Tag Archives: el dorado hills Jiu Jitsu

Adults Jiu Jitsu

A Special Visit from Japan’s Elite Jiu Jitsu Athletes

This week, we had the incredible privilege of hosting two exceptional Japanese Jiu Jitsu athletes at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: Hirata-san, a seasoned black belt, and Furukawa-san, a skilled brown belt. Their visit brought a unique energy to our mats, inspiring our students and instructors alike.

Bridging Two Worlds Through Jiu Jitsu

Hirata-san and Furukawa-san are accomplished practitioners from Japan, with years of training and competition experience. Their dedication to the art was immediately evident as they seamlessly integrated into our classes, sharing techniques and insights that reflected the precision and discipline synonymous with Japanese Jiu Jitsu.

The visit was a reminder of how Jiu Jitsu transcends borders, creating a universal language that connects practitioners from different cultures. Despite the differences in our backgrounds, the camaraderie on the mat was instantaneous.

A Lesson in Precision and Technique

During their time with us, Hirata-san shared a few techniques that showcased the traditional approach of Japanese Jiu Jitsu, blending control with efficiency. Furukawa-san, with his technical style, demonstrated transitions and setups that left many of us in awe. These moments were not only a chance to learn new techniques but also to appreciate the depth of skill they brought to every roll.

Strengthening International Bonds

The visit wasn’t just about training—it was about building relationships. After class, we enjoyed exchanging stories about our respective training journeys and discussing the evolution of Jiu Jitsu in Japan and the United States. It’s clear that while our paths may differ, our shared passion for Jiu Jitsu keeps us connected.

A Lasting Impact

Hirata-san and Furukawa-san’s visit is a memory we will cherish. Their expertise, humility, and openness left a lasting impression on everyone at EDH Jiu Jitsu. We’re grateful for the opportunity to train with them and look forward to future exchanges that continue to strengthen the bonds between our communities.

To Hirata-san and Furukawa-san, thank you for visiting us and sharing your knowledge. We hope to return the favor one day and train together again in Japan!

If you’d like to experience the international spirit of Jiu Jitsu for yourself, come train with us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. We welcome all skill levels and backgrounds—because on the mat, we’re all part of the same global family.

Wrestling

Wrestling concepts from Japan: Balancing 力を抜く (Letting Go of Force) and 力を与える (Applying Force) in Martial Arts

In martial arts, there’s a delicate balance between relaxation and exertion. Two essential concepts in this balance are 力を抜く (chikara wo nuku), meaning “letting go of unnecessary force,” and 力を与える (chikara wo ataeru), meaning “applying force effectively.” While 力を抜く teaches us to release energy and move efficiently, 力を与える emphasizes the intentional and precise use of strength when it matters most.

Together, these concepts form a harmonious approach to combat—learning when to relax and when to engage. Let’s explore their relationship and how you can integrate them into your Jiu Jitsu practice.

EDH Jiu Jitsu recently hosted coach Shimizu Seshito PhD and athlete Miyu Nakamura from Combat Label to teach a clinic on the Japanese wrestling system. We gained some insights into a few different concepts emphasized in Japanese wrestling. One repeatedly emphasized concept was how to apply pressure and at the same time redirect or take away that pressure to effectively maintain control. Let’s dive into idea of communication through the application of pressure and releasing pressure.

What is 力を抜く?

力を抜く is about releasing unnecessary tension in the body and mind. This allows for greater freedom of movement, improved energy conservation, and sharper decision-making.

In practice:

  • Relaxation in Transitions: During sweeps, escapes, or guard retention, excessive tension slows you down. Relaxing lets your body flow with the movement.
  • Staying Calm Under Pressure: When someone has you in side control or mount, resisting with brute strength can exhaust you. Instead, focus on breathing, relaxing, and waiting for the right moment to escape.
  • Efficiency in Technique: Muscle strength alone isn’t enough in BJJ. Proper technique is more effective when your body is relaxed and moves fluidly.

What is 力を与える?

力を与える is the purposeful application of force at the right time and in the right way. Unlike 力を抜く, it involves engaging your strength and focus with precision.

In practice:

  • Executing Finishes: Whether locking in an armbar or securing a choke, you must apply controlled force to make your technique effective. Too much or too little, and your submission may fail.
  • Holding Position: When passing guard or maintaining mount, a strong base is critical. This requires intentional application of pressure to keep your opponent controlled.
  • Explosive Transitions: In moments like takedowns or reversals, explosive power (力を与える) is often necessary to succeed.

The Dance Between Relaxation and Force

The real art of martial arts lies in knowing when to apply 力を抜く and when to shift into 力を与える. Too much relaxation, and your technique becomes ineffective. Too much force, and you risk telegraphing your movements, exhausting yourself, or losing the technical battle.

Here’s how these concepts interplay in BJJ:

1. Guard Passing Example:

  • 力を抜く: As you move to pass, keep your upper body relaxed and responsive, using technique rather than strength to clear your opponent’s legs.
  • 力を与える: Once you secure side control, apply steady pressure through your chest and hips to pin your opponent effectively.

2. Escaping Side Control Example:

  • 力を抜く: Relax your shoulders and conserve energy while framing to create space.
  • 力を与える: When you bridge or shrimp, engage your core and legs explosively to escape or regain guard.

3. Submission Example:

  • 力を抜く: During set-up, relax your grip and bait your opponent into exposing a limb or neck.
  • 力を与える: Once the submission is locked in, apply controlled force to finish without hesitation.

How to Practice 力を抜く and 力を与える

  1. Build Awareness: During drills and sparring, focus on how your body feels. Are your muscles unnecessarily tense, or are you too relaxed in critical moments? Adjust accordingly.
  2. Flow Rolling: Use flow rolls to practice the transition between 力を抜く and 力を与える. Focus on moving fluidly until the right moment demands force.
  3. Breathing Techniques: Controlled breathing helps you relax when needed (力を抜く) and engage powerfully (力を与える) during explosive moments. Practice exhaling sharply during exertion to engage your core effectively.
  4. Strength and Conditioning: Developing strength and body awareness outside of class helps you apply 力を与える with precision. Strong muscles combined with relaxation give you better control over your body.

The Broader Lesson

These two principles go beyond martial arts. In life, we often need to balance moments of relaxation with moments of intense effort. Too much force or tension can lead to burnout, while too much relaxation may prevent us from achieving our goals. The interplay between 力を抜く and 力を与える teaches us to stay flexible and intentional in both movement and mindset.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our students to explore this dynamic balance. Whether you’re a beginner learning to relax on the mat or an advanced student refining your timing and pressure, this concept is fundamental to growth.

The next time you step onto the mat, ask yourself: “Am I balancing 力を抜く and 力を与える?” With practice, you’ll find that sweet spot where relaxation and power work in perfect harmony.

Discover the balance for yourself. Join us for a class and see how the interplay of relaxation and controlled force can elevate your Jiu Jitsu game to the next level.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Starting Jiu Jitsu After 50: It’s Never Too Late to Begin

Starting something new at any stage of life can feel intimidating, especially when it involves a physically demanding martial art like Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we firmly believe that age shouldn’t be a limiting factor in martial arts. For those over 50, stepping onto the mats isn’t just about learning self-defense or getting a great workout—it’s about discovering a new way to grow, connect, and thrive.

The Benefits of Jiu Jitsu After 50

1. Physical Fitness and Longevity

Jiu Jitsu provides a low-impact yet highly effective workout that improves strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Training keeps your body moving, which is essential for maintaining mobility and preventing common issues like joint stiffness.

2. Mental Acuity

Jiu Jitsu is often called “physical chess” because of its strategic nature. Learning techniques, anticipating your partner’s moves, and adapting on the fly help keep your mind sharp and engaged.

3. Stress Relief

Life after 50 can come with its own set of challenges—career transitions, empty-nest syndrome, or caring for aging parents. Jiu Jitsu offers an outlet to release stress and focus on the present moment.

4. Community and Connection

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our mats are a welcoming place for everyone. Training builds friendships and camaraderie that can extend beyond training for some. Many of our members in their 50s and beyond find a second family here.

Common Concerns (And Why You Shouldn’t Worry)

• “Am I too old to start?”

Absolutely not. Many of our members began their journey in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s. Jiu Jitsu is scalable, meaning techniques can be adapted to fit your fitness level and goals.

• “Will I get hurt?”

Safety is our top priority. Our classes are structured to ensure proper technique and gradual progression. You’ll train in a controlled, supportive environment with coaches who prioritize your well-being.

• “Will I fit in?”

Yes! At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we celebrate diversity in age, background, and experience. Our community is supportive and inclusive, and we love seeing new faces on the mats.

Tips for Starting at 50+

1. Take it Slow

Don’t feel the need to keep up with younger or more experienced students. Listen to your body and progress at your own pace.

2. Prioritize Recovery

Proper hydration, stretching, and rest are essential to staying injury-free and feeling good after training.

3. Communicate with Your Coach

Let your instructors know about any injuries, limitations, or concerns. They can help tailor the training to suit your needs.

4. Focus on Fundamentals

Learning the basics is key. Jiu Jitsu is a marathon, not a sprint, and a solid foundation will set you up for success.

A Journey Worth Starting

Starting Jiu Jitsu after 50 is about more than learning how to grapple; it’s about proving to yourself that you’re never too old to learn and grow. Every time you step onto the mat, you’re taking a step toward better health, sharper focus, and deeper connections.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, learn self-defense, or simply try something new, we welcome you to join our community and discover the life-changing benefits of Jiu Jitsu.

Take the First Step Today

Ready to get started? Come try a class with us and see how Jiu Jitsu can transform your life—no matter your age.

We’ll see you on the mats!

Wrestling

Experience the Details of Japanese Wrestling Systems at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu This Saturday!

This Saturday, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is thrilled to host a special wrestling clinic featuring two of Japan’s elite coaches: Shimizu Seshito and Nakamura Miyu. These world-class instructors bring decades of experience from Team Japan, known for their incredible performance at the 2024 Olympic and World Championships. This is a unique opportunity to learn the techniques and strategies that have propelled Japan to the forefront of the wrestling world.

Clinic Details

  • • Date: Saturday, January 18
  • Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
  • Schedule: Ages 7–12: 9:00–10:00 AM | Ages 13+: 10:00–11:30 AM

Why Learn Japanese Wrestling System?

Japan’s wrestling systems are renowned for their precision, discipline, and adaptability. At the 2024 Olympics and World Championships, Team Japan captured the world’s attention with their masterful technique, earning multiple podium finishes. Their success stems from blending traditional values with modern training methodologies, making their style not only effective but also incredibly dynamic.

Meet the Instructors

  • Shimizu Seshito: A celebrated wrestling technician with a PhD in Sports Science, who specializes in seamless transitions and innovative setups, Coach Seshito has helped shape the next generation of Japanese champions.
  • Nakamura Miyu: A trailblazer in women’s wrestling, Miyu has an impressive record as a competitor and emphasizing technical excellence and toughness.
Miyu won the 2024 Bill Ferrell in New York and the outstanding wrestler award

What You’ll Learn

Participants will dive into:

  • Takedown setups that emphasize speed and efficiency
  • Advanced techniques for controlling and countering opponents
  • Core drills designed to build power and balance
  • Insights into the mindset and preparation that drive Team Japan’s success

Who Should Attend?

This clinic is open to all experience levels. Whether you’re just starting your wrestling journey or looking to refine your skills for competition, this is a chance to learn from the best.

Don’t Miss This Opportunity

The chance to train with world-class coaches like Shimizu Seshito and Nakamura Miyu is rare. Join us this Saturday to experience the dedication and expertise that define Japanese wrestling.

Register Now at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Let’s elevate your grappling game together! See you on the mats!

community

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

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!

      community

      Supporting the Future Through Jiu Jitsu: The Guardian Project at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

      At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe martial arts have the power to transform lives—not just on the mats but far beyond them. That’s why we’re proud to partner with the Guardian Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for youth to access the life-changing benefits of Jiu Jitsu and fitness.

      What is the Guardian Project?

      The Guardian Project’s mission is simple but impactful: provide scholarships for children and teens to train in Jiu Jitsu, regardless of financial barriers. Through this program, students gain access to structured training, positive mentorship, and a supportive team—all key elements in fostering confidence, discipline, and resilience.

      The project started with the goal of creating safe and empowering spaces for underserved youth, helping them learn not just self-defense but also important life skills like perseverance, respect, and teamwork. To learn more about the Guardian Project’s inspiring work, visit guardiangym.org.

      How El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Supports the Guardian Project

      At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re committed to the vision of making martial arts accessible to everyone. Through the Guardian Project, we offer scholarships to local youth who may not otherwise have the opportunity to train. The program covers tuition and provides gear to ensure students have everything they need to step confidently onto the mats.

      We’re especially proud to host fundraisers like Ruckus in the Hills, our in-house competition, where proceeds directly support the Guardian Project. These events showcase the spirit of community and give everyone a chance to contribute to this meaningful cause.

      Why Jiu Jitsu Matters

      Jiu Jitsu is more than a sport—it’s a tool for personal growth. For many young people, training becomes a foundation for building character, learning conflict resolution, and setting long-term goals. The lessons learned on the mats often translate into better performance at school, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of self-worth.

      By participating in the Guardian Project, we’re not just teaching techniques; we’re investing in the future leaders of our community.

      How You Can Get Involved

      Want to make a difference? Here are a few ways you can support the Guardian Project at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu:

      1. Donate: Contributions to the Guardian Project help cover tuition, gear, and operational costs. Every dollar helps create opportunities for a deserving student.
      2. Participate in Fundraisers: Join us at our next community event, competition, or seminar—proceeds go directly to the Guardian Project.
      3. Spread the Word: Share the mission of the Guardian Project with friends, family, and coworkers. Together, we can amplify its reach.

      Join Us in Making a Difference

      At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re honored to be part of the Guardian Project’s journey. Every scholarship awarded is a step closer to empowering young people through the art of Jiu Jitsu.

      If you’d like to learn more about the program or get involved, visit us at the gym or check out guardiangym.org. Together, we can inspire the next generation—one roll at a time.

      Thank you for your support!

      Adults Jiu Jitsu

      Good Is the Enemy of Great: Lessons for Jiu Jitsu

      At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we strive to embody excellence both on and off the mats. One of the most powerful principles we encourage our students to embrace is the idea that good is the enemy of great. This timeless concept, popularized by Jim Collins in his book Good to Great, reminds us that settling for “good enough” can prevent us from reaching our full potential.

      Collins identifies key principles that help organizations and individuals make the leap from good to great, and these ideas are directly applicable to Jiu Jitsu training and life. Here’s how we can integrate these lessons into our journey.

      1. Level 5 Leadership: Humility Meets Drive

      Collins argues that the best leaders have a unique combination of personal humility and intense professional will. In Jiu Jitsu, the same mindset applies. Great practitioners don’t need to boast or dominate to prove their skill. They consistently show up, train with intention, and push themselves and their teammates to grow.

      For instance, a blue belt who seeks to improve every detail of their game—rather than simply relying on what already works—demonstrates this balance. They remain humble enough to learn from others and driven enough to achieve mastery.

      2. The Hedgehog Concept: Focus on What You Do Best

      The Hedgehog Concept encourages us to identify the intersection of three elements:

      1. What we are deeply passionate about.
      2. What we can be the best at.
      3. What drives our results.

      For Jiu Jitsu students, this means understanding your unique style and focusing on refining it. Are you a guard player? A takedown specialist? Instead of spreading yourself thin trying to master every aspect of Jiu Jitsu at once, hone in on your strengths. Greatness comes from doubling down on what you’re best at while maintaining a deep love for the process.

      Jon wins World Masters

      3. The Flywheel Effect: Build Momentum Over Time

      Collins describes greatness as a flywheel: small, consistent pushes that eventually create unstoppable momentum. In Jiu Jitsu, this translates to showing up to class even when you feel tired, drilling techniques with intention, and focusing on incremental progress.

      A black belt isn’t earned overnight—it’s the result of years of steady effort. When you commit to the process, you’ll notice that the techniques that once felt impossible eventually become second nature.

      4. Confront the Brutal Facts: Be Honest About Weaknesses

      To move from good to great, Collins emphasizes the need to confront reality, even when it’s uncomfortable. In Jiu Jitsu, this might mean recognizing a weak area in your game. Maybe your guard retention needs work, or perhaps your cardio is holding you back.

      Instead of avoiding these truths, address them head-on. The path to greatness requires embracing your vulnerabilities and turning them into strengths.

      5. Disciplined Action: Consistency Over Time

      Collins explains that greatness isn’t about grand gestures but disciplined action over time. For Jiu Jitsu practitioners, this means adhering to a routine, maintaining focus during training, and always striving to improve.

      Good students come to class sporadically or train without clear goals. Great students show up consistently, study technique, and commit to disciplined practice.

      Embracing Greatness at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

      At EDH Jiu Jitsu, we encourage all of our students—whether you’re a brand-new white belt or a seasoned competitor—to avoid the trap of settling for “good enough.” The journey from good to great requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn and grow.

      By adopting principles like the Flywheel Effect, disciplined action, and humility, you’ll not only elevate your Jiu Jitsu but also enrich other aspects of your life. Greatness isn’t reserved for the naturally gifted; it’s a choice, a commitment to excellence made day after day.

      Let’s choose greatness together—one day at a time.