If you plan to get into martial arts, you will come across the two most popular fighting styles, Jiu-Jitsu and boxing. Though both fighting styles have fan bases, what will you choose between them? On what basis? Which sport is best for self-defense or fitness?
Don’t overthink; I am here to help you with an article highlighting both sports’ features, pros, and cons.
So by scrolling through the article, you will get a good idea of what to choose. Now let’s get started.
Difference Between Boxing And Jiu-Jitsu
First, understand that boxing and Jiu-Jitsu are two different combat sports. The basic difference between these two is boxing is a striking-based martial art, whereas Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art.
Objectives of Boxing
Boxing is one of the oldest and most popular martial arts worldwide. This focuses mainly on the striking part, which must be done in a standing position and has its rules and regulations.
Rules of boxing
1. Only closed fists must be used to strike your opponent.
2. You can strike only on the front side of the opponent’s body. i.e., from forehead to their beltline. If you punch any body part, you will be given a warning, point deduction, or even disqualification.
3. The goal of the boxing match is to throw several punches at the opponent without getting hit.
4. There are 3 ways by which you can win a match: KO/TKO, decision, or disqualification.
Objectives of Jiu-Jitsu
This combat sport is the opposite of boxing, where you will grapple your opponent rather than hit. And it must be carried out using both the feet and ground.
Unlike boxing, this sport is only a century old. So it is relatively new.
Rules of Jiu-Jitsu include
1. In Jiu-Jitsu, you must aim to get your opponent to the ground, control them for a while, and make them submit.
2. The submissions here include strangulations and joint locks.
3. Strikes are strictly prohibited here
4. There are 4 ways to win a match: submission, points, decision, or disqualification.
Boxing vs. Jiu Jitsu :Which Is Simpler To Learn?
Now that you have learned the objectives and rules of both sports, your mind will ask, “Which is easy to learn?” Didn’t you get this question?
To be honest, this question is subjective; everyone’s skill is different. Some skills will come easier for one person, while for others, it becomes extremely difficult.
I would say that boxing is easier to learn for a beginner.
This is because,
Boxing is only fought in one plane means you can do anything in a standing stance.
You can use your hands in boxing for striking.
This is why boxing is also called a one-dimensional combat sport where you must be concerned about different forms of punches.
Meanwhile,
In Jiu-Jitsu, you will be fighting on multiple planes. You must throw, takedown, or pull down to get your opponent to the ground. Once your opponent hits the ground, you must change your stance and hold them to the ground for a while. (until the opponent gives up)
To put it short, most amateur boxers get trained and become proficient in boxing within 6 months. Meanwhile, beginners in Jiu-Jitsu need at least 2 years to get proficient with this sport.
Boxing vs. Jiu Jitsu: Which Is Better For Self-Defense?
Jiu-Jitsu wins it, hands down because this sport is designed to equip the fighter with the potential to protect him or herself from the attacker with different techniques.
Though being a boxer, you can throw punches on the attacker; you will be devastated with the attacker throw a stronger punch on your face. But in the case of a Jiu-Jitsu trained person, he or she can easily dismantle the attacker.
Boxing vs. Jiu Jitsu: Which Is Better For Fitness?
For fitness, I would recommend going for boxing because boxing training helps you to get in shape without getting hurt.
If fitness is your sole goal, then you can get into boxing and get fit without getting a single punch. This is because boxing practice involves solo drills, bag works, and other high-intensity exercise that helps you get into your best shape.
Boxing vs. Jiu-Jitsu – The Conclusion
If you have read the complete article, you will know that both sports have pros and cons, but they are great skills to learn. If you are a beginner in MMA, then learning both sports is important.
I suggest taking up Jiu-Jitsu first and then getting into boxing. However, if you want to learn self-defense choose Jiu-Jitsu, or if getting into shape is your goal, choose boxing.
