Does Jiu-Jitsu Have Striking?
The Intersection of Grappling and Striking Techniques
Jiu-Jitsu, particularly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), is primarily known for its ground fighting techniques, submissions, and grappling. But does Jiu-Jitsu have striking? The answer can be complex, depending on the style and the context in which it is practiced. In this article, we'll examine the relationship between Jiu-Jitsu and striking techniques.
Traditional Jiu-Jitsu: The Japanese Origin
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, the predecessor to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, incorporates a wide range of techniques, including striking. These strikes, however, are often designed to set up throws or joint locks, rather than to incapacitate an opponent directly.
Traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on grappling, not striking. However, its Japanese predecessor includes striking, and MMA practitioners often integrate it. Some BJJ sub-styles also incorporate strikes.Â
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: A Focus on Grappling
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu evolved as a specialized form of Jiu-Jitsu that focuses almost exclusively on ground fighting and submissions. Striking is generally not taught in traditional BJJ schools, and it is not allowed in standard BJJ competitions.
Self-Defense Applications
Despite the sports focus, some BJJ schools incorporate self-defense techniques that can include basic strikes. The purpose here is not to turn practitioners into strikers but to give them tools to manage a variety of real-world scenarios.
The MMA Angle: Where BJJ and Striking Meet
In Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), BJJ practitioners often cross-train in striking arts like Muay Thai or boxing. Here, the integration of striking with Jiu-Jitsu techniques becomes essential for a well-rounded fighting skill set.
Ground and Pound
One area where striking and BJJ intersect in MMA is the "ground and pound" tactic, where a fighter uses strikes to weaken an opponent on the ground before going for a submission.
Striking in Jiu-Jitsu Substyles
Some sub-styles or adaptations of Jiu-Jitsu, like Combat Jiu-Jitsu, explicitly incorporate striking techniques. Combat Jiu-Jitsu allows open-palm strikes when the fighters are on the ground, adding a new dynamic to the sport.
Final Thoughts
So, does Jiu-Jitsu have striking? In traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the focus is on grappling, and striking is generally not part of the curriculum. However, in its broader context, including its Japanese roots and its application in MMA, striking techniques do come into play. Understanding the relationship between striking and Jiu-Jitsu can provide a more complete picture of this versatile martial art and its applications in both sport and self-defense.
Frequently Asked Questions: Does Jiu-Jitsu Have Striking?
General Inquiry
Q: Does Jiu-Jitsu have striking?
A: Traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu primarily focuses on grappling and ground techniques and does not include striking as a main component. However, different styles and schools may vary in their curriculum.
Comparison with Japanese Jiu-Jitsu
Q: How is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu different from Japanese Jiu-Jitsu in terms of striking?
A: Japanese Jiu-Jitsu generally incorporates striking techniques as part of its curriculum, unlike Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which is more focused on grappling.
Self-Defense Aspect
Q: Is striking taught in Jiu-Jitsu for self-defense?
A: Some Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu schools include basic striking techniques in their self-defense curriculum, but it is not the primary focus of the art.
Incorporating Striking
Q: Can striking be incorporated into a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training regimen?
A: While traditional BJJ classes may not focus on striking, many practitioners choose to cross-train in striking arts like Muay Thai or boxing to become more well-rounded martial artists.
MMA Context
Q: How is striking integrated in Jiu-Jitsu for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)?
A: In the context of MMA, fighters often have to be proficient in both striking and grappling. Therefore, those who specialize in BJJ often cross-train in striking arts.
Gi and No-Gi
Q: Does the focus on striking differ in Gi vs No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu?
A: The core curriculum for both Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu generally does not include striking, although No-Gi might have a faster pace that can be more accommodating to striking in an MMA context.
Striking in Sport vs. Self-Defense
Q: Is striking more relevant for sport Jiu-Jitsu or self-defense Jiu-Jitsu?
A: Striking is generally more relevant in self-defense contexts and is not a scored element in most sport Jiu-Jitsu competitions.
Hybrid Styles
Q: Are there hybrid styles of Jiu-Jitsu that include striking?
A: Yes, there are hybrid martial arts like Combat Jiu-Jitsu that incorporate striking techniques along with traditional Jiu-Jitsu grappling.