Tag Archives: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

community, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Ruckus in the Hills: In-House Tournament and Fundraiser for Guardian El Dorado Hills

On Friday, September 27th, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is proud to host the highly anticipated Ruckus in the Hills, an in-house competition that promises to be an exciting showcase of skill, determination, and community spirit. This event is not only a chance for our members to challenge themselves on the mats but also a meaningful opportunity to give back through our Guardian El Dorado Hills project.

A Competition with a Purpose

Ruckus in the Hills is more than just a friendly tournament—it’s a fundraiser aimed at supporting the Guardian El Dorado Hills initiative. This project provides scholarships for students in need, allowing them to train and grow through the transformative art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We believe that everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances, should have access to the life-changing benefits of Jiu Jitsu, including discipline, confidence, and community.

What to Expect

The in-house competition will feature divisions for all skill levels, from beginners to intermediate practitioners. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or it’s your first time stepping onto the mats, the event is designed to foster growth and sportsmanship in a supportive environment. Plus, it’s a great way for our gym community to come together, test their skills, and cheer each other on.

Spectators are welcome to attend and show their support! All proceeds from the event will go directly to funding Guardian El Dorado Hills, ensuring that more students have the chance to step onto the mats and begin their martial arts journey.

How You Can Help

If you’d like to contribute to the Guardian project but aren’t competing, you can still make a difference. We’ll be accepting donations throughout the event, and all funds raised will go towards providing scholarships for underprivileged youth. Every bit helps to bring the empowering lessons of Jiu Jitsu to those who need it most. Or you can donate here: https://givebutter.com/edh

Mark your calendars for Friday, September 27th, and join us for an action-packed evening at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Together, we can make a positive impact in our community, one match at a time.

Let the Ruckus begin!

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, September 27th
  • Doors Open: 4:30pm
  • Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
  • Purpose: Fundraiser for Guardian El Dorado Hills, providing scholarships for students to train Jiu Jitsu

We look forward to seeing everyone there, whether you’re competing or cheering from the sidelines!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

3 Helpful Tips When You Start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or Martial Arts

Starting your journey in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) or any martial art is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be a bit intimidating. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we often see new students who aren’t sure where to begin. Whether you’re brand new to the sport or revisiting it after a break, these three tips will help you feel more confident and get the most out of your training.

1. Be Patient with Yourself
One of the most important lessons you’ll learn early on in BJJ or any martial art is that progress takes time. It’s easy to compare yourself to more advanced students or feel frustrated when a technique doesn’t click right away. Remember, every black belt was once a beginner. Focus on the small wins – mastering the basics, improving your movement, or simply showing up consistently. The path to growth in martial arts is long, but it’s also deeply fulfilling. Trust the process and enjoy the journey.

2. Focus on the Fundamentals
In martial arts, the foundation is everything. While it might be tempting to try advanced techniques or imitate what you see in competitions, mastering the basics is what will set you up for success. In BJJ, for example, learning positions like guard, mount, and side control, along with basic escapes, will give you a strong understanding of how to control your opponent. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our curriculum is designed to help students build a solid foundation, starting with 12 key positions and more than 350 movements. By focusing on the fundamentals, you’ll be better prepared for more advanced techniques down the line.

3. Embrace the Learning Environment
When you start training in martial arts, you’re not just learning from your instructor – you’re also learning from your training partners. One of the best things about BJJ is that it’s a cooperative, friendly environment. Ask questions, watch others, and don’t be afraid to tap when necessary. The more open you are to learning from every roll and every sparring session, the faster you’ll improve. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we emphasize community, which means you’re surrounded by teammates who want to see you succeed as much as you want to improve.

Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or martial arts can feel overwhelming at first, but with patience, focus, and the right mindset, you’ll see progress quickly. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re here to support you every step of the way, whether it’s your first class or your hundredth.

Are you ready to begin your journey? Come train with us!

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Kosen Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Exploring the Grappling Connection

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are deeply connected to the history and evolution of grappling arts. One of the most fascinating influences on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is Kosen Judo, a specialized form of judo with a strong emphasis on ground fighting, or ne-waza. Understanding the connection between these two arts can enrich our approach to BJJ and shed light on how the grappling world evolved.

What is Kosen Judo?

Kosen Judo originated in Japan in the early 20th century as a subset of traditional judo. While judo, founded by Jigoro Kano, is known for its dynamic throws and stand-up grappling (tachi-waza), Kosen Judo placed much greater emphasis on ground techniques, including pins, joint locks, and strangles. The style developed largely within Japan’s university system, where teams competed under special rules that favored longer periods of groundwork, unlike traditional judo competitions.

Kosen Judo quickly became known for its sophisticated and technical approach to controlling opponents on the ground—a trait that heavily influenced the development of BJJ.

The Evolution of BJJ from Judo

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu owes much of its foundation to judo, and especially to Kosen-style ne-waza. When Mitsuyo Maeda, a Kodokan judoka, arrived in Brazil in the early 20th century, he passed on his grappling knowledge to the Gracie family and others. Maeda’s teachings included many of the ground-fighting techniques that had been refined in Kosen Judo, which eventually evolved into the distinct style we know as BJJ today.

While early judo retained a focus on both throws and groundwork, BJJ took the groundwork aspect to a new level. Practitioners honed their skills in controlling, submitting, and neutralizing opponents on the mat, developing a vast array of sweeps, guards, and submissions.

Key Similarities Between Kosen Judo and BJJ

  1. Emphasis on Groundwork: Both arts prioritize the ability to control an opponent on the ground. While Kosen Judo does incorporate throwing techniques, the majority of the strategy revolves around transitioning to the mat and gaining a dominant position.
  2. Submissions: Just like in BJJ, Kosen Judo includes various joint locks and chokes. The key difference is that BJJ refined these techniques further, allowing for even more diverse and fluid submissions from various positions.
  3. Guard Play: Kosen Judo’s influence can be seen in the way BJJ developed guard positions. Guard, in BJJ, is a key part of defense and attack, where a practitioner can control or submit an opponent from their back. Kosen Judo already contained the seeds of this idea, though it was in BJJ where it truly flourished.
  4. Competitive Focus: In modern judo competitions, groundwork is often limited due to rule changes that favor stand-up techniques. However, Kosen Judo, with its university competition rules, allowed for a much greater focus on groundwork, similar to how BJJ competitions play out today.

Why Understanding Kosen Judo Matters for BJJ Practitioners

As BJJ continues to evolve, understanding its roots in Kosen Judo can provide a deeper appreciation for the techniques we practice daily. By studying the methods of Kosen Judo, we can refine our own ground game, gaining insights into leverage, control, and the finer details of ne-waza.

In fact, some techniques used in BJJ today, such as certain sweeps, transitions, and escapes, can be traced back to the strategic groundwork of Kosen Judo. Recognizing this historical lineage helps us to approach BJJ not just as a modern martial art, but as part of a larger grappling tradition.

Bringing Kosen Judo Concepts to El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are always looking to grow and expand our grappling knowledge. By incorporating Kosen Judo-inspired drills and concepts into our classes, we can help students refine their ability to control and submit opponents on the mat. Whether it’s working on efficient pins, dynamic guard work, or chaining submissions together, the influence of Kosen Judo offers a wealth of techniques to explore.

So next time you’re on the mat, think about the roots of your favorite submissions and sweeps. They likely have a long history that stretches back to the mats of Japanese universities, where Kosen Judo was once king.

Let’s continue to grow, evolve, and learn from the best aspects of both Kosen Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as we develop our skills here at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Incorporating Wrestling and Judo into Training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in creating well-rounded martial artists by blending the best aspects of multiple disciplines. While Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) forms the core of our training, we also incorporate key elements of wrestling and judo, adding variety to our techniques and improving our members’ overall grappling skillsets.

Wrestling: Emphasizing Control and Takedowns

Wrestling offers powerful tools for controlling opponents and gaining advantageous positions. Our classes frequently integrate wrestling techniques like the single-leg and double-leg takedowns, emphasizing a strong base and explosive movement. Under the guidance of former wrestlers, students learn how to apply these techniques with precision, especially when transitioning from standing to ground combat. Whether you’re a beginner learning to chain together basic takedowns or an advanced student looking to sharpen your control, our integration of wrestling into Jiu Jitsu ensures a well-rounded ground game.

Judo: Leveraging Throws and Balance

Judo’s focus on off-balancing an opponent and executing throws adds another dimension to our training. In class, we incorporate judo techniques such as the Ouchi Gari (inner reap) and Seoi Nage (shoulder throw), teaching students how to blend them into their Jiu Jitsu strategy. Our instruction emphasizes timing and leverage, giving students the ability to execute throws effectively even against larger opponents. By combining Judo throws with BJJ groundwork, members gain a seamless connection between standing and grappling, making their training more comprehensive.

The Benefits of Blending Disciplines

The integration of wrestling and judo gives our students the tools to deal with any grappling situation. Whether it’s transitioning from standing to the ground or controlling an opponent once you’re down, this blend improves versatility and confidence. Plus, these additional skill sets make our members more competitive in tournaments where takedowns and throws often determine the pace of the match.

We are proud to offer this unique approach to training, keeping El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu a place where students of all backgrounds and skill levels can continue to evolve. Whether you’re looking to improve your wrestling, judo, or Jiu Jitsu, our gym offers an environment where you can learn and apply techniques from each discipline, growing your abilities in all areas of grappling.

Join us on the mats to experience how wrestling and judo are seamlessly integrated into our training sessions!

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The Value of Drilling Technique When Starting Jiu Jitsu: The Path to Mastery

When you first step onto the mats at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, the vast world of techniques can feel overwhelming. Arm drags, guard passes, submissions, and escapes—there’s so much to learn. But whether you’re brand new to the art or refining years of experience, drilling technique is the foundation for success. Consistent, focused practice on the basics will elevate your game and help you absorb the core principles of Jiu Jitsu.

Building Muscle Memory Through Repetition

In Jiu Jitsu, muscle memory is your best friend. The more you repeat a movement, the more natural it becomes. The process of drilling embeds these movements deep into your neuromuscular system so that, when you need them in a live roll, they are there automatically, without hesitation.

For beginners to Jiu Jitsu, this means the first steps are about drilling with precision and patience. You might start with simple techniques like basic guard passes, sweeps, or escapes, breaking them down piece by piece until every movement becomes fluid.

The Importance of Resistance

Once you’ve practiced a technique in its most basic form, it’s time to add resistance. Adding controlled resistance helps test your understanding and ability to perform the technique in real-world scenarios. With your partner providing light resistance, you will notice where you need adjustments. Does your grip break? Do you lose balance while transitioning? These small adjustments are where you begin to refine your technique, making it more effective.

When resistance is added, the technique has to function under pressure—just like in a real match. This stage of drilling builds confidence, as you begin to trust your movements and develop the sensitivity needed to adjust based on your partner’s energy.

Doing Resets from a Position

One of the most powerful methods for beginners to ingrain techniques is by resetting from specific positions. Instead of starting from scratch with each drill, you and your partner return to a position where one person is attacking and the other defending. This could be the guard, half-guard, or side control.

Let’s say you’re drilling side control escapes. Each time you escape or get stuck in a submission, instead of standing up and restarting the whole sequence, you go back to the side control position and work the position again and again. This type of positional sparring helps you see how slight variations in your partner’s pressure or grips can alter the dynamics of the position and movement.

Drilling Is Where Champions Are Made

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in drilling with purpose. Whether you’re starting from square one or aiming to master advanced techniques, the path to progress is forged through diligent, consistent practice. By adding resistance and resetting from positions, you sharpen your movements under real conditions, allowing your Jiu Jitsu to thrive both in practice and in competition.

No matter your goals—whether for self-defense, competition, or fitness—drilling will always remain a cornerstone of your success. So, hit the mats, start drilling, and watch your game elevate over time!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

The Value of Fitness for Adults: Why Jiu Jitsu is the Perfect Solution

In today’s fast-paced world, finding the time and motivation for fitness can be a challenge, especially for adults juggling work, family, and other responsibilities. However, prioritizing physical fitness isn’t just about looking good – it’s about enhancing quality of life, maintaining health, and staying sharp mentally. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) offers a perfect balance for adults looking to improve their fitness while enjoying a community-centered activity.

Fitness That Goes Beyond the Gym

Traditional fitness routines like lifting weights or running on a treadmill have their place, but they can often feel repetitive. Jiu Jitsu, on the other hand, offers a dynamic full-body workout that improves strength, endurance, flexibility, and mental acuity. As you practice BJJ techniques, your body learns to move more efficiently, and you get stronger without even realizing you’re “working out.”

Cardiovascular and Strength Benefits

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu provides an intense cardiovascular workout that challenges the heart and lungs. With its fast-paced nature, grappling sessions elevate the heart rate, improving cardiovascular endurance. At the same time, the bodyweight resistance and leverage-based techniques build strength and muscle endurance, making BJJ a great alternative to traditional strength training. Whether you’re rolling with a partner or drilling techniques, every session pushes you physically while building up a more resilient body.

A Low-Impact Option for Longevity

One of the common concerns for adults is the risk of injury in high-impact sports. Fortunately, Jiu Jitsu is largely low-impact, focusing on leverage and technique rather than brute force. While every sport carries some risk, BJJ minimizes strain on the body, making it an excellent choice for adults in their 30s, 40s, and even 50s who want to stay active without the wear and tear that can come from more aggressive physical activities.

Mental Health and Stress Relief

Fitness is not just about physical health—your mental well-being is equally important. Adults deal with stress on a daily basis, and Jiu Jitsu offers an effective way to relieve that tension. The intense focus required during training helps clear your mind, offering a much-needed mental break from daily pressures. Plus, learning new skills and improving over time gives a confidence boost, which can translate into other areas of life.

Community and Accountability

One of the biggest benefits of training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is the sense of community you build. Our classes bring together adults from all walks of life who share the common goal of improving their fitness and their skills. Training partners become friends, and this camaraderie creates an environment of accountability and encouragement. When you’re part of a team, you’re more likely to show up, put in the work, and stay committed to your fitness goals.

Why Start Now?

It’s never too late to make fitness a priority. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, get stronger, or simply improve your quality of life, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can provide the physical and mental benefits you need. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our adult classes are designed for all experience levels, and our experienced coaches are here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to get started? Join us for our 6am class every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, or check out our evening schedule to find the class that fits your lifestyle. Don’t wait – make fitness a priority today and experience the benefits of Jiu Jitsu for yourself!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Jon Chan’s Black Belt Promotion & Seminar – October 1st

We are thrilled to announce a monumental moment for El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. On October 1st, from 6:30-7:30 PM, our very own Jon Chan will receive his black belt, marking the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and resilience on the mats.

Jon has been an integral part of our community, consistently demonstrating the technical excellence, leadership, and perseverance that a black belt symbolizes. His journey is a true inspiration to everyone in the gym—both seasoned practitioners and new students alike.

But the celebration doesn’t stop there. Immediately following Jon’s promotion, he will be teaching his very first seminar as a black belt. This is an exciting opportunity to learn from someone who has lived the journey from white to black belt, and whose mastery of technique is paired with the humility and hard work that epitomize Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Whether you’re a regular at the gym or new to our community, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Come join us as we celebrate Jon’s incredible achievement and gain valuable insights from his years of experience.

Details:

  • Date: October 1st
  • Time: 6:30-7:30 PM
  • Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
  • Seminar led by Jon Chan following the promotion

Let’s come together to support Jon on this unforgettable night!

community

Training to Understand the “Why” at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, it’s easy to get caught up in the “what” of training—what techniques to execute, what drills to practice, what moves to learn. But at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our students to dive deeper into the “why.” Understanding why a technique works, why timing matters, or why positioning is key, is what truly elevates your practice from merely going through the motions to mastering the art.

The Importance of Asking “Why”

When you first step onto the mat, it’s natural to focus on the surface-level mechanics. However, if you only practice the “what,” you risk limiting your growth. By exploring the “why,” you start to build a deeper understanding of the principles and philosophies behind each movement. Knowing why you apply a certain grip in guard or why you move your hips in a specific direction when escaping is where real progress begins.

Training with this inquisitive mindset transforms your approach. It encourages critical thinking, adaptation, and problem-solving—all essential components of Jiu Jitsu and life beyond the mat.

Mastering Technique vs. Understanding Technique

There’s a difference between mastering a technique and understanding it. Mastery comes with repetition and practice, but understanding comes from reflection and questioning. You can drill an armbar a thousand times and have a perfectly sharp execution, but unless you grasp why it works in various situations—such as the opponent’s defense or the opening you’ve created—your application of it may be limited.

Our instructors emphasize this approach, teaching not just the “how” but also diving into the “why” behind the techniques we practice. Whether it’s a high-level concept like leverage or a detailed breakdown of body mechanics, we encourage our students to think deeper and always remain curious.

Becoming a Smarter Practitioner

BJJ is often compared to chess, and that’s where the “why” plays a crucial role. The more you understand the reasoning behind each move, the more strategic and thoughtful your Jiu Jitsu becomes. You start to anticipate your opponent’s actions, respond more fluidly to different scenarios, and make adjustments on the fly.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we want our students to become not just strong practitioners but smart ones. By focusing on the “why,” you develop a more complete understanding of the game, making you more adaptable and resourceful in live rolls and competition. As a result we’ve built in open mat sessions before and after every class and at time during class for students and coaches to collaborate and dive into a position or movement.

Carrying the “Why” into Life

Just like in Jiu Jitsu, life often presents challenges that require more than just knowing what to do; it requires understanding why certain actions lead to success or failure. Training with this mindset builds a habit of reflection and analysis that you can apply to personal and professional aspects of your life.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage all of our students to ask questions, dig deeper, and strive to understand the “why” in everything they do. That’s how we grow—not just as martial artists but as individuals.

Start your journey of understanding today by asking more questions and thinking about why we do what we do on the mat. Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, where we train to think, to adapt, and to improve every day.

community

September Mat Chat: Focusing on Safety at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our monthly mat chats are an opportunity to teach valuable life skills that go beyond the techniques and physical training on the mat. This September, our focus is on safety, a key principle both in and out of the gym.

Why Safety Matters in Jiu Jitsu

Safety is the foundation of successful training. When practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), we trust our training partners and instructors to create an environment where we can push ourselves without unnecessary risk. This principle applies to every roll, every drill, and every technique. Proper safety habits ensure that we can continue to grow and train, free from injury.

Key Concepts of Safety in BJJ

  1. Respect for Your Partner
    A core part of safety is having respect for your training partner. We encourage our students, from Peewee to Juniors, to communicate with their partners—whether it’s tapping out when necessary or discussing how to practice a new technique. By understanding each other’s limits, we create an environment of mutual trust.
  2. Controlled Movements
    Learning to control your movements is essential to preventing injuries. This month, we’ll discuss the importance of practicing with precision rather than relying on force. Whether you’re going for a takedown or an armbar, control ensures that you’re not accidentally putting your partner in danger.
  3. Awareness and Listening
    Awareness is a critical aspect of safety. In September’s mat chat, we’ll talk about listening to your body, understanding when to ease off during a drill, and being mindful of your surroundings. We also remind our students to listen to their coaches, whose experience helps guide them in safely navigating their training.

Safety Beyond the Mat

The lessons we learn about safety in Jiu Jitsu apply to our daily lives as well. Whether it’s crossing the street, riding a bike, or playing a sport, staying safe requires awareness, communication, and control. We want our students to take these lessons and apply them at home, at school, and in their communities. Our goal is to instill a sense of responsibility for both personal safety and the well-being of those around them.

As we discuss this important life skill in our youth classes throughout September, we encourage parents to engage in conversations with their children about how they can stay safe in different aspects of life. Through the practice of BJJ and these vital life skills, we are developing strong, aware, and responsible individuals.

Let’s have a safe and productive month on and off the mat!

community

Drop-Ins Always Welcome at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Whether you’re traveling through El Dorado County, Folsom, or Sacramento County, we welcome you to drop in and train with us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu! Our gym is open to visitors from near and far, offering a space to sharpen your skills, meet new training partners, and experience the supportive community that defines our academy.

We understand that traveling can disrupt your training routine, but at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we make it easy to stay on track. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a work trip, or simply exploring the area, our doors are open to BJJ practitioners of all levels.

Our schedule offers flexible options, from early morning sessions to evening classes, so you can find the time to fit training into your day. Our instructors, provide top-notch instruction that welcomes everyone from white belts to seasoned black belts. You’ll also have the opportunity to roll with some of our talented members, including those who regularly compete.

We love hosting visitors and providing a warm, welcoming environment where you can challenge yourself, learn new techniques, and make the most of your time on the mats. Whether you’re looking to polish up your guard game, work on takedowns, or just enjoy a solid session, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re visiting the area, bring your gi and nogi stuff, bring your enthusiasm, and come experience the unique training atmosphere at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Feel free to look up our schedule or send a text to 965-954-064 to find the best time to drop in. We can’t wait to have you on the mats!

Meeting up with “Chez” a regular drop in from San Diego, at a tournament

Stay sharp, stay connected, and always remember, no matter where you are, you’re never far from a welcoming Jiu Jitsu community!

— The El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Team