The Art of Bartitsu

Victorian-Era Martial Arts for the Modern Gentleman

The Gentleman's Art of Self Defense

Developed by E.W. Barton-Wright in the late 19th century, Bartitsu is a sophisticated martial art that combines the precision of jujitsu, the nobility of boxing, the efficiency of savate, and the practicality of cane fighting. It represents the epitome of gentlemanly self-defense, immortalized in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes stories.

This comprehensive system was designed for the urban gentleman, emphasizing practical defense techniques that could be executed while wearing Victorian-era formal attire. The art form gained prominence among London's upper class and remains a testament to the ingenuity of Victorian martial arts.

Historical Bartitsu Demonstration
1898

Foundation

E.W. Barton-Wright introduces Bartitsu to London society

1899

First Bartitsu Club

Opening of the Bartitsu Club in Soho, London

1901

Peak Popularity

Bartitsu reaches its height of popularity among London's elite

1902

Sherlock Holmes Connection

Referenced in "The Adventure of the Empty House" by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Essential Techniques

Discover the core principles of Bartitsu through its fundamental techniques

Historical Bartitsu Self-Defense Techniques

Walking Cane Defense

Transform your walking stick into an elegant weapon of defense.

  • Guard positions and strikes
  • Thrusting and parrying techniques
  • Hooking and trapping methods
  • Distance management

Scientific Boxing

Master the noble art of pugilism with Victorian precision.

  • Proper stance and footwork
  • Strategic striking combinations
  • Defensive maneuvers
  • Counter-attack principles

Jujitsu Applications

Apply the efficient principles of Japanese martial science.

  • Joint locks and throws
  • Balance displacement
  • Ground defense tactics
  • Clothing-assisted techniques

French Savate

Incorporate the elegant yet devastating kicks of French foot-fighting.

  • Precise low-line kicks
  • Graceful footwork patterns
  • Tactical combinations
  • Defensive foot positioning

Modern Demonstrations

Cane Technique

Cane Fighting Techniques

Modern interpretation of classical cane defense

Boxing Practice

Boxing Elements

Scientific boxing adapted for modern practice

Jujitsu Practice

Jujitsu Integration

Combining traditional and modern techniques

Savate Demonstration

French Savate

Elegant footwork and precise kicking techniques