®
COMBAT JUJITSU RYU
MONDAY, TUESDAY THURSDAY SUNDAY
THE DOJO, UNIT 2 first floor Westward Point, Barnstaple, EX32 8PA
email us: combatjujitsuryu@gmail.com
The Harmony of Combat: Aikido’s Deep Connection to Japanese Jujitsu
Aikido is often viewed as a unique and highly philosophical martial art, but its roots lie firmly in the traditions of Japanese Jujitsu. Understanding this connection helps to place Aikido within the broader landscape of classical martial arts and highlights how it evolved from the techniques and principles of its predecessor.
The Origins of Aikido in Japanese Jujitsu
Japanese Jujitsu, developed by samurai during the feudal era, was a comprehensive system of combat that included throws, joint locks, strikes, and ground techniques. These techniques were designed to be effective in both armoured and unarmoured combat situations, often serving as a method of self-defence when weapons were unavailable. Over time, various styles of Jujitsu emerged, each emphasising different aspects of combat.
Aikido’s founder, Morihei Ueshiba, trained extensively in several Jujitsu styles, most notably Daito-ryu Aiki-Jujitsu, which focused on joint manipulation and the redirection of an opponent’s energy. Ueshiba synthesised his knowledge of Jujitsu with his personal philosophy, which emphasised harmony, non-resistance, and blending with an opponent’s force rather than meeting it head-on.
Morihei Ueshiba’s Influence
Ueshiba’s transformation of traditional Jujitsu techniques into what became Aikido was deeply influenced by his spiritual beliefs. He envisioned Aikido as a martial art not purely for combat but as a means of self-improvement and reconciliation. While traditional Jujitsu was largely focused on pragmatic self-defence and battlefield effectiveness, Aikido placed greater emphasis on fluidity, circular motion, and using an opponent’s force against them with minimal resistance.
​
Key Differences and Similarities
While Aikido and Japanese Jujitsu share common techniques, their application and philosophy diverge significantly:
-
Techniques: Both arts employ throws, joint locks, and leverage-based movements. However, Aikido removes many of the more aggressive strikes and counters seen in Jujitsu, favouring continuous motion and controlled redirection.
-
Philosophy: Jujitsu was traditionally about survival and efficiency in combat, often including highly destructive techniques. Aikido, in contrast, is based on the principle of harmonisation and seeks to neutralise aggression without causing undue harm.
-
Training Approach: Jujitsu training often includes resistance-based practice, sparring, and direct application against resistance, whereas Aikido tends to favour cooperative practice, focusing on developing sensitivity to movement and energy.
Gozo Shioda - A Japanese master of aikido who founded the Yoshinkan style of aikido ad was one of aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba's most senior students.
Morihei Ueshiba was a Japanese martial artist and founder of the martial art of aikido. He is often referred to as "the founder" Kaiso or ÅŒsensei, "Great Teacher".
Koichi Tohei, 10th Dan aikidoka and founder of the Ki Society and its style of aikido
Aikido and Our Collaboration
At Combat Jujitsu Ryu, we work closely with our Aikido senseis, ensuring that our training reflects the shared principles of both martial arts. Our Aikido instructors, as seen on our website, play a crucial role in preserving the harmony and effectiveness of Aikido techniques. By working in unison, we create an environment where practitioners can experience the best of both worlds—Aikido’s fluidity and philosophy alongside Jujitsu’s practical self-defence applications.
Real-World Applications of Aikido
Despite criticisms of its lack of direct competition, Aikido techniques have practical applications in self-defence and professional fields such as law enforcement. Many police forces and security personnel incorporate Aikido-based joint locks and control techniques to subdue individuals without excessive force. The art’s emphasis on redirection and neutralisation of aggression also makes it relevant in conflict resolution and personal safety training.
Aikido in Popular Culture
Aikido’s graceful and efficient movements have made their way into films and television, often depicted in fight scenes where control and redirection are key. Notable examples include:
-
John Wick (Keanu Reeves) – Uses techniques such as Kote Gaeshi (wrist throw) to disarm and control opponents in combat.
-
The Bourne Series (Matt Damon) – Features elements of Aikido’s joint locks and movement in close-quarters combat.
Aikido’s Relevance Today
Aikido’s value in modern martial arts is often debated, especially in comparison to combat sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, or MMA. While it may not emphasise direct competition or sport application, Aikido remains relevant in areas such as self-defence, law enforcement training, and personal development. Its emphasis on balance, movement, and de-escalation makes it a unique and valuable martial art, particularly for those seeking a non-violent approach to self-defence.
Conclusion
Aikido is deeply connected to Japanese Jujitsu, both in technique and historical lineage. While it has evolved with a different emphasis, its foundation remains rooted in the battlefield-tested principles of traditional Jujitsu.
Whether for self-defence, philosophy, or personal growth, Aikido offers a distinct perspective on martial arts that continues to attract dedicated practitioners worldwide.
