EJJ or European jujutsu (sometimes written ju-jutsu, jiu-jitsu, ju-jitsu in English) is a constantly evolving and all-around martial art, focusing on self-defense. The technique arsenal is large, including breakfalls, strikes, kicks, weapons, throws, takedowns/throws, locks, strangulations, and different grappling holds. We practice different techniques both in standing position and in the ground. We do not have competitions but sparring (randori) is a key part of our training. EJJ is an excellent way to get in shape and maintain your fitness.
Our style of jujutsu was named to “European jujutsu” because our style was mostly influenced Europe instead of Japan where jujutsu originates from. However, our style is well-rounded so that EJJ practitioners have a solid base for participating in camps organized for Japanese or other jujutsu styles.
Our style is mostly based on influences from jujutsu from Great Britain and Germany but we have also been influenced by judo, karate, brasilian jujutsu, Chinese boxing and Escrima. Our association is a member in Finnish jujutsu federation.
Training schedule
We have a ”non-stop” basic course both in the Spring and the Fall. Non-stop means that you can join any time during the training season. Non-stop course runs on Wednesdays and Sundays. You can try two times for free.
The training sessions for more experienced participants are on Mondays and Thursdays. You can join these sessions if you have yellow belt or some background from other martial arts. The more experienced practitioners can also join to the non-stop sessions, particularly if they had a break from training and want rehearse technique to get a soft start for training.
The training schedule is here.
Beginning to train with us
We accept your existing jujutsu belt rank independently of your earlier jujutsu style. It is worth noting that if you decide to take a belt exam in EJJ to achieve the next belt level, you will have to redo and pass all earlier belt requirements.
If you don’t have earlier jujutsu background, you should participate to the non-stop course. The course is a good not only for beginners but also for participants that want to get into shape and old timers with some break from training.
Everyone participates to the training sessions at their own responsibility. We recommend either adding jujutsu into your current insurance or buying a separate insurance from Karateliitto. If you had a break from sports in general, we recommend first consulting a physician; when practiced right, jujutsu is a demanding but safe sport.
The content and training method for the non-stop course is designed so that you don’t have to have prior knowledge of jujutsu and previous training sessions. The instructors show the techniques starting from the basics for beginners and can give guidance according to the current experience of a participant. Our goal is that the training is physically demanding but the training method is relaxed and calm. If you execute techniques as instructed, they are safe for you and your training partner.
If you don’t have an earlier belt grade in jujutsu, then you start as a white belt or 6th kyu in Japanese. When the instructors think that you have been practicing enough on the non-stop course, they will invite you to the other sessions.
The content for the non-stop course encompasses mostly yellow and orange but also green belt material. Belt examinations are usually arranged in the end of the Spring or Fall season.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step
– Sun Tzu: The Art of War
Gear
You can join the non-stop course in jogging trousers or shorts and t-shirt. Please clean your feet and take all jewelry off before before training. Please also keep your hand and toe nails short.
Feel free to utilize judo, BJJ, karate or taekwondo gi. Most of the participants prefer a BJJ or judo gi because they last longer. When you participate to the training sessions of more experienced, we recommend purchasing a gi as soon as possible. You don’t have to get a gi if you just participate to the non-stop course. It is worth noting the official gi provider for Finnish jujutsu federation is Petlastech.
In Pihatörmä, we have both separate dressing rooms and showers for women and men. While the dojo is behind locked doors, we do not recommend leaving any valuables to the dressing rooms.
History and belt curriculum
- General knowledge on the history of jujutsu and its development withing Takado (in Finnish)
- On belt requirements (in Finnish)
- Additional material available for paying members (in Finnish)
- EJJ history in available also in book Kamppailutaitojen opas (2009) by Jarmo Österman (in Finnish)
Study hard and all things can be accomplished. Give up, and you will amount to nothing.
-Yamaoka Tesshu in Timo Klemola’s book ”Karate-Do”