Wait is it Ju-Jitsu or Jiu-jitsu?

The short answer is both mean the same thing, it’s a Japanese word translated into english meaning Gentle art. (Disarmed combat not gentle as in soft) In America many dojo’s use the spelling differences to either align with traditional Japanese combat ju- jitsu or more modern or sport Japanese jiu-jitsu. The reality is many American judo dojos would use the spelling ju-jitsu without differentiating it from Jiu-jitsu. while many European dojos would use the spelling Jiu-Jitsu as a translation of the japanese word.

What about Judo?

Judo translate into the gentle way. In Japan you would traditionally go to a judo dojo and learn Ju-Jitsu/ jiu-jitsu technique these were the advanced techniques. In some ways Japanese ju-jitsu (gentle art) is advanced judo or the self defense techniques in judo.

Is it Kenpo or Kempo?

Kenpo karate do is translated into Law of the fist (Kenpo) way of the empty hand(Karate do). The spelling has to do with translating a Japanese word into english, both kenpo and kempo mean the same thing. Many systems differentiate the origin of their style by the spelling, using either “n” or “m” this is important because Kenpo/kempo have Chinese and Japanese roots. Chinese Kempo is known as Chinese boxing and is related to gung fu (Kung fu) while Kenpo karate is the Chinese art mixed with Japanese karate and from Okinawa.

We hope this clarifies a lot of questions, we know there is a lot more history behind this explanation. We just wanted to offer a basic understanding. Please ask Sensei if you have any questions thank you.