Category Archives: Kids Jiu Jitsu

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!

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Discover the Benefits of Junior Jiu Jitsu at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our Junior Jiu Jitsu program is designed specifically for teens aged 10-17, offering an exciting and supportive environment to build confidence, discipline, and martial arts skills. Whether your teen is just starting their journey or already has experience on the mat, we provide the tools they need to thrive both in Jiu Jitsu and in life.

What Makes Junior Jiu Jitsu Unique?

Our Junior Jiu Jitsu program bridges the gap between our kids’ classes and adult training, focusing on skill development, technique, and personal growth. Classes are tailored to engage teens in a way that challenges them physically and mentally while emphasizing respect, teamwork, and perseverance.

Students in this program will:

  • Learn the fundamentals of Jiu Jitsu and advanced techniques.
  • Develop strength, agility, and coordination.
  • Build confidence and learn valuable life skills like discipline and resilience.

Training Opportunities for Experienced Teens

For teens who have demonstrated advanced skills and maturity, we offer the chance to train in our adult classes as an enrichment opportunity. This experience helps them sharpen their techniques by working with a wider variety of partners while learning from more seasoned practitioners. It’s a fantastic way to challenge themselves, expand their knowledge, and prepare for the next step in their Jiu Jitsu journey.

Why Choose Jiu Jitsu for Teens?

Jiu Jitsu is more than a sport—it’s a way to develop focus, self-control, and confidence in a fun and dynamic setting. Our Junior Jiu Jitsu program empowers teens to overcome challenges on and off the mat while fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Join Us Today

If your teen is ready to explore their potential, improve their fitness, and join a community that values growth and respect, Junior Jiu Jitsu is the perfect fit. Contact El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu today to schedule a trial class and see the difference Jiu Jitsu can make in their life!

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Corporate Sponsorship Opportunity: Empowering Youth Through Jiu Jitsu with Guardian El Dorado Hills

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that martial arts can transform lives. Through our nonprofit initiative, the Guardian El Dorado Hills program, we are dedicated to providing scholarships to youth and teens who may not otherwise have the financial means to train. This program is about more than Jiu Jitsu—it’s about instilling confidence, discipline, and life skills that build leaders for tomorrow.

To expand this life-changing initiative, we are excited to offer corporate sponsorship opportunities. By partnering with Guardian El Dorado Hills, your company can make a direct, positive impact on our community while aligning with a cause that fosters growth, inclusion, and empowerment.

What Your Sponsorship Supports

  • Scholarships for Students: Sponsorships directly fund tuition for students, covering class fees, uniforms, and competition costs.
  • Mentorship Opportunities: Students in the program learn not just from instructors but also from their peers and mentors, who model values like integrity, humility, and bravery.
  • Community Engagement: Your support helps us host events like in-house competitions and camps, creating opportunities for students to thrive on and off the mats.

Benefits of Corporate Sponsorship

Becoming a sponsor isn’t just an investment in our youth—it’s a partnership with a visible and respected community organization. Sponsors receive:

  • Recognition on Our Platforms: Your logo will be featured on our website, social media channels, and promotional materials including your logo on the back of our Guardian EDH T-shirt.
  • Event Branding Opportunities: Your brand will be prominently displayed at Guardian EDH practices, events, and seminars.
  • Team Engagement: Opportunities to host corporate team-building workshops or sponsor exclusive events for employees.

Why Jiu Jitsu Matters

Jiu Jitsu teaches resilience, problem-solving, and self-defense—skills that extend far beyond the mats. Students in the Guardian program not only improve physically but also emotionally and socially. They learn to face challenges with courage and embrace the values of community and mutual respect.

How to Get Involved

Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, there’s a sponsorship level that fits your goals. Partner with us to make a lasting difference in the lives of local youth.

For more information about corporate sponsorships or to schedule a meeting, please contact us at [ edhbjj@gmail.com / 916.595.4064 ]. Together, we can help more young people unlock their potential through the transformative power of Jiu Jitsu.

Join us in building a stronger, more empowered community—one student at a time.

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, 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.

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Mat Chat Focus: Leadership at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in helping our students grow both on and off the mats. For this month’s mat chat, we are focusing on leadership—a life skill that’s essential for success in every aspect of life. Whether in school, at work, or in our community, leadership allows us to inspire, guide, and make a positive impact on those around us.

Why Leadership Matters

Leadership is about more than just being in charge. It’s about setting a good example, taking initiative, and showing empathy and respect for others. In Jiu Jitsu, leadership shows up when:

  • A more experienced student helps a newer one understand a technique.
  • A teammate encourages someone who is struggling.
  • Someone takes responsibility for their mistakes and uses them as an opportunity to grow.

These moments of leadership build a stronger, more connected team. They teach our students to be thoughtful, confident, and capable individuals both on and off the mats.

How We’re Teaching Leadership in Class

This month, our youth classes will emphasize leadership through specific activities and lessons, including:

1. Leading by Example: We’ll teach students that leadership starts with their actions. This means coming to class on time, helping their training partners, and showing respect to coaches and teammates.

2. Team Exercises: In drills and games, students will take turns as “team captains,” responsible for encouraging their group, organizing strategy, and keeping everyone motivated.

3. Mat Chats: During mat chats, we’ll discuss what it means to be a leader. Topics will include:

    • How to be a role model in tough situations.
    • The importance of empathy and understanding other people’s perspectives.
    • Taking ownership of mistakes and learning from them.

    4. Recognizing Leadership: Throughout the month, we’ll highlight moments where students demonstrate leadership qualities, celebrating these actions as examples for others to follow.

      Leadership: A Lifelong Skill

      By focusing on leadership, we’re helping our students develop confidence, accountability, and teamwork. These skills will serve them well in every area of life, whether they’re leading on the mats, at school, or in their communities.

      We encourage parents to continue this conversation at home—ask your kids about the leadership lessons they’re learning in class and how they can apply them outside the gym. Together, we can build the next generation of thoughtful, strong, and empathetic leaders.

      Let’s make this a month to lead by example—both on and off the mats!

      Kids Jiu Jitsu

      Winter Break Workshops Recap | El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

      This winter break, El Dorado Hills BJJ hosted two fantastic workshops filled with technical drills, live sparring, and lots of opportunities to improve and have fun. Here’s a recap of what we covered during the sessions:

      Day 1: Guard Passing
      Our first day focused on the art of passing the guard. Students worked on techniques from three key positions:

      • Combat Base
      • Headquarters
      • Cross Pant Grip

      The session was structured with technical drills, positional sparring, and even some fun technical games to keep the energy high. Everyone had the opportunity to refine their skills, try out their favorite techniques, and see real improvement by the end of the day.

      Day 2: Back Attacks
      The second day was all about back control and attacks. Students learned to finish from the back using techniques such as:

      • Rear Naked Choke (RNC)
      • Bow and Arrow Choke
      • Armbar
      • Triangle Choke

      In addition to submission finishes, we explored various ways to take the back and maintain control. The day included detailed drills and situational sparring, allowing everyone to apply what they learned in live scenarios.

      Takeaways from the Workshops


      Both days emphasized key principles like repetition, technical precision, and creativity. It was incredible to see participants of all levels pushing their limits, learning from each other, and having fun along the way.

      Thank you to everyone who attended and made these workshops a success. We’re excited to see you all continue to grow and apply these techniques on the mats. Stay tuned for more events in the future!

      See you at training!

      Kids Jiu Jitsu

      Taking Time to Reflect: A Year-End Practice for Growth On and Off the Mat

      As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect. Whether you’ve spent the year honing your skills on the mat, setting personal goals, or navigating life’s challenges, the end of the year provides a unique opportunity for self-evaluation. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that taking time to assess where you’ve been and where you want to go is as important as drilling techniques or rolling in class.

      Reflecting on the Year

      Reflection is about more than recounting achievements; it’s about understanding the lessons you’ve learned. Ask yourself:

      • What did I accomplish this year? Celebrate your victories, no matter how small. Did you finally nail that armbar or feel more confident during sparring?

      • What challenges did I face, and how did I respond? Whether it was an injury, a tough loss, or finding balance between training and life, identifying areas of struggle helps highlight your resilience.

      • How have I grown off the mat? Jiu Jitsu teaches us patience, discipline, and perseverance. How have these traits influenced your relationships, work, or other areas of life?

      Setting Intentions for the New Year- New Season

      Once you’ve reflected on the past, it’s time to look forward. Growth doesn’t happen by accident; it’s built through intentional effort and consistent routines. Here are some ways to level up both on and off the mat in the coming year:

      1. Create a Training Routine

      Consistency is key in Jiu Jitsu. Set a realistic schedule that works with your life. Whether it’s committing to 3 classes a week or joining the 6am crew, showing up regularly will sharpen your skills and deepen your connection to the team.

      2. Focus on One Area of Improvement

      Instead of trying to master everything at once, focus on one aspect of your game. Maybe it’s guard retention, takedowns, or learning how to relax under pressure. Off the mat, consider adopting a similar approach—like improving your time management or prioritizing mental health.

      3. Incorporate Cross-Training or Recovery

      Your body is your tool, so take care of it. Add yoga, strength training, or active recovery days to your routine to complement your Jiu Jitsu practice. Prioritizing sleep and proper nutrition can make a world of difference in your energy levels and performance.

      4. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude

      Mental growth is just as important as physical growth. Take time each day to meditate, journal, or simply list things you’re grateful for. This small habit can help you stay present and find joy in your journey.

      Building Momentum for the Future

      The lessons learned on the mat often mirror those in life. By reflecting on the past year and setting intentional routines, you can move into the new year with purpose and determination. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistent effort, you’ll surprise yourself with what you can achieve.

      Let’s make the new year one of progress, not perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting your Jiu Jitsu journey, the path to improvement is always open. Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu as we step into another year of learning, growing, and supporting one another—on and off the mat.

      What are your goals for the new year? Let us know next time you’re at the gym, or share them in the comments below. We can’t wait to see what 2025 holds for our amazing community!

      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!