How to talk to us.
What is Ju Jitsu? How does it Work?
The Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association, history and organisation.
How the Jikishin Belt System works.
How to get to Black Belt and beyond.
Information on the Head of Jikishin
Information about the United Kingdom Martial Arts Governing Body.
Find a club near you. Find a club to visit.
Meet the Senior Coaches of the Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association
Most of your questions about joining a Jikishin club are answered here.
It began with the training that the Samurai Warriors undertook in order to learn to defend themselves on the battlefields of feudal Japan. Using the Samurai sword (Katana), and other weapons, on foot and on horseback and often dressed in full armour made from bamboo; the Samurai went to war. The Art of Ju Jitsu was taught separately, and was to be used if the Samurai was unhorsed, and had lost his weapons. Unarmed, the Samurai would still be in a position to defend himself against both an armed and unarmed enemy. The aim was the same as for the unarmed combat skills taught today; incapacitate, maim or kill the attacker, and escape to fight again.
Ju Jitsu today is based on unarmed self-defence. The Art of using the traditional Japanese weapons is still practiced today, and is still considered to be beneficial to the skills base of the Ju Jitsu exponent. However, Ju Jitsu is geared more towards the street situations in the sometimes dangerous towns and cites the world today.
Situations that might be met on the violent, modern day streets might include criminals who are muggers, robbers, rapists, or simply thugs who consider perpetrating violence upon other people as fun! Ju Jitsu shows you how to use your body as a weapon to defend yourself against attackers, with minimal effort and maximum effect. Strength need not be the prime consideration, as often the attackers weight and or momentum is utilised against them, using throwing or locking techniques, and understanding where and how to strike with maximum effect, will enable the Ju Jitsu exponent to act - and win. The self-confidence that comes with being ready, willing and able to protect yourself, becomes self evident to others, particularly the criminal element and the attacker is likely to seek out an easier, less confident target.
Many men and women (and children) have become highly proficient in Ju Jitsu, due to hard work and diligent training. Due to the fact that much of the way that Ju Jitsu works depends on the application and diversion of the force of the attacker, this is a very suitable method of defence for people of smaller stature.
Moreover, women and children especially are able to gain a great deal from Ju Jitsu, and many have been saved from assault and injury through knowledge, understanding and application of its techniques.
As sex is no barrier to learning, so age is also not an obstacle. Newspapers often have reports of elderly people who train regularly in Ju Jitsu. and benefit greatly from it. One of our older students took his Second Dan at the age of 72, and is still training in his eighties.
The novice, starting on his or her Ju Jitsu career, is about to take an intelligent and progressive step, which provides both mental and physical benefits not only in the immediate future but also for the rest of their lives.
Ju Jitsu tends to even out differences of size, weight, height and reach. The possessor of Ju Jitsu skills gains tremendous self-confidence, and this usually translates to other parts of their lives.
The skills and knowledge learned are in themselves sufficient to subdue an aggressor, however strong or vicious. An experienced student of Ju Jitsu will be ready to respond, unarmed, in any situation, regardless of the direction from which the attack comes.
The novice will learn poise and assurance, to be mentally cool and alert in the face of danger and will begin to experience the kind of self-restraint, which comes only with supreme self-confidence.
The Kanji (Japanese writing symbols) for Ju Jitsu ( Jiu Jitsu) as it is sometimes spelt), consists of two parts: Ju meaning "gentle, pliable, virtuous, and to submit" and Jitsu means "art, science or technique" - therefore Ju Jitsu is the "gentle art". In meaning, and in fact, Ju Jitsu depends not on brute strength but on knowledge of psychology, physiology, anatomy, body mechanics, and skill that comes from practice in making specific, trained in responses with the hands, feet & body to gain an advantage over an opponent, often of greater size, strength and weight.
The Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association Syllabus is designed to give each student the tools with which to defend themselves against a variety of attacks. The basis if the system is to build on a strong foundation of simple, effective and proven techniques, moving on as the student progresses, to a series of automatic responses to any attack. This is particularly demonstrated when performing Random Attacks - this is where the student is tested by having to defend up to 40 different attacks, including gun, knife and stick attacks.
In the first part of the syllabus to be studied, the White Belt, the student will learn a number of defences; against a straight punch to the head, a hook punch to the head, a downward blow to the midriff, an uppercut and strangles from the front and from behind. These initial building blocks will set the student on his or her way.
As the student improves, learns the many attack scenarios and the appropriate defences, and attains higher grades, the student will learn more sophisticated defensive techniques at each level. The number and combination of techniques ensures that each and every student will find the specific techniques that work best for their body shape, height, weight and skill level, while taking into account the same factors of the opponent.
Most syllabus work in the Dojo (Training Place) is on a one-on-one basis, and students are encouraged to work with partners of differing physical characteristics, to ensure that the learned responses can be modified to suit the interaction between the attacker, who may be large or small, skilled or unskilled, or indeed, male or female.
The coloured Belt grades are the "Student" Grades (referred to as Kyu Grades), and the Black Belts (Dan Grades) are considered "Expert" Grades.
This is not to say that the Dan Grades know all there is to know. There is a truism in Ju Jitsu; "Once you attain your Black Belt, you will really start to learn Ju Jitsu.", this maxim has a lot of veracity, considering that once the student becomes attains a Black Belt, it only then starts to become clear how much more there is to learn.
This is not to say that the skills that the student will learn up to Brown Belt are insufficient, but rather that Ju Jitsu is almost limitless in it's scope for self defence, and combinations of defences and attacks. Of course it takes much dedication and practice to achieve the coveted Black Belt.
It is a monument to the Jikishin syllabus that so many have taken the path, and continued on to 2nd Dan, 3rd Dan, 4th Dan, and beyond. The syllabus is tough, but anything worthwhile gaining, is worth working hard for.
Gradings take place every three months for Kyu Grades and every six months for Dan Grades.
Those attending the Grading, will have completed the work to the standard required within the Dojo in which they regularly train, they will be assessed by their Sensei (Sensei means teacher) on the progress made to date and a decision will be reached as to the competence, level of skill and fitness of the student to attend the Grading.
The object of the Grading is not to fail students, but to assess the ability of each student, given their profile (age, sex etc.) and ensure that each student can perform the individual techniques, in each grade, to the required standard. Students who are not deemed fit to attempt the Grading by their Sensei, will simply grade at the next opportunity.
There is no pressure to move onwards and upwards within the grades, and no student will be required to attend a Grading, if they do not feel ready to do so.
Juniors are generally taught at a separate class from the adults, and the syllabus adjusted to account for the particular needs of children. Some of the techniques that are taught to adults are not taught to the children as they are not considered mature enough to be able to understand the inherent dangers of such techniques.
The senior syllabus has a number of minimum time scales for each belt, and these represent not only the time spent learning, but also the minimum number of training session attended in order to be eligible for Grading.
The attendances are eligible only at the club at which the student is registered, although the student may attend training at other clubs for additional practice. In this way the Club Instructor can monitor the progress of each student and assess whether the student has attained the standard expected to pass up to the next belt.
After completing the Kyu (Coloured) Belt System to Brown Belt, the dedicated student must now commence training on the most difficult of paths, the Black Belt or Dan Grade.
In order to qualify for First Dan (Shodan) Black Belt the student must overcome a number of challenges:
- The student must have completed a minimum of one years training at Brown Belt (minimum of 3 years total), and must have attended their Club for training at least 48 times since their last Grading.
- Each practitioner must pass a Level 5 Weapons Kata Assessment, on the basic 5 weapons in the Jikishin Ju Jitsu Style (Nun Chaku, Sai, Bo, Tonfa, and Katana).
- The student must revise and study the Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association Kyu (Coloured Belt) Grade work completed so far. The student will have to successfully pass an examination (Pre-Grading) showing that he or she has learned and mastered all of the Kyu Grade (Coloured Belt) techniques.
- The Student must pass an Anatomy Examination – this is a written test with both multiple choice and open questions.
- The student must obtain a recommendation from their club sensei, which will include how the student helps in training others and with club matters, and will also include a cv detailing the student's achievements in Ju Jitsu.
Finally: The student must complete the Shodan Black Belt Syllabus, in an examination by senior members of the Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association, and overseen by a UKMAGB Grading Officer.
For all subsequent grades of Black Belt, a similar regime is in place. In all cases the student must pass further Grades in Weapons, Anatomy, and minimum time periods between the grades are in place for each grade (see sidebar). In addition the Black Belt must show that they have contributed something to both the club at which he/she trains and the Association during the period since their last grading. A Dan Grade Certificate is issued on successfully completing the grading, and their name is added to the Roster of Dan Grades held by the UKMAGB.
We believe that the Black Belt should be challenging both mentally and physically, should promote loyalty to both club and association, and equip the Black Belt for the responsibilities that the grade requires.
The minimum study time for a Second Dan is 2 years, Third Dan is 3 years and Fourth Dan is 4 years, and so on (see sidebar).
Up to Fourth Dan, the student will indicate to their Sensei (Instructor) that they have completed the requirements for the next Dan grading, and may request that they may be allowed to be graded at the next opportunity. Alternatively, their sensei may suggest to the Black Belt that their level of competence suggests that they should consider grading.
To improve from Fourth Dan to Fifth Dan, Grading is by invitation of the head of the Association, and subsequent Gradings beyond Fifth Dan are also, by invitation only.
Dan Gradings are held twice a year, and are attended by senior Jikishin Instructors and a representative from UKMAGB - the sport Governing Body.
Hanshi Brian Herbert started his Ju Jitsu career in 1976 training with the brothers Roy & Ray Huggins, after starting in Karate, Brian saw a demonstration of Ju Jitsu, and felt that the Art would be better suited to Self Defence, as there are more the skills are wider and more rounded than simply kicks, punches and take downs.
Brian started his first club in Corringham, East Essex in 1981 after receiving his 1st Dan, and due to his dedication, diligence and personality, the club has built a dedicated and loyal following.
Hanshi Brian's philosophy in Ju Jitsu is simple - because of the methods of training, the sport is suitable for people of all ages, and has no limits with regard to size. Women and men train in the same techniques, and the use of the aggressors weight and momentum is utilise to level the playing field. Ju Jitsu caters for all, helps build self confidence and encourages friendship and cooperation.
Hanshi Brian's ambition for Jikishin is to encourage a competitive spirit, particularly within the juniors. Jikishin has seen considerable success in the International arena, and with the young Jujitsuka coming through, well trained for competition and eager to perform - further success is sure to follow.
Brian Herbert is a founder member and Chairman of the Board of the United Kingdom Martial Arts Governing Body.
The other Committee members are made up of 5th Dan Grades and above.
Hanshi Brian hopes to promote the UKMAGB as the leading Martial Arts Governing Body in the UK, and Ju Jitsu through Jikishin. "I want to see improvements in the syllabus and teaching of the syllabus - concentrating on the Ju Jitsu / self defence aspects and the needs for the modern world. It is imperative that I carry the senior grades along with me in getting these improvements in place, and I know I can rely on our instructors to assist in this goal. I also feel that there is a need to improve the overall level of Groundfighting skills, in particular with the youngsters, and this means getting our coaches up to speed so that we can pass along these essential skills. You can expect Groundfighting to be more prominent in the syllabus in the future."
In 2011 there was be comprehensive update of the Jikishin syllabus which is being completed with input from instructors and the Technical Committee - which consists of 5th Dan grades and above. In 2012 we successfully took part compete in the new Euro-Budo International Random Attack European Championships in Belgium and in 2013 attended the Euro-Budo International European Sport Fighting Championship in Spain.
Hanshi Herbert says "We have seen the recent introduction of a new Nun Chaku Kata, into the high grades Ko Budo (weapons) syllabus, however I do not intend to continue to introduce more and more weapons Kata, I would rather like to see old Kata replaced by the new giving the opportunity to improve the overall weapons standard.
"It is important that the high grades do not concentrate too much on weapons, I want to drive improvements in the syllabus and teaching of the syllabus - concentrating on the Ju Jitsu / self defence aspects. It is imperative that I carry the senior grades along with me in getting these improvements in place, and I know I can rely on our instructors to assist in this goal. I also feel that there is a need to improve the overall level of Groundfighting skills, in particular with the youngsters, and this means getting our coaches up to speed so that we can pass along these essential skills. You can expect Groundfighting to be more prominent in the syllabus in the future."
Jikishin ClubsClubs, Website & Instructors |
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Brands Hatch, KentRula Metaxas - 3rd Dan |
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Brentwood, EssexAlan Stone - 2nd Dan |
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Brighton, SussexSandy McKay - 5th Dan |
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Chatham, KentPeter McCarney - 3rd Dan |
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Cheshunt, HertfordshireSteven Spicer - 2nd Dan |
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East Tilbury, EssexEast Tilbury Jikishin Ju Jitsu Shihan Chris Shepperd - 7th Dan |
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East Tilbury, EssexHanshi Brian Herbert - 9th Dan |
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Grays, EssexHanshi Brian Herbert - 9th Dan |
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Gravesend, KentTerry Kitchener - 4th Dan |
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Harlow, EssexEarl Walker -
5th Dan
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Larkfield, KentRula Metaxas - 3rd Dan |
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London EC1Sandy McKay- 5th Dan |
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London NW5Terry Kitchener - 4th Dan |
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London SW1Sandy McKay- 5th Dan |
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London SW1Terry Kitchener - 4th Dan |
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London SW7David Tedora - 2nd Dan |
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London WC2Sandy McKay- 5th Dan |
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Stanford le Hope, EssexHanshi Brian Herbert - 9th Dan
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Swindon, WiltshireSteve Cole - 5th Dan |
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All Jikishin Clubs are members of the UKMAGB - the UKMAGB is dedicated to bringing qualified instructors to NVQ level throughout Martial Arts in the UK. With instructors from various disciplines including Ju Jitsu, Karate, Kempo Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). UKMAGB can offer full insurance services and official recognition of events and grades - why not contact the UKMAGB for information.
The Tilbury East Dojo, has been designated an instructors club, in addition to the normal club activities. Instructors are invited to attend, and train under the Head of Jikishin; Brian Herbert. Special instruction will be organised for those going ahead with Dan Gradings, Syllabus questions and queries will be addressed, Kata checked, and Instructors will be in a position to request specific training to meet their individual requirements. The Club will cater to all instructors within the Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association
Ishigaki is the largest and best established gay martial arts club in the United Kingdom – London & Brighton.
MMA Training at Grays (Friday).
The Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association club affiliation scheme allows Ju Jitsu clubs that are not currently affiliated, to join Jikishin.
With affiliation comes the membership of the UKMAGB and this provides many benefits which are unavailable elsewhere.
To Contact us for further details.
Hanshi - Head of Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association -
Chair of JJJA Technical Committee
East Tilbury & Stanford Jikishin Ju Jitsu Clubs
Email Corringham & Stanford Ju Jitsu
Senior Coach / Level 1 Weapons
Shihan - Head Instructor - South Ockendon & Romford Jikishin Ju Jitsu Clubs - Member of JJJA Technical Committee
Senior Coach / Level 1 Weapons
Shihan - Joint Head Instructor - East Tilbury Club - Member of JJJA Technical Committee
Level 2 Coach / Level 1 Weapons
Shihan - Joint Head Instructor - East Tilbury Club - Member of JJJA Technical Committee
Level 2 Coach / Level 1 Weapons
Head Instructor North East Essex Jikishin Ju Jitsu - Member of JJJA Technical Committee
Level 2 Coach / Level 2 Weapons
Senior Instructor - Swindon Jikishin Ju Jitsu Club
Level 2 Coach / Level 1 Weapons
Senior Instructor - Swindon Jikishin Ju Jitsu Club
Level 4 Coach / Level 2 Weapons
Senior Instructor - Brands Hatch Club
Level 2 Coach / Level 2 Weapons
Head Instructor - NKJJK London Centre Club
Level 4 Coach / Level 1 Weapons
Head Instructor Ishigaki Ju Jitsu - London & Brighton
Level 4 Coach / Level 2 Weapons
Head Coach - Hando Ju Jitsu Clubs
Jikishin / UKMAGB National Fighting System Coach
Level 2 Coach / Level 2 Weapons
Instructor - Swindon Club
Level 2 Coach / Level 2 Weapons
Head Instructor - NKJJK London Centre Club
Level 2 Coach / Level 2 Weapons
Head Instructor - NKJJK London Centre Club
Level 2 Coach / Level 3 Weapons
Senior Coach - Head Instructor - Juniors - Hando Ju Jitsu Clubs
Level 2 Coach / Level 3 Weapons
Head Coach - Kent Samurai
Level 2 Coach / Level 3 Weapons
Instructor - Cheshunt V&E Club
Level 2 Coach / Level 3 Weapons
Instructor - Cheshunt V&E Club
Level 2 Coach / Level 3 Weapons
Senior Coach & MMA Coach
The Ishigaki 30th Birthday Celebrations are being held on 3rd February next at our dojo at YMCA, Great Russel Street, London WC1B 3NQ.
This will be a mix of seminars followed by Pairs and Group demonstrations. This is an over 18 event and a great opportunity for your adult students to come and play with other adult members of Jikishin.
The competitors use continuous, flowing attack and defence techniques, i.e., a choreographed fight. It is not a self-defence skit, so one competitor doesn't "win" at end or end up flattened. The competitors work together to demonstrate varied attacks and defences each (equally weighted). Use of rubber training knife or wooden baton permitted.
Group demo isn’t a repeat of pairs demo with more people but should show defences from simultaneous attacks. Group demos may also include synchronised empty hand kata entries.
Time limit: 3 minutes.
You can enter by clicking this link: Entry
We have held the costs of the competition as low as we can at £10 per head.
Payment can be made online by clicking the Ishigaki competition button you can find here: Payment
Just a reminder Ishigaki has changed its bank accounts – so any details you may hold are now out of date. If you would prefer to pay by bank transfer –please email us.
There will be a post-event get together in the Angel – the Ishigaki pub.
Hanshi Herbert advised that the Tilbury Club will be designated as an Instructors Club. Special instruction will be organised for those going ahead with Dan Gradings, Syllabus questions and queries will be addressed, Kata checked, and Instructors will be in a position to request specific training to meet their individual requirements. The Club will cater to all instructors within the Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association. Hanshi Brian Herbert will be coaching.
Sandy has a long history with Ishigaki and its parent organisation, Jikishin. He started training at Ishigaki in 1994, shortly after the club was founded. He was already a brown belt in Judo and progressed through the Jikishin syllabus quickly: within five years he had become the third Ishigaki student to grade to black belt. Always community minded, he joined the club's then management committee and, along with the other committee members, founded Ishigaki Brighton, travelling down at the weekends to teach.
Over the years he served as membership secretary, club treasurer and Head Sensei. In the last few years, he helped lay the foundations for Ishigaki's next thirty years, separating the club's teaching 'in dojo' function from its administrative function, leading the transition of Ishigaki into a Community Interest Company and becoming the CICs first president. He leaves Ishigaki a strong LGBT+ club, running adult classes 6 days a week over 4 locations, with the highest membership in its almost 30-year history.
In March 2022 Hanshi Herbert awarded Sandy sixth dan. A belt he was particularly proud to have received.
Sandy taught his many students with kindness, patience, and good humour. So many people will have deeply treasured memories of their time with him on and off the mats. For many of us, his passion for jujitsu was infectious and the reason we still train today. His willingness to explore and be receptive of new methods of reaching out to the LGBTQ+ community and build membership paid dividends. His talent was to explore and encourage and motivate those, whatever their belt, within the club that had a different skill set to him, to Ishigaki's best advantage. He was also an LGBT pioneer and role model. LGBT sports clubs did n't exist 30 years ago like they do today. They had to be started, and supported, and led, by people who did so in the face of indifference at best, and at worst by both covert and overt opposition. Sandy stood up for himself, and for all of us, in his membership and subsequent leadership of Ishigaki; in the jujitsu that he embodied, in his teaching, and in the relationships that he made.
He fostered many meaningful friendships across Jikishin, becoming a regular at gradings, ko-budo, revision days and competitions.
Jujitsu took Sandy all over the world, forging links with LGBT martial artists across the globe. The Gay Games, Pink Power, OutGames, and Tournoi International de Paris took him to Sydney, Cologne, Cleveland, Paris and Munich, where he competed, officiated, refereed and taught. He later joined the board of directors for the International Association of Gay and Lesbian Martial Artists and was most recently their vice president and delegate to the Federation of Gay Games. While recently reminiscing, he confessed one of his highlights was travelling to Paris ahead of the 2018 Gay Games in order to train the French Karate Federation judges on how to referee the competition.
In 2022 he won the Outstanding Achievement prize at the Out for Sports award ceremony, where they recognised him for his long commitment to LGBT sports.
Sandy has been a very modern leader of Ishigaki and a cherished Sensei (in every sense of the word). Ishigaki will be his proud legacy for the sport he loved.
Starting in January 2017 we are setting up a new structure to the adult Wednesday class at East Tilbury dojo.
This will now be run by the three sensei’s see below:
Hanshi Brian Herbert 9th Dan
Shihan Graham Sargeant 7th Dan
Shihan Ricky Izod 7th Dan
The purpose is so that anyone and everyone will have the option of getting one to one or a group personnel training if you request or need it
This will also allow normal running of the main class but now more in depth personal improvements are available.
Lots of you already use the class but this will give more structure to helping training needs or just checking syllabus work etc.
This does not take preference to your own club it is merely a support class.
For further information, please contact Hanshi Brian Herbert.
A fantastic day and evening was experienced by all the students, Instructors and organisers and helpers on the 5th December 2016, at the Tilbury Cruise Terminal, Tilbury, Essex where teams from clubs in the UK, and our great friends from Belgium competed for National and International medals.
The course saw Senior UK & International Instructors, up to 9th Dan, demonstrating techniques and teaching on the mats. Competitions were held in Sparring, Ground Fighting, Random Attacks, Open Hand Kata, Weapons Kata & Pairs Demonstrations. With more than 170 competitors, many competing in several events, challenging for medals, with a field of over 400 entries.
We saw some great fights and stiff competition at the Championships with both UK and Belgian competitors work very hard for their prizes.
Results & Report to follow
Our congratulations to Hanshi Herbert, who has been practising and teaching Ju Jitsu for more than 35 years,on the award, and on achieving one of the highest grades in the world of Ju Jitsu.
The Grade Award was ratified by Association Heads across Europe, and is richly deserved.
The Kent Course & Competition was a huge success with Jikishin senior Instructors from all over the UK headed by Hanshi Brian Herbert 9th Dan. The competitions were exciting and hard fought, and the full list of medal winners will follow. Photographs of the competition can be found here: 2016 Kent C&C.
Shihan Cosgrave - 5th Dan recently met with Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull, and was able speak to him about the role of martial arts in the community and how effective it is for children in the prevention of bullying, the growth of confidence, and the education of the public about how to remove oneself from a dangerous situation.
The binge drinking culture in Australia reflects what is happening in the UK, and young people being "king hit" or "coward punched”, as it is called in Australia is becoming an community issue and Jikishin are taking steps to educate people from all walks of life how to notice the signs of a bad situation and get out of them without causing injury to themselves or any one else.
Jikishin Australia have been accepted as a member club to the Queensland Governments "Get Started" sport initiative where the Government will provide monetary vouchers to students who otherwise would not be able to afford tuition. We currently have 10 students in this scheme
This has led us to the provision of a scholarship scheme with local businesses who might be in a position to sponsor a child for 12 months worth of classes. The intention is to take this further with local schools who, it is hoped, will propose students they believe would benefit from such an arrangement.
The change of location in Queensland has resulted in an increase in students recruited, with 11 already signing up since beginning classes in January.
The new website can be found at the Jikishin Australia Website.
We have three 7th Dans who help me with the progression of Ju Jitsu and the teaching of instructors as well as students in our association.
Sensei - Club instructor/teacher
Master teacher is a Japanese term, often used in Japanese martial arts as an honorific title for expert or senior instructors. The term is frequently used interchangeably with English terms such as "master instructor". Must be 7th Dan and above.
Very senior expert considered a "Teacher of teachers". This title is used by many different arts for the top few instructors of that style, and is sometimes translated "Grand Master". The "Han" in Hanshi means "example, model" and indicates "a teacher that can serve as an ideal model for others", or a “senior master”. Hanshi may be awarded to the modern day rank of 8th and above.
This is a very special title representing the highest levels of martial arts, political involvement as a practitioner, be seen as an innovator, a teacher of and show personal growth an in depth understanding of their relevant style.
Hanshi and Shihan use the same letters.
With the above in mind, I award the title of Shihan to Ricky Izod, Graham Sargeant and Chris Sheppard.
All three regularly attend my senior black class for improvements training, assisting, and also teach senior grades at my club and at their own clubs.
Many thanks and have a great Christmas and New Year.
Certificates were presented by Hanshi Brian Herbert at the Jikishin Annual Christmas Ball & Dan Grade Celebration at the prestigious Orsett Hall Hotel, in Essex.
Ricky Izod 7th Dan,
Graham Sargeant 7th Dan,
Chris Sheppard 7th Dan
Colin Humbles 6th Dan
Earl Walker 5th Dan
Jackie Walker 4th Dan,
Keith Johnson 4th Dan
Martin Kidd 3rd Dan,
Chris Carter 2nd Dan,
Paul Lyus 2nd Dan,
Leon Clark 2nd Dan,
Paul Woodhouse 2nd Dan,
Faye Scott 2nd Dan, Ray Archer 2nd Dan, Gary Bone 2nd Dan, Blair Toner 2nd Dan
Daniel Minter 1st Dan, Mark Scott 1st Dan, Travis Moles 1st Dan, Trudy Kitchener 1st Dan
The UKMAGB / Jikishin National Course & Championships were held at a new and prestigious venue at the Great Hall, The London Cruise Terminal, Tilbury. The venue was kindly provided by the Port of London Authority, and is a beautiful location.
A huge thank you to the organising team, especially to Sarah Bull and Colin Humbles who worked so very hard to ensure that the event ran so smoothly, and to the many, many volunteers, referees, judges, scribes, dressers, runners and organisers who helped before the event and on the day. A fantastic job from all.
Jikishin Australia travelled to Vietnam for a 2nd time in March 2015 where they were again welcomed by Aiki Jujitsu. Training over 3 nights, techniques including baton and knife defences were shared successfully despite language barriers between the 2 schools, with Shihan Stephen Cosgrave sending 2 of his students, Lachlan Slater and Suzanne Butler into the fray.
There is 3rd trip planned for September 2016, and all students from any Jikishin school across the world are welcome to come along for this cultural exchange.
The final of 2015 Ko Budo Seminar held on 15th August was well attended, and a number of students passed their weapons respective grades.
The new Rapid Knife & Baton Defences were introduced into the syllabus by Hanshi Brian Herbert, 9th Dan. The Rapid Knife Defences were devised by Sensei Ricky Izod, 6th Dan and Sensei Graham Sargeant, 6th Dan. The Rapid Baton Defences were devised by Hanshi Herbert.
The introduction of the excellent Rapid Knife & Baton Defences will continue to be taught on subsequent Ko Budo seminars through 2016.
Sensei Janet was loved by all who came into contact with her, a caring, loving person with a smile for everyone. Her warm and open personality, along with the fact that she always had time for a chat with anyone, her hard work and dedication to Jikishin was an inspiration to all who knew her. Janet made sure that she knew every Jikishin student and would warmly greet us all without fear or favour. Her memory for names and faces was the stuff of legend, and her enthusiasm, drive and devotion to her husband, children and family, not to mention her Ju Jitsu "family" was never in question.
Those who knew Janet well were never bereft of a kind word or gesture when Janet was around, she was always generous with her time, affection and thoughtfulness. Our world is a poorer place without her, but a better place for having had her in it. Janet will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with her family at this time of enormous sadness.
The Grading took place on Saturday 29th November 2014 in Melbourne. The Grading Panel consisted of Shihan Steve Cosgrave - Head of Jikishin Australia, Marcos Dorta - Australian Ju-Jitsu Federation state Representative for Victoria, and Ross Miller.
The UKMAGB was proud to hold the EBI Random Attacks 2014 International Competition with representatives from the UK, Belgium, Holland, Spain, Italy & Romania.
The UK Team won 7 of the 24 medals available in an exciting and superbly run competition at the fantastic facilities at Loughborough University.
Another excellent course held at the Swindon Dojo by Sensei Steve Cole & the Jikishin Senior Senseis.
The team needs to gain sponsorship to cover the costs of the National Squad going to European Championships being held in Loughborough. If anyone is able to help with this please speak to me on Sunday,
I have worked out a very rough cost which will cover Gi's, tracksuits, T-shirts, accommodation and travel to Loughborough to be around £300 per person with a full squad including ukis and subs that's 34 people so we need to raise just over £10,000.
Some of you have said you may have some contacts. The Euro committee are organising a presentation to give to any potential sponsors, and as soon as I get this I will send out.
I am also looking for someone to assist with organising kit for the final squad, if any of you have contacts in this business and who may be prepared to give the team a great deal. please let me know.
The Ko Budo (Weapons) seminar was held on Saturday 15th February 2014, at the superbly appointed Olympic venue in Basildon.
Run by the Jikishin Technical Committee, the seminar was well attended and hailed a success.
A team of Jikishin Fighters joined others from Germany, Portugal, Spain, Belgium, Italians for the inaugural Euro-Budo Sport Fighting Championships in Madrid, Spain.
The team was led by National Sport Fighting Coach Earl Walker, and the competitors represented the Team GB with great spirit and determination. Jason Brooks - SOS - (injured and could not compete), Mark Davey - OEL, James Nichols - SOS, and David Mizon - Hando, and accompanied by Tony Mizon & Jackie Walker - Hando.
The team did exceptionally well in the circumstances, although no medals were won. The promotion of Sport Fighting is an exciting development within the arena of Sport Ju Jitsu, and is likely to be very interesting to all those who like to compete.
We would like to thank our hosts, the Spanish Federation FEJJYDA, and a special thank you to Angel and Rueben who made the international teams so welcome.
Doing your Anatomy Exam for Black Belt? Try the
Sarah Bull c/o
50 Hackamore
Thundersley, Benfleet,
Essex
SS73DU
Hanshi Brian Herbert
Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association
50 Hackamore
Thundersley, Benfleet,
Essex
SS73DU
Earl Walker c/o
50 Hackamore
Thundersley, Benfleet,
Essex
SS73DU
In law, self-defence is defined as the actions taken by a person to prevent another person from causing harm to them, another person or their property / home. Self-defence is also accepted as an act of justified violence against unjustified aggression.
Self defence, in the context of the Martial Arts is the study of effective fighting techniques for the purpose of defending oneself against aggression. The techniques are usually nasty and are designed to rapidly injure and, thereby, disable the attacker without relying on tremendous amounts of physical strength and dexterity.
Martial Arts techniques can be helpful in self defence situations and the defender must understand the difference between practicing a Martial Art and taking measures to defend one’s person and / or property.
In Martial Arts competition, there are rules, and the idea is for you to beat your opponent within the rule structure. In self defence, there are no rules, the object is to force the aggressor to cease the attack, in order to gain an opportunity to escape. The defining principle is Reasonable Force which means, in effect, that the amount of force utilised to protect oneself must be in proportion to the perceived threat of violence and subsequent injury.
Ju Jitsu is great fun, and you will be learning new physical and mental skills, this is a benefit in itself. If you are unfit, Ju Jitsu will help you to address this, and increase your personal safety and self confidence.
· Self confidence
· Self control
· Respect for others
· Discipline
· Cooperation
· Fitness
· Agility
· Self Defence skills
· Awareness
· Focus
The Martial Arts are the study and application effective fighting techniques. It is this effectiveness which allows an exponent to defeat a much larger opponent. People study martial arts for many reasons.
One of the main reasons that students commence training in the Martial Arts is to learn how to defend themselves. Many, of course, drop out during their career in Martial Arts due to lack of motivation, illness or injury, boredom, or sometimes life simply changes (having children for instance) and no longer allows training. However, the for those who persevere, the motivation often becomes one of self improvement. There are many schools and styles of martial arts, and these are generally thought of as having been started in the Orient and brought to the West, however, the Martial Arts include “Western” sports such as boxing and wrestling, Brazilian styles such as Capoeira, Russian (Sambo), French (Savate) and so on. Ju Jitsu is a Japanese Martial Art which includes all aspects including striking and kicking, grappling, joint manipulation, throwing, incapacitation, restraining, choking and strangling.
No. Jitsu is excellent for beginners, and all of the people you meet in Ju Jitsu will have started as a novice – even the very few 10th Dans among us! All of our instructors are former students and teach in a time and experience led regime. The Jikishin Ju Jitsu Syllabus. is set up to introduce the beginner to some very strong, but simple techniques. The classes are taught in an open atmosphere, and the students you meet, of whatever grade, know what it was like to be a beginner. The learning process is gradual, and progress is monitored so that each student receives the tuition required for their individual ability, fitness level, size and body shape.
Under the United Kingdom Martial Arts (GB), in order to teach the Jikishin Syllabus, a Black Belt has to undergo a number of challenges. The welfare and safety of our students, in particular the young and the vulnerable, is of paramount importance to us. All UKMAGB Coaches are required to have gained experience in coaching, and the following are compulsory:
The UKMAGB also have a Child Protection Policy in place which all instructors are obliged to abide by. There is a disciplinary regime in place to ensure that all Instructors comply.
The minimum time from starting Ju Jitsu to becoming a Black Belt is 3 years. On average to gain a Black Belt takes 4 years plus. This is because the training required to obtain a Dan Grade in the Jikishin system is designed to be very challenging, the requirements for First Dan Black Belt can be found on the Dan Grade Syllabus Page.
Whilst in many Martial Arts, the throws and strikes are referred to by their Japanese names; we use English to describe all of the techniques within the Syllabus. We feel that our students come to learn to defend themselves, not to learn to speak parts of a foreign language. However, there are certain terms that derive from the origins of Ju Jitsu, the training place is still known as a Dojo, the teacher of the class is known as sensei, and the traditional bow at the start and finish of lessons is referred to as a rei.
Firstly we get changed and ready to train.
Then we will teach you the basic Breakfalls, Exercises, the start of the White Belt Syllabus. You will be introduced to the Instructors at the Club, registered (you will have to fill in a Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association Membership Form), and the training regime will be explained, Dojo Etiquette is explained and demonstrated.
You will line up for the formal start of the class with all the other students.
There is a lot of throwing in Ju Jitsu, but you will not start getting thrown until you have practiced Breakfalls and are competent our opinion.
Yes, in fact we encourage beginners who start as a pair to work together and as most of the lesson is taken up with partner work, this usually works out fine.
Most students start training this way, we will introduce you to a training partner, of a similar grade (or if you are lucky, one of the Black Belts may take you under their wing), You will then train with your partner throughout the rest of the session.
For the first session you will need to wear a pair of Track Suit Bottoms and a long sleeved T-shirt - we train in bare feet, so no footwear is required. Any Jewellery will need to be removed, or in the case of a ring which cannot be taken off, covered with a sticking plaster. At some point before your first Grading you will need to purchase a training uniform, or Gi.
Lessons vary per lesson for Seniors and for children - each club has its own charging policy, usually around £8.00 per lesson for adults and £ 400 for juniors. At many clubs there is a concessionary adult training fee for students, the disabled and the unemployed. In addition to this there is the Association Membership Fee (includes Insurance) around £ 30.00 per annum. Other costs you are likely to incur are a Gi (training uniform) this will cost around £20.00/£25.00 for juniors and around £25.00/£35.00 for seniors. Gradings (average 2 per year) approximately £15.00 for juniors and £25.00 for seniors, including a new belt.
Because Jikishin Ju Jitsu is widely practiced, there are clubs training on every day of the week, so you can tailor your training regime to suit yourself. As long as you come along to the club to which you belong, once per week, you may train (with the permission of your instructor) at any other Jikishin Club you wish.
Students should to train regularly, as it will improve the skill sets quickly, and allows the sensei to follow each individual’s progress. How often you train is optional. Beginners usually train once a week, with those who are studying and practising for the Black Belt 3 times a week is normal. Like any other skill, Ju Jitsu requires practice, to learn, to progress and to keep the skills sharp. In short, like anything else in life, the more effort you put in, the quicker you'll progress.
Ju Jitsu appeals to all ages and can be practised by everyone. Members range from the ages of 4 years to about 82 years – one of our Black Belts took his 3rd Dan at 72! As with fitness, age is no barrier, for the Ju Jitsu student, and all can benefit from training.
Juniors love Ju Jitsu. Children love to roll around, wrestle and chase one another, tussle and grapple – it is natural for them and the Dojo gives an excellent atmosphere where this exuberance can be channelled, whilst still making the experience fun. Juniors are encouraged to develop and improve skills throughout their Ju Jitsu training, and being naturally competitive, we usually give the youngsters a game or two at the end of the training session as a reward for working hard. We encourage children to enjoy the training sessions, however, a strict code is followed so that no child can be bullied, and all can build a healthy respect for themselves and others.
Yes, more than likely, Ju Jitsu is excellent for women, as well as for men. Many women choose to join a Ju Jitsu class because of the exercise, others because they wish to learn self-defence. The atmosphere at most clubs is extremely welcoming to women, and we have a large number of female Dan Grades within the Association. There are women training in the majority of our clubs. We also clubs which are designated women only. Contact your local club and discuss with the instructor.
This will depend upon your size, maturity and ability - this will decided by us on your first attendance. In general, the rule is that at 16 years old, a student is "officially" classed as an adult, however, we have a number of students who have transferred to the adult training sessions early (at 14 or 15) and others who have remained in the junior ranks until 17 or 18. This is particularly the case with juniors training with a partner who is older / younger. We judge on a case by case basis. You will not be pushed beyond your abilities.
Training is adjusted to the individual, so we ask you to do only what you are capable of, and no more. However, through the warm-up, and training, your fitness level will rise to a degree where you should be in a position to complete the warm-up after 6 weeks to 3 months.
This is up to you - for most students the simple answer is yes it will. However, each individual is different, and training and learning to defend yourself is a great way to improve your self confidence. You will feel that you are in control and can face most situations. Self confidence is based on your own "view" of yourself, so if you feel confident when training, this will have a natural spill over into your normal life.
In general, Ju Jitsu is very safe. There are occasional injuries, and these tend to be minor in severity. Like any combat sport, or indeed almost all sports, there is an inherent risk. Jikishin Instructors are trained to avoid injury, are all First Aid trained, and are familiar with Sports Injuries. The risk is generally low, as training sessions are carefully controlled and instructors are aware, and point out, where the risk of injury is higher.
Competition is not compulsory, but does give you the opportunity to assess your skills against others of a similar grade. Competing is purely optional, however, we encourage those who wish to compete, and assist with training regimes, strategies, and practice for success in competition.
Within Jikishin there is adequate scope and variety for those who enjoy competing, however competition is voluntary – not mandatory. The choice of whether to compete is entirely the choice of the student, provided that the student meets the competition entry criteria.
Inter-club, National and International level competitions are held on a regular basis. In addition there are competition specific training sessions, and time at regular training sessions to dedicate to competition.
Competitions are organised under various categories, and competitors enter according to weight, grade or in open categories depending on the discipline.
There are a number of categories:
All students have to join the Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association, and this confers membership of the United Kingdom Martial Arts (GB) (although there is no individual membership of the UKMAGB, membership is through the Associations only). There is an annual fee which includes all fees paid to the UKMAGB and Club and Association Membership are also included. There is a limited Insurance Scheme which is also provided - See Terms and Conditions on Insurance Certificate. There is a form to fill in, and once the initial membership fee is paid , the membership process is complete.
Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association was started by Professor Terry Parker in 1991. Hanshi Brian Herbert took over the management and responsibility of the Association, when Professor Parker retired in 2004.
There is no difference. Ju Jitsu or Jiu Jitsu (also: Jiu Jutsu; Ju Jutsu; Jujutsu; Jujitsu) are transliterations of the Japanese words/phrase, which are not directly translatable into English, as there are no English letter equivalents to the Japanese characters (Kanji). This means that the words are translated phonically, and this gives rise to the difference in spellings. You may see on some websites that "jujitsu" or "Jiu Jitsu" is the correct spelling, this is an opinion, not a fact. See our page on Martial Arts Terminology for English / Japanese translations.
Brazilian Ju Jitsu is a sport inspired version of Ju Jitsu, invented by the Gracie family of Brazil, and now taught as both a standalone sport, or as part of a suite of skills utilised by MMA fighters. It is predominately ground based, and grappling with an opponent to a conclusion of either a submission or "choke out" where the opponent is rendered unconscious. Strikes are forbidden, and BJJ is thereby limited as a form of self defence. Ju Jitsu is designed for Self Defence.
The main difference is that Ju Jitsu is designed for Self Defence and Judo is a sport. Judo is a modified form of Ju Jitsu designed for competition by a Japanese Ju Jitsu Teacher called Jigoro Kano and started in 1882. The object in Judo is to throw the opponent and pin them to the ground. Strikes are forbidden, and Judo is thereby limited as a form of self defence.
Karate is a predominately striking art, developed in the Ryukyu Islands of Japan, using hands and feet as the principal weapons. There are a number of styles & schools (Ryu) of karate, some of which encompass some takedowns (usually in the form of foot sweeps and trips), and a minority that include throws. There is no ground fighting or grappling in the art, and it is thereby somewhat limited as a form of self defence. Ju Jitsu is designed for Self Defence.
The UKMAGB can offer insurance services, coaches courses leading to NVQ qualification, BTEC Self Defence Trainer qualification, referee and officials courses across all martial arts disciplines. The membership criteria can be obtained from the Chairman of the UKMAGB, and the benefits of belonging to the UKMAGB commence from the date of membership / affiliation.
UKMAGB,
50 Hackamore,
Thundersley,
Benfleet,
Essex
SS73DU
The UKMAGB club affiliation scheme allows Martial Arts clubs and associations that are not currently affiliated, to join the Organisation.
With affiliation comes the membership of the UKMAGB - The Organisation for Martial Arts in England - and this provides many benefits to the clubs, instructor and students, that are unavailable outside of the Organisation.
The Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association has carefully checked all Primary Links to this site, and maintains a policy of ensuring that all content is suitable and safe for visitors of all ages.
Approval of a secondary Website, or independently produced Web Pages, is subject to a rigorous checking procedure to ensure that Linked content is safe.
Beyond these Primary and Secondary Links, the Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association takes no responsibility for any Link or Advertisement which may lead to a Website which contains content of an unsuitable, adult or disturbing nature.
Goffs Oak
Cheshunt
Herts. EN7 5QN
Google Maps:
Gloucester Avenue
East Tilbury
Essex, RM18 8SB
Google Maps:
London Road
Harlow
Essex
CM17 9LR
Google Maps:
Cranes Farm Road
Basildon
Essex
SS14 3GR
Google Maps:
Correct When Change ISP
Sarah Bull c/o
50 Hackamore
Thundersley, Benfleet,
Essex
SS73DU
Hanshi Brian Herbert
Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association
50 Hackamore
Thundersley, Benfleet,
Essex
SS73DU
Earl Walker c/o
50 Hackamore
Thundersley, Benfleet,
Essex
SS73DU
The Club is run by Head Instructors:
Cheshunt V&E Ju-Jitsu club was founded in 1982 by the late Sensei John Williams (5th Dan). Senseis Steven Spicer & Graeme Moore took over the running of the club in 2007.
The club has a friendly atmosphere and beginners are always welcomed.
No previous Martial Arts experience is required and training is suitable for male and female participants.
Come along and watch a session or better still join in. A loose fitting T-shirt and pair of jogging bottoms is all that is initially required.
Please arrive 15-20 minutes before the session commences. This allows time for an introduction to the club and an opportunity to ask any questions.
Cheshunt Ju Jitsu club has a purpose built Dojo with 200 square metres of mat space. It has changing facilities, showers & canteen area.
The Cheshunt Ju Jitsu Club has been running since 1982. It has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
We have a good mix of all grades, male and female and welcome beginners and visitors to our club.
Just 2 minutes north on A10 from Junction 25 on the M25
V & E Dojo
Goffs Lane
Cheshunt
Hertfordshire
EN7 5QN
Adult classes are held every Monday and Wednesday evening 8:30pm - 10:00 pm
Telephone:
01992 444451
or
07923 493510
Or simply come along to a session to view or join in.
With two of the most respected Instructors in the Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association, the training and instruction at East Tilbury is among the best in the UK.
The club has great success in competition, and has many Dan Grades to it's credit.
The club is excellent for Ko Budo (weapons) Training as there is a large off mat area to practice, and both sensei's are level 1 Ko Budo coaches.
The level of instruction at the club is unrivalled - there are few clubs that have two such high level, skilled and committed instructors as the East Tilbury Club.
Feel free to come along and meet the Instructors - they are both knowledgeable and approachable.
The club caters for beginners as well as higher Grades, and there is a warm welcome for those thinking about starting Ju Jitsu.
Self Defence, Competition, Weapons, Kata, Groundfighting & Sparring are all practised regularly here.
Shihan Graham Sargeant demonstrating a Ju Jitsu Technique
East Tilbury Village Hall
Gloucester Avenue
East Tilbury
Essex, RM18 8SB
Time
Classes are held every:
Wednesday
Juniors 6;00 pm - 7:00 pm
Sunday Morning
Juniors 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Adults 16+ yrs: 10:30 am - 12:30 pm
Contact:
Shihan Chris Sheppard on
01375 404035
or
Shihan Graham Sargeant on
07971 134907
Or simply come along to a session to view or join in.
Here you will find resources that are required for the UKMAGB Coaching Courses to download in .pdf format.
10 Steps Safeguarding Children in Sport
Health & Safety Policy - Risk Assessment Forms
Health & Safety Flyer for Members
Disclosure & Barring Service Procedures
Home Study will be required to familiarise yourself with the above to meet the requirements of the Coaching Qualification (See Flyer).