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Building a Strong Foundation at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that a strong foundation is built by focusing on the people involved before deciding on specific goals. Inspired by the concept in Jim Collins’ Good to Great—“First Who, Then What”—our approach centers on creating the right environment, where every member can thrive both on and off the mat.

Why the Right Environment Matters

In Jiu Jitsu, progress is rarely achieved alone. It’s the culture of a school and the mindset of its members that create a space for consistent growth. When respect, encouragement, and shared dedication are at the core of the training experience, success becomes a natural outcome.

By prioritizing respect and support among members, we’ve created an atmosphere where individuals are able to be valued, whether they’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or preparing for a competition.

Starting with the Right Mindset

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we don’t just focus on technical skills. We emphasize values like collaboration, curiosity, and teamwork. These qualities allow students to train effectively, face challenges with confidence, and achieve goals in a way that reflects personal growth and integrity.

This intentional focus has allowed us to build more than just a team—it’s a community where progress comes not only from hard work but also from the relationships built on the mat.

Setting Goals

Once the right culture is in place, setting and achieving goals becomes more purposeful. Whether it’s excelling in tournaments, learning new techniques, or simply enjoying the process of training, every milestone is reached with the support of a like-minded group.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’ve seen how this focus translates into real results. Students of all levels experience steady improvement because they train in an environment built on trust, respect, and shared dedication.

Your Jiu Jitsu Journey

When starting or continuing your Jiu Jitsu journey, the environment you train in plays a critical role in your success. Surrounding yourself with positive influences fosters growth in every aspect of the art. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re committed to providing that foundation—where training is as much about building character as it is about learning technique.

Whether you’re new to Jiu Jitsu or looking to refine your skills, we welcome you to be part of our community. Together, we’ll create a path of progress and achievement, built on a foundation that values growth through connection and dedication.

Start your journey with us today at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Experience how the right environment can help you grow both on and off the mat.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Enhance Your Jiu Jitsu Game with Flexibility Training: Feel Better, Perform Better

Flexibility is often the unsung hero of athletic performance, especially in Jiu Jitsu. Whether you’re looking to escape tight positions, execute smoother transitions, or simply feel more comfortable on and off the mat, improving your flexibility can be a game-changer. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we know that flexibility isn’t just about touching your toes—it’s about unlocking your body’s potential to move efficiently and powerfully.

Why Flexibility Matters in Jiu Jitsu

  1. Enhanced Performance: Increased flexibility allows for deeper guard retention, smoother sweeps, and more fluid transitions between positions.
  2. Injury Prevention: A flexible body is less prone to strains and injuries, as muscles and joints can better handle the dynamic movements required in Jiu Jitsu.
  3. Faster Recovery: Stretching helps reduce soreness and improves blood flow to muscles, speeding up recovery after tough training sessions.
  4. Improved Comfort: Flexibility reduces stiffness and tension, helping your body feel better both during training and in everyday life.

Personalized Flexibility Training

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we offer personal training sessions designed to help you develop functional flexibility tailored to your unique goals. Whether you’re new to Jiu Jitsu, preparing for competition, or just looking to feel better in your body, our expert coaches can create a customized plan to enhance your performance and improve how you move and feel.

What to Expect from Flexibility Training

  1. Tailored Warm-Ups: Learn dynamic stretches to activate key muscle groups before class.
  2. Specific Drills for Jiu Jitsu: Focus on mobility drills that directly improve guard work, escapes, and submissions.
  3. Recovery Techniques: Incorporate static stretching, foam rolling, and active recovery practices to stay pain-free and limber.
  4. Progress Tracking: Monitor your flexibility gains over time to ensure you’re making measurable improvements.

Benefits Beyond the Mat

Improving your flexibility doesn’t just make you a better grappler—it transforms the way your body feels in daily life. You’ll notice:

  • Reduced stiffness and aches
  • Better posture and balance
  • Increased energy levels
  • Greater confidence in your physical abilities

Start Your Flexibility Journey Today

Ready to take your performance and well-being to the next level? Book a personal training session at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu today. Our coaches will work with you to identify your needs and create a plan that fits your schedule and goals.

Don’t let stiffness hold you back from reaching your full potential. Flexibility is the key to moving better, feeling better, and training better. Whether you’re looking to dominate on the mat or just feel amazing in your body, we’re here to help you achieve your goals.

Contact us now to schedule your first personal training session. Let’s unlock your potential, one session at a time!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Finding Consistency in Jiu Jitsu: How to Train 2-3 Times a Week and See Real Improvement

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand that life can get busy. Between work, school, family, and other commitments, it might feel challenging to fit Jiu Jitsu into your weekly routine. However, training consistently—just 2-3 times a week—can bring significant progress to your technique, fitness, and overall enjoyment of the art. The key is organizing your schedule and committing to showing up.

Why Consistency Matters

In Jiu Jitsu, consistency builds momentum. Each session reinforces techniques, improves your timing, and helps you develop muscle memory. Sporadic training can lead to frustration, as you may feel like you’re starting over each time you step on the mat. On the other hand, training regularly—even a few times a week—helps you retain what you’ve learned and build on it.

Consistency also fosters relationships with your training partners and instructors. When you show up regularly, your teammates get to know your style, strengths, and weaknesses, making every roll more productive.

Tips for Organizing Your Schedule

Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

  1. Plan Ahead: Take a look at your weekly schedule and identify the best times for training. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we offer a variety of class times, including early morning, midday, and evening options. Choose 2-3 sessions that align with your availability and block them out on your calendar. Treat these times as unmissable appointments.
  2. Start Small and Build Up: If you’re new to training or returning after a break, start with two sessions a week. Once this becomes a habit, consider adding a third class. Building slowly helps you avoid burnout and ensures your training fits sustainably into your routine.
  3. Communicate With Your Family and Employer: If you have a busy family or work life, communicate your training goals to those around you. Let them know that these 2-3 hours a week are important to your physical and mental well-being. By involving others in your goals, you may find they’re more supportive of your efforts.
  4. Prioritize Recovery: Training regularly requires balancing intensity with recovery. Prioritize proper sleep, hydration, and nutrition to ensure you’re energized for each session.
  5. Be Flexible, But Consistent: Life happens. If you miss a class, don’t let it derail your week. Instead, find another session to attend or make it up the following week. The key is to stay consistent over the long term.

The Value of Consistency

When you commit to training 2-3 times a week, you’ll notice improvements in several areas:

  • Skill Progression: Regular practice sharpens your techniques and deepens your understanding of Jiu Jitsu.
  • Physical Fitness: Even a few sessions a week can improve your strength, endurance, and flexibility.
  • Mental Toughness: Overcoming the challenges of training builds resilience, focus, and confidence both on and off the mat.
  • Team Connection: Consistency helps you build relationships with your training partners, creating a sense of camaraderie and support.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in helping you reach your goals at your own pace. Whether you’re training for fun, fitness, or competition, finding consistency will set you on the path to success.

Start Your Journey Today

Ready to make Jiu Jitsu a regular part of your life? Join us on the mat and discover the transformative power of consistent training. Whether it’s the 6am class or an evening session, we’ll help you build a schedule that works for you.

Your journey begins with a single step—or roll. See you on the mat!

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!

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Start 2025 Strong: Classes Are Back on Regular Schedule at EDH Jiu Jitsu

Happy New Year! After a well-deserved holiday break, we’re excited to announce that all classes are back on our regular schedule starting today, January 2nd. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting your martial arts journey, now is the perfect time to hit the mats and kick off 2025 with focus, growth, and energy.

What to Expect

We’re diving right back into training with a full lineup of classes for all ages and levels:

• Peewee (Ages 4-7): Building coordination, focus, and foundational skills in a fun environment.

• Kids & Juniors (Ages 7-17): Strengthening techniques and life skills while having a blast.

• Adult Classes: From beginner fundamentals to advanced sessions, we’ve got you covered.

• Morning and Evening Options: Whether you’re an early riser or prefer evening classes, our schedule has flexibility for everyone.

Why Start the Year on the Mats?

Training Jiu Jitsu is more than just a workout—it’s a chance to challenge yourself mentally and physically, build discipline, and be part of a supportive community. Whether your goal is to improve your fitness, compete, or simply have fun, our team is here to help you succeed.

Upcoming Highlights

Keep an eye out for exciting events and seminars in the coming months, including special guest instructors, in-house competitions, and community gatherings. Make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter for updates!

Ready to Roll?

Let’s make 2025 your best year yet. Grab your gi, tie your belt, and join us today!

See you on the mats!

— The EDH Jiu Jitsu Team

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!

community

Celebrating 15 Years of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and Our 10th Black Belt

This year marks an incredible milestone for El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: 15 years of building a thriving martial arts community. From our humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of Jiu Jitsu in the area, we’ve been on an amazing journey of growth, perseverance, and shared passion for the art.

As if that wasn’t enough cause for celebration, we’re also thrilled to announce a historic achievement—our 10th black belt promotion. Each black belt in Jiu Jitsu represents years of dedication, countless hours on the mat, and the embodiment of values like discipline, respect, and resilience. This achievement is not only a personal milestone for the individual but also a testament to the strength and unity of our team.

The Journey of 15 Years

When we first opened our doors, our vision was simple: to create a space where people of all ages and skill levels could discover the transformative power of Jiu Jitsu. Over the years, we’ve welcomed hundreds of students, from kids taking their first steps on the mat to adults pursuing lifelong fitness and self-improvement.

Through competitions, seminars, and everyday training sessions, our team has built a reputation for excellence and camaraderie. Whether you’ve been here since day one or joined us more recently, you’ve played a vital role in making El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu what it is today—a family united by a shared love for Jiu Jitsu.

Honoring Our 10th Black Belt

The promotion of our 10th black belt is a special moment for us all. Achieving a black belt is about more than technical skill—it signifies leadership, mentorship, and a commitment to helping others grow. Our newest black belt embodies these qualities, inspiring students and teammates alike with their perseverance and humility.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on 15 years of memories, challenges, and triumphs, we’re also looking to the future with excitement. We remain committed to growing our community, refining our craft, and continuing to change lives through the art of Jiu Jitsu.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey. Here’s to 15 years of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our 10th black belt, and many more milestones to come!

— The El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Team

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Celebrating 15 Years of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

This past weekend, we wrapped up 15-year anniversary with a screening of the 2018 animated The Grinch. It was a fun-filled evening that brought together students, families, and friends to celebrate the holiday season and this incredible milestone for our gym. In 2025 we look to hold a few events celebrating 15 years of jiujitsu in el dorado hills.

Celebrating 15 Years Together

The movie night was the first event in our 15-year anniversary celebration, and it gave us a chance to relax and enjoy the festivities of the December months. Additionally a reminder that EDH Jiu Jitsu has grown into a space where people of all ages come together to learn, train, and have fun.

A Holiday Classic for All Ages

The 2018 The Grinch was the perfect pick for this event. Its colorful animation and updated storytelling made it a hit with the kids, while its humor and timeless message about the importance of community resonated with everyone. It was great to see families enjoy the movie together and kick off the holiday season with a little extra cheer.

Looking Ahead

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the screening and helped make this event a success. Here’s to 15 incredible years of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and to everything that lies ahead! We’re excited to continue building this community and look forward to more events, training, and growth in the new year.

Stay tuned for more opportunities to connect and celebrate—both on and off the mats!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Legacy on the Mat: Lessons from the All Blacks for El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

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.

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Open Enrollment for Kids Classes at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!

Is your child ready to build confidence, discipline, and resilience while having fun? El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is excited to announce open enrollment for our kids’ classes! Whether your child is just starting their martial arts journey or looking to sharpen their skills, we offer a welcoming and supportive environment for students of all levels.

Our kids’ program is divided into age-specific classes:

• Peewee (ages 4-7): Introducing our youngest students to the basics of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in a fun and playful way.

• Kids (ages 7-10): Developing essential techniques while teaching life skills like focus, teamwork, and perseverance.

• Juniors (ages 10-17): Preparing older students with more advanced techniques and strategies, while continuing to build character and leadership.

At EDH BJJ, we focus not only on self-defense but also on helping kids build life skills that will benefit them both on and off the mats. Our dedicated instructors work with each child to foster personal growth, build confidence, and encourage positive habits in a safe and fun atmosphere.

We invite parents and students to come in for an introductory lesson to see what makes our gym special. If you’re ready to see your child thrive in a supportive community, email us today at edhbjj@gmail.com to schedule a lesson and secure your spot for the upcoming session!

Don’t miss this opportunity to empower your child through martial arts!