available worldwide
Cons of Judo
No striking
Techniques shaped by sports rules
Limited self-defence context
Groundwork is restricted by competition rules
Some traditional techniques were removed
Judo excels within its sporting framework, particularly for throws and balance control.
What Is Japanese Jiu Jitsu at Bushido Martial Arts?
The Japanese Jiu Jitsu taught at Bushido Martial Arts is primarily a standing martial art.
While it shares roots with judo, its focus remains on practical self-defence rather than sport.
Training includes:
Standing balance and posture
Defence against grabs and holds
Throws and takedowns
Joint locks and standing controls
Shotokan style striking
Limited ground work when necessary
The emphasis is on staying on your feet, controlling a situation quickly, and disengaging safely where possible.
Pros of Japanese Jiu Jitsu at Bushido Martial Arts
Strong standing self-defence focus
Includes striking and grappling
Techniques designed for real-world situations such as strangle escapes, multiman attacks and reflex training.
Emphasis on control, restraint, and awareness
Suitable for children (ages 10 and above), adults, and families
Not limited by sports rules
Cons of Japanese Jiu Jitsu
Not an Olympic sport
No competitive pathway for tournaments
A broader syllabus takes longer to master
Less focus on prolonged ground fighting
Japanese Jiu Jitsu prioritises adaptability and practicality.
Key Differences at a Glance
Shared foundations
Balance and leverage
Throws and off-balance
Breakfalls for safety
Roots in traditional Japanese Jiu Jitsu
Judo
Sport focused
Throws within a defined rule set
No striking
Strong competition pathway
Click here to read our blog post if you would like to learn more about Judo.
Japanese Jiu Jitsu at Bushido Martial Arts
Self-defence focused
Primarily standing techniques
Combines throws, locks, and striking
Designed for unpredictable situations
Which One Is Right for You?
Judo may be right if you want:
A structured Olympic sport
Competitive training and progression
Athletic development through throwing
Japanese Jiu Jitsu at Bushido Martial Arts may be better if you want:
Practical self-defence skills
Training that stays mostly standing
A system that includes striking
A non-competitive, family-friendly environment
Neither art is better overall. They are designed for different outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Japanese Jiu Jitsu and Judo share many similarities because Judo evolved directly from Japanese Jiu Jitsu in 1882. Their common foundations explain why both arts emphasise balance, control, and safe training.
Where they differ is in application. Judo developed into a global sport. Japanese Jiu Jitsu, as taught at Bushido Martial Arts, remains a standing focused self-defence system that includes striking and control techniques for real-world situations.
Understanding this shared history helps you choose the martial art that best fits your goals.
Comments