Master Class
Of all the martial arts still practised today, Ju-jitsu is perhaps the oldest.
Every student must try their hardest.
Sometimes when we try our best, we bend and stretch a technique to get that little extra from it. Sometimes in doing this we are just pulling the move out of shape.
Look at some simple moves.
Don't concern yourself with adding your own personal touch to the move. This is ego.
Instead, learn the technique and understand it.
By understanding we master. Ju-jitsu should only be practised with a qualified instructor.
Trick No. 1
Straight Arm Lock From Underneath
An attacker strangles you from between your legs.
Grab his wrist with both hands and push him away by digging your feet into his hips.
Roll onto your side bringing your leg over his head then round under his chin, pulling the arm at the same time.
Remember - all joint locking moves can be extremely powerful and should be exercised with control.
Trick No. 2
The Leg Wheel Throw
This is ideally from a straight legged attack.
As the attacker punches you (let's assume he's right handed), block the punch and grab hold of the arm.
Move your left foot behind yourself until you are facing the same direction as your attacker. Your moving round will start to pull the attacker in a circle.
Before he can step forward to catch his balance hold your leg out at the brigand's shin and use your right arm under his left to help him over.
Trick No. 3
Counter To An Attack With A Stick
Move quickly inside the attacker's range.
Rather than blocking the strike you wish to guide the blow outwards.
Once inside the attacker's space you are positioned perfectly for a one armed shoulder throw.
Feet are straight and the hip is out. Using your attacker's momentum he will be hurled to the floor with little effort.
Don't be concerned if the stick changes colour mid way through the move. This is normal.
Trick No. 4
Counter To Major Hip Throw
As someone attempts to put you in a hip throw, before the throw is executed hook your foot around their leg and lean backwards.
This "should" cause him to fall backwards.
After landing comfortably you are in the ideal position for some strangles.
If you are feeling flexible and the landing was right try this one.
Both hands grab the same lapel and pull back as the leg at the back of the head stops any movement.
As with most moves there are many variations. If you prefer ura hadaka jime, try it with your knee jammed in behind his back for extra leverage.
Trick No. 5
Escape From Shirt Grab
A ruffian decides to try his luck and grabs you churlishly. Grab his wrist and push down on his shoulder with your other hand. At the same time turn into the push. Drive your elbow into the attacker's shoulder and push his elbow into your forearm.
Trick No. 6
Defense From Knife Attack
In an overhead knife attack, move outside the circle of the knife. Push the knife away from you, then roll your hand around the attacker's wrist. Stepping around the back of the attacker apply a choke hold and break the elbow.
Applying two centres of pain usually persuades a would-be attacker to be more agreeable.
Trick No. 7
Shoulder Wheel
This is also known as kata garuma.
An attacker hurls himself at you. This time stand sideways onto him and bend down - grabbing his outstretched arm and around the inside of his leg.
Pull your arms out wide, stand up and tilt sideways with the attaker's own momentum being his worst enemy.
The poor fool is projected over your shoulders and lands on the floor. Keep hold of his hand as after such a fall he may need a little re-assurance.
Otherwise you are in the ideal position to apply a shoulder dislocation.
For a look at how these type of moves might be applied for real, have a look at this.