Martial Arts on Paper: The Best Jiu Jitsu Books
Jiu-jitsu—a term that translates into English as "the gentle art"—is a classical Japanese martial art that encompasses a wide variety of modern unarmed combat systems. The discipline seeks to teach its disciples how to defend themselves against attackers, both armed and unarmed. Its basic techniques include locks, chokes, kicks, punches, and knees.
These techniques were originated in the battles of the bushi —classical Japanese warriors—who were trying to defend themselves from the samurai. This is precisely where moves like locks and strangulations come from. Both the techniques and the history of this art have been brought to paper on numerous occasions. These are the best books on jiu jitsu.
Best books ever written about jiu jitsu
Jiu jitsu lessons (2009), by Giancarlo Bagnulo
This is a detailed manual on the fundamental techniques of Jiu Jitsu, covering both its traditional applications and its adaptation to modern self-defense. Designed for practitioners of all levels, The book provides an accessible and structured guide to developing skills in this martial art based on dominating the opponent through projections, keys and immobilizations.
The author uses illustrations to illustrate all the concepts explained in the book, in addition to adding step-by-step sequences that allow readers to understand the mechanics of each movement and its application in real-life situations. Likewise, the author explores the principles of Jiu-Jitsu, highlighting the importance of strategy, balance and efficiency in combat.
Japanese for Martial Artists: Transcription and Explanation of Japanese Martial Arts Techniques (2020), by Ruben Gomez
Here we have an essential work for practitioners of Jiu jitsu, judo, karate, aikido and others. martial arts Japanese women who wish to understand the meaning and correct pronunciation of the terms used in these disciplines. Although this is not a specialized volume on jiu jitsu, it can help athletes and martial artists better understand the philosophy of their discipline.
The book offers a manual on the transcription of Japanese into Spanish, explaining the etymology and context of each technical term, which makes it easy to learn and use in practice. It also delves into the structure of the Japanese language in relation to martial arts, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the culture that underpins these traditions.
The Book of Five Rings (2023), by Miyamoto Musashi
This treatise on the art of war, strategy, and philosophy of combat remains a fundamental reference in the field of martial arts, management, business, and personal development. Although it doesn't cover jiu jitsu, teaches how it can be applied by all its practitioners.
Divided into five sections —Earth, Water, Fire, Wind and Void—, The book sets out key principles of sword mastery, combat tactics, and the mindset of an invincible warrior. Musashi explains how discipline, observation, and adaptation are essential not only in combat, but in all aspects of life.
The 2023 edition features updated language, explanatory notes and a historical context that facilitate the understanding of its timeless message, making it an essential work for those seeking to improve their strategy, self-control and leadership skills.
The Gracie Family and the Jiu-Jitsu Revolution (2008), by Marcelo Pires Alonso
This is a work that explores the genuine influence of the Gracie family on the transformation of martial arts, especially in the development and popularization of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a variant that has even come to rival its predecessor. The book shows a compilation of interviews and featured articles published over twenty years in the magazine Black belt.
Through these pages, The reader will meet firsthand the main members of the Gracie family, as well as figures close to its core, such as Grandmaster Mansur, Pedro Hemeterio and João Carlos Barreto, who were protagonists in the epic times of Jiu jitsu.
This work not only highlights the feats and achievements of the Gracie family, but also delves into how their dedication and innovative approach led Jiu-Jitsu to become a world-renowned discipline.. It is essential reading for those who wish to understand the impact of the Gracie brothers on martial arts. and their evolution.
Jiu jitsu: the effective Japanese method of self-defense (1900), by K Higashi
It is one of the first English-language works to introduce Western audiences to the art of Japanese Jiu-Jitsu. Published at a time when Eastern martial arts were just beginning to gain attention in Europe and America, this book presents a detailed description of the fundamental techniques of self defense, focused on practical and efficient application against physical aggression.
Through easy-to-follow illustrations and explanations, Higashi explains the basic principles of using the opponent's energy, throws, immobilizations, and escapes, highlighting the effectiveness of Jiu-Jitsu for people of all builds. In addition, The author highlights the underlying philosophy of the martial art, which promotes self-control, discipline and strategy in combat situations.
This work, in addition to being a technical manual, reflects the growing Western fascination with Japanese martial arts in the 20th century and remains a valuable testament to traditional methods of self-defense.
Jiu jitsu, the ancient art of self-defense (1900), by T Shidachi
This is a pioneering and introductory text, written to bring knowledge of the principles and techniques of traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu to Western readers. offers a detailed overview of this method of self-defense, based on the efficiency of movement and the use of the opponent's strength, which can be understood through clear explanations and illustrations.
Shidachi Describes takedown and control techniques emphasizing the intelligent use of power and balance rather than brute force. Furthermore, the title explores the background behind the martial art and the philosophy applied within it. This is a volume that holds a place of honor among jiu jitsu texts, but also a reflection of its effectiveness in combat and its accessibility to all audiences.