This weekend, December 12-14, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu will have four talented competitors representing our team at the prestigious IBJJF No-Gi World Championships in Las Vegas!
Ken blue belt adult division
Eliot black belt adult division
Kiet black belt master division
Sonja: blue belt master division
The IBJJF No-Gi Worlds is one of the biggest stages in grappling, and we are proud to see our athletes competing against the best in the world. Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to improvement have brought them to this moment, and we can’t wait to cheer them on.
If you’re in Las Vegas, come out to support the team! Matches will be live-streamed on FloGrappling for those watching from home. Let’s go, EDH Jiu Jitsu!
Stay tuned for updates on their performances, and send them your encouragement as they prepare to leave it all on the mats.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that discipline is not just a personality trait—it’s a skill that anyone can develop and refine. Whether you’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or training for a world-class competition, discipline is the key to unlocking your potential in Jiu Jitsu and beyond.
But what exactly is discipline, and how can we cultivate it in our training and daily lives?
What Is Discipline?
Discipline is the ability to stay committed to your goals, even when the journey gets tough. It’s choosing consistent effort over fleeting motivation and prioritizing long-term growth over immediate comfort.
In Jiu Jitsu, discipline means showing up to class even when you’re tired, drilling techniques repetitively to perfect them, and keeping your emotions in check during a match. Off the mat, it can mean maintaining a healthy lifestyle, setting clear goals, and consistently working toward them.
How to Practice Discipline
The good news is that discipline isn’t something you either have or don’t have—it’s a skill you can build with intentional practice. Here are a few ways to develop discipline both on and off the mat:
1. Start Small
Discipline begins with small, manageable habits. For example, commit to attending one additional class per week or set aside 10 minutes a day to review techniques. As you succeed in these smaller goals, you’ll build the confidence and momentum to tackle bigger challenges.
2. Embrace Consistency
Consistency is the foundation of discipline. It’s better to train regularly, even if it’s just a few times a week, than to overtrain sporadically. Consistency helps you establish routines that make discipline feel natural rather than forced.
3. Focus on the Process
Discipline is about falling in love with the journey, not just the outcome. Celebrate the small victories, like mastering a new guard pass or maintaining focus during a challenging roll.
4. Practice Self-Control
Discipline requires controlling impulses. On the mat, this might mean resisting the urge to muscle through a technique and instead focusing on precision. Off the mat, it could mean choosing meal prep over fast food or study time over Netflix.
5. Learn from Setbacks
Setbacks are inevitable, but disciplined individuals use them as opportunities to grow. Missed a class? Reflect on why and recommit. Lost a match? Analyze what went wrong and come back stronger.
Why Discipline Matters in Jiu Jitsu
Discipline isn’t just about improving your skills in Jiu Jitsu; it’s about becoming a better version of yourself. Here’s why it matters:
• Resilience: Discipline helps you push through tough times and bounce back from failure.
• Focus: It sharpens your ability to stay present and intentional in your training.
• Growth: Discipline ensures steady, incremental improvement over time.
• Leadership: As you develop discipline, you inspire those around you to do the same.
A Lifelong Skill
The beauty of discipline is that it transcends Jiu Jitsu. The habits you build on the mat—showing up, working hard, and staying consistent—will serve you in every area of life.
So the next time you tie your belt, remember: every class, every drill, and every roll is an opportunity to practice discipline. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up and doing the work.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re here to help you develop the discipline to succeed—not just in Jiu Jitsu, but in everything you set out to achieve.
Ready to Start?
Join us on the mat and begin your journey toward greater discipline and self-mastery. Your future self will thank you.
We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in the El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community! On Tuesday, December 17th, at 9:30 AM, Scott will be promoted to black belt, marking a profound achievement in his Jiu Jitsu journey. This event will also include his first-ever seminar as a black belt, where he will share techniques, insights, and the lessons he’s learned over years of dedication.
A Journey of Dedication and Growth
Reaching the rank of black belt is no small feat. It represents years of commitment, perseverance, and continuous learning. Scott’s journey embodies the principles of Jiu Jitsu—resilience, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence. As a teacher, training partner, and competitor, Scott has consistently contributed to the growth and strength of our team.
What to Expect at the Seminar
Scott’s seminar will focus on his signature techniques and training philosophy. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, this is an incredible opportunity to learn from someone who has invested countless hours into perfecting his craft.
Details of the event:
• Date: Tuesday, December 17th
Time: 9:30 AM
Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
The seminar is open to all members, and we encourage everyone to join in celebrating this milestone with Scott.
Join Us for This Special Day
This is not just a celebration of Scott’s achievement but a reminder of what is possible through persistence and hard work. Let’s come together as a team to honor Scott and take away valuable lessons to improve our own practice.
Mark your calendars, and we look forward to seeing you on December 17th!
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a way to unwind and manage stress is more important than ever. For many adults, traditional methods like yoga or jogging may not fully scratch the itch for both physical activity and mental clarity. Enter Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), a martial art that not only strengthens the body but also provides a therapeutic outlet for the mind. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’ve seen firsthand how this unique discipline can transform lives.
A Full-Body Workout That Clears the Mind
Jiu Jitsu is often called “human chess” because of the strategy and problem-solving it involves. As you train, your mind becomes laser-focused on the techniques and counters, leaving little room to dwell on work stress or personal worries. The added bonus? A full-body workout that improves strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Building Resilience and Confidence
One of the most powerful aspects of Jiu Jitsu is its ability to teach resilience. Whether it’s learning how to escape from a tough position or mastering a difficult technique, BJJ fosters a mindset of perseverance. This resilience doesn’t just stay on the mat—it carries over into your daily life, helping you tackle challenges with a newfound confidence.
A Community of Like-Minded Individuals
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our adult classes are filled with people of all ages and backgrounds who come together for a shared goal: self-improvement. The camaraderie and support you’ll find here create a sense of belonging that’s hard to find in other fitness environments. Whether you’re rolling with a fellow beginner or sparring with a seasoned practitioner, every interaction helps build meaningful connections.
Accessible for All Fitness Levels
You don’t need to be in peak physical condition to start Jiu Jitsu. Many of our members are in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, and they find the sport not only accessible but life-changing. Our instructors are skilled at tailoring techniques to suit your abilities, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.
Take the First Step
If you’ve been searching for a way to combine fitness, stress relief, and personal growth, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu might be exactly what you need. Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu for a trial class and experience the benefits for yourself.
Your journey to a healthier, more balanced life starts here.
Ready to begin? Our adult classes meet at convenient times, including early morning and evening sessions. Contact us today to schedule your first class!
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we see students from all walks of life come together to pursue a common goal: growth on and off the mats. Whether you’re here to develop self-defense skills, get in shape, or compete at the highest levels, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to success.
Jiu Jitsu is a constantly evolving art, with countless techniques, styles, and philosophies. But with so much variety, it’s easy to fall into the trap of tribalism—clinging to one “right way” while dismissing others. To truly grow, it’s essential to avoid tribalism and think for yourself.
Tribalism in Jiu Jitsu
In Jiu Jitsu, tribalism often shows up in debates like:
• Gi vs. Nogi: Some say traditional gi training is essential, while others argue that nogi is more realistic.
• Old School vs. Modern: Should you focus on classic techniques or the latest trends like leg locks?
• Competition vs. Self-Defense: Is it better to train for tournaments or real-world situations?
At EDH Jiu Jitsu, we believe the answer isn’t one or the other—it’s both, or whatever works best for you. Everyone’s journey is different, and Jiu Jitsu offers a variety of tools to help you reach your goals. The more open you are to learning, the more you’ll grow.
Thinking for Yourself on the Mats
While learning from your coaches and teammates is critical, you’ll get the most out of your training when you take ownership of your journey. Here’s how you can think for yourself at EDH Jiu Jitsu:
1. Ask Questions
If you’re not sure why a technique works or how it applies to your game, ask. Understanding the “why” behind what you’re learning will help you develop deeper insights.
2. Experiment
Jiu Jitsu is about trial and error. Try different grips, setups, and strategies during live training. Some things will work; others won’t. Both outcomes are valuable lessons.
3. Learn from Everyone
Whether you’re training with a white belt or a black belt, every roll offers an opportunity to learn. Stay open-minded and look for something to take away from each partner.
4. Reflect and Adapt
After class, think about what worked and what didn’t. Adjust your approach based on your experiences and the feedback you receive.
A Place for All Goals
One of the things that sets El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu apart is the diversity of our team. Some of our students train for competitions, while others are here for fitness or self-defense. Some love the traditional gi, while others thrive in nogi.
No matter what your goal is, our coaches are here to guide you and help you find the path that fits your journey. We encourage exploration and critical thinking, so you can develop a style that’s uniquely your own.
Final Thoughts
Jiu Jitsu is an art, a science, and a journey. There’s no single way to achieve mastery, and the beauty of training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is that you don’t have to choose just one path. What’s important is that we find a way to collaborate and work together as a team.
By avoiding tribalism and committing to thinking for yourself, you’ll discover a richer, more fulfilling experience on the mats. So keep an open mind, embrace the process, and trust in your ability to create your own path.
We’ll be here to support you every step of the way.
Starting your journey in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is an exciting step, but if you’re new, even small details—like tying your belt—can feel like a challenge. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand that learning the basics builds confidence, and we’re here to help you master every part of your training, including properly tying your belt.
Whether you’re just starting out or returning to the mat after a break, knowing how to tie your belt correctly is an essential skill that keeps your uniform secure and shows respect for the art. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
How to Tie Your BJJ Belt
1. Find the Middle of the Belt
Fold your belt in half to locate the middle point. Place the middle of the belt just below your navel.
2. Wrap It Around Your Waist
Bring both ends of the belt around your waist, crossing them behind your back, and pull them snug. Bring the ends back to the front, ensuring both sides are even.
3. Cross the Ends in Front
Take the left side and cross it over the right side. Tuck it underneath both layers of the belt at your waist and pull it through, securing the wrap with a little loop at the top.
4. Tie the Knot
Take the top end (the one you crossed over) and thread it under the loop and into the other end, tying a square knot. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight. The ends of the belt should hang evenly at the sides.
5. Check Your Work
Adjust if needed. A properly tied belt should stay in place during training and represent the discipline and care you bring to the mat.
Why Details Like This Matter
Tying your belt is more than just securing your gi—it’s part of the tradition of Jiu Jitsu. It shows your commitment to learning and the values of respect, discipline, and focus. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we teach these lessons to students of all ages, from Peewee to adult classes, making it a perfect place for anyone to start their BJJ journey.
Welcome to Our Growing Community
Our school has been serving the El Dorado Hills community for over 15 years, welcoming students from nearby areas like Folsom Ranch, Cameron Park, and Placerville. We take pride in providing a welcoming space where people of all ages and experience levels can grow in confidence, skill, and fitness.
If you’re considering starting Jiu Jitsu and live in El Dorado Hills or nearby, come try a class! We’ll not only help you master techniques like tying your belt but also build a foundation for success on and off the mat.
Ready to Begin?
Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and take the first step in your martial arts journey. Whether you’re a parent looking to enroll your child, an adult seeking a new fitness routine, or just curious about what BJJ has to offer, we’d love to meet you.
Visit us today and experience a community dedicated to helping you grow—one knot at a time.
Schedule an Intro Class
Discover what makes Jiu Jitsu such a transformative experience. Visit us in El Dorado Hills or call to learn more about our programs. Your journey starts here!
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is thrilled to announce an exciting event—a black belt promotion and seminar for Scott on Tuesday, December 17th, at 9:30 AM!
Scott’s journey to black belt has been nothing short of inspiring. Over the years, he has demonstrated unparalleled dedication to the art of Jiu Jitsu, consistently setting an example of hard work, resilience, and humility. This promotion celebrates not only his technical mastery but also his positive impact on our team as a teacher, training partner, and role model.
To commemorate this significant milestone, Scott will be leading a seminar immediately following the promotion ceremony. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn from his unique perspective and skill set. Whether you’re new to Jiu Jitsu or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll gain valuable insights to elevate your training.
Event Details:
• Date: Tuesday, December 17th
• Time: 9:30 AM
• Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
We encourage all members, family, and friends to join us in celebrating Scott’s well-earned achievement. Let’s come together to honor his journey and continue to support the growth of our Jiu Jitsu team.
Mark your calendar and don’t miss this special day!
In Simon Sinek’s Start with Why, Sinek explores how businesses and organizations thrive by focusing on their purpose rather than getting caught in endless battles for market share. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, these ideas resonate deeply with how we approach training, competition, and community.
Competing Against Yourself
Sinek emphasizes that true success doesn’t come from beating others—it comes from staying true to your “why.” In Jiu Jitsu, this aligns with the idea of personal growth over external validation. While competition is a valuable tool for testing skills, the real opponent is often yourself:
• Improving consistency: Did you show up on the tough days?
• Measuring progress: Are you better than you were last month?
• Focusing on fundamentals: Have you deepened your understanding of key techniques?
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our students to embrace these questions, ensuring that their journey on the mats is driven by internal motivation rather than external comparisons.
Infinite vs. Finite Games
Sinek contrasts finite games (with set rules and winners) with infinite games (focused on continued growth and contribution). Jiu Jitsu is both. While tournaments are finite, the art itself is infinite—there’s always something new to learn, refine, or teach.
Our gym embodies this infinite mindset. Whether you’re a white belt mastering escapes or a black belt honing subtle details, the path never ends. It’s about engaging with the process, not just chasing medals.
Inspiring Through Purpose
Organizations that succeed inspire people by sharing their “why.” For us, our “why” goes beyond teaching techniques—it’s about building confidence, resilience, and a supportive community. This purpose drives everything we do, from kids’ classes teaching life skills like bravery and humility to adult classes that foster camaraderie and personal growth.
Applying These Lessons
Here’s how you can bring the lessons to your Jiu Jitsu journey:
1. Define your “why”: Why did you start training? Why do you keep showing up? Keep this purpose front and center.
2. Focus on improvement: Compete with the person you were yesterday, not the person across the mat.
3. Celebrate the journey: Remember, the medals and belts are milestones, not destinations.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we aim to create an environment where everyone is inspired to keep growing—on and off the mats. Whether you’re preparing for your first competition or simply looking to improve your fitness and mindset, let your “why” guide the way.
Want to explore this mindset for yourself? Join us on the mats and discover how Jiu Jitsu can align with your purpose.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we strive to build a strong, resilient team culture—one that doesn’t just focus on wins and losses but on long-term growth, humility, and camaraderie. There are few teams in the world that exemplify these values better than New Zealand’s All Blacks. Known as one of the most successful and respected teams in sports history, the All Blacks’ commitment to excellence both on and off the field is a powerful model. Legacy by James Kerr explores the principles that drive their culture, and many of these lessons resonate deeply in Jiu Jitsu.
Here are some key takeaways from the All Blacks’ philosophy that we can bring to the mat:
1. “Sweep the Sheds” – Humility at Every Level
The All Blacks have a famous saying, “No one is too big to sweep the sheds,” which means no one is above the team, regardless of their role or status. After every game, players themselves clean the locker rooms, reinforcing a sense of humility and mutual respect. In Jiu Jitsu, this lesson reminds us that no one—no matter how experienced—is above the basics or too important to help out. Whether it’s setting up for a class, rolling out mats, or helping a beginner with a technique, humility is at the core of our practice. It’s about being part of something bigger than ourselves.
2. “Champions Do Extra” – Committing to Mastery
The All Blacks emphasize going above and beyond. In their world, “champions do extra”—they practice longer, watch more film, or perfect their fitness routines. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our members to do just a little bit more every day, whether it’s drilling a technique a few extra times, attending open mat sessions after class, or reviewing a move at home. This “extra” mindset is what leads to mastery and sets champions apart.
3. “Leave the Jersey in a Better Place” – Building Legacy
The All Blacks view the jersey as a symbol of the team’s legacy. Every player sees it as their duty to “leave the jersey in a better place” for the next person. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our team members to embrace a similar mindset. Every time we step onto the mat, we’re contributing to the legacy of our gym. Through our commitment, discipline, and respect for each other, we aim to leave a positive mark for future generations of students.
4. “Embrace the Pressure” – Strength Through Adversity
Pressure is something the All Blacks thrive under. They see it as a privilege—a sign that they’re in a position to do something meaningful. In Jiu Jitsu, pressure is a constant, whether it’s during a match, a challenging class, or even overcoming personal obstacles. Embracing pressure rather than fearing it helps us build resilience, both mentally and physically. It’s a chance to grow, adapt, and find strength in the face of challenges.
5. “Know Thyself” – Finding Purpose and Identity
The All Blacks focus deeply on self-awareness, knowing that success on the field starts with understanding who they are and what they stand for. In Jiu Jitsu, we also recognize that each individual brings a unique style, purpose, and personality to the mat. Knowing your “why” for training can make a huge difference in your progress and dedication. Are you here to challenge yourself, learn self-defense, compete, or just stay active? Whatever it is, knowing yourself helps you stay connected to the journey.
6. “Follow the Kaizen” – Constant Improvement
The concept of “Kaizen,” or continuous improvement, is central to the All Blacks’ philosophy. Instead of chasing perfection, they focus on making small, incremental gains every day. Jiu Jitsu is the ultimate journey of Kaizen. Each time we practice, we improve bit by bit, day by day. It’s about recognizing that progress is rarely fast, but with patience and dedication, growth is inevitable. At our gym, we emphasize the journey over the destination, embracing every opportunity to learn and get better.
Bringing It All Together
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our goal is not just to develop skilled athletes but to create individuals who embody humility, resilience, and an endless drive to improve. The values that have guided the All Blacks are timeless principles that build strong teams and even stronger individuals. Through Jiu Jitsu, we aim to instill these values, creating a legacy that goes beyond the mat and into every area of life.
Let’s keep pushing, keep learning, and keep sweeping the sheds—together.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, one of the most common questions among students is, “Should I focus on winning in practice or on learning?” The answer isn’t always straightforward because both “winning” and “learning” have their place on the mats. Each approach has distinct benefits, and understanding when to prioritize one over the other can make a huge difference in your progress and overall experience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ).
Let’s explore the similarities and differences in practicing to win versus practicing to learn — and how each can help you grow as a martial artist.
Practicing to Win: Building Confidence and Execution
When you practice to win, your focus is on using techniques and strategies you’ve already mastered to come out on top in live training. You’re aiming to execute moves decisively, maintain control, and work to “win” exchanges or positions. Here are some key benefits:
1. Strengthening Your Core Game: Practicing to win lets you polish techniques you know well, such as the fundamentals of positional control, escapes, and submissions. This helps solidify your “A-game,” or the techniques you’ll rely on in a competitive situation.
2. Building Confidence: Consistently aiming to win in practice can build mental toughness and confidence. When you know you can hold your own against challenging opponents, it reinforces your ability to stay composed under pressure.
3. Testing Techniques in Realistic Scenarios: When you practice to win, you create high-pressure scenarios that mirror competition. This is an ideal way to see if you can execute your go-to moves and strategies under realistic conditions, like keeping guard or setting up a submission against someone actively resisting.
When to Focus on Winning: Practicing to win is especially useful as you prepare for an upcoming competition or want to gauge your current skill level. It’s also a great way to build up confidence after learning a new technique, so you feel ready to use it in a live roll.
Practicing to Learn: Fostering Growth and Adaptability
On the other side of the coin, practicing to learn means you’re not concerned about “winning” each roll. Instead, you’re experimenting, exploring, and sometimes intentionally putting yourself in less favorable positions to develop specific skills. Here’s why this approach is so valuable:
1. Experimenting with New Techniques: Practicing to learn gives you the freedom to test new moves, entries, or transitions without worrying about the outcome. If you’ve just learned a new guard or submission, training with a learning focus lets you experiment with it until you become comfortable using it in live situations.
2. Embracing Failure as Growth: When you’re open to learning, mistakes become part of the process. Getting swept, tapped, or outmaneuvered provides valuable insights into your game. It shows where you can improve and highlights areas to revisit and refine.
3. Increasing Adaptability and Creativity: Learning-oriented practice encourages you to problem-solve on the fly. This fosters adaptability — a critical skill in Jiu Jitsu. By putting yourself in uncomfortable or unfamiliar situations, you develop the flexibility to adjust to opponents’ actions and explore techniques you may not have considered otherwise.
When to Focus on Learning: Practicing to learn is ideal for regular training sessions where long-term improvement is your goal. It’s also useful if you’re working through a plateau, as it allows you to identify and address weak spots in your game.
Similarities: Discipline, Consistency, and Growth
Both approaches share common values and can enhance your practice in powerful ways. Practicing to win and practicing to learn both require:
• Discipline: Whether you’re aiming to “win” or “learn,” maintaining discipline in your technique and control is essential.
• Consistency: Regular training — with a balance of winning and learning — is what keeps you moving forward in your BJJ journey.
• Commitment to Growth: In both approaches, you’re working to improve your skill set and develop as a martial artist.
Finding the Right Balance
So, which is better? Truthfully, a well-rounded approach that incorporates both is the most effective way to improve. Here are a few tips on achieving that balance:
• Set Intentions Before Practice: Each training session is an opportunity to focus on something specific. Going in with a clear goal, whether it’s sharpening a particular technique or testing out a new one, helps you direct your energy and intentions.
• Alternate Your Focus: Not every session needs to be about “winning” or “learning.” Allow yourself the flexibility to switch your focus based on what you feel needs more attention in your game.
• Talk with Your Training Partners: Letting your partners know what you’re working on, whether it’s drilling a certain move or rolling with full intensity, helps you get the most out of each session.
Growth Through Both Winning and Learning
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that every roll has something to teach. The balance between practicing to win and practicing to learn is what makes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu such a unique and rewarding journey. So, whether you’re focusing on perfecting a skill you know or testing new techniques, embrace both approaches as complementary tools for growth.
Ready to get on the mat and find your balance? Join us for a class and experience how Jiu Jitsu can push you to be your best — both in winning and learning.
