Shihan-Ryu Logo

Shihan-Ryu JuJitsu

Shihan-Ryu JuJitsu, (the Master Way of the Gentle Art) is based much upon the classical JuJitsu systems of Kito Ryu and Tenshin Shinyo Ryu.

Kito-Ryu was founded by Ibaragi Toshifusa (1597-1670) in the Tokugawa-Iemitsu era (1624-1643). This school established the order of training in JuJitsu methods. This school was particularly known for its outstanding Nage-Waza (throwing techniques) and emphasized mental training. Kodokan Judo throwing techniques are based on this school's methods. Tenshin Shinyo-Ryu JuJitsu was founded by Iso Mataemon Masaashi at the end of the Tokugawa era (1861-1864). This school was one of the largest schools at the end of the feudal era and was well known for its extensive Katame-Waza (holding, choking and joint locking techniques) and Atemi-Waza (striking techniques). Judo's Katame-Waza and Atemi-Waza are based on these methods.

JuJitsu, which means "Gentle Art" is a system of combat whereas a smaller person may defeat a person of greater physical stature. The term "Gentle Art" in no way implies that JuJitsu is a gentle, dainty art. Indeed, JuJitsu was the primary unarmed combat method of the Samurai and could devastatingly brutal on the field of battle.

The term "Gentle Art" is really a description of the principles and techniques which are the foundation of the art. The smaller person cannot rely upon brute force and strength to overcome someone who is bigger and stronger. The smaller person must instead use his opponents strength and momentum to add to his/her own technique to gain victory in combat. When the opponent pushes, the defender would pull. When pulled, the defender would push. This is the principle of "Ju" as taught in JuJitsu.

JuJitsu, because it was designed as a combative art, relies upon many techniques, some of which are similar to those found in other Martial Arts like Karate, Aikido and Judo. Both Aikido and Judo are modern day descendents of JuJitsu. Some of the techniques found in JuJitsu are:

Atemi-Waza (striking techniques)
Nage-Waza (throwing techniques)
Kensetsu-Waza (joint manipulation)
Shime-Waza (strangulation or choking techniques)
Katami Waza (ground techniques), vital and nerve point striking and manipulation

Shihan-Ryu JuJitsu Rank Requirements

Return to Previous Page