Jujitsu basically means the art of softness. This world-renowned martial art originated in Japan, and its techniques include plenty of martial art styles, which include armed and unarmed forms. Jujitsu was born when a group of Japanese Samurai were practicing how to defeat an armed opponent without weapons. They came up with a lot of effective tactics, which consisted of pins, joint locks, and striking throws. Techniques Used in Jujitsu Joint Locks: This technique can be applied on anything that bends, such as your fingers, elbows, shoulders, and knees. You apply a joint lock for throwing, submission, or restraining an aggressor. Joint locks are basically taught to police forces around the world. Grapple: Grapples are used in one of the most deadliest style of martial arts. Grappling has spread to Judo and influenced many of its moves. This is used to avoid or block some violent physical gesture, such as biting and gouging. Chokeholds: One of the most dangerous jujitsu moves, a proper chokehold can actually kill or make the opponent unconscious for some time. In physical combat, a choking technique can damage the windpipe in the neck. Although chokeholds are banned in modern jujitsu, they are allowed in judo competitions. In jujitsu, there are many chokehold techniques, which have contributed in making it a globally recognized martial art. Throwdown: If you were disarmed during a fight, you could be only saved if you knew some throwing techniques, and could be used to knock down an armed opponent, before disarming him. Takedown: Don't get confused between throwdown and takedown. Takedown is used to drag the opponent to the floor, using your body weight. In a sporting combat, a takedown happens when you have trapped the opponent's legs and arms. Brazilian Techniques The various Brazilian moves mentioned here are known as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques. Traditional techniques were introduced in a new martial art style by Royce Gracie, and it got worldwide attention in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) matches. Positions

• The Mount
• Scarf Hold
• The Side Mount
• The Back Mount

Transitions

• Standing Up in Base
• Scissor Sweep (Guard to Mount)
• Side Mount to Mount (Knee Drive)
• Double Ankle Grab Sweep (Guard to Mount)

Escapes

• Passing the Guard (Kneeling)
• Upward Lift Escape (Under Mount)
• Guard Escape (Push)
• Head Lock Escape (Leg Hook)

Arm-Locks

• Americana From The Side Mount
• Shoulder-Lock From The Side Mount
• Omoplata From A Failed Guard Arm-Bar
• Kimura From The Side Mount

Chokes

• Front Collar Scissor Choke From The Guard
• Sliding Collar Choke From The Back Mount
• Thrusting Choke From Inside The Guard
• Rear Scissor Choke From The Guard

Leg-Locks

• Achilles' Ankle Lock From In The Guard
• Foot Lock Against The Back Mount
• Heel Hook
• Knee Bar From In The Guard

Japanese Techniques Japanese jujitsu is the traditional version of this sport, and takes a long time to perfect. But you can still have an understanding about its techniques. Naga Waza - Throwing Techniques

• Osoto-Gari
• Ippon-Seoi-Nage
• O-Goshi

Kansetsu Waza - Locking Techniques

• Ude-Garami
• Ude-Kujiki
• Kote-Gaeshi

Ne-Waza - Ground Techniques

• Kesa-Gatame
• Yoko-Shiho-Gatame
• Juji-Gatame

Tips for Beginners Before jumping into action, just remember these points:

• No matter what people say, you do require a certain level of fitness and strength to get the full benefits of jujitsu. The fitter you are, the more energized you would be during the training sessions. Students advance in their training through the changing color of their belts. It starts with white and ends with black.
• It is very important to understand that you are a beginner, and you would tap often. Be relaxed and try to understand your opponent's tactics. Always remember that silence is golden, and with patience and persistence, you can achieve what you desire.
• Work and practice the moves that you find the most difficult. Don't allow negative vibes and thoughts to discourage you. Make your guard strong.

Before enrolling in any jujitsu training class, inquire thoroughly about its training program, and various certifications that it offers. Before learning martial arts, make sure you get a routine check up done by your physician, to avoid any muscle or bone injury.