Dan
Grades of black belt and above. Traditional Dan grades are ‘counted’ in Japanese – Shodan, Nidan, Sandan, Yondan, Godan etc.
Kyu
Grades before black belt. Traditionally counted backwards until the first Dan is achieved. Kyu belts are more likely to be referred to by colours, but order of colours changes between styles of martial arts.
Ju-Jitsu
One of the oldest root styles of Japanese martial arts. Many other styles have emerged from Ju-jitsu, including Brazilian Ju-jitsu and Judo. Also known as Jujutsu.
WJJF
World Ju-jitsu Federation. Being part of a larger body of martial arts clubs has many advantages: shared knowledge and stylistic approaches, reduced insurance, parties and seminars. There has always been some controversy about whether federations in general hinder the development of a style, but we can honestly say that we are encouraged to adapt Ju-jitsu and share our findings with other Jujitsukas.
Sensei
Teacher – The formal, polite honorific used when addressing someone who is instructing. Does not mean black belt.
Yame
A command to stop.
Grading
When a student is ready to progress onto more advanced techniques, he or she must demonstrate their proficiency of the syllabus so far. If successful, they will progress a belt. There are some schools that are criticism the use of belts, or do not feel it necessary to incorporate them into teaching – others schools, like ourselves, consider them a valuable aid to tracking a students progress and ensuring they are taught techniques befitting their skill level.
Lock
A family of techniques that involves extending an oppenent’s limb or joint past its natural limit of movement. Locks provide the jujitsuka with a great amount of control, and enables them to administer varying amounts of pain and restraint by slightly increasing the pressure they apply.
Throw
Quickly lifting someone off balance and forcing them to the floor. Hip-throws, Ricebails, Sweeps, Wheels and Leg-throws are all examples.
Dojo
The training hall.
Gi
Two-piece training uniform, resembling a robed top and trousers. Comes in various colours and weights depending on the martial art.
Grapple
Fighting whilst engaged in very close combat without strikes. Wrestling and Judo are both grappling arts. Grappling often takes place on the ground.