What is Jeet Kune Do?
Jeet Kune Do is the system or method created by Bruce Lee. Some argue that it is not a “style” in the typical sense of the term because it does not offer a comprehensive list of techniques, adding that it’s more of an approach or philosophy behind martial arts. Some of that is semantical quibbling.
If anything, Jeet Kune Do (JKD) is definitely a method for self-defense. There may not be a codified list of techniques on defending a grab, a right punch, or choke, but JKD has essential aspects categorizing it as a fight method, if not a style altogether.
Jeet Kune Do is principled on at least a few things:
- the Bai Jong Stance (which sets with your dominant side forward instead of on the rear side)
- utilization of lead hand and foot strikes
- intercepting an opponent’s attack
- The Five Points of Attack (I’ll invite you to look that up)
With that, it’s important to realize what Jeet Kune Do is inspired by, or its philosophical or ideological foundations:
Martial Art systems are limited while offering both strengths and weaknesses
Martial Art systems typically force the individual into the system and are “one size fits all” approache
The art should serve the individual and not the individual getting consumed by the dogma or traditions of the art
A martial artist can approach the martial arts as taking from any system that can be used for their advantage or simply put, take “what works” while discarding what doesn’t work.
It was 09 July 1967 and on Bruce Lee's personal diary for the first time a name destined to change history appears: JEET KUNE DO. Lee struggled for a long time with the idea of naming his art, fearing he could crystallize and limit it. However, the need for more specific martial arts expressions led to the birth of JKD.
An art based on three pillars:
SIMPLICITY: Clearing the superfluous to get to the essential. IMMEDIATELY: Act and react without hesitation, like water that fits the container.
FREEDOM: Breaking the chains of blind traditions to express oneself honestly.
A few years later, in 1971, Lee chose the TV series "Longstreet" to introduce to the whole world his revolutionary philosophy through the character of a martial arts instructor.
Who will win? The beginning of a path without limits, which invites each of us to express ourselves honestly.
