Tag Archives: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Incorporating Judo and Wrestling into Our Jiu Jitsu Program

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re committed to offering a well-rounded grappling experience that goes beyond traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. By incorporating techniques from Judo and wrestling, we’re not only broadening our students’ skill sets but also enhancing their overall effectiveness on the mat. Both disciplines bring unique elements that complement and elevate Jiu Jitsu, providing our students with a more diverse and complete game.

Why Incorporate Judo?

Judo, with its emphasis on balance, leverage, and throws, offers key advantages in transitioning from standing to ground. Many Jiu Jitsu practitioners find themselves starting in positions where both opponents are standing, and Judo provides a structured, efficient way to take the fight to the ground while maintaining control. Classic techniques like hip throws (ogoshi) and sacrifice throws (hikikomi gaeshi) give our students the ability to execute dynamic takedowns with precision and power. By mastering these moves, students learn how to control the momentum of a match right from the start, gaining an edge in competition or self-defense situations.

Why Wrestling Matters

Wrestling’s contribution to our Jiu Jitsu program lies in its unparalleled focus on takedowns, control, and explosiveness. The application of single-leg and double-leg takedowns provides our students with efficient ways to bring their opponents to the mat without compromising their own base or stability. Wrestling also emphasizes positional dominance, which is a key concept in Jiu Jitsu—being able to control your opponent from top positions like side control or mount is crucial to setting up submissions.

Additionally, the grit and work ethic emphasized in wrestling help develop mental toughness, persistence, and the ability to scramble out of tough situations—all important traits for success in Jiu Jitsu.

The Integration at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At our gym, we have the unique advantage of having coaches with high-level experience in both Judo and wrestling. Barrett, a former Division 1 wrestler, leads our efforts to incorporate these powerful elements into our curriculum. His expertise in setups, chain wrestling, and transitions ensures that students not only learn the techniques but also understand how to apply them in live rolling situations. For those interested in Judo, we offer classes that explore essential throws and grips, connecting them directly to the Jiu Jitsu game, so students can apply these skills in real time.

We believe that by offering a mix of Judo, wrestling, and Jiu Jitsu, our students develop a more dynamic and adaptable style. Whether you’re competing in tournaments or training for personal development, this integration allows you to be comfortable standing or on the ground, increasing your chances of success in any grappling situation.

The incorporation of Judo and wrestling into our Jiu Jitsu program is about offering the best possible training environment. We want our students to be complete grapplers, capable of handling any position, whether standing or on the ground. By embracing these disciplines, we not only honor the roots of Jiu Jitsu but also push the boundaries of what’s possible in grappling.

If you’re ready to expand your game and learn how to seamlessly blend these powerful arts, join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Let’s take your training to the next level.

Is after 50 Too Old to Start Jiu Jitsu? Absolutely Not!

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we often get asked if there’s a class “for older adults,” especially from people in their 50s or beyond who are just starting out. And while we don’t have a specific class labeled for older adults, we have great news: you won’t need one! Out of the 100 or so adults training with us, only 5 are under 30. That means most of our students are in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, training and improving every day.

Jiu Jitsu is a lifelong art. It’s not about brute strength or being the fastest person in the room—it’s about technique, strategy, and patience. Our students, many of whom began their journey in their 40s and 50s, prove that age is no barrier to learning and enjoying the benefits of Jiu Jitsu. The community you’ll find at our school is supportive and understanding, and your training partners will work with you at a pace that suits your fitness and skill level.

If you’re worried about being too old to start, consider this: some of our members are in their 60s and thriving on the mats. Jiu Jitsu provides a fantastic way to stay active, build confidence, and develop self-defense skills—all while being part of a community of people with similar goals.

So, if you’re in your 50’s and wondering if there’s a place for you, the answer is a resounding yes. You’ll fit right in. There’s never a perfect age to start Jiu Jitsu—there’s only the perfect time: now!

Join Us for El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu’s 15th Anniversary Black Belt Seminar!

As we celebrate 15 years of training, community, and growth, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is excited to invite you to a special Black Belt Seminar in honor of our anniversary. The seminar date is to be determined, but we couldn’t wait to share the exciting news with you!

Our Humble Beginnings

Fifteen years ago, we started as the first Jiu Jitsu gym on the western Sierra slopes along the highway 50 corridor without a resident black belt instructor. Back then, we relied on our passion and dedication to learn and grow. What started as a small group of grapplers has evolved into a thriving academy with a team of black belts and dedicated practitioners who train hard and support each other.

Why This Seminar is Special

Reaching our 15-year milestone is a testament to the dedication of our members, coaches, and the families who have supported us along the way. To commemorate this journey, we’ll be hosting an exclusive Black Belt Seminar, led by our highest-ranking instructors and special guest black belts. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to the mats, this event will offer valuable insights into Jiu Jitsu techniques, mindset, and the martial arts lifestyle.

What to Expect

  • World-Class Instruction: Learn from experienced black belts who have spent decades refining their skills and developing their teaching methods.
  • Exclusive Techniques: Get access to high-level strategies and moves that will take your game to the next level.
  • Community Celebration: This seminar will not just be about training, but about coming together as a team. There will be time to connect, share stories, and celebrate how far we’ve come as a school.

Who Can Join?

The seminar is open to all students, regardless of rank or experience level. Whether you’ve been training with us for years or just joined, this is an opportunity to be part of something big.

Stay Tuned!

We’ll be announcing the exact date for the 15th Anniversary Black Belt Seminar soon, so keep an eye on your email and social media for updates. This is an event you won’t want to miss.

Let’s celebrate 15 incredible years of Jiu Jitsu excellence together—on the mats and in the community! From a small gym without a black belt instructor to becoming a hub for Jiu Jitsu in the area, this milestone is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of everyone who has been a part of our journey.

Starting Jiu Jitsu at El Dorado Hills BJJ: Elevate Your Learning with Weekly Technique Videos

Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) can feel like stepping into a new world. The techniques, the culture, and the experience of rolling on the mats are unlike anything else. At El Dorado Hills BJJ, we understand that the first few weeks can be overwhelming, which is why we’re dedicated to making your journey smoother and more enriching right from the start.

A Structured Path to Success

From the moment you begin your training, you’ll be part of a structured curriculum designed to help you grow quickly and confidently. One of the unique aspects of training at El Dorado Hills BJJ is the weekly technique videos you’ll receive. These videos are specifically designed to reinforce the techniques taught in class, so you’ll never feel like you’re falling behind or missing key details.

Why Weekly Technique Videos Matter

Jiu Jitsu is an art that takes time and repetition to master, but with consistent access to technique videos, you can review and study at your own pace. Each week, you’ll get a breakdown of the techniques we cover in class, including explanations and demonstrations by our skilled instructors. These videos will serve as an invaluable resource for:

  • Reinforcing What You Learned: After class, it can be tough to remember every detail of a technique. The videos allow you to review and refresh your memory before your next training session.
  • Learning at Your Own Speed: Everyone progresses at different rates, and the videos allow you to revisit techniques as many times as you need to fully grasp them.
  • Building a Strong Foundation: By focusing on fundamental movements and positions, you’ll develop a solid base that will support your progression in Jiu Jitsu.

What to Expect in Your First Few Weeks

Starting out, you’ll be introduced to core movements, like shrimping, bridging, and basic guard work. The weekly technique videos will cover foundational techniques in detail, ensuring you have a strong understanding of the mechanics and purpose behind each movement.

Here’s an example from one of our weekly videos.

A Supportive Community to Guide You

Beyond the videos, you’ll be joining a community of supportive teammates and experienced instructors. Whether you’re just learning how to tie your belt or preparing for your first tournament, you’ll always have guidance both in class and through our online resources.

At El Dorado Hills BJJ, we’re committed to your success from day one. With our blend of hands-on training and video support, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your Jiu Jitsu goals.

Ready to Start?

If you’re ready to dive into the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, now is the perfect time. Come train with us, and let our weekly technique videos help you build the confidence and skill you need to thrive on the mats.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re proud to welcome students from all over El Dorado County and Folsom, creating a diverse and thriving community of martial artists. Whether they’re commuting from Placerville, Cameron Park, or even Folsom, people of all backgrounds and experience levels come together here to train, improve, and support one another. Our morning classes, draw dedicated practitioners from across the region, each committed to their personal growth and to being part of a team that values hard work, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence.

Starting BJJ as an Adult: The 6am Class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Taking up Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) as an adult can seem intimidating, but for many, it’s the beginning of a rewarding and transformative journey. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our 6am class offers a unique opportunity for adults of all levels—whether you’re completely new to martial arts or looking to rekindle your competitive spirit.

Why Choose the 6am Class?

The 6am class is designed for those who want to start their day with purpose and discipline. Many of our students are working professionals, parents, or busy individuals who need to fit training into their packed schedules. This early morning class offers the perfect solution, providing an environment where adults can focus on their personal growth before the rest of the day unfolds.

People from across the greater El Dorado County region, including cities like Folsom, Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, and Placerville, gather early in the morning to attend our 6am class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. This dedicated group of individuals travels from various areas to start their day with purpose, discipline, and the shared goal of improving their Jiu Jitsu skills. The camaraderie built within this community extends beyond the mats, as people from different cities come together to challenge themselves, learn, and grow in a supportive environment.

What to Expect in the 6am Class

Our 6am class runs every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. It’s open to all levels, so whether you’ve never put on a gi before or you’re a seasoned grappler, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Each session focuses on key techniques, drilling, and live rolling, tailored to meet your skill level. We often work on fundamental positions like escapes, guard passes, and submissions, ensuring you build a strong foundation from day one.

What sets this class apart is the camaraderie. We have members driving from different cities in El Dorado County to make these sessions, forming a tight-knit group that supports each other on and off the mats.

Starting as an Adult: Embracing the Journey

Beginning BJJ as an adult can feel like stepping into the unknown. You’re learning a new skill, challenging your body in new ways, and stepping outside your comfort zone. But that’s where the magic happens. With every class, you’ll feel your body getting stronger, your mind getting sharper, and your confidence growing.

The 6am crew embodies the mindset of kaizen—constant improvement. We don’t focus on where you are today, but on where you’ll be six months from now, a year from now. BJJ is a journey that rewards consistency, and the early morning class is the perfect place to develop that habit.

Join Us for a Class

If you’re thinking about starting Jiu Jitsu, we encourage you to try our 6am class. There’s no better way to kick-start your day than with a sweat, learning new techniques, and challenging yourself alongside a supportive community. Starting BJJ as an adult is never too late—it’s the beginning of something truly rewarding.

So set your alarm, grab your gi, and meet us on the mat.

Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as a Teen at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: A Path to Growth, Confidence, and Skill

Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) as a teenager is an exciting and rewarding experience, especially here at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. In our Junior class (ages 11-17), teens are given the opportunity to learn valuable martial arts skills while also developing life lessons that will benefit them both on and off the mats.

Why BJJ for Teens?

The teenage years are a time of rapid physical, emotional, and social change. For many teens, these years come with challenges related to self-confidence, peer pressure, and personal growth. BJJ provides a structured environment where they can build not only physical strength but also mental resilience. Through consistent training, teens learn how to overcome challenges, stay calm under pressure, and develop a sense of discipline.

What to Expect in the Junior Class

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our Junior class is designed to meet the needs of teenagers at all levels of experience. Whether you’re completely new to martial arts or have trained in other disciplines, this class provides a welcoming and supportive environment. Instructors focus on building a strong foundation of techniques such as escapes, submissions, and takedowns while also teaching the importance of respect, teamwork, and perseverance.

For teens, BJJ offers a great way to stay active and engaged. Unlike traditional sports, BJJ is an individual journey within a team setting, meaning there’s no pressure to be “the best” on a team—everyone progresses at their own pace, with personal achievements celebrated equally.

Benefits of Training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Training BJJ as a teen comes with numerous benefits:

  • Physical Fitness: BJJ is a full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, flexibility, and coordination.
  • Confidence: As teens progress in their training and learn new techniques, they develop self-confidence that translates into other areas of their lives, including school and social interactions.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: BJJ is often referred to as “human chess” because it requires strategic thinking and adaptability. Teens learn how to solve problems quickly and efficiently during sparring sessions.
  • Community and Friendship: Our Junior class fosters a sense of camaraderie. Teens not only train together but also build lasting friendships, creating a positive and inclusive environment.
  • Resilience and Perseverance: BJJ teaches teens how to handle setbacks and overcome obstacles. Losing in a sparring match or failing to execute a technique isn’t seen as failure—it’s a learning opportunity, and perseverance is key to growth.

The Path Forward

Whether your teen’s goal is to compete in tournaments, improve their self-defense skills, or simply stay active, BJJ offers something for everyone. As teens progress through the Junior class, they will have the chance to compete, earn belt promotions, and, most importantly, continue developing both as athletes and individuals.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand the importance of guidance and mentorship, which is why our instructors are committed to supporting teens through every step of their journey. By creating a positive and empowering environment, we help teens build a strong foundation not just in martial arts, but in life.

Are you ready to help your teen start their journey with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? Join our Junior class today and discover the lifelong benefits of BJJ at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!


If you or your teen are interested in learning more about our Junior class or want to schedule a visit, reach out to us today! We’re excited to welcome new faces to the mat and help teens grow through the art of Jiu Jitsu.

Guardian El Dorado Hills is a Jiu Jitsu scholarship program for teens

Jon Chan’s Black Belt Promotion and Seminar at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

On October 1st, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu celebrated a significant milestone in the journey of one of its dedicated members—Jon Chan. After 15 years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication to the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Jon was officially promoted to black belt. This achievement not only marks a personal triumph for Jon but also reflects the values of discipline, resilience, and growth that our gym strives to instill in each of its members.

A Journey of Hard Work and Dedication

Jon’s promotion to black belt represents a journey that began years ago with a white belt and a dream. Like many, Jon started at the bottom, learning the fundamentals, honing his technique, and pushing through challenges along the way. His commitment to improvement and his consistent presence on the mats have been an inspiration to everyone at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. As a competitor and a leader, Jon exemplifies the tenets of martial arts and has become a role model for students of all levels.

In addition to his promotion, Jon taught his first black belt seminar, sharing some of his favorite techniques and concepts that helped him reach this level. Students were treated to insights from Jon’s experience as both a competitor and a technician. His seminar offered an opportunity for everyone in the room to learn from someone who has walked the path from white to black, with countless hours of training and a deep passion for the art.

A Family Moment: Promoting Logan to Blue Belt

In what made the day even more special, Jon had the honor of promoting his son, Logan, to blue belt. Watching Logan’s own growth in the sport has been a joy for the entire gym. Father and son have trained side by side for years, pushing each other to improve and sharing countless hours on the mats. To see Jon, now a black belt, present Logan with his blue belt was a touching moment for everyone in attendance. It was not just the celebration of one promotion but the continuation of a family legacy in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

As Jon shared, “There’s nothing more meaningful than being able to pass on what I’ve learned to the next generation. To promote Logan to blue belt on the day I received my black belt is an experience I’ll never forget.”

Looking Ahead

Jon’s black belt is a testament to his perseverance, dedication, and passion for Jiu Jitsu. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are incredibly proud of Jon and look forward to seeing him continue to grow as both a martial artist and a coach. His seminar marked the beginning of a new chapter in his journey, and we are excited to see where it takes him and his family.

Congratulations, Jon, on your black belt and Logan on your blue belt—both incredible achievements that reflect the strength and unity of our Jiu Jitsu family!

Be sure to stay tuned for more updates, seminars, and exciting moments from the El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community!

Reflections on the Ruckus in the Hills: House BJJ Tournament

This past weekend, we had our Ruckus in the Hills in-house BJJ tournament, and I couldn’t be more proud of how everything played out. There’s something special about an in-house tournament — a blend of excitement, nerves, and community spirit that’s unlike anything else. But what really stood out to me was the incredible energy and determination displayed by the kids who competed.

Pushing Boundaries and Embracing Challenges

One of the most rewarding parts of the day was seeing the kids push themselves beyond their limits. Competing in jiu-jitsu isn’t just about physical skill; it’s also about mental toughness, handling nerves, and learning from both victories and losses. For many of the kids, this tournament was their first real experience with competition, and they absolutely rose to the occasion. Every match brought out something new in them — they adapted, learned, and improved with every round. By the end of the day, you could visibly see the progress in their confidence and skill level.

The Growth with Each Match

Watching the kids evolve throughout the day was one of the highlights for me. In each round, they applied new techniques they had just learned, adjusted their strategies, and sharpened their instincts. It was clear that every match helped them get better, not just technically, but in terms of resilience and composure. As a coach and referee, it’s inspiring to see how competition can accelerate their growth. In a way, each match was a mini-learning experience, pushing the kids to think on their feet and deal with new challenges.

Fun on the Mats and as a Referee

Having refereed many in house tournaments before, I’ve always enjoyed being in that role, and this event was no different. As a referee, I’m in the best position to see the dynamic exchanges, decision-making, and heart these kids put into each match. It’s always fun to be part of the action and ensure that the competition remains fair and positive, especially when you see kids showing discipline, respect, and good sportsmanship — all key values in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Looking Ahead: Back to the Gi

With the summer behind us, I’m excited for the kids to transition back to Gi training after spending the last few months focused on No-Gi. While No-Gi is fast-paced and full of scrambles, there’s something about the return to Gi that feels like coming home to the roots of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The grips, the control, the chess-like exchanges that come with the gi will add new layers to their game, and I can’t wait to see how the skills they’ve developed over the summer will translate.

This tournament reminded me of how much these young athletes are growing, not just in terms of skill, but as individuals. Seeing them step out of their comfort zones, take on challenges, and come out stronger is what makes coaching so fulfilling. I’m incredibly proud of all the competitors, and I’m already looking forward to seeing what they accomplish in the next phase of their journey.

Here’s to more growth, more matches, and more memories on the mats!

Coach Danny

The Guardian Scholarship Program at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: Empowering Our Community

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe martial arts is for everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. Through our Guardian Scholarship Program, we are committed to providing opportunities for children and teens from local communities such as Folsom, Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, Placerville, and surrounding areas to train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, develop valuable life skills, and experience the many benefits of martial arts.

What is the Guardian Scholarship Program?

The Guardian Scholarship Program offers full or partial scholarships to students who show a strong desire to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but may be facing financial barriers. This initiative helps open doors for young individuals to engage in a positive, character-building activity that promotes discipline, confidence, teamwork, and resilience.

Who Can Apply?

The program is available to youth living in Folsom, Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, Placerville, and nearby communities. Whether you’re a parent looking for a positive environment for your child or a teen eager to train, this scholarship is designed to create opportunities for those in need. We welcome applications from both experienced students and complete beginners.

Why Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is more than just a martial art—it’s a tool for personal growth. Our students learn how to solve problems under pressure, gain self-confidence, and develop mental and physical toughness. Through our classes, students not only get in shape but also learn invaluable skills such as respect, focus, and persistence. These lessons extend beyond the mats, helping our students thrive in school, at home, and in life.

How Does the Guardian Scholarship Work?

Once accepted into the program, scholarship recipients will have access to the same high-quality training and mentorship as our regular students. They’ll participate in classes, learn from experienced instructors, and become part of the El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community, where they’ll find support and encouragement on their martial arts journey.

How to Apply

Applying for the Guardian Scholarship Program is simple. Interested applicants from Folsom, Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, Placerville, and nearby cities can visit our website or contact us directly for more information. We encourage families to apply and explore this opportunity for their children to train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and experience its transformative effects.

Supporting the Guardian Program

Our community has always been at the heart of what we do, and the Guardian Scholarship is funded through donations and fundraising events. For those who wish to contribute, we offer various opportunities to support the scholarship fund, including events like our recent Ruckus in the Hills in-house competition. Every contribution makes a difference in helping us provide scholarships and foster growth in our community.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are proud to make martial arts accessible to everyone, and the Guardian Scholarship is one way we continue to give back. If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, don’t hesitate to reach out and learn more. Together, we can empower the next generation through the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Back Control: A Crucial Position for BJJ Beginners

When you first begin your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, one of the key concepts you’ll encounter is learning to control your opponent from dominant positions. Among the most powerful and fundamental of these is back control. Mastering this position early on can set the stage for your long-term success in BJJ.

What is Back Control?

Back control occurs when you have your legs hooked around your opponent’s hips, your chest against their back, and ideally, your arms controlling their upper body. This is one of the most dominant positions in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu because your opponent has few options to attack or defend, while you have several submission opportunities available. Most notably, the rear naked choke is a finishing move often executed from this position.

Why Should Beginners Focus on Back Control?

  1. Dominance and Safety
    Back control offers a significant advantage in both competition and self-defense. From this position, you are behind your opponent, out of reach of their strikes or counters, giving you the ability to control their movement without being vulnerable to attack. Learning this early gives beginners a sense of safety and control during rolls.
  2. Submission Opportunities
    From the back, there are many submission options that are both fundamental and effective. The rear naked choke is often one of the first submissions taught, as it capitalizes on the control you have over your opponent’s body. Once you have back control, submissions feel within reach, building your confidence as a beginner.
  3. Transitional Awareness
    Learning to maintain back control also helps beginners develop an understanding of transitions. It’s common for opponents to try and escape back control, and learning to follow them, adjust your hooks, and maintain control will strengthen your overall game. As you progress, you’ll learn how to seamlessly transition between back control, mount, and other dominant positions.
  4. Defense Training
    While back control is an offensive powerhouse, understanding this position as a beginner will also help you improve your defense. You’ll learn what to avoid and how to escape when an opponent gains back control on you, which is just as important as learning how to maintain it.

How to Approach Back Control as a Beginner

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we emphasize drilling back control with a focus on proper technique and patience. As a beginner, here are a few things to keep in mind when practicing this position:

  • Stay tight to your opponent: Keep your chest glued to their back, with your hooks securely in place. This makes it harder for your opponent to escape.
  • Focus on control before submission: Don’t rush to finish your opponent. Learn how to maintain control first, and submissions will follow.
  • Be aware of your opponent’s escape attempts: A good defense from your opponent will be trying to roll or escape your hooks. Anticipating and preventing their escapes will improve your game immensely.

Back control is one of the most powerful and effective positions in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and it’s a position that beginners should learn early on. By mastering this position, you’ll gain confidence in your ability to control an opponent and finish the fight, whether in a competitive match or a self-defense situation.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our curriculum ensures that every student, no matter their level, builds a strong foundation in back control and other fundamental positions. Start your journey by learning how to control, submit, and defend from the back—and watch your BJJ game transform!