Jujutsu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The Different Moves

Which style of jujutsu is best for self-defense?

What style is known for grappling?

Despite having a similar name, jujutsu (sometimes spelled jujitsu or jiujitsu) and Brazilian jiu-jitsu are two different fighting styles with their own origins, moves, and purposes.

Differing Moves

Jujutsu ‒ Throws, joint locks, chokes, kicks, and strikes are all moves used in jujutsu. The main goal is to use strength and momentum against your opponent to overpower them. Jujutsu is more about analyzing your opponent’s moves and quickly finding a way to bring them down. One hard throw could be enough to keep them down, unlike Brazilian jiu-jitsu, where you hold down your opponent.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu ‒ Consisting mostly of grappling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu takes place primarily on the ground, with the goal to force submission onto the opponent. By using leverage and grip, moves like chokes and strangles make the opponent give up.

To learn more differences between jujutsu and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, visit our website!

Study jujutsu in Ann Arbor

If you think Japanese jujutsu is the right fit for you, visit JMAC!

At the Japanese Martial Arts Center, you’ll learn the self-defense, focus, and discipline jujutsu teaches. You’ll learn about weak points, effectively using force, and minimizing injury. Our approach helps you develop speed, balance and power by gradually teaching you more and more challenging and profound techniques.

Call us today at 734-720-0330 or contact us via our website to begin practicing jujutsu in Ann Arbor.

How Closely Related are Jujutsu and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu?

 Are you new to martial arts?

Have you been researching styles you want to learn?

Having a hard time telling jujutsu and Brazilian jiu-jitsu apart?

Despite having a similar name, jujutsu (sometimes spelled jujitsu or jiujitsu) and Brazilian jiu-jitsu are two different fighting styles with their own origins, moves, and purposes.

In fact, Brazilian jiu-jitsu actually comes from judo, not jujutsu. Followers of Japanese jujutsu adapted the martial art into judo and taught it around the world. In the early 1900s, judo teacher Mitsuyo Maeda taught judo in Brazil. One of his students was Carlos Gracie, who then created the style of Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

The creator of judo wanted the style to be good for small, lighter individuals to overpower larger opponents, and that’s what Brazilian jiu-jitsu does as well, making Brazilian Jiu-jitsu’s moves more similar to judo than jujutsu. However, judo focuses on taking down opponents from a standing position, while Brazilian jiu-jitsu is more about ground fighting.

The focus on grappling and submissions has made Brazilian jiu-jitsu popular as a competitive sport while jujutsu is mostly used for self-defense, fitness, and personal development. 

Visit our website for more differences between jujutsu and BJJ!

Study jujutsu in Ann Arbor

If you think Japanese jujutsu is the right fit for you, visit JMAC!

At the Japanese Martial Arts Center, you’ll learn the self-defense, focus, and discipline jujutsu teaches. You’ll learn about weak points, effectively using force, and minimizing injury. Our approach helps you develop speed, balance and power by gradually teaching you more and more challenging and profound techniques.

Call us today at 734-720-0330 or contact us via our website to begin practicing jujutsu in Ann Arbor.

Learn the Art of Japanese Swordsmanship

 Like swords?

Want to learn how to use them?

Iaido, or the art of Japanese swordsmanship, can teach you how to use a katana in a controlled, efficient way.

The main actions include drawing the katana, using it for defense, then re-sheathing it. When iaido was invented in the 15th century in Japan, the idea was to slay an opponent with one slash of the sword and to use the sword effectively to adapt to any situation.

Skills Iaido teaches

• Precision

• Efficiency

• Attention to detail

• Better focus

• Respect

• Discipline

Learn the art of Iaido in Ann Arbor

At the Japanese Martial Arts Center, we adapt to the pace of our students. Learn to handle a katana at your own speed in a safe environment with professionals. No swords will be given to people who aren’t ready to keep the safety of our students and instructors. 

Don’t be afraid to join! Iaido has no age limit. It’s good for people who want to train their body at their own pace or grow in a personal, non-competitive way. Read more about iaido on our website.

Call us today at 734-720-0330 or contact us via our website to begin practicing Iaido in Ann Arbor.

Self-Improvement with Iaido

Do you want to grow as a person?

Do you like a challenge?

Practicing iaido at JMAC can help you!

Iaido is the practice of wielding a katana in a controlled, efficient way. The main actions include drawing the katana, using it for defense, then re-sheathing it. When iaido was invented in the 15th century in Japan, the idea was to slay an opponent with one slash of the sword and to use the sword effectively to adapt to any situation.

Begin a spiritual journey with Iaido

Through iaido, you’ll learn principles like honor and integrity. You’ll use self-discipline to perfect your footwork, posture and etiquette to become the best version of yourself. Iaido’s slow, precise movements take a lot of mental focus. Many say that the constant engagement creates a centering or enlightening sensation that’s very rewarding.

To see more benefits of iaido, visit our website!

Learn the art of Iaido in Ann Arbor

At the Japanese Martial Arts Center, our ideal students set high standards for themselves, are loyal, respectful, and courageous. Our professional instructors won’t just train you physically, they will train your mind, body, and spirit to become strong martial artists. If this appeals to you, you might be a perfect fit for iaido.

Don’t be afraid to join! Iaido has no age limit. It’s good for people who want to train their body at their own pace or grow in a personal, non-competitive way.

Call us today at 734-720-0330 or contact us via our website to begin practicing Iaido in Ann Arbor.

Traditional Judo is a Path for Life and Wellness

People who have earned belts in judo have a certain calm confidence. They have learned how to be situationally aware while feeling sure of themselves. This is a superpower available to you, too! The communities where you live, work, and play need more people like you at your best. 

Study Judo at JMAC

Visit a judo class in Ann Arbor today. We welcome men and women of virtually all ages and fitness levels. 

Read more on our website!

Looking for Judo in Ann Arbor? Choose JMAC!

How is judo different from mixed martial arts? 

One important difference is that judo is primarily defensive. It's based on using an adversary’s own energy as power to subdue them. Body throws disarm an opponent and end a conflict. However, the tools that you learn in judo do not require sparring to be effective. You'll gain balance, strength, and mental focus through the regular practice of postures and movements. 

Call the Japanese Martial Arts Center now to take your first steps toward judo excellence. Visit to see our facility for judo in Ann Arbor and envision yourself as part of our friendly community. You’ll learn what to expect and get a picture of the future you could inhabit.  

Learn more on our website!

Karate Benefits the Body and Mind

Karate is one of the most popular and recognizable of the martial arts. It's practiced all over the world by students of every age and skill level to strengthen and exercise both the body and mind. It benefits all areas of a student’s life. 

Although it’s often portrayed in movies and on tv as fighting, the benefits of karate practice go way beyond self-defense. That’s because karate is much more than a fighting method. It’s also a practice for improving the mind and for self-development.

It can also be contactless! Karate is a great choice for students looking for pandemic-friendly workouts.

Learn more about karate at JMAC!

Learn About the Benefits of Karate at JMAC

Have months of pandemic restrictions left you feeling out of shape, inside and out?

Exercising your body and mind outside your home, in a supportive community, while maintaining pandemic precautions, might seem like a lot to ask. But it’s not – karate at JMAC can give you all that and more.

Sometimes, the hardest part of trying something new is taking that first step! Not at JMAC! Our instructors and students are amazing, dedicated, supportive people who are happy to welcome newcomers and answer questions. Together, we thrive! 

Learn more about karate at JMAC on our website! 

Are You Looking for an At-Home Bootcamp Workout?

Staying healthy is on everybody's mind these days. One of the best things you can do to stay healthy overall is exercise, but pandemic regulations make it difficult to find a gym or class you’re comfortable with that also provides a great workout. JMAC has martial arts, self-defense, and bootcamp workouts via video, Zoom, or private in-person (masks and social distancing required). 

Wondering if JMAC is right for you? Read what our members have to say about the JMAC18!

What do Members Say About JMAC?

If you’re struggling to find the right workout in the right place in pandemic conditions, you’re not alone! We understand how important it is to find a place where you feel comfortable and connected while getting a great workout and staying safe.

JMAC offers a variety of martial arts and self-defense classes, as well as a short but intense bootcamp workout. We’re confident we have something you’ll like, and we know without a doubt that our instructors and members are dedicated and welcoming. Because of pandemic regulations – and for our members’ health – we offer classes via Zoom and video, and private lessons in person. 

We could list all the reasons we think you’ll love JMAC, but wouldn’t you rather hear it from our members? 

Click to read our JMAC18 reviews!

JMAC Adapts to Continue Offering World-Class Training During COVID

New COVID regulations have once again changed the way we interact and work out. But as the pandemic evolves, so do we! JMAC is committed to giving you great martial arts practice. The physical and mental health benefits we get from training are too important to put on hold. We all need to stay as healthy as possible during this difficult time. 

JMAC still offers world-class training – but we’ve adapted our delivery methods!

Learn more on our website. 

JMAC Adapts Training for COVID Regulations

Martial arts teaches us patience and respect, which are needed more than ever as the COVID pandemic continues. In respect for the latest COVID regulations and more importantly, the health of our members, JMAC has temporarily cancelled on-site group classes. 

That doesn’t mean we’re giving up! We’re committed to giving you great martial arts practice. 

JMAC will still offer classes via Zoom, video, and socially distanced private lessons.

Visit our website for more information.

Change Your Life in 18 Minutes a Day? You bet!

50-second rounds. 10-second transitions. Never the same workout twice.

We think the JMAC18 is the simplest bootcamp on the planet! And the most fun! We introduce the workout at 7:30, start the timer around 7:36, and you’ll be done and on your way by 7:54. It might be the best 18 minutes of your day.

We know a bootcamp workout might not be right for you, and we want you to be sure before you commit to any workout program. That’s why JMAC always invites you to try a class for free.

You’ll never know until you try! The JMAC18 might be just the push you need to get back on track with your fitness. 

Learn more

 

 

What Can You Accomplish in 18 Minutes?

Are you ready to get back to the gym now that the stay-at-home orders have been eased?

Have you considered a bootcamp workout? Not sure if it’s right for you? Given the right information, the right instructor, and a free class to boot (see what we did there?) we’re confident you’ll see the benefit of the JMAC18.

The JMAC18 bootcamp workout is made up of intense interval training, great for people who like variety, like to challenge themselves, and are short on time. Like most bootcamp workouts, each class includes a variety of exercises to build strength, endurance, and agility. But unlike a lot of bootcamps that use same-old, repetitive workouts, we value intensity and variety over duration. 

The JMAC18 is a different 18-minute workout every class. Visit our website to learn more!

JMAC Continues to Follow COVID Precautions

Even though the Governor's executive orders have been ruled unconstitutional, we are still bound by regulations and respect for the health and safety of others. We want to get back to business as normal, but for now we are still limited by:

• Washtenaw County advisory rulings
• Michigan Department of Public Health rulings
• Common Sense
• A desire to help control the spread of COVID

It still makes sense to sanitize our hands, disinfect, ventilate, socially distance and mask. We still want to protect one another. We will always work to protect the safety and health of our students, and now is no exception. JMAC is a place to thrive!

If you’d like to learn more or arrange a time to watch class, call (734) 720-0330 or email us at info@japanesemartialartscenter.com

For more details about how we have adapted martial arts practice to protect our students during the pandemic, visit our website.

Ready for a workout but worried about COVID? Karate at JMAC is a smart option

As we all try to get our lives back on track, karate can be a great way to return to your best self. You’ll come out feeling more fit, have a better sense of self-worth, and be more confident. And you can be confident knowing JMAC takes your safety seriously.

So how do you practice karate without “hands-on” work? First, there’s:

• Learning the basics – stances, punches, blocks, and kicks. You can’t master any new skill until you’ve properly mastered the basics. 
• Kata (form) training – choreographed movements to train your body and mind. Instruction and practice help develop proper form, precision, and fluidity. They also isolate and train different muscle groups for a great workout. 

Not to mention, intangibles like self-confidence, respect, and focus!

JMAC offers martial arts training and self-defense in Ann Arbor. We’ve been providing Ann Arbor and the Southeast Michigan area with classes for all ages and sizes for over 14 years! 

If you’d like to learn more, call (734) 720-0330 or email us at info@japanesemartialartscenter.com.

Martial arts classes have endless benefits!

The benefits of self-defense and martial arts classes are endless! Physically, they can tone your entire body, strengthen your muscles, and provide a good cardiovascular workout. From a mental perspective, self-defense and martial arts classes can help your self confidence soar and your relationships flourish. 

Set a goal in one of your classes and you will certainly feel a sense of accomplishment! 

Ready to start reaping the benefits? Learn more on our website!

Self-Improvement and Self-Defense in Ann Arbor

It has been a long few months and we all are struggling to adjust and feel normal. Now is the perfect time to improve yourself and get back on track. Self-defense and martial arts classes have been proven to be the perfect way to improve both your physical and mental health.

Want to know how? Visit our website or contact us today!

The Advantages of Martial Arts Training for Women

Practicing martial arts shapes, strengthens and tones more than just the body: it transforms the mind and spirit as well. So Many who attend our self-defense classes for women begin a quest for physical strength and stamina but evolve into a dramatic reshaping of the self from inside out. Imagine being in the best physical shape of your life while feeling peaceful, determined, and centered. Imagine watching your body transform into a balanced, toned machine while knowing you’ve embarked on a lifetime journey of self-improvement. These are the joys of practicing martial arts.

Want to find out more? Visit our website!

Martial Arts Practice For Ann Arbor Women

It can be intimidating to try a new fitness technique, especially something as intense as martial arts. Most of us are hesitant to step out of our comfort zone, but we also recognize that the rewards may be worth the initial discomfort. Everyone, whether six or sixty, is a beginner when they start. Beginning a martial arts class can lead to a lifetime of self-improvement.

Many women who take on the challenges of martial arts get started to add variety to their exercise routine. Another common reason is to build self-defense skills. Martial arts practice is sure to aid both those goals. But it’s also much more. Martial arts instills discipline, confidence, and control. Women who practice martial arts report increased mindfulness, focus, and emotional mastery.

Interested in getting stronger, more confident, and better balanced? Keep reading on our website!