Category Archives: Kids Jiu Jitsu

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Building Strong Youth Through Sports: Insights from Dr. Dan Gould

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our youth program is about more than just learning techniques and building physical fitness—it’s about creating confident, resilient, and well-rounded individuals. Recently, we’ve been reflecting on the work of Dr. Dan Gould, director of the Michigan State University Center for Youth Sports. Dr. Gould’s research offers invaluable insights into how coaches, parents, and programs like ours can positively influence young athletes.

The Role of Youth Sports in Life Skills Development

Dr. Gould emphasizes that youth sports should be a vehicle for teaching critical life skills like discipline, teamwork, leadership, and emotional resilience. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we see these skills come alive on the mats every day. Whether a young student is learning to persevere after a tough round of sparring or practicing respect through bowing to a training partner, these lessons transcend the sport itself.

As Dr. Gould highlights, sports don’t automatically teach life skills—they must be intentionally woven into training. This is why we hold monthly Mat Chats in our youth program, focusing on values like integrity, humility, safety, and bravery. By combining Jiu Jitsu with meaningful life discussions, we help students make connections between their practice and their daily lives.

Creating a Positive Youth Sports Environment

Dr. Gould’s research stresses the importance of a positive sports environment—one that balances competitiveness with encouragement and learning. For us, this means fostering a culture where mistakes are seen as opportunities to grow. A child may not always hit the perfect technique, but through patient coaching and reinforcement, they’ll learn to embrace challenges rather than fear failure.

We also encourage parents to focus on effort and progress over winning or losing. As Dr. Gould points out, parents and coaches who highlight a child’s personal improvement rather than external results are more likely to keep kids motivated, confident, and happy.

Avoiding Burnout and Keeping Sports Fun

One of Dr. Gould’s most important messages is that sports should be fun, especially for younger athletes. Overemphasizing competition can lead to burnout and cause kids to drop out of sports altogether. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we ensure that fun remains a priority—whether it’s through games to teach new techniques, friendly in-house competitions like Ruckus in the Hills, or celebrating milestones in class.

By keeping Jiu Jitsu engaging and rewarding, we help kids develop a lifelong love for movement, fitness, and personal growth.

The Long-Term Impact of Jiu Jitsu for Youth

Dr. Gould’s findings remind us that the true value of youth sports lies in the long-term impact on a child’s character and mindset. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re proud to contribute to this journey. Every young student who steps on the mat learns to be a little braver, a little more focused, and a little more resilient—skills they’ll carry with them long after they leave the gym.

We’re inspired by Dr. Gould’s vision of youth sports as a transformative experience, and we remain committed to providing the best possible environment for young athletes in our community.

If you’re a parent looking for a program where your child can build physical skills and grow as a person, come visit us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Let’s help your child reach their full potential—on and off the mat.

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Building Skills Through Fun and Focus: The Unique Approach of Our Kids’ Jiu Jitsu Classes

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our kids’ classes are designed to do more than just teach techniques—they’re about building confidence, discipline, and coordination in a way that’s both fun and effective. By blending structured drills with engaging games, we ensure our young students stay excited about learning while developing essential Jiu Jitsu skills.

The Structure of Our Kids’ Classes

Our youth program is divided into three age groups to ensure every student receives age-appropriate instruction:

• Peewee (Ages 4-7)

• Kids (Ages 7-10)

• Juniors (Ages 11-17)

Each class begins with a warm-up to get the kids moving and focused, followed by skill-based drills, technique instruction, and sparring for the older age groups. However, what makes our program stand out is the incorporation of games and creative activities to reinforce key concepts.

Skill-Building Through Games

Games are an integral part of our teaching philosophy because they provide a hands-on way for kids to learn while having fun. Here are a few examples:

• Situational Drills: This game helps kids develop situational awareness and improve their positional escapes. One student defends while others take turns trying to achieve a dominant position, building both resilience and strategic thinking.

• Sumo Wrestling: By challenging kids to push or pull their partner out of a designated area, this game enhances balance, grip strength, and core stability—key attributes for success in Jiu Jitsu.

• Jiu Jitsu Freeze Tag: Combining the classic game of tag with Jiu Jitsu techniques, kids practice takedowns and control while staying engaged and energized.

The Power of Drills

While games provide a fun learning environment, structured drills lay the foundation for mastery. We use repetitive, focused exercises to help kids sharpen their techniques, build muscle memory, and improve their overall athleticism.

For example:

• Guard Retention Drills: Students practice maintaining guard against a partner’s passing attempts, developing their defense and timing.

• Takedown Entries: Age-appropriate takedown drills help build confidence and teach the importance of technique over strength.

More Than Just Skills on the Mat

In addition to improving their Jiu Jitsu, our classes instill life skills like teamwork, respect, and perseverance. Whether they’re working with a partner during drills or showing good sportsmanship in a game, our young students grow both on and off the mat.

Come Join the Fun

If you’re looking for an activity that engages your child’s body and mind, our kids’ Jiu Jitsu program might be the perfect fit. Stop by El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and watch a class or let your child schedule a trial class. They’ll have fun, learn valuable skills, and gain the confidence to tackle challenges both on and off the mat!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Discipline as a Skill: Unlocking Your Potential

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.

    Kids Jiu Jitsu

    2 day Jiu-Jitsu Workshop for Youth members during the Winter Holiday

    Winter break is the perfect time to refocus, refine, and recharge on the mats. That’s why we’re excited to announce a special 2-day workshop at El Dorado Hills Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, designed specifically for young practitioners ages 7-15. Over two focused sessions, we’ll dive into key areas of the game: guard passing systems and back attacks.

    On Monday, December 23, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, we’ll explore guard passing systems. This isn’t just about individual techniques but understanding how to link passes together into a system that works against various guards. Students will learn how to break through their opponent’s defenses with efficiency and control, gaining the tools to maintain pressure and dominate from the top position.

    On Thursday, December 26, also from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, we’ll shift focus to back attacks. This session will cover not only how to secure the back position but also how to maintain it and execute high-percentage finishes. From controlling your opponent with precision to setting up devastating submissions, students will leave with a deeper understanding of how to make the most of one of Jiu-Jitsu’s most dominant positions.

    Each session is $20, and you can register directly with Coach Danny to reserve your spot.

    These workshops are designed to help young athletes take their Jiu-Jitsu to the next level by focusing on systems and strategies that are essential for success. Whether your child is just starting out or looking to elevate their game, this is a great opportunity to build confidence, refine technique, and learn in a supportive environment.

    If you’d like to sign up or have any questions, please reach out to Danny directly. Let’s make this winter break a time for growth on the mats. See you there!

    Kids Jiu Jitsu

    The Jr. Class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: Empowering Teens and Pre-Teens

    At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our Jr. class is designed specifically for teens and pre-teens aged 11-17. It’s a space where young martial artists can grow, learn, and thrive both on and off the mats. With classes held four times a week—Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday—students have plenty of opportunities to develop their skills and build confidence.

    Why the Jr. Class?

    The Jr. class bridges the gap between our youth and adult programs, providing tailored instruction that meets the unique needs of teens and pre-teens. This age group faces a critical time for personal growth, and Jiu Jitsu offers the perfect outlet to:

    • Build Confidence: Overcoming challenges on the mat helps students handle obstacles in everyday life.

    • Develop Discipline: Consistent training instills focus and commitment.

    • Learn Self-Defense: Practical techniques teach students how to protect themselves in real-world scenarios.

    • Foster Camaraderie: Training alongside peers creates lasting friendships and teamwork.

    Schedule and Format

    Our Jr. classes are available four days a week, ensuring students have flexibility in their training schedules:

    • Tuesday & Thursday: Evening classes focused on technique and drills.

    • Friday: A mix of technique and live sparring to put skills into practice.

    • Saturday: Morning classes with an emphasis on review and situational training and competition.

    Each session is led by experienced coaches who create a fun and supportive environment while maintaining high expectations for effort and growth.

    What to Expect

    Whether your teen is new to martial arts or already has experience, our curriculum is designed to cater to all skill levels. Students will learn foundational movements, advanced techniques, and the importance of respect and perseverance.

    We also incorporate life lessons into our training, using “Mat Chats” to discuss values like bravery, humility, and integrity—helping our students become not just better martial artists, but better people.

    Ready to Get Started?

    If you’re looking for an activity that will challenge and inspire your teen, consider enrolling them in our Jr. class. The first class is always free, so they can step onto the mats and experience the energy and community firsthand.

    Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and watch your teen grow into a confident, disciplined, and resilient individual. See you on the mats!

    Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

    How to Tie Your Jiu Jitsu Belt: A Simple Guide for Beginners

    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!

    Camp, Kids Jiu Jitsu

    Upcoming Kids & Juniors Training Camp: Fun, Skills, and Growth!

    Get ready for an exciting opportunity to level up your Jiu Jitsu skills while having a blast! El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is hosting a Kids and Juniors Training Camp next week (Thanksgiving week) on Monday and Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

    This camp is designed for kids ages 4-17 and is open to all who are currently enrolled in Jiu Jitsu—the goal is to give students an opportunity to build new skills into your game. It’s a chance to develop technical skills, improve movement, and gain confidence in a fun and supportive environment.

    What to Expect at Camp

    • Skill Development: Learn foundational techniques and refine your Jiu Jitsu skills with the guidance of our coaches.

    • Movement Games: Improve coordination, agility, and balance with engaging movement-based games that promote athleticism.

    • Tumbling Practice: Explore dynamic rolls and falls that build body awareness and complement Jiu Jitsu movements.

    • Positive Environment: Our camps emphasize teamwork, respect, and a love for learning—values that stay with your child on and off the mat.

    Whether your child is in the Kids or Juniors class, this camp is tailored to ensure a balance of learning and fun. It’s not just about technique—it’s about helping students grow as individuals while enjoying the journey.

    How to Register

    Secure your spot today! Contact coach Danny or stop by the gym to reserve your child’s place.

    Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your child’s skills, confidence, and passion for Jiu Jitsu. We can’t wait to see you on the mat next week!

    Kids Jiu Jitsu

    Match Night: A Fun and Exciting Experience for Youth at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

    At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that learning goes beyond drilling techniques. It’s about building confidence, testing skills, and fostering a love for the art of Jiu Jitsu. That’s why we host Match Night for our youth students once a month during class—a thrilling event where our young athletes get the chance to experience live matches in a supportive and fun environment.

    What Is Match Night?

    Match Night is an opportunity for our Peewee, Kids, and Junior students to put their skills to the test in a structured yet relaxed setting. Coaches create matchups based on size, age, and skill level to ensure fair and exciting rounds. These live matches help students gain valuable experience, develop mental toughness, and practice sportsmanship—all while having fun!

    For many kids, Match Night feels like a mini-tournament, but without the pressure. Parents can cheer from the sidelines while their children showcase what they’ve learned. It’s not about winning or losing—it’s about growth, effort, and having the courage to step onto the mat.

    Why Match Night Matters

    1. Skill Development: Live matches help students apply their techniques under real-time pressure.

    2. Confidence Building: Overcoming nerves and performing in front of others boosts self-esteem.

    3. Sportsmanship: Kids learn how to handle wins and losses with grace and respect.

    4. Collaborative learning: Match Night is a way for students and to connect, fostering a sense of teamwork to learn from one another.

    Join Us!

    If you’re in El Dorado Hills or a neighboring community like Cameron Park, Folsom Ranch, Shingle Springs, or Rescue, we invite your child to experience the excitement of Jiu Jitsu with us. Whether they’re new to Jiu Jitsu or seasoned grapplers, our classes offer a safe and welcoming space to grow.

    New to Jiu Jitsu? Don’t worry! Our experienced coaches will ensure your child feels comfortable and confident stepping onto the mat. Match Night is part of the monthly curriculum, so every student gets the chance to participate and learn.

    Why El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu?

    • A Proven Curriculum: Designed to help students progress in a structured, meaningful way.

    • Life Skills Focus: Our program emphasizes values like bravery, humility, and integrity.

    • Top-Notch Coaching: Led by passionate instructors who care about each student’s journey.

    • A Supportive Community: Families from all over El Dorado County come together to train, learn, and grow.

    Ready to give your child an unforgettable experience? Visit us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu for a trial class. Let them see firsthand why so many families trust us to help their children develop on and off the mats.

    For more information or to schedule a visit, contact us today!

    community, Kids Jiu Jitsu

    Building Confidence and Character in Our Youth Program

    At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in more than just teaching martial arts—we aim to instill confidence, resilience, and character in every child who steps onto our mats. Our youth program is thoughtfully designed to empower kids, fostering not only physical fitness but also critical life skills like discipline, teamwork, and self-respect. Whether you live in Cameron Park, Folsom Ranch, or right here in El Dorado Hills, our program is a welcoming space for children of all backgrounds and experience levels.

    Why Choose Jiu Jitsu for Your Child?

    Jiu Jitsu is often called the “gentle art” because it emphasizes technique, leverage, and problem-solving over brute strength. It’s a fantastic way for children to develop physical and mental agility while having fun in a safe, supportive environment. Beyond the techniques, students learn to:

    • Build Self-Confidence: Overcoming challenges on the mat translates to real-world confidence.

    • Practice Self-Control: Our structured classes teach focus and patience, crucial skills for school and beyond.

    • Develop Resilience: Kids learn how to fail gracefully, get back up, and try again—a valuable lesson for life.

    Program Highlights

    Our youth program is tailored to meet the developmental needs of three age groups:

    1. Peewees (Ages 4–7): Classes focus on basic motor skills, playful drills, and building comfort with movement.

    2. Kids (Ages 7–10): Students begin learning foundational Jiu Jitsu techniques while reinforcing teamwork and respect.

    3. Juniors (Ages 11–17): Advanced training prepares young grapplers for competitions and life’s challenges.

    Each class incorporates our monthly “Mat Chat,” where we discuss key life skills such as integrity, humility, and bravery. These conversations tie martial arts training to everyday situations, helping our students grow into well-rounded individuals.

    Community Connection

    Many of our young students come from nearby communities like Cameron Park and Folsom Ranch. For parents seeking a positive outlet for their children, we offer a convenient and enriching option just minutes away. Whether your child is interested in learning self-defense, staying active, or making new friends, our program provides a strong foundation for personal growth.

    Try a Class Today

    Experience firsthand what makes our youth program special! Come meet our instructors, watch our students in action, and see how Jiu Jitsu can benefit your family. Whether you’re in Cameron Park, Folsom Ranch, or El Dorado Hills, we’d love to welcome you to our growing community.

    Contact us today to schedule your trial class. Together, let’s help your child build confidence, discipline, and a love for learning—both on and off the mats.

    Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

    The New Competition: Insights for Jiu Jitsu from Start with Why

    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.