Jitte Meaning in Karate

Jitte is a specialized karate form that translates to the meaning of ten hands. This name suggests that a practitioner who masters it can defend against ten attackers. The form focuses heavily on stick fighting defense and techniques for disarming an armed opponent. It uses open hand blocks and powerful hip rotations to strip a weapon away. Practitioners often maintain a high level of physical tension to represent a strong defense. An athlete uses a cross block to trap a wooden staff in practice. Learning to leverage the weight of the body is essential for disarming a larger person. High blocks protect the head from overhead strikes during a chaotic physical confrontation.