This list includes 13 Martial arts that start with J, from “Jeet Kune Do” to “Jukenpo”. Most blend striking and grappling, and they are used for self-defense, sport, or cultural practice.
Martial arts that start with J are styles whose English names begin with the letter J. Several reflect regional traditions, while Jeet Kune Do exemplifies a modern founder-led synthesis.
Below you’ll find the table with Name, Country/Origin, Focus, Founding period and Notes.
Name: The style’s common name, so you can identify and search for the art online quickly.
Country/Origin: The country or region where the style developed, helping you place it culturally and historically.
Focus: The primary combat emphasis (Striking, Grappling, Hybrid), so you can match styles to goals like sport or self-defense.
Founding period: Approximate year, decade, or century when the style arose, which shows its relative age and evolution.
Notes: Short remarks about notable traits, alternate names, or historical disputes to guide your further reading choices.
Martial arts that start with J
Name
Origin
Primary Focus
Founding Period
Judo
Japan
Grappling
1882
Jujutsu
Japan
Grappling
17th century
Jeet Kune Do
United States
Hybrid
1960s
Jodo
Japan
Weapons
Early 17th century
Jojutsu
Japan
Weapons
17th century
Jukendo
Japan
Weapons
Late 19th century
Jittejutsu
Japan
Weapons
17th century
Jigen-ryu
Japan
Weapons
17th century
Jinen-ryu
Japan
Striking
1930s
Jow Ga
China
Striking
Early 20th century
Jogo do Pau
Portugal
Weapons
16th–17th century
Jukenpo
Japan
Striking
Late 19th century
Jikishinkage-ryu
Japan
Weapons
17th century
Descriptions
Judo
Modern Olympic grappling art founded by Kanō Jigorō; emphasizes throws, pins and submissions and evolved from classical jujutsu.
Jujutsu
Classical Japanese unarmed combat from the samurai era, focusing on throws, joint locks and groundwork; often spelled jiu-jitsu and ancestor to judo.
Jeet Kune Do
Bruce Lee’s philosophy-driven fighting method blending boxing, fencing and kung fu; stresses economy of motion, interception and adaptability.
Jodo
Art of the short staff (jō), formalized by Musō Gonnosuke; focuses on strikes, thrusts and disarms against sword attacks.
Jojutsu
Classical jō techniques predating modern jōdō; emphasizes practical staff applications and counters to sword-wielding opponents.
Jukendo
Bayonet-fighting system developed during Japan’s modernization and later formalized as a martial discipline focusing on thrusting, footwork and military technique.
Jittejutsu
Edo-period art using the jitte (parrying hook) for defense, disarming and law-enforcement techniques practiced by retainers and constables.
Jigen-ryu
Koryū kenjutsu school known for explosive, committed sword strikes, rigorous conditioning and influence on samurai-era swordsmanship.
Jinen-ryu
Karate style by Yasuhiro Konishi combining Okinawan techniques with Japanese methods and natural movement; emphasizes striking, kata and practical application.
Jow Ga
Southern Chinese kung fu blending Hung Ga, Choy Gar and Northern elements; noted for strong stances, powerful hand techniques and practical fighting.
Jogo do Pau
Traditional Portuguese long-stick fighting art used historically for self-defense and dueling; emphasizes footwork, wide strikes and community practice.
Jukenpo
Japanese close-range striking art linked to jujutsu and aikijujutsu traditions, focusing on rapid punches, body movement and practical striking methods.
Jikishinkage-ryu
Classical school of kenjutsu with emphasis on timing, distancing and kata; part of the koryū swordsmanship lineage.
If you think there is a missing term, let us know using the contact form.
