Brain-Jitsu was a
CBBC show which tests contestants (called ''brainees'') to complete a set of challenges using different parts of their
brains. After each challenge, one is eliminated whilst the rest gain a higher level brain belt. The show was led and commentated by the
Sensei, whilst the
Shihan organises and watches over the tasks. All 25 episodes were broadcast from 25 February 2008 to 28 March 2008.
Between each level, contestants get the chance to prepare themselves for the challenge ahead in ''The Room of Mental Nourishment''. They are given a challenge to train the part of the brain needed for the next level. The brainees are given the choice whether to participate or not, but any extra training they do prepares them for the task ahead. The loser of each level is interviewed in a ''Walk of Eternal Regret''. Sometimes a segment called ''Brainy, Not So Brainy'' is shown between some levels.
Levels and belts
At the start of the show, all eight brainees begin with a white belt. At the start of each following level, the brainees who are yet to be eliminated are given a higher level brain belt (worn around their forehead).
* Level 1 – ''
Yellow Belt'' – This level uses the
occipital lobes of the Brain. The task here is always ''Enter the Dojo''.
* Level 2 – ''
Orange Belt'' – This level uses the
frontal lobes; requiring the brainees to do something they would normally do without thinking differently.
* Level 3 – ''
Green Belt'' – This level requires the brainees to get into teams of two, each of the pair using a different half of their brain.
* Level 4 – ''
Blue Belt'' – This level uses the
amygdala as brainees are challenged to overcome fear.
* Level 5 – ''
Red Belt'' – This level exercises the thinking part of the brain, the
cerebrum, and the doing part, the
Cerebellum
The cerebellum (Latin for "little brain") is a major feature of the hindbrain of all vertebrates. Although usually smaller than the cerebrum, in some animals such as the mormyrid fishes it may be as large as or even larger. In humans, the cerebel ...
.
* Level 6 – ''
Brown Belt'' – This level requires the brainees to use their occipital lobes,
temporal lobes and cerebellum.
* Level 7 – ''
Black Belt'' – The two remaining contestants push a ball across a table using their focus. The force with which the ball is pushed is measured by the average amount of brain waves used during the challenge.
Transmissions
Episodes
Cancellation
On 28 March 2008, CBBC had announced that it would not recommission for a second series.
External links
*
2008 British television series debuts
2008 British television series endings
2000s British children's television series
BBC children's television shows
British children's game shows
2000s British game shows
English-language television shows
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