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BJJ demonstration at Japan Day in Sacramento

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On April 21, Japan Club of CSU Sacramento hosted their 17th Japan Day celebration.

The event included taiko performance, Japanese dance, bun eating contest, soran bushi, and a martial arts demo featuring jujutsu.

From El Dorado Hills jiujitsu we had 10 performers choreograph a display of technique, dynamic movement, self defense concepts and how different bodies can interact regardless of age or size.

Performing a jiujitsu demonstration has a few great benefits. One, a demo is a great way to help an audience see and better understand what jiujitsu is. Two, practicing and performing a demo gives the performer an opportunity to be creative and find a way to showcase the martial art. Three, the act of performing simulates a competition type experience.

A jiujitsu demo is a great way to help an untrained eye see and understand the subtle nuances of the martial art. While it might be best to actually step on the mat and do a trial class to really experience the potential of jiujitsu, a demo done right helps the audience notice the different concepts of leverage, control, pressure, and more. Additionally a demo can condense something that might take 5 to 10 minutes to happen in a match into less than a minute.

There is an element of creative expression built into the practice of jiujitsu in general. Different body types and personalities allow for a differing expression of the martial art to come about. In choreography of a demo a student can work with a partner to fully express their style of jiujitsu and reveal elements of themselves through their performance.

Competition requires mental, physical, and technical preparation and a demo can be very similar. Although the environment is not a competitive setting, there is an expectation to perform the choreography. This can cause similar pre match jitter and excitement. Whether it be performing for a tournament for a demo the feelings and thoughts that set in prior to performing is quite similar. Experiencing these feelings gives us an opportunity to learn different coping strategies and how to deal with our thoughts, feelings, the controllable and uncontrollable.

Thank you Japan day for hosing us, and congratulations to the performers who were able to make an impression on the audience with their display of jiujitsu.

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JJWL Pacific Cup Results

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The jiujitsu world league no was in Stockton CA again this weekend and competitions from el dorado hills jiujitsu showed up in with over 40 competitors. As a team we finished overall 8th out of 160+ competitors! An incredible accomplishment for us as we grow into the Northern California competition scene. We are very thankful to our teammates who helped with the preparation process, families and teammates in attendance to support and encourage the competitors and the many coaches who were out on the floor coaching!

As an association American Jiu Jitsu Syndicate finished in 2nd place! EDH Jiu-Jitsu is very thankful to be part of an association that is excited to train hard, have fun and enjoy the process of constant improvement.

We weren’t able to catch a photo of everyone but it was great to see our kids and adults out there in action!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Cultivating a practice of gratitude in jiujitsu and martial arts

In a world that often focuses on what’s lacking or what needs improvement, cultivating a practice of gratitude can be transformative. Gratitude is the act of recognizing and appreciating the good things in our lives, both big and small. It’s a powerful mindset that can bring about a shift in our perspective, leading to increased happiness, contentment, and overall well-being. In this post, we will explore the many benefits of gratitude and how we can incorporate it into our daily lives.

Gratitude has been found to have a significant impact on our mental health. Research suggests that expressing gratitude can increase positive emotions, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and improve overall life satisfaction. By focusing on what we have rather than what we lack, we train our minds to seek out the positive aspects of our lives, fostering a sense of optimism and resilience.

Gratitude has the power to deepen our connections with others. When we express gratitude towards someone, it not only makes them feel appreciated and valued but also strengthens the bond between us. Whether it’s a simple thank you note, a heartfelt conversation, or acts of kindness, expressing gratitude towards loved ones and even strangers can foster a sense of belonging and create a ripple effect of positivity in our relationships.

Practicing gratitude helps us shift our perspective from scarcity to abundance. It reminds us that even during challenging times, there are still things to be thankful for. Instead of dwelling on what’s going wrong, we redirect our attention to the blessings, opportunities, and lessons present in our lives. This shift in perspective can lead to increased resilience, a greater sense of control, and a more positive outlook on life.

Gratitude and mindfulness go hand in hand. When we practice gratitude, we train ourselves to be fully present in the moment, appreciating the beauty and goodness around us. By focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, we can experience a greater sense of peace and contentment. Gratitude serves as an anchor, grounding us in the here and now, and reminding us to savor life’s precious moments.

Gratitude is a catalyst for personal growth and self-improvement. When we embrace gratitude, we become more aware of our strengths, accomplishments, and the progress we’ve made. It encourages us to acknowledge and learn from our challenges, seeing them as opportunities for growth and development. Gratitude empowers us to cultivate a growth mindset and pursue our goals with enthusiasm and determination.

Here are some ways we can incorporate gratitude into our daily lives
Keep a gratitude journal: Write down three things you are grateful for each day.

  • Practice gratitude meditation: Set aside a few minutes to reflect on the things you appreciate in your life.
  • Express gratitude to others: Take the time to thank those who have made a positive impact on your life.
  • Focus on the present moment: Engage in activities mindfully, savoring the experience and expressing gratitude for it.
  • Shift your language: Replace complaints and negative statements with gratitude and positive affirmations.

Gratitude is a powerful practice that can transform our lives, fostering happiness, contentment, and resilience. By cultivating an attitude of gratitude, we shift our focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant, paving the way for greater joy and fulfillment. So, let’s make gratitude a part of our daily lives and unlock its remarkable benefits. As Melody Beattie wisely said, “Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”

Coach Danny

Tournaments

Essential aspects of jiujitsu tournament preparation

 Jiu Jitsu tournaments provide a platform for practitioners to test their skills and compete against equally passionate opponents. However, success in these competitions does not come easily. It requires meticulous preparation, both physically and mentally, to ensure optimal performance. In this essay, we will explore the essential aspects of Jiu Jitsu tournament preparation, highlighting the significance of conditioning, technique refinement, mental fortitude, and strategic planning.

Jiu Jitsu is an incredibly demanding sport that requires a high level of physical fitness. Athletes must possess strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility to excel in the tournament setting. Preparing one’s body through a well-rounded conditioning program is crucial for success. This program may include cardiovascular exercises to improve stamina, strength training to build functional muscle, and flexibility training to enhance joint mobility. Moreover, specific Jiu Jitsu drills and exercises targeting core strength and explosiveness are essential to execute techniques effectively.

Technique refinement is the backbone of Jiu Jitsu tournament preparation. Practitioners must devote ample time to drilling and refining their techniques to ensure precision and efficiency in execution. This involves practicing fundamental moves such as sweeps, submissions, escapes, and transitions. Additionally, studying and analyzing different strategies, positions, and submissions used by successful competitors can provide valuable insights to expand one’s repertoire of techniques. Continuous refinement and mastery of techniques not only enhance performance but also boost confidence when facing challenging opponents.

Jiu Jitsu tournaments demand mental resilience and composure, as matches can be physically and mentally draining. Athletes must develop mental fortitude to overcome the pressure, stress, and potential setbacks they may encounter during competition. Mental preparation involves various strategies such as visualization, meditation, and positive self-talk. Visualizing successful execution of techniques and envisioning oneself victorious can enhance focus and confidence. Meditation and mindfulness practices can help manage anxiety and maintain mental clarity during intense matches. Positive self-talk is also crucial, as it reinforces belief in one’s abilities and helps overcome self-doubt.

Strategic planning plays a vital role in Jiu Jitsu tournament preparation. It involves analyzing opponents’ strengths, weaknesses, and preferred techniques to formulate an effective game plan. Understanding an opponent’s tendencies can provide valuable insights to exploit their vulnerabilities. Additionally, developing a diverse set of strategies that adapt to different situations within a match is crucial. This includes recognizing opportunities to attack, defend, or counterattack based on the opponent’s reactions. Coaches and training partners play an instrumental role in devising effective strategies and helping athletes refine their tactical approach.

Preparing for a Jiu Jitsu tournament requires a holistic approach that encompasses physical conditioning, technique refinement, mental fortitude, and strategic planning. Athletes must commit themselves to rigorous training and discipline in each of these areas to maximize their chances of success. The combination of physical fitness, technical proficiency, mental resilience, and strategic acumen sets the stage for achieving victory in the competitive arena. By diligently preparing in these areas, Jiu Jitsu practitioners can enter tournaments with confidence and pursue their goals with determination.

Coach Danny

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Getting stronger together: edhbjj

Jiu Jitsu is a martial art and sport that centers around individual competition. It’s about pushing yourself to be your best and taking on your opponent in a one on one match. However, what many people overlook is that in a Jiu Jitsu gym, teamwork is essential to every athlete’s success.
The principle of “getting stronger together” is at the heart of El Dorado Hills BJJ. In a sport that requires intense physical and mental training it’s important to be surrounded by a supportive team. This makes it easier to push through challenges and strive towards your goals.

One of the key ways teamwork is essential in Jiu Jitsu is through drilling. Drilling is when two training partners work together to practice specific techniques and movements repeatedly. By working together, each partner is able to improve their technique and progress towards mastering their skill.

However, drilling goes beyond just improving technique. It also allows you to get to know your training partner and build a sense of camaraderie. When you spend hours drilling with someone, you learn to trust and rely on them.

Another way that teamwork is developed in Jiu Jitsu is through training camps and sparring. When athletes come together for intense training they are able to push each other to reach new heights. They learn from one another, share their struggles and triumphs and create bonds that will last a lifetime.

In Jiu Jitsu, as in life, success is not just about individual accomplishment . It’s also about working together to achieve something greater than yourself. Whether it’s through drilling with your partner or training hard with the team, the principle of “getting stronger together” is an essential part of our gym. 

Coach Danny

Adults Jiu Jitsu, community

Is Jiu Jitsu a Martial Art or Sport? EDH BJJ

What is the difference between a martial art and a sport? People will have differing opinions on what defines a sport and a martial art. In my opinion, the main difference between a sport and martial art is the idea of training in self defense. A martial art has principles of self defense, while a sport lacks reference to the ideas of self defense. Which opens up an entire different topic of conversation. What is self defense?

In modern society, real self defense is probably more related to taking proper care of your self. A healthy diet with an awareness of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. A check up on your mental health from depression, anxiety, and addiction. These are all issues that we should “train and check” as a form of self defense because they are much more common attackers than a stranger attacking you on the street. But let’s get back to the practice of jiu-jitsu.

Interestingly, Jiu-jitsu is a form of self defense and also an evolving sport. When I first took an IBJJF rules course in 2011(?) with Alvaro Mansor, he explained the IBJJF rules were designed with the intention of preserving and practicing self defense. While the sport of jiu-jitsu may have evolved away from some of the practical ideas of self defense, I believe the rules of the sport still encourage the ideas of self defense. In a very unique way, the practice of jiujitsu as a sport supports the practice of self defense.

Jiu-Jitsu as a martial art is more than just self defense. For jiu-jitsu to be considered a martial art, it should contribute to the idea of “getting stronger together.” A martial art involves character shaping, community building, a collection of principles that directs everyone toward a common mission. The idea of character building exists in sport as well. (In many cases, the coach and team will define how intentional they are in teaching these skills).

At El Dorado Hills Jiu-Jitsu we look to practice jiujitsu as a martial art. Encouraging the practice of self defense while embracing the competitive technique, strategy, and athleticism of the sport. We strive to build a community of practitioners who challenge one another, mentor the new comers, communication, collaboration, conflict resolution, and more.

Eliot

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Mindset by Carol S. Dweck

I recently finished reading Mindset by Carol S. Dweck. This was one of my favorite books I have ever read. The book was about the differences between a “fixed” mindset and a “growth” mindset and how having a growth mindset can foster a love for learning and set people up for success. The book is split into different categories; Sports, Business, Parenting and Relationships, it gives a lot of examples of each mindset in each chapter and the results of that mindset.

One of my favorite sections of this book was in the parenting chapter. It talks about how difficult it can be to teach children how to have a growth mindset even if you (the parent) are a growth minded person. One of the strategies it talks about is praising children for effort and hard work instead of results. One of the examples was of a family who at dinner always asked each other; What did you learn today? What mistakes did you make that taught an important lesson? What did you try today that was very hard? I thought this was really cool.

At the end of the book it talks a lot about how to start building a growth mindset and passing it on to others. It says that everybody actually has a mix of fixed and growth mindset and that’s just part of being human. The author did an exercise with some of her students where they all had to name their “fixed mindset persona” and write out things that persona says to them and how it makes them feel. I liked that exercise a lot. Even though all of these students were pretty growth minded they often dealt with intrusive fixed mindset thoughts and I could relate to that a lot. 

Danny

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Training and staying healthy

 Something I’ve been struggling with lately is staying healthy while preparing for tournaments. I tend to always get sick when I am a couple of weeks out from competing. It is stressful and frustrating for me to take a break from training so that I can rest and if I try to ignore how I’m feeling and train while I think I might be getting sick, I end up getting worse and worse until I cannot ignore it.

In these situations it’s really important for me to decide what is in my control and what is not. If I stress out and obsess over the things that are outside of my control I am putting myself in a losing battle. When I figure out what I can control I can give those things my best effort. In this situation where I keep getting sick before tournaments I can’t control how I feel, I can’t control that I am sick and am missing practice. Some things that I can control are how well I take care of myself to get better, how consistent I am with my rest and supplements to try and prevent this from happening as much as possible, and my attitude. When I separate things into those two categories it makes it really clear what I need to work on. For me in this situation I have bad rest/recovery habits that I should change to see if that fixes the problem.

One of my coaches was telling me about a book he read. In the book it talked about athletes continuing to train through injury and sickness through visualization. I’ve been trying that out a little bit. It feels kind of silly but they have done studies on it and it’s proven to work so I’m going to keep using it. 

Danny

Tournaments

EDH BJJ compete in JJWL Competition

 The team went to Stockton to compete in a Jiu Jitsu World League tournament this last weekend. We had three Juniors class competitors, one Juvenile competitor and three adult/masters competitors. Out of our seven competitors we took home three gold medals and two silver medals.

Our Juniors class competitors all looked great. They were able to execute techniques that we have been working on in class and that were a part of their individual gameplans. I saw them hit good takedowns, sweeps and use excellent top pressure and guard retention. Our Juvenile competitor fought hard in some action packed matches. He won a silver medal and it was exciting to watch.

The Masters competitors dominated their divisions. They displayed some great Jiu Jitsu all around. I was most impressed with the guard passing and a couple of the submissions by those guys.

My matches didn’t go well which was frustrating but I am excited to get back to work and compete again in November. Going to tournaments is always fun when there are a few or more people from the team competing, overall I had a great time coaching and competing. 

Danny

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Jiu Jitsu Kids Camp in El Dorado Hills

 I recently ran my first Jiu Jitsu Camp for ages five and older. In the past all of the camps have been seven and up. It was a full camp and the most fun one yet. Having the younger kids there came with some new challenges but I was prepared for them.
The main difference having the younger kids in camp is being ready for the shorter attention span. I had to be ready to refocus the group or change activities much more often than when seven year olds were the youngest kids there. Another big difference was the class style had to be more of a peewee/kids hybrid class with the kids split into groups and a lot of hands-on coaching. For the next camp I will probably allow this age group to come again. It was fun having some of the peewee kids there.
For the class portion of camp we did a fun warm up and practiced some basics. After that we practiced arm bars on the coaches and did some Jiu Jitsu matches. There was a very wide variety of skill and experience levels in the room along with the variety of ages. After class we played all of the mat games that we have played before at camp with the addition of a free for all snow ball fight. We ended the day with some snacks and board games. I haven’t picked a date for the next camp yet but I am excited to start planning for it!

Danny