JIU-JITSU

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22955, 5 February 1938, Page 19

JIU-JITSU

Sir, —In view of the worldwide cn JI for physical fitness, the illustration of Knglish school pupils demonstrating the art of jiu-jitsu, which recently appeared in the Hkiiai.d, should he of special interest to those interested in the defensive arts, or any method of physical culture. "Unfortunately, very few people outside Japan have a knowledge of the true principles of the art. The nobility of Japan, who throughout the centuries developed and refined the art, until it reached the high degree of perfection we iind to-da.v, guard its secrets jealously, and are loath to impart their knowledge to foreigners. Jiujitsu is the most scientific method of self-defence known. Weight and strength are not necessary in its practice, the art being based on the principle of yielding, which makes it specially adaptable to women and girls, giving them a scientific defence against ruffianly attack. As a method of physical culture, jiu-jitsu cannot be excelled, as it develops wonderful suppleness of body and great agility. The large number and variety of tricks, and the rapidity with which they must be executed, demand an alert, active mind, which the pupil gradually gains as he progresses. The mental aspect cannot he too greatly stressed, as it is generally recognised by experts that students of jiu-jitsu become brighter in other activities. A demonstration of true jiu-jitsu cannot fail to convince the most sceptical of its supremacy as a defensive art. A. St. C. Hill.