Jujitsu
The art of flexibility, a path to self-mastery
Jujitsu, a martial art of Japanese origin, combines defense techniques, body control, and respect for one's partner. Its name, 柔術 (Jūjutsu), generally means "art of suppleness" or "art of flexibility."
Its fundamental principle consists of intelligently using energy and movement rather than opposing solely with force. Throws, immobilizations, joint locks, and dodges allow for working on balance, timing, and the body's natural levers.
Beyond the techniques, Jujitsu develops self-confidence, vigilance, and emotional control. Training fosters mutual respect, discipline, and mutual aid.
The practice is progressive and adapted to everyone's abilities. Heir to Japanese martial traditions, Jujitsu combines self-defense, physical conditioning, and personal development, seeking a balance between efficiency, self-control, and respect for others.
History of Jujitsu
Japanese martial traditions
Jujitsu finds its roots in the close-combat methods of feudal Japan. Developed and passed down within various schools, called Ryū, these practices notably allowed warriors to cope with situations where the use of their weapons was limited.
There is therefore no single founder or precise birth date for Jujitsu. Its history is that of several traditions, whose techniques and teaching methods have evolved over the centuries.
During the Edo period (1603–1868), numerous schools developed their teaching. Techniques of throwing, control, joint locks, and striking occupy a variable place depending on the traditions.
From traditional Jujitsu to modern practices
Starting from the Meiji era, which began in 1868, the transformations of Japanese society changed the place of martial arts. Some traditions continued, while new educational and sporting approaches appeared.
In 1882, Kanō Jigorō founded Judo by drawing on his study of different Jujitsu schools.
Today, Jujitsu is practiced in several forms, depending on the schools and federations: martial art, self-defense method, or sporting discipline. It notably combines strikes, throws, and controls, within a framework of progressive learning where the safety of the partner remains essential.
Jujitsu in Bonnevoie
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Jujitsu is part of the history of the Bonnevoie club. After a period during which Judo took a predominant place, the Jujitsu section experienced a new resurgence in 1984, under the impetus of Pe’l Schlechter, Erny Glesener, and Théo Lepage.
Ernest Glesener first provided the instruction. In 1989, Norbert Bäcker and Claude Damiani succeeded him.
This transmission constitutes an important chapter in the history of Jujitsu in Bonnevoie, marked by an orientation towards self-defense.
Le Code Moral du Jujitsu
Progress is not measured solely by the mastery of techniques. It also manifests in our behavior, our commitment, and our attention to others.
The following eight values guide our practice of jujitsu, on the tatami as well as in daily life.
Politeness — Rei
Show courtesy to everyone and respect the rules of the dojo. Bowing, listening, and paying attention to your partner are concrete expressions of this.
Courage — Yū
Courage is the ability to act with determination despite fear, doubt, or difficulty. It does not consist of never being afraid, but of moving forward with confidence and correctness when the situation demands it.
In the practice of Jujitsu, it is expressed through the will to learn, to surpass oneself, to face one's limits, and to persevere in the face of obstacles.
Sincerity — Makoto
S’exprimer avec honnêteté et agir sans artifice. Être sincère, c’est également reconnaître ses limites et accepter les conseils.
Honor — Meiyo
Be true to your word and your commitments. Adopt a responsible attitude and remain worthy of the trust others place in us.
Modesty — Kenkyo
Reconnaître ses réussites sans orgueil et rester ouvert à l’apprentissage. Quel que soit son niveau, chacun peut encore progresser et apprendre des autres.
Le respect — Sonkei
Reconnaître la valeur de chaque personne, au-delà de son âge, de son grade ou de ses capacités. Le respect rend possibles la confiance et une pratique partagée en sécurité.
Self-control — Jisei
Keep calm and control your reactions. On the tatami, this means adapting your strength, controlling your movements, and ensuring the safety of your partner.
Friendship — Yūjō
Cultivate mutual aid, trust, and the pleasure of progressing together. The partner allows us to learn: they deserve our attention and kindness.
The fundamental principles of Budō
Budō refers to the Japanese martial ways envisioned as a path for training the body and mind. Training does not only aim for technical efficiency: it also contributes to the development of character, discernment, and respect for others.
The following concepts offer benchmarks for understanding this spirit and integrating it into the practice of jujitsu.
Shin-Gi-Tai — 心技体
L’unité de l’esprit, de la technique et du corps
Ces trois dimensions se développent ensemble. Une technique prend tout son sens lorsqu’elle associe une intention claire, un geste maîtrisé et un corps préparé.
Dō — 道
The Way
Practice is a long-term commitment. Beyond results or victory, it invites you to know yourself better, to cultivate perseverance, and to progress throughout your life.
Rei — 礼
Respect and courtesy
Respect is shown towards the teacher, partners, the Dojo, and traditions. Bowing is a visible manifestation of this, but it also takes form in listening, attention, and daily behavior.
Kamae — 構え
Posture and availability
Kamae combines a stable physical posture with an attentive mental attitude. It allows you to remain balanced, available, and ready to adapt to the situation.
Ma-ai — 間合い
The right distance
Ma-ai refers to the relationship of distance with a partner or opponent. It is closely linked to rhythm and the timing of the action: knowing how to position yourself allows you to act with greater precision.
Zanshin — 残心
Continuity of attention
Vigilance does not end when a movement finishes. After executing a technique, the practitioner maintains their attention, balance, and readiness.
Mushin — 無心
The mind free from fixation
Often translated as "empty mind," mushin does not mean the absence of consciousness. It evokes a mind that is available, not trapped by fear, anger, or excessive reflection, and can thus respond with fluidity.
Jū — 柔
Flexibility and adaptation
Flexibility consists of adapting rather than systematically opposing force with force. It allows you to accompany, divert, or use the opponent's movement, seeking a precise and controlled action.