The term "Jitz" is quickly taking over the Jiu Jitsu world. Whether your watching an MMA broadcast, reading facebook updates, trolling forums, or talking amongst friends, the term is THERE! Sure Americans are known for making things their own and for making things as simple as possible, but is this a good thing?
I can see both sides of the coin. Its a lot easier to text or type "Jitz" than "Jiu-Jitsu". The abbreviation "BJJ" could mean something different (or nothing) to lots of others we interact with as well. Side Note: The term "Jitz" originated from the italian word "gitoni" which meant foosball or table soccer. People called it gitz for short and spelled it "jitz" for style (to add even more confusion).
On the other hand Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and something that is held in high respect to thousands of people. Why would anyone want to cheapen the art/sport with a cleaver nickname?
The jury is still out on this one. If I had to guess I would say that people newer to the art would be more accepting of the term "Jitz" (Especially Americans). Those who have been around the art longer and who treasure its deep history would be more likely to take offense to the term. I'm not gonna get caught caught up in the debate but wanted to bring the subject to light.
We have too much in common as people and a love for Jiu Jitsu that runs deeper than any term could destroy. But don't be surprised if someone is reading or hearing you use the term "Jitz" and are rolling their eyes as you do. ;)
Now if we could just agree on the term Guillotine...is it Gilla or Guia?
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