Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Techniques and Aikido - In Differences We Find Similarities-part one-

Are There Similarities?

At first glance Brazilian Jiu Jitsu techniques and those of Aikido may seem worlds apart. However, upon closer inspection one finds that there may be as many similarities as differences. In fact, the Aikido's roots trace back to Jiu Jitsu in Japan. Morihei Uyeshiba, the founder of Aikido, was a long-time practitioner of Judo whose throws, chokes and joint locks are similar to if not the same as those used in Jiu Jitsu.

Similarities - The Goal is Control

Many of the submission techniques applied in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) are based on the same principles as Aikido, which are to apply force to tendons, ligaments, or joints in such as way that pain results. The while the application within each of the arts is different, the goal of both arts is the same - control of the opponent. The BJJ practitioner achieves a successful outcome through the accumulation of points with throws, superior position, or the ultimate submission of the opponent by "tap out". In Aikido the joint locks or throws are used to achieve control by bringing the opponent (uke) to the ground neutralizing the attack. If we use the arm bar submission technique of BJJ and compare it to the Aikido technique of "kote gaeshi" (pronounced "kho-tay guy-she") or reverse wrist takedown, we see that they each result in pain. The arm bar causes hyperextension of the elbow joint causing the stretch receptor to signal pain (resulting in a "tap out") and "kote gaeshi" stretches the tendons and ligaments of the wrist causing the person to move downward (the path of least resistance and least pain). The techniques are as different in appearance as night and day but they are built on the same principle - pain generated by hyperextension or flexion in the joint has an effect that produces control.

Similarities and Differences - Use of Throws

Another area of similarity is use of certain hip throws (called "koshi nage") in both arts. Aikido practitioners tend to favor a simple hip throw, whereas many Jiu Jitsu practitioners use a wide range of Judo throws from the popular "uchi mata" (inner thigh throw) to leg hooking throws such as "ko soto gari" (small outside reaping throw) to single and double leg takedowns (popular in wrestling). A variety of momentum throws, called "kokyu nage" (breath throws) are also widely used in Aikido.

Differences - Focus of Intent

While both arts have self-defense applications, Aikido is purely defensive and relies on the blending or harmonizing with and controlling the force of the attack (punch, kick, grab) and then neutralizing it with a pin. In Aikido there are no tournaments, which pit one person against another in a match. Advancement is achieved through a testing process with predefined elements. As mentioned above, Jiu Jitsu, as in Judo and wrestling, pits one individual against another in a timed match or tournament. Points are accumulated and the ultimate goal is submission often through one of many arm / leg locks or chokes. The opponent signals submission by tapping out. Success in Jiu Jitsu demands intense training to develop speed, agility and flexibility in addition to superior technique. While similar physical conditioning is encouraged in Aikido, the lack of competition makes it somewhat less imperative. Meditation and relaxation techniques form an important part of the training in many Aikido schools because relaxation is a central focus in the execution of techniques.