The Sampson News

MYSTERY OF JIU JITSU DEBUNKED

BY INSTRUCTOR IN DEWEY UNIT

There is nothing mysterious about jiu jitsu. It is smart wrestling; a method the Japanese devised long ago to turn an opponent's strength against himself, according to George Aghamelian, Sp(A)2c, the jiu jitsu expert instructing in Dewey Unit.

After studying Japanese wrestling under a noted instructor for 10 years, he scoffs at the fantastic stories about Japanese super-prowess, especially any so-called "secret knowledge about nerves."

The Japanese, Aghamelian says, has speed and confidence. When he faces an enemy he is likely to squat low and watch for an opportunity to throw his opponent. But to do this he must wait for you to falter. Your defense is to relax, guarding your balance.

Match For Best Japs

Most Japanese have had training in jiu jitsu and kendo (sword technique); the latter a sport which is designed to toughen the neck, arm and leg muscles. Nevertheless, the average American is a healthier specimen than his Nipponese opponent, and if he keeps his head, he is a match for their very best, Aghamelian asserts.

In three or four weeks of training a recruit who never heard of jiu jitsu before can learn enough about it to make him a formidable opponent of anybody trying to use it against him, Aghamelian states.