Jiu-jitsu or Ju-Jitsu, the Japaness art of self-defense. The word means "the gentle art," for no weapons are used in jiu-jitsu. Formerly the art was kept secret, and confined to the soldier class of Japan, but now its value for general training having been recognized, scarcely a Japanese can be found without at least an elementary knowledge of it. The principie of the system is merely to turn an opponent's strength against himself by a simple, well-directed movement requiring but slight exertion. In order to master it one must acquire a practical knowledge of the position of the nerves, joints, and muscles; quickness, suppleness, and presence of mind. The praactice of jiu-jitsu itself is good training in these things, as it is unquestionably one of the best systems of physical training known.
