Origins. The written history of Jujutsu first began during the Nara period (c. 710 – c. 794) combining early forms of Sumo and various Japanese martial arts which were used on the battlefield for close combat.

How old is Japanese jujitsu?

The Japanese combat techniques of Jujitsu (also commonly known as Jujutsu or Jiu-jitsu) date back approximately 2000 years. The exact origins of jujitsu are unclear, as most of its history was only passed on in the oral tradition.

How was jujitsu created?

Jiu Jitsu was the battlefield art of the Samurai of Japan. These Samurai warriors were well-armored and usually on horseback and the art of Jiu Jitsu was essentially developed to allow the Samurai to fight effectively in the event that they found themselves disarmed and on foot.