ittatsu ryu

Ittatsu Ryu: The Secret Art of Samurai Jujutsu in Control and Precision

Written by: Kazeiro

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Reading time 7 min

Ittatsu Ryu: The Secret Tradition of Control and Precision in Japanese Jujutsu

Ittatsu Ryu, a classical school of Japanese jujutsu, is known for its focus on control techniques, joint manipulation, and imbalance strategies. Founded in the Edo period, this jujutsu school emphasizes the use of minimal force to effectively and quickly neutralize an opponent. Ittatsu Ryu teaches that true power in combat comes not from brute physical strength, but from the ability to use movement and precision to overcome an opponent.

Although it was developed as a secret school intended for samurai, Ittatsu Ryu has remained relevant, passing down its techniques and philosophical principles through generations. This focus on precision, economy of movement and self-control has made Ittatsu Ryu a highly effective and deeply respected jujutsu system.

History and Origin of Ittatsu Ryu

Ittatsu Ryu was founded during the Edo period, an era of peace in Japan that encouraged the development and refinement of martial arts. During this time, samurai had the opportunity to spend more time honing their skills, leading to the rise of many schools focused on technique and self-control.

The history of Ittatsu Ryu is marked by its exclusive use in samurai clans that needed short-range combat techniques. Like other jujutsu schools, Ittatsu Ryu taught combat methods that did not require the use of weapons, but rather were based on imbalance and joint control. This allowed samurai to quickly disarm and neutralize enemies without causing lethal damage, which was useful both in combat and in containment situations.

Over time, the techniques of Ittatsu Ryu were transmitted to other warriors, adapting to the needs of self-defense and becoming a martial discipline that promotes both efficiency and respect for the opponent.

Technical Principles of Ittatsu Ryu

Ittatsu Ryu techniques are designed to neutralize the opponent with minimal use of force, taking advantage of the opponent's pressure points, joints, and balance. These principles allow the practitioner to control his opponent without resorting to excessive violence. Some of the key technical elements include:

  1. Kansetsu Waza (Articulation Techniques)
    Joint control is fundamental in Ittatsu Ryu. The techniques of kansetsu waza They allow the practitioner to apply pressure to specific points on the joints in order to destabilize and control the opponent. These types of techniques are based on detailed knowledge of anatomy and how to use angles to maximize effect with minimal effort.

  2. Atemi Waza (Pressure Point Strikes)
    Although Ittatsu Ryu is not based on direct attacks, the use of atemi Pressure point strikes are a common technique used to distract and weaken the opponent. These strikes are applied to sensitive areas, allowing the practitioner to gain the upper hand without the need to use excessive force.

  3. Kuzushi (Opponent's Imbalance)
    In Ittatsu Ryu, the concept of kuzushi is crucial. It consists of unbalancing the opponent at the beginning of the technique in order to reduce his ability to resist. By using precise and controlled movements, the practitioner takes advantage of the opponent's weight and inertia, which facilitates total control of the fight.

  4. Tai Sabaki (Body Movement)
    Body movement is essential in Ittatsu Ryu, as it allows the practitioner to evade and redirect the opponent's energy. The school teaches a number of techniques tai sabaki, which include movements and turns that help minimize the risk of receiving a hit while improving the position to apply a control technique.

  5. Shime Waza (Strangulation and Submission Techniques)
    The techniques of Shime Waza In Ittatsu Ryu, chokeholds and submissions are used to immobilize the opponent without causing serious harm. These techniques are applied with control and precision, allowing the practitioner to subdue the opponent without resorting to extreme violence.

Philosophy and Mentality in Ittatsu Ryu

The Ittatsu Ryu philosophy focuses on using the minimum force necessary to control a combat situation. The Ittatsu Ryu practitioner learns to remain calm, act with precision, and control his or her emotions. Rather than focusing on "winning" or "defeating" the opponent, the goal in this school is to resolve the conflict in the most peaceful and efficient way possible.

One of the central concepts in Ittatsu Ryu is the mushin, or “mind without thoughts.” This state of mental clarity allows the practitioner to act without being influenced by intrusive emotions or thoughts, facilitating a quick and natural response to any situation. This calm and self-controlled mindset also fosters respect towards one’s opponent, promoting an ethical approach to each technique.

Furthermore, spiritual development and personal discipline are essential elements of Ittatsu Ryu. Students learn that true power lies not in the ability to cause harm, but in the ability to protect and control a situation without violence. This philosophy applies both in combat and in everyday life, where Ittatsu Ryu practitioners seek to act with integrity and respect.

Training in Ittatsu Ryu

Training in Ittatsu Ryu is intense and focused on developing precise control and balancing skills. Students practice the basic techniques for years, developing precision, sensitivity, and a deep understanding of the biomechanics of the human body. Some key aspects of training include:

  1. Kihon Waza (Basic Techniques)
    The most common kihon waza Basic techniques are the foundation of training in Ittatsu Ryu. Students learn to execute controlling and unbalancing movements slowly and precisely, developing a deep understanding of the angles and pressure points required for each technique.

  2. Randori (Free Combat Practice)
    En randoriIn this class, students practice the techniques in a dynamic and controlled environment, where they face multiple opponents in sequence. This helps practitioners adapt the techniques to real situations, improving their reaction capacity and flexibility in combat.

  3. Training in Atemi and Kuzushi
    Ittatsu Ryu practitioners hone their skills in atemi y kuzushi, techniques that allow them to create openings and destabilize the opponent at the start of the technique. This practice ensures that the opponent loses his balance, facilitating control and immobilization.

  4. Shime Waza and Ethical Submission
    The training of Shime Waza includes strangulation and submission techniques that are applied with precision and control. Students learn to immobilize the opponent without causing serious damage, while maintaining respect for their physical integrity.

  5. Ethical Development and Internal Control
    Beyond technique, Ittatsu Ryu emphasizes self-control and warrior ethics. Students are trained to act in a compassionate and responsible manner, using their skills only when necessary and avoiding unnecessary harm. This approach helps practitioners maintain a mindset of peace and respect, both inside and outside the dojo.

Ittatsu Ryu in the Modern Era

Today, Ittatsu Ryu continues to be practiced by martial artists and people seeking a path of self-discovery and emotional control. The relevance of its principles of precision and self-control has resonated in contexts beyond the dojo, such as in self-defense and personal development programs. The philosophy of resolving conflicts without violence, together with the ability to immobilize and disarm without causing harm, makes Ittatsu Ryu a highly valued discipline in the modern context.

Practitioners find in Ittatsu Ryu not only a combat system, but a way to develop self-control, calm and respect, qualities that allow them to face life's challenges with clarity and stability.

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kazeiro

Author: Kazeiro

Writer: Kazeiro

Kazeiro is the administrator of this website and 7th dan shihan of Takaharu Tenshin Ryu. He has over 45 years of experience practicing traditional Japanese martial arts. He is the writer of the book: Vital Strategies of the Way of the Warrior and responsible for the Takaharu Tenshin Ryu school for the West.

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