Kyusho Jitsu is a type of martial art that focuses on striking the weaker areas of the body. As such, fighters are expected to study the body’s anatomical structure and its underlying pressure points and meridians. All forms of martial art that practice martial art forms or kata rely on the principles of Kyusho Jitsu. Understanding pressure points and how to strike them requires time to study and practice.

The term ‘pressure points’ often evokes the thought of hitting someone hard while trying to do a knockout. Unfortunately, the term pressure points, or Kyusho Jitsu as used in martial arts, is often misunderstood. This combat style essentially involves executions of key moves or attacks that disturb or stop the body’s energy flow patterns by attacking vital points in the body.

Basic Principles of Kyusho Jitsu

The basic principles of Kyusho Jitsu are informed by an understanding of how the body creates and utilizes its power. These insights are then applied using some key principles of attacking using proper body mechanics. Kyusho Jitsu trainees are expected to have a firm grasp of the following fundamental principles:

  • An angle of attack and defense: Every pressure point should be struck on a 45-degree angle to be activated
  • 2-way action: This principle is vital in pressure point attack/defense. Also referred to as ‘complex motion’ it mainly looks at joint locks.
  • Centering: This principle essentially involves making a martial artist master how to maintain the attack or counter-attack with his or her center.
  • Stance: An understanding of different positions is key to instigate an attack and managing your opponent’s movements.

Kyusho Jitsu Structure

Kyusho Jitsu trainees start with a white belt, which is the lowest rank. The highest rank, just like in other forms of martial art, is the Kyusho Black Belt. It is worth noting that Kyusho has a different belt ranking system and a select number of international bodies award these belts.