At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our Juniors & Teens program (ages 11-17) is designed to help young athletes develop confidence, discipline, and resilience—both on and off the mat. Whether your child is brand new to Jiu Jitsu or an experienced competitor, our structured curriculum provides the tools they need to grow into strong martial artists and leaders.
What to Expect in Class
Our Juniors & Teens class focuses on technical Jiu Jitsu, live training, and character development in a positive and challenging environment. Students will:
✅ Learn Effective Self-Defense – We teach real-world techniques that help students protect themselves while emphasizing control and awareness.
✅ Build Strength & Athleticism – Jiu Jitsu is a full-body workout that improves agility, coordination, and endurance.
✅ Develop Mental Toughness – Training teaches perseverance, problem-solving, and how to stay calm under pressure.
✅ Gain Confidence & Leadership Skills – As students progress, they learn to mentor newer teammates and take on challenges with a growth mindset.
A Safe & Supportive Training Environment
We know that middle school and high school can be challenging years, which is why we foster a positive, team-oriented atmosphere where students feel supported. Our instructors emphasize respect, discipline, and sportsmanship—values that carry over into school, sports, and life.
Competition & Advancement
For those interested in testing their skills, our competition team offers opportunities to compete at local and national events. But whether a student competes or not, we focus on personal growth and steady progress through our structured belt system.
Join the Team!
If you’re looking for an activity that builds confidence, teaches valuable life skills, and provides a great workout, our Juniors & Teens Jiu Jitsu program is the perfect fit. Come try a class and see firsthand how Jiu Jitsu can help your child grow into a strong, resilient young adult.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, the early morning class is more than just training—it’s a way of life. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 6AM, a dedicated group of grapplers starts their day with hard work, technique, and working together as a team.
Why Train at 6AM?
Life is busy. Between work, family, and responsibilities, finding time to train can be tough. Our 6AM class gives you the opportunity to improve your Jiu Jitsu without disrupting the rest of your day. Whether you’re an early riser by nature or just looking to make the most of your time, this class sets the tone for a productive and energized day.
Who Trains at 6AM?
The 6AM crew is a mix of all levels—from white belts learning the fundamentals to seasoned black belts refining their game. What they all have in common is commitment. The early morning atmosphere fosters focus and discipline, with everyone pushing each other to improve.
Our students come from all over El Dorado County, some driving in from Folsom, Cameron Park, Placerville, and beyond, just to get their training in before the sun rises. It’s not just a class—it’s a community of like-minded individuals who choose to challenge themselves before the rest of the world wakes up.
What to Expect
Each session includes:
✅ Technical instruction – Learn new movements, refine existing techniques, and develop a deeper understanding of Jiu Jitsu.
✅ Positional drilling – Repetition is key to building muscle memory and sharpening reactions.
✅ Live training – Get high-quality rounds in, helping you apply what you’ve learned in real time.
By the time you leave the mat, you’ll have already accomplished something before most people have started their day.
Join the 6AM Crew
If you’re looking to build consistency, improve your skills, and train with a motivated group, our 6AM class is waiting for you. Whether you’re a competitor preparing for your next tournament or a hobbyist looking to stay active, there’s a place for you on the mat.
Come see why 6AM at EDH Jiu Jitsu is one of the best ways to start your day. Set your alarm, show up, and get after it!
Last week, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu had the incredible opportunity to host two world-class wrestlers from Japan—Shimizu Seshito and Nakamura Miyu—for a special wrestling clinic. Both athletes, representing Combat Label, brought an elite level of technical expertise and competition experience, sharing insights that left a lasting impact on everyone in attendance.
Elite Wrestling Meets Jiu Jitsu
Seshito and are both decorated wrestlers, known for their dynamic styles and high-level takedown techniques. Their visit to El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu was a rare chance for our students to learn directly from some of the best in the sport.
Throughout the clinic, they covered key aspects of wrestling for Jiu Jitsu, including:
Effective setups for takedowns
Hand fighting strategies
Chain wrestling sequences to maintain control
Scrambling techniques to recover and counter
The level of detail and precision in their instruction was impressive, helping both beginners and experienced grapplers refine their skills.
A Unique Cultural Exchange
Beyond the technical aspects, having Shimizu and Miyu at our gym was an inspiring cultural exchange. Wrestling is deeply rooted in Japanese combat sports, and their visit gave us insight into the intensity and discipline of high-level Japanese training. The energy in the room was incredible, with students eager to soak up knowledge and push their limits.
Combat Label Summer Camp in Japan
For those looking to take their training to the next level, Combat Label offers an exclusive summer camp in Japan that provides an immersive experience in elite wrestling and grappling. The camp brings together top athletes, coaches, and competitors, focusing on high-level techniques, strength conditioning, and the mental aspects of competition.
This camp is an incredible opportunity for Jiu Jitsu and wrestling practitioners who want to sharpen their skills in a focused training environment. Beyond the mat, participants also get to experience Japanese culture, train alongside world-class talent, and build lasting connections with the global grappling community.
If you’re serious about improving your wrestling for Jiu Jitsu, the Combat Label Summer Camp is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Click this link for more details on how to join, and let’s continue to learn and grow from the best!
The Impact on Our Students
For many of our competitors, this clinic was a game-changer. Learning from high-caliber wrestlers like Seshito and Miyu reinforced the importance of positional awareness, footwork, and pressure—elements that directly translate into success on the Jiu Jitsu mats.
We are incredibly grateful to Combat Label for making this event possible and to Shimizu Seshito and Nakamura Miyu for sharing their expertise with us. Their influence will undoubtedly be felt in our training sessions moving forward.
Stay tuned for more opportunities to train with world-class athletes at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. If you missed this clinic, make sure to catch the next one—your takedown game will thank you!
Imagine spending a week in one of Japan’s most scenic coastal towns, combining world-class grappling and wrestling training with cultural immersion. This summer, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu invites you to join the ultimate combat sports camp in Miyazaki, Japan, hosted by Combat Label. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, this camp is designed to elevate your skills under the guidance of an elite coaching staff.
Why Miyazaki, Japan?
Miyazaki, located on the southern island of Kyushu, is known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and welcoming atmosphere. Beyond the training mat, participants will have opportunities to experience authentic Japanese culture, enjoy traditional cuisine, and explore breathtaking natural landscapes. The serene environment provides the perfect balance between intense training sessions and relaxation.
Camp Overview
Dates: July 23 (Wednesday) – July 27 (Sunday), 2025
Location: Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan
Training Sessions:
Wrestling: Four sessions led by world-class athletes and coaches
Grappling: Three sessions led by top-tier instructors
Open Mat: One session for free practice and technique refinement
Physical Training: Two sessions conducted by a sports scientist
Learning Program: One session focusing on the mental aspects of combat sports
Participants have the flexibility to choose sessions that align with their interests and goals.
Coaching Staff
The camp boasts a distinguished lineup of coaches:
Wrestling Coaches:
Miyu Nakamura: COO of Combat Label, NY International Tournament MVP, Kiev International Tournament Champion
Clarissa Chun: Head Coach at the University of Iowa, World Champion, Olympic Medalist
Tulga Ochir: Mongolian Federation 65kg, Asian Games Champion, World Championship Bronze Medalist
Grappling Coaches:
Keito Oyanagi: Instructor at Carpe Diem Hiroo, JBJJF All Japan Championship 1st place, IBJJF Pan Pacific Championship 1st place
Eliot Kelly: Coach at El Dorado Hills BJJ, IBJJF NoGi World Championships Silver (2x), Bronze (3x), UWW Grappling Silver
Koshiro Hirata: Instructor at Carpe Diem Jiyugaoka, JBJJF All Japan Championship 1st place, IBJJF Asian Championship 1st place
Additional Features
Accommodations: Stay at a comfortable resort hotel with provided meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Transportation: Shuttle service from Miyazaki Airport to the hotel (approximately 30 minutes).
Cultural Activities: Engage in sightseeing and local activities in Nichinan City.
Language Support: English and Chinese translators will be available to facilitate communication.
Registration Details
Cost: $1,800 for the full camp experience (4 nights, 5 days)
Capacity: Limited to 60 participants to ensure personalized coaching.
Special Offers: Participants can enjoy a 30% discount on NIKE wrestling shoes during the camp.
Registration
Application Deadline: March 10, 2025, or until capacity is reached.
To secure your spot, please complete the registration form available on the Combat Label website.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to train with elite coaches, enhance your skills, and experience the rich culture of Miyazaki, Japan. Whether you’re aiming to refine your techniques or seeking a transformative adventure, Combat Label’s Summer Camp is designed to help you achieve your goals.
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!
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that learning a skill should go hand-in-hand with building strength, improving fitness, and cultivating discipline. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) offers a unique blend of mental and physical growth, where every step on the mat is a step toward mastering technique and transforming your body.
Why Skill-Based Training Matters
Skill-based training, like BJJ, keeps you engaged. Unlike repetitive workouts at the gym, every session brings new challenges. Whether it’s learning to escape side control, setting up a triangle, or perfecting your guard retention, the focus on technique makes every class feel purposeful.
When you’re practicing a skill, your mind and body are working together. This mental engagement sharpens focus and problem-solving abilities while simultaneously building functional strength, agility, and endurance. You’re not just burning calories—you’re gaining confidence and self-defense skills that can last a lifetime.
Fitness Through Repetition
Practice is the foundation of growth in Jiu Jitsu. Each time you drill a movement or spar with a partner, you’re improving muscle memory and fine-tuning your coordination. The beauty of this process is that fitness becomes a byproduct.
Strength: Grappling movements like sweeps and takedowns build full-body strength.
Cardio: Rolling (sparring) increases stamina as you flow through positions and transitions.
Flexibility: Techniques like guard retention improve flexibility and joint mobility.
As you focus on mastering techniques, you’ll notice your fitness improving almost effortlessly.
The Joy of Progress
The journey in BJJ is about incremental growth. One day, you’ll nail a sweep that seemed impossible weeks ago. These “aha!” moments fuel motivation and reinforce the value of consistent practice. And as your skills improve, so does your physical conditioning.
Our structured curriculum at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu ensures that everyone, from beginners to advanced students, has a clear path for growth.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re looking for a way to challenge your mind, get fit, and learn a valuable skill, Jiu Jitsu might be the perfect fit. We welcome students of all ages and fitness levels to join us on the mats.
Come in for a trial class and experience how practice can lead to both skill mastery and a stronger, healthier version of yourself.
Start your journey with us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu—where practice doesn’t just make perfect, it makes progress.
If you’re thinking about getting into martial arts, you’re not alone! People from all walks of life are discovering the benefits of martial arts training, from improved fitness to greater confidence. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we make it easy for anyone to get started with martial arts, whether you’re interested in fitness, self-defense, or building mental resilience. Here’s why training at our dojo is a great choice for beginners and experienced athletes alike.
The Benefits of Training in Martial Arts
People often come to martial arts to get in shape, learn self-defense, or simply try something new. Whatever your goals, training in martial arts offers a range of benefits for both your physical and mental health.
• Boosted Fitness and Flexibility: Martial arts training provides a full-body workout that strengthens your muscles, improves flexibility, and increases cardiovascular health.
• Stress Relief: Physical activity is a natural stress reliever, and martial arts training helps you focus, clear your mind, and leave the day’s worries behind.
• Self-Defense Skills: Learning effective self-defense techniques gives you the tools to protect yourself and boosts your confidence in any situation.
• Mental Toughness and Focus: Martial arts challenge your mind as much as your body, teaching patience, discipline, and resilience that translate to other areas of your life.
What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that focuses on grappling and ground fighting, using technique and leverage to control and submit opponents. Unlike some martial arts that rely heavily on strength, BJJ is about using technique to overcome an opponent, making it accessible for people of all sizes and fitness levels. BJJ is also an effective self-defense skill, as it emphasizes controlling an attacker without necessarily causing harm.
Why Choose El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu?
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re more than just a gym—we’re a supportive, community-driven martial arts school where everyone is encouraged to reach their full potential. Here’s what makes our dojo a special place to train:
1. Experienced, Passionate Instructors: Our coaches are highly skilled in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and other martial arts, bringing years of experience and dedication to every class. They’re here to guide you, answer your questions, and make sure you’re learning safely and effectively.
2. Beginner-Friendly Classes: We know it can feel intimidating to start something new, but we’ve created a welcoming environment for beginners. Our structured classes allow you to learn at your own pace, building confidence and skills from day one.
3. Community Atmosphere: One of the biggest benefits of training with us is joining a community that’s a supportive team. Whether you’re a young student, an adult just starting, or an experienced athlete, you’ll feel the encouragement and support of everyone around you.
4. Programs for All Ages and Levels: From youth programs for kids to advanced classes for adults, we offer something for everyone. Our kids’ classes focus on fun and discipline, while our adult classes offer serious training for fitness, self-defense, and competition.
Flexible Schedule to Fit Your Life
We understand that finding time to train can be challenging, which is why we offer a variety of class times, including early morning, afternoon, and evening options. Whether you’re looking to get a workout in before work or prefer evening sessions, we have classes to fit your schedule.
How to Get Started
Starting martial arts might seem intimidating, but at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we make it simple. Here’s how to take your first step:
1. Contact Us: Reach out to us to learn more about our classes and schedule. We’re happy to answer any questions you have.
2. Try a Class: We offer a introductory class so you can experience our training firsthand, meet our coaches, and get a feel for the community.
3. Join Our Community: If you enjoy the class, we’ll help you get set up with a membership that fits your goals and schedule.
Take the First Step Toward a Stronger You
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is here to help you on your martial arts journey, whether you’re looking to improve fitness, learn self-defense, or challenge yourself mentally. Join our supportive, friendly community and experience the benefits of martial arts training for yourself.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to book your free introductory class and take the first step toward a stronger, more confident you!
Last Saturday, our team represented El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu with heart and dedication at the JJWL (Jiu Jitsu World League) tournament in Stockton. This event brought together grapplers of all ages, levels, and styles, making it a thrilling experience for both competitors and supporters. It was a day filled with intense matches, showcasing our students’ hard work and the growth of our gym.
We’re proud to announce that our team clinched an impressive 2nd place in the youth division. This ranking is a testament to our competitors’ commitment to training and to the strong support from our community, coaches, and teammates who were there cheering from the sidelines.
Highlights from the Tournament
The competition had no shortage of memorable moments. Our team members stepped onto the mats with focus, determination, and skill. Every match tested their endurance, resilience, and ability to adapt. Some highlights included:
• Relentless Techniques: Our competitors displayed exceptional technical skills, putting months of training to use in real time. Every position, escape, sweep, and submission attempt brought our students closer to mastering their craft.
• Team Spirit: One of the defining features of the event was the strong sense of camaraderie. Between matches, our athletes shared advice, offered encouragement, and celebrated each other’s successes. It was a true demonstration of the unity and respect we strive for at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu.
• Growth and Learning: For many, this was a valuable learning experience. Each match provided insights into areas for improvement, whether it was refining a specific technique or developing mental resilience. Tournaments like these help us grow as martial artists and bring us one step closer to achieving our personal goals.
Youth competitor medalists: Belle – silver, Eli – silver, Hazel – silver in gi & nogi, Colin – gold in gi & nogi. Jake was the only adult competitor from EDH and he took gold in nogi and bronze in the gi, an impressive accomplishment for his first tournament appearance!
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate our team’s outstanding performance, we also look forward to future competitions. These events are more than just a chance to earn medals—they are opportunities for personal growth, team bonding, and the thrill of testing our skills against new opponents. Whether our students are seasoned competitors or entering their first tournament, every experience adds to the depth of their Jiu Jitsu journey.
A huge thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and represented El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu at JJWL in Stockton. Let’s keep up the hard work, learn from every experience, and continue to push ourselves on the mats.
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is celebrating an incredible achievement with Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez, who has trained with our coach Eliot Kelly, secured a dominant victory in his UFC main event. This win represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to improvement.
Anthony’s performance in the Octagon showcased not only his grit and heart but also his technical mastery. His striking and ground game were on full display, but perhaps the most impressive aspect was his ability to stay calm under pressure—something that’s been a cornerstone of his training.
Coach Eliot has been a part of Anthony’s journey since 2021, helping to refine his Jiu Jitsu skills and prepare him for the top levels of competition. As a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and a respected coach with a wealth of grappling knowledge, Eliot’s guidance has made a contribution to Anthony’s success in the cage. Whether it’s drilling submissions, refining transitions, or developing fight strategy, Anthony is a constant student of the sport.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in building not only strong competitors but also strong individuals. Anthony’s victory is a testament to the perseverance, discipline, and dedication that martial arts instills in its practitioners. We are incredibly proud to have been part of his journey, and we look forward to seeing even more success in his future.
For anyone inspired by Anthony’s win, remember that the path to success starts right here on the mats. Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, whether you’re looking to compete or just improve your fitness, discipline, and mental strength, we’re here to help you on your journey.
Congratulations to Anthony Hernandez on this amazing accomplishment! The entire El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community is behind you as you continue to make waves in the martial arts world.
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.
