Jujitsu at Karate International

Staff 

Sensei Rob Olevsky,6th degree Black Belt in Sanshinkai Jujitsu, is our chief instructor of the Jujitsu program at Karate International of Raleigh.

History of Jujitsu
ref(http://www.usjjf.org/articles/jujitsuP1.htm, Dennis Helm, author of 2000 YEARS: Jujitsu and Kodokan Judo)

Evidence that Jujitsu prevailed in Japan in ancient times is indicated by an incident, which occurred in 24 B. C., when the Emperor Suinin ordered two strong men named Sukune and Kuehaya to wrestle in his presence. This struggle to test the strength and courage of the two ancient giants consisted mainly of kicking, hitting, and gouging with Sukune gaining advantage of his opponent by breaking his ribs, after which he "trampled" upon his loins and back until Kuehaya was fatally injured. Although this incident is generally cited as being the origin of wrestling in Japan, it would seem that it was actually more in the nature of Jujitsu in view of the fact that Kuehaya was kicked and gouged to death.

The oldest Jujitsu movement is the Takenouchi-Ryu, purported to have been originated by Takenouchi Hisamori, a native of Sakushu, in the year of 1532. This branch taught Kogusoku, or the art of seizing, which is somewhat different from the pure art of Jujitsu. The Takenouchi-Ryu may be regarded as the primal system for the teaching of arts similar to Jujitsu. Fukuno Schichiroemon of Temba originated a second system called the Kito-Ryu. This Ryu `appeared in the middle of the seventeenth century.

Prominence of the "Art of Throwing" (Nage-waza) and "Form Practice (Kata) gave the Kito-Ryu great prestige and popularity. In close connection with this branch was a third branch called the Jikishin-Ryu, whose founder was Terada Kanemon, a native of Unsho, and the contemporary of Fukono. Both Fukuno and Terada lived about the middle of the seventeenth century in somewhat close relationship to each other. These two systems appear to be the oldest of all the varied systems of Jujitsu.

The branches of Jujitsu grew during the feudal period, particularly during the time of Iyemitsu, the third and ablest of the Tokugawa Shogun, under whose government feudalism was completely established in Japan. The art of Jujitsu continued in various provinces in Japan until the later part of the eighteenth century, when it began to decline with the impending fall of feudalism. Later, Jujitsu fell into disuse with the abolition of the feudal system (1860-1865) and became almost extinct.

Sanshinkai Jujitsu - what makes it unique?

Sanshinkai Jujitsu has many components and strives for balance in its practitioners. A student or practitioner of Sanshinkai Jujitsu will become adept at both throwing and Mat or ground fighting. We use large circle and small circle grappling, throwing, pinning as well as striking an opponent.

Sanshinkai Jujitsu students spend many months integrated with the "Karate" students to learn the fast footwork and stances of karate as well as the striking and blocking techniques of "Karate". In this way they are not at any disadvantage in standing position, unlike some other Jujitsu styles.  In Judo where an opponent is usually starting with or allowed to start with a lapel grip, Jujitsu students or practitioners are usually presented with a punch or kick of some type. In Judo where the practitioner usually moves about seeking to off balance or setup an opponent in order to throw or sweep them, Jujitsu practitioner's usually blend with the opponent while either blocking or avoiding the attack. This is usually followed up with movements to either gain advantage or control and finally subdue or finish the opponent.

A strong physical component is stressed as well as a balanced center or calmness of self. Being able to "see' intent as well as "see" the big picture is equally important to being a good Sanshinkai Jujitsu practitioner. Those that study under Mr. Olevsky have the unique privilege of someone certified nationally and internationally in four martial arts at 3rd degree Blackbelt or higher. With this diversity in Karate, Jujitsu, Judo, and Kendo he brings both a "true understanding" of combat and a "clarity of concepts" rarely found in one individual.

For more information on getting started in Jujitsu, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 919-876-8898.