Category Archives: Adults Jiu Jitsu

Adults Jiu Jitsu

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu With Wrestling at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Are you looking for a fun and unique style that blends Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) with wrestling? At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our no-gi program for adults focuses on takedowns, positional control, and dynamic submissions, making it the perfect training option for anyone who wants to sharpen their ground game.

Why Train No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?

No-gi Jiu Jitsu is a fast-growing discipline that removes the traditional gi, favoring athleticism, movement, and grips based on body control rather than cloth. It’s a must for anyone interested in MMA, submission grappling, or self-defense.

Key Benefits of No-Gi Training:

✔ Faster transitions and scrambles

✔ Improved grip fighting and body awareness

✔ A more wrestling-intensive approach to Jiu Jitsu

✔ Better conditioning and endurance

Incorporating Wrestling Into No-Gi

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our no-gi classes emphasize wrestling techniques, including:

• Effective Takedowns – Learn how to set up single and double legs, body locks, and foot sweeps to control the fight from standing.

• Chain Wrestling – Transition smoothly between different takedowns and setups.

• Top Pressure and Control – Develop a strong pinning and riding game to neutralize opponents.

• Scrambles – Learn transitions that allow you to control the position even when you’ve almost lost your positional control.

Train With Our Coaches

Our coaches bring years of experience in both Jiu Jitsu and wrestling, giving you a structured and effective system for integrating wrestling into your no-gi game. Whether you’re preparing for competition or just want to get in great shape, our no-gi classes will challenge and elevate your skills.

Join Our No-Gi Classes Today!

Looking for no-gi training with a wrestling focus near El Dorado Hills or Folsom Ranch? Try a class and experience training with our team in a friendly, competitive environment.

📍 Location: 4669 Golden Foothill Pkwy #208

📞 Phone: 916.595.4064

🌐 Website: edhjiujitsu.com

Come train with us and take your no-gi and wrestling game to the next level!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Start Your Morning Strong: Join the 6 AM Jiu Jitsu Class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Are you looking for a way to jumpstart your day with energy, discipline, and a great workout? Our 6 AM Jiu Jitsu class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is the perfect way to build strength, sharpen your mind, and develop real self-defense skills before the rest of the world wakes up. Whether you live in Folsom Ranch, El Dorado Hills, or the surrounding areas, this early morning class offers a unique opportunity to train with a dedicated group of adults who want to challenge themselves and improve every day.

Why Train at 6 AM?

We know mornings can be tough, but training Jiu Jitsu first thing in the morning sets the tone for the rest of your day. Here’s why our students love the 6 AM class:

1. Get Ahead of the Day

By training in the morning, you don’t have to worry about squeezing in a workout later. You’ll leave class feeling accomplished and energized, ready to take on work, family, and everything else in your schedule.

2. Train with a Focused, Motivated Group

The 6 AM class attracts a dedicated crew—people who are serious about improving their skills. You’ll be surrounded by training partners who push each other to be better every session.

3. Beat the Traffic & Make the Most of Your Time

If you’re commuting from Folsom Ranch or El Dorado Hills, an early morning workout means no traffic and no distractions. You’ll get high-quality training without taking time away from family or evening commitments.

4. Start Your Day with a Mental & Physical Edge

Jiu Jitsu is more than just a workout—it’s a way to sharpen your mind, build confidence, and relieve stress. After an hour of rolling on the mats, your body and mind will be fully awake and ready to tackle anything the day throws at you.

What to Expect in the 6 AM Jiu Jitsu Class

• All Levels Welcome: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grappler, our class structure allows everyone to progress at their own pace.

• Expert Instruction: Learn from experienced instructors who provide detailed coaching and practical techniques.

• Great Community: Join a group of like-minded individuals who are committed to growth, fitness, and learning the art of Jiu Jitsu.

• Full-Body Workout: Improve your cardio, strength, flexibility, and problem-solving skills all in one session.

Convenient for Folsom Ranch & El Dorado Hills Residents

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is just a short drive from Folsom Ranch, making it an easy and convenient option for residents looking to train before work. Our gym is welcoming to all adults, from professionals to parents and everyone in between. If you’ve been thinking about trying Jiu Jitsu, this is the perfect time to start!

Try a Class!

We invite you to experience the 6 AM class for yourself. Whether you’re brand new to Jiu Jitsu or looking to add a morning session to your training, you’re welcome to come in and train with us.

Get started today— Contact us or visit our website to sign up.

Make the commitment. Start your day strong. See you on the mats at 6 AM!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

The Value of Flexibility Training in Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we emphasize the importance of movement efficiency, control, and longevity on the mats. One of the often-overlooked aspects of improving movement in Jiu Jitsu is flexibility training. Developing flexibility doesn’t just help with injury prevention—it enhances your ability to flow between techniques, maintain strong positions, and apply submissions with greater ease.

Kit Laughlin’s Approach to Flexibility

One of the leading figures in the field of flexibility training is Kit Laughlin, whose principles focus on:

  • Progressive Stretching: Moving beyond passive flexibility by incorporating contract-relax techniques that help the body gradually adapt to greater ranges of motion.
  • End-Range Strength: Developing strength in stretched positions, ensuring that flexibility isn’t just passive but functional.
  • Dynamic Movement: Using controlled movement to improve flexibility dynamically, rather than relying solely on static stretching.

These principles are especially valuable in Jiu Jitsu, where flexibility isn’t just about being able to stretch further—it’s about being able to move effectively in challenging positions.

How We Incorporate Flexibility Training in Our Classes

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we integrate flexibility work into our training in several ways:

  • Warm-Ups with Purpose: Rather than generic static stretches, our warm-ups often include mobility drills that open up the hips, shoulders, and spine—areas crucial for effective grappling.
  • Dynamic Stretching for Movement Prep: Before drilling, we use controlled, movement-based flexibility exercises to prepare the body for Jiu Jitsu-specific positions.
  • End-Range Strength Training: Certain drills help build strength in stretched positions, such as working from deep squats, modified splits, and bridge positions to improve hip and spine mobility.
  • Cool-Down and Recovery: After training, we incorporate longer-held stretches and relaxation techniques to enhance recovery and maintain flexibility over time.

Why It Matters for Your Jiu Jitsu

Increased flexibility means:

  • Better Guard Retention & Recovery – More mobility in the hips and hamstrings allows you to recover guard more effectively.
  • Improved Defense – Flexible shoulders and hips can help you escape submissions with greater movement in the hips and shoulders.
  • Greater Longevity in the Sport – A flexible body is more resilient, reducing the risk of injuries that can sideline your training.

If you’re looking to improve your movement in Jiu Jitsu, consider focusing more on flexibility training. At EDH Jiu Jitsu, we’re committed to helping our students move better, train smarter, and stay on the mats for years to come. See you on the mats!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

The 6AM Jiu Jitsu Crew: Start Your Day on the Mat

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, the early morning class is more than just training—it’s a way of life. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 6AM, a dedicated group of grapplers starts their day with hard work, technique, and working together as a team.

Why Train at 6AM?

Life is busy. Between work, family, and responsibilities, finding time to train can be tough. Our 6AM class gives you the opportunity to improve your Jiu Jitsu without disrupting the rest of your day. Whether you’re an early riser by nature or just looking to make the most of your time, this class sets the tone for a productive and energized day.

Who Trains at 6AM?

The 6AM crew is a mix of all levels—from white belts learning the fundamentals to seasoned black belts refining their game. What they all have in common is commitment. The early morning atmosphere fosters focus and discipline, with everyone pushing each other to improve.

Our students come from all over El Dorado County, some driving in from Folsom, Cameron Park, Placerville, and beyond, just to get their training in before the sun rises. It’s not just a class—it’s a community of like-minded individuals who choose to challenge themselves before the rest of the world wakes up.

What to Expect

Each session includes:

✅ Technical instruction – Learn new movements, refine existing techniques, and develop a deeper understanding of Jiu Jitsu.

✅ Positional drilling – Repetition is key to building muscle memory and sharpening reactions.

✅ Live training – Get high-quality rounds in, helping you apply what you’ve learned in real time.

By the time you leave the mat, you’ll have already accomplished something before most people have started their day.

Join the 6AM Crew

If you’re looking to build consistency, improve your skills, and train with a motivated group, our 6AM class is waiting for you. Whether you’re a competitor preparing for your next tournament or a hobbyist looking to stay active, there’s a place for you on the mat.

Come see why 6AM at EDH Jiu Jitsu is one of the best ways to start your day. Set your alarm, show up, and get after it!

See you on the mats!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, community

No Talent Required: Cherish Every Moment, Be Present, and Appreciate Your Team

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that training is about more than just technique and competition—it’s about the experience we share with each other every time we step on the mat. Our goal is to create a culture where every student values the time spent training, is fully present in the moment, and appreciates the people who make the journey special.

Be Present in Your Training

Jiu Jitsu requires focus. When we’re truly engaged, we learn faster, improve more efficiently, and develop a deeper understanding of the art. But being present isn’t just about technique—it’s about committing to the moment.

When you step onto the mat, let go of outside distractions. Set aside the stress of the day, the notifications on your phone, and the endless to-do lists. Give your full attention to learning, drilling, and sparring. The more present you are, the more you’ll get out of every class.

Cherish Each Training Session

It’s easy to get caught up in the future—chasing the next belt, preparing for the next tournament, or striving to reach the next level. While setting goals is important, it’s just as crucial to enjoy where you are right now.

Every class is an opportunity to grow. Some days will be tough, and others will be full of breakthroughs. Embrace both. The struggles make the victories even sweeter, and the lessons you learn along the way will shape you as a martial artist.

Instead of rushing through the journey, take a moment to appreciate it. The time you spend training is valuable, and these moments won’t come again in the same way.

Appreciate the People Around You

Jiu Jitsu is an individual journey, but no one does it alone. The people you train with—your teammates, instructors, and training partners—are the ones who help you grow. They push you to be better, challenge you to improve, and support you through the ups and downs.

A strong team culture starts with gratitude. Respect your training partners. Thank them for their time, their effort, and their willingness to help you improve. Recognize that each person on the mat contributes to your journey, just as you contribute to theirs.

A simple fist bump, a word of encouragement, or even just showing up with a good attitude can make a difference. When we appreciate the people around us, we create an environment where everyone thrives.

The Culture We’re Building

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we want every student to know that their time here matters. We want you to walk into class knowing that every training session is a chance to learn, that being fully present will make you better, and that your teammates are here to support you just as much as you support them.

Jiu Jitsu isn’t just about getting better at grappling—it’s about building discipline, focus, and connections with the people who share the journey with you. Let’s continue to create a culture where we make the most of every moment, train with intention, and appreciate the time we have together.

Adults Jiu Jitsu, community

Pro Practice at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: Training

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our pro practice sessions are where high-level athletes sharpen their skills alongside some of the best in the game. These invite-only sessions bring together professional MMA fighters, active Jiu Jitsu competitors, and elite grapplers for an intense, competition-focused training environment.

What Makes Pro Practice Special?

Unlike regular classes, these sessions are designed for high-level performance and fight preparation. The intensity is higher, the rounds are longer, and the training partners are experienced competitors. This is where strategy meets execution, and every round is an opportunity to test yourself against some of the toughest athletes in the region.

Our pro practices focus on:

✅ Wrestling for MMA and Jiu Jitsu – Sharpening takedowns, transitions, and positional dominance.

✅ Submission Grappling – High-paced rounds that emphasize efficiency under pressure.

✅ Live Situational Drilling – Training specific scenarios that mimic grappling situations in fights and high-level matches.

✅ Fight Simulation – Rounds structured to push each other through the mental and physical challenges of competition.

Training as Professionals

Our mats have hosted UFC fighters, world-class wrestlers, and IBJJF medalists, all pushing each other to new levels. Whether preparing for an MMA fight, a Jiu Jitsu competition , or a major tournament, this room is where competitors refine their craft in an elite training environment.

Our pro practice sessions are known for their high intensity, pushing each athlete to their limits in a competition-focused environment. However, what separates elite training from reckless sparring is the high level of control that every participant must maintain. While the pace is fast and the rounds are demanding, there’s a shared understanding that training partners are not opponents—they are teammates helping each other improve. Precision, technical awareness, and mutual respect are key, ensuring that even in the most intense exchanges, athletes remain mindful of safety. This balance between intensity and control allows for maximum growth with minimal risk of injury, keeping fighters and competitors healthy, sharp, and ready for their next challenge.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are committed to building champions—on and off the mat. Whether you’re chasing gold in Jiu Jitsu or stepping into the cage for an MMA fight, our pro practice is where you refine your skills, test your limits, and prepare to win.

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Building Complete Grapplers: The Hybrid Nogi Curriculum at EDH Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that a truly well-rounded martial artist is dangerous both on the feet and on the ground. That’s why our nogi curriculum for kids and adults is designed as a hybrid system that seamlessly blends wrestling and submission grappling. This approach ensures that our students develop the skills and confidence to excel in all aspects of grappling, whether they’re competing in tournaments or simply training to improve their craft.

Why a Hybrid Approach?

Traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu focuses heavily on ground techniques, with an emphasis on positional control and submissions. While these are essential skills, grappling starts on the feet, and the ability to dictate where the fight goes is just as critical. Wrestling brings the explosiveness, takedowns, and positional dominance that are often overlooked in traditional BJJ. By merging wrestling with submission grappling, our students learn to master transitions between the two realms, becoming more adaptable and effective athletes.

What Does Our Nogi Curriculum Look Like?

1. Wrestling Foundations:

Incorporating wrestling into our nogi classes gives students the tools to control the match from the very beginning. We focus on:

  • Takedowns like double legs, single legs, and snap downs.
  • Defensive techniques to avoid being taken down, such as sprawls and counter-offense.
  • Clinch work, including setups for trips and throws.

2. Submission Grappling Techniques:

Once the fight hits the mat, submission grappling shines. Our curriculum emphasizes:

  • Positional control, such as side control, mount, and back control.
  • Smooth transitions to maintain dominance.
  • Submissions, including chokes, arm locks, and leg locks, tailored for nogi scenarios where grips are different.

3. Bridging the Gap:

The true magic of our curriculum lies in teaching students to seamlessly transition between wrestling and grappling. For example:

  • Using wrestling takedowns to enter dominant positions for submissions.
  • Escaping from bad positions by blending wrestling scrambles with Jiu Jitsu scrambles.
  • Developing the ability to flow between explosive movements and calculated control.

Why It Works for Kids and Adults

For our younger students, this hybrid curriculum builds a strong athletic foundation. Kids learn coordination, balance, and strength while also developing discipline and resilience. For adults, the integration of wrestling and submission grappling creates versatile athletes who are prepared for any situation—whether in competition or self-defense.

Becoming a Complete Grappler

At EDH Jiu Jitsu, our goal is to create well-rounded athletes who excel in both nogi and gi environments. By combining the best of wrestling and submission grappling, our nogi curriculum gives students the confidence to take on any challenge, both on the feet and on the ground.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to refine your skills, our hybrid nogi program will help you become a complete grappler. Ready to elevate your game? Join us on the mats and experience the difference at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

The Value of a Structured Curriculum in Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that a well-structured curriculum is the cornerstone of progress for every student, from brand-new beginners to advanced practitioners. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art with seemingly endless techniques, strategies, and variations. Without a clear roadmap, navigating this complexity can feel overwhelming. A structured curriculum provides the guidance and clarity needed to help students learn effectively, grow as martial artists, and achieve their goals.

Building a Strong Foundation for Beginners

When beginners first step onto the mat, the vast world of Jiu Jitsu can seem daunting. A structured curriculum breaks down the art into manageable pieces, ensuring that students focus on learning the essential positions, movements, and concepts. At our gym, white belts are introduced to 12 key positions and over 350 movements in an organized, step-by-step process.

This approach ensures that:

  • Basics Are Mastered: Techniques like escaping side control or performing a basic guard pass become second nature.
  • Confidence Builds: Students can measure their progress, creating a sense of achievement early on.
  • Learning is Consistent: Every beginner learns the same foundational skills, creating a cohesive team where everyone speaks the same “language” of Jiu Jitsu.

Creating a Path for Intermediate Growth

As students progress into the intermediate level, a structured curriculum continues to be invaluable. It provides a clear path for building upon the fundamentals while introducing more advanced techniques, strategies, and combinations.

At this stage, the curriculum helps students:

  • Refine Their Skills: Revisiting foundational techniques with a deeper understanding enhances effectiveness.
  • Expand Their Arsenal: Understanding how techniques like sweeps, submissions, and counters are layered on top of the basics.
  • Develop Strategy: Intermediate students start to see how techniques fit into larger game plans for competition or self-defense.

Supporting Advanced Practice and Mastery

For advanced students, a structured curriculum serves as a guide for continued development. Even black belts benefit from revisiting fundamental concepts and exploring advanced strategies with precision and purpose.

An advanced curriculum focuses on:

  • Specialization: Students can tailor their training to their unique style, whether it’s guard work, passing, or submissions.
  • Innovation: Understanding core principles allows advanced practitioners to experiment and innovate new techniques.
  • Mentorship: Advanced students are equipped to mentor beginners and intermediates, fostering a collaborative and supportive team culture.

Why Structure Matters for the Team

A structured curriculum doesn’t just benefit individual students—it strengthens the entire team. When everyone learns and grows together, the team becomes more cohesive, supportive, and skilled.

  • Consistency Across Classes: Whether you train in the morning or evening, the curriculum ensures all students are learning aligned material.
  • Progress for All Levels: Beginners, intermediates, and advanced students can train together more effectively, sharing knowledge and experience.
  • Cultural Unity: A shared curriculum creates a unified team culture where everyone is working toward common goals.

Commit to the Journey

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re proud of our structured approach to teaching. It allows students to focus on the process, trust in their progress, and enjoy the journey. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, a structured curriculum ensures you’re always building upon a solid foundation.

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of training with a team that values structure, growth, and community, we invite you to join us on the mat. Let’s build together!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

The Philosophy of Ichiro: Lessons for Jiu Jitsu and Life

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we often look beyond the mats for inspiration and lessons that can enrich our training and mindset. One source of wisdom that resonates deeply is the philosophy of Ichiro Suzuki, one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Ichiro’s relentless discipline, precision, and mindset offer lessons that extend far beyond the baseball diamond and into the world of Jiu Jitsu.

1. Mastery Through Repetition

Ichiro was known for his meticulous practice routines. From his iconic swing to his warm-up stretches, every motion was performed with precision, over and over again. He once said, “I don’t count how many swings I take. I only count the perfect ones.”

In Jiu Jitsu, repetition is the cornerstone of mastery. Drilling the same move hundreds of times, refining every detail, and striving for perfection is how we develop techniques that work under pressure. Ichiro reminds us that it’s not about doing more but about doing it better.

2. Attention to Detail

Ichiro’s attention to detail extended to everything he did, from choosing the right bat to preparing his meals. This level of care translates directly to Jiu Jitsu, where small adjustments—like hand placement or angle of attack—can be the difference between success and failure.

When we teach techniques at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we want to consider these details. Just as Ichiro never overlooked the small things, we encourage our students to focus on the finer aspects of their game, knowing these add up to major improvements.

3. Consistency Over Flashiness

Ichiro’s career wasn’t defined by flashy home runs but by consistency. He holds the record for most hits in a single MLB season, not because of one big moment, but because he performed day in and day out.

In Jiu Jitsu, it’s easy to get caught up in chasing highlights—like hitting a flashy submission—but true progress comes from showing up consistently, putting in the work, and trusting the process. As we tell our students: “The best ability is availability.”

4. Humility in Greatness

Despite his incredible achievements, Ichiro remained humble throughout his career. He respected the game, his teammates, and his opponents. He understood that greatness wasn’t just about talent but about character.

This humility is a core value in Jiu Jitsu. Whether you’re a white belt or a black belt, respecting your training partners and maintaining a growth mindset are essential. Ichiro’s example reminds us that true greatness lies in how we carry ourselves, both on and off the mats.

5. Love for the Process

Perhaps most importantly, Ichiro loved the game. His passion for baseball fueled his dedication and perseverance. This love for the process is something we cultivate at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu.

Jiu Jitsu is a journey, not a destination. The joy comes from the daily grind, the small victories, and the bonds we form with our teammates. As Ichiro showed us, when you love what you do, success follows naturally.

Bringing Ichiro’s Philosophy to the Mats

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we strive to embody the principles that made Ichiro a legend. By focusing on repetition, attention to detail, consistency, humility, and a love for the process, we not only grow as martial artists but also as individuals.

So the next time you step on the mat, channel your inner Ichiro. Focus on the little things, embrace the grind, and remember that greatness is built one step at a time.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

A Special Visit from Japan’s Elite Jiu Jitsu Athletes

This week, we had the incredible privilege of hosting two exceptional Japanese Jiu Jitsu athletes at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: Hirata-san, a seasoned black belt, and Furukawa-san, a skilled brown belt. Their visit brought a unique energy to our mats, inspiring our students and instructors alike.

Bridging Two Worlds Through Jiu Jitsu

Hirata-san and Furukawa-san are accomplished practitioners from Japan, with years of training and competition experience. Their dedication to the art was immediately evident as they seamlessly integrated into our classes, sharing techniques and insights that reflected the precision and discipline synonymous with Japanese Jiu Jitsu.

The visit was a reminder of how Jiu Jitsu transcends borders, creating a universal language that connects practitioners from different cultures. Despite the differences in our backgrounds, the camaraderie on the mat was instantaneous.

A Lesson in Precision and Technique

During their time with us, Hirata-san shared a few techniques that showcased the traditional approach of Japanese Jiu Jitsu, blending control with efficiency. Furukawa-san, with his technical style, demonstrated transitions and setups that left many of us in awe. These moments were not only a chance to learn new techniques but also to appreciate the depth of skill they brought to every roll.

Strengthening International Bonds

The visit wasn’t just about training—it was about building relationships. After class, we enjoyed exchanging stories about our respective training journeys and discussing the evolution of Jiu Jitsu in Japan and the United States. It’s clear that while our paths may differ, our shared passion for Jiu Jitsu keeps us connected.

A Lasting Impact

Hirata-san and Furukawa-san’s visit is a memory we will cherish. Their expertise, humility, and openness left a lasting impression on everyone at EDH Jiu Jitsu. We’re grateful for the opportunity to train with them and look forward to future exchanges that continue to strengthen the bonds between our communities.

To Hirata-san and Furukawa-san, thank you for visiting us and sharing your knowledge. We hope to return the favor one day and train together again in Japan!

If you’d like to experience the international spirit of Jiu Jitsu for yourself, come train with us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. We welcome all skill levels and backgrounds—because on the mat, we’re all part of the same global family.