Tag Archives: Jiu Jitsu for beginners

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Discover Jiu Jitsu in El Dorado Hills: Be Present, Train Hard

If you live in Folsom Ranch or El Dorado County, you’re surrounded by opportunities to challenge yourself, grow, and develop new skills. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone looking for a new passion, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers an experience that strengthens both mind and body.

The Power of Being Present – On the Mats and in the World

In many ways, Jiu Jitsu is like golf—both demand focus, strategy, and the ability to stay present in the moment. If you’ve ever played a round of golf, you know that overthinking a shot or dwelling on past mistakes can ruin your performance. The same applies to Jiu Jitsu. The best grapplers stay calm under pressure, adapting in real-time to their opponent’s movements.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we teach students how to embrace the moment—whether they’re rolling on the mats or tackling challenges in daily life. Developing this level of awareness isn’t just useful for competition; it carries over to work, relationships, and personal growth.

Why Train Jiu Jitsu?

If you’re from Folsom Ranch, El Dorado Hills, or the surrounding area, here’s why you should give Jiu Jitsu a try:

✔️ Full-Body Workout – Get in the best shape of your life without the boredom of a treadmill.

✔️ Mental Sharpness – Develop quick thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

✔️ Community & Camaraderie – Train alongside supportive teammates who push you to improve.

✔️ Self-Defense Skills – Learn techniques that give you confidence and practical self-defense knowledge.

A Welcoming Place for Everyone

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we welcome all levels—beginners, athletes, and families looking for a positive and challenging activity. Our structured curriculum makes it easy to learn, and our experienced coaches help students improve at their own pace.

Just like in golf, you don’t have to be the best to enjoy the process. Every class is an opportunity to refine your skills, challenge yourself, and step away from distractions to focus on something meaningful.

Try a Class Today

If you’re in Folsom Ranch or anywhere in El Dorado County, now is the perfect time to step onto the mats and experience Jiu Jitsu firsthand. Whether you’re looking to stay active, meet new people, or develop discipline and resilience, BJJ has something to offer.

Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu for a class and discover how being present on the mats can transform your mindset and fitness.

📍 Location: 4669 Golden Foothill Pky #208 El Dorado Hills, CA

📆 Schedule your class today!

By training Jiu Jitsu, you’ll develop the same mental clarity and presence that golfers rely on—except instead of perfecting your swing, you’ll be perfecting your technique on the mats. Are you ready to start your journey?

Wrestling

Wrestling & No-Gi Jiu Jitsu at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu –Open to Folsom Ranch & El Dorado County!

Are you looking for a challenging and rewarding way to improve your fitness, self-defense, and grappling skills? Whether you’re in Folsom Ranch, El Dorado Hills, or anywhere in El Dorado County, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers world-class no-gi Jiu Jitsu with wrestling integration for both adults and kids!

Why Train No-Gi Jiu Jitsu with Wrestling?

No-gi Jiu Jitsu removes the grips and friction of the gi, making it a fast-paced, dynamic form of grappling. By adding high-level wrestling techniques, our program helps students develop:

✅ Stronger takedowns – Master single-leg, double-leg, and body lock takedowns.

✅ Movement & control – Learn to scramble, stay balanced, and dominate positions.

✅ Improved endurance & agility – Develop the athleticism needed to excel in grappling.

✅ Effective self-defense skills – Wrestling and Jiu Jitsu together create a powerful self-defense system.

Adult No-Gi Program: For all levels

Our adult no-gi program is designed for all skill levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grappler. With expert instructors, including former Division 1 wrestlers, you’ll learn:

  • High-percentage takedowns and counters
  • Top control, pressure, and escapes
  • Submission setups from dominant positions
  • Fast-paced drills and live training to sharpen your skills

We welcome Folsom Ranch residents, El Dorado County athletes, and anyone looking to improve their grappling in a high-energy, supportive environment!

Summer Youth No-Gi: A Fun & Engaging Program for Kids & Teens

This summer, our youth no-gi program is the perfect way for kids in Folsom Ranch, El Dorado Hills, and surrounding areas to build strength, confidence, and discipline while learning valuable wrestling and Jiu Jitsu techniques.

☑ Peewee Class (Ages 4-6) – Fun, interactive drills that develop coordination, balance, and movement.

☑ Kids Class (Ages 7-10) – Creative, technical drills that develop skills, balance, and strong foundation.

☑ Juniors/Teens (Ages 11-17) – A structured program incorporating wrestling-based takedowns, escapes, and positional control to sharpen their grappling skills.

Our youth no-gi training builds athleticism, confidence, and mental toughness in a safe and supportive environment.

Join Us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!

If you live in Folsom Ranch, El Dorado Hills, or anywhere in El Dorado County, now is the perfect time to start training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu! Our no-gi program, combined with wrestling, will help you take your grappling to the next level.

📍 Conveniently located near Folsom Ranch and El Dorado Hills!

💥 Ready to train? Sign up for a class today! Click here to visit our website.

community

Unlock Your Potential: EDH Jiu Jitsu welcomes our new community Folsom Ranch

Are you a Folsom Ranch resident looking for a new challenge? Whether you want to get in shape, build confidence, or find a supportive community, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) offers something for everyone. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we welcome students of all ages and experience levels to experience the transformative power of martial arts.

Inspired by the creative philosophy of Rick Rubin, we believe that growth in Jiu Jitsu—just like in art—requires an open mind, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the process. If you’re new to training, stepping onto the mat can feel intimidating, but as Rubin emphasizes, “The best art divides the audience.” Progress in BJJ isn’t about being the best from day one—it’s about committing to the journey.

Why Folsom Ranch Residents Should Try Jiu Jitsu

1. A Break from the Routine

Folsom Ranch is growing rapidly, and with it comes the need for balance in a busy life. Jiu Jitsu provides an outlet where you can step away from screens, daily stresses, and obligations—immersing yourself in a practice that engages both body and mind.

2. Confidence Through Challenge

In The Creative Act, Rick Rubin encourages people to embrace discomfort as a path to personal growth. Jiu Jitsu forces you out of your comfort zone, helping you develop confidence as you tackle challenges on the mat. Over time, this confidence extends beyond training—into work, relationships, and life.

3. A Supportive Community

Growth is easier when you surround yourself with people who uplift you. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, you’ll find training partners who push you to improve while supporting your journey. As Rubin puts it, “Be around people who are interested in creating new possibilities.” That’s exactly what we do here—helping each other grow, one class at a time.

4. Fitness Without the Boredom

Tired of the same gym routine? Jiu Jitsu builds strength, flexibility, and endurance in a way that’s both engaging and rewarding. Instead of counting reps, you’re learning techniques, solving problems, and staying fully present—leading to a stronger body and sharper mind.

Start Your Journey Today

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is just a short drive from Folsom Ranch, making it easy to fit training into your schedule. Whether you’re a beginner or have experience in other martial arts, our instructors will guide you every step of the way.

As Rick Rubin says, “Everything that happens is an opportunity to grow.” If you’re ready to challenge yourself, meet like-minded people, and experience the mental and physical benefits of Jiu Jitsu, we invite you to try a class.

Visit El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu or call us today to get started!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Start Your Morning Strong: Join the 6 AM Jiu Jitsu Class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Are you looking for a way to jumpstart your day with energy, discipline, and a great workout? Our 6 AM Jiu Jitsu class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is the perfect way to build strength, sharpen your mind, and develop real self-defense skills before the rest of the world wakes up. Whether you live in Folsom Ranch, El Dorado Hills, or the surrounding areas, this early morning class offers a unique opportunity to train with a dedicated group of adults who want to challenge themselves and improve every day.

Why Train at 6 AM?

We know mornings can be tough, but training Jiu Jitsu first thing in the morning sets the tone for the rest of your day. Here’s why our students love the 6 AM class:

1. Get Ahead of the Day

By training in the morning, you don’t have to worry about squeezing in a workout later. You’ll leave class feeling accomplished and energized, ready to take on work, family, and everything else in your schedule.

2. Train with a Focused, Motivated Group

The 6 AM class attracts a dedicated crew—people who are serious about improving their skills. You’ll be surrounded by training partners who push each other to be better every session.

3. Beat the Traffic & Make the Most of Your Time

If you’re commuting from Folsom Ranch or El Dorado Hills, an early morning workout means no traffic and no distractions. You’ll get high-quality training without taking time away from family or evening commitments.

4. Start Your Day with a Mental & Physical Edge

Jiu Jitsu is more than just a workout—it’s a way to sharpen your mind, build confidence, and relieve stress. After an hour of rolling on the mats, your body and mind will be fully awake and ready to tackle anything the day throws at you.

What to Expect in the 6 AM Jiu Jitsu Class

• All Levels Welcome: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grappler, our class structure allows everyone to progress at their own pace.

• Expert Instruction: Learn from experienced instructors who provide detailed coaching and practical techniques.

• Great Community: Join a group of like-minded individuals who are committed to growth, fitness, and learning the art of Jiu Jitsu.

• Full-Body Workout: Improve your cardio, strength, flexibility, and problem-solving skills all in one session.

Convenient for Folsom Ranch & El Dorado Hills Residents

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is just a short drive from Folsom Ranch, making it an easy and convenient option for residents looking to train before work. Our gym is welcoming to all adults, from professionals to parents and everyone in between. If you’ve been thinking about trying Jiu Jitsu, this is the perfect time to start!

Try a Class!

We invite you to experience the 6 AM class for yourself. Whether you’re brand new to Jiu Jitsu or looking to add a morning session to your training, you’re welcome to come in and train with us.

Get started today— Contact us or visit our website to sign up.

Make the commitment. Start your day strong. See you on the mats at 6 AM!

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!

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.

community

Experience the Art of Jiu Jitsu with Our Trial Program at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Have you ever wanted to try Jiu Jitsu but weren’t sure where to start? At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand that beginning something new can feel intimidating. That’s why we’ve created a trial program designed to make your first steps on the mat easy, welcoming, and exciting.

Why Try Jiu Jitsu?

Jiu Jitsu offers benefits far beyond physical fitness. It’s a practice that strengthens your body, sharpens your mind, and builds resilience. Whether you’re looking to improve your self-defense skills, gain confidence, or simply try something new, Jiu Jitsu is for everyone—regardless of age, fitness level, or experience.

What Our Trial Program Offers

Our trial program is designed to introduce you to Jiu Jitsu in a supportive and beginner-friendly environment. Here’s what you can expect:

• A Welcoming Community: From the moment you step onto our mats, you’ll be greeted by a friendly and supportive team that’s excited to help you on your journey.

• Beginner-Focused: In class instructors will tailor material for beginners, where we focus on teaching fundamental techniques and movements in a safe and structured way with your partner.

• Personalized Guidance: Our experienced instructors take the time to ensure you’re comfortable and confident as you learn, offering individual attention throughout your trial.

• All Levels Welcome: Whether you’re a complete beginner or have tried Jiu Jitsu before, our trial program is an excellent way to experience our training style and community.

What to Bring and What to Expect

All you need to bring is comfortable workout clothes, a positive attitude, and a willingness to try something new! We’ll provide you with a loaner gi (Jiu Jitsu uniform) for your trial classes, so you can get the full experience of training on the mat.

During your first session, you’ll learn basic positions and movements, giving you a solid foundation to build upon. Expect to have fun, work up a sweat, and leave feeling accomplished!

Join Our Jiu Jitsu Family

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that training is about more than techniques—it’s about team, personal growth, and building lifelong skills. Our trial program is the perfect way to see if Jiu Jitsu is the right fit for you while getting to know the people who make our gym special.

How to Get Started

Getting started is easy! Contact us today to schedule your first trial class. We’ll answer any questions you have, help you prepare for your first day, and ensure your experience is nothing short of exceptional.

Discover the art of Jiu Jitsu and see how it can transform your life. We can’t wait to welcome you to the mats!

Ready to start your journey? Contact us now to book your trial and take the first step toward a healthier, stronger, and more confident you.

community

Celebrate the Holidays with El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu – Our Holiday Schedule

The holidays are a time to relax, reflect, and recharge—and for us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, it’s also a chance to prepare for an exciting year ahead! As the holiday season approaches, we’d like to share our schedule for December 23rd through January 1st, 2025.

During this time, we’ll be taking a brief break to celebrate with loved ones and recharge for the new year. Regular classes will pause on Monday, December 23rd, and we’ll resume our full schedule on Thursday, January 2nd, 2025.

This means:

  • No regular classes from 12/23 through 1/1
  • Classes will restart on 1/2/2025
  • Youth jiujitsu workshop on 12/23 & 12/26
  • Check calendar for pop up classes during break

We encourage everyone to use this time to enjoy the season, stay active, and reflect on your Jiu Jitsu journey. Whether it’s reviewing techniques at home, rolling with family, or simply taking time to reset, let’s come back stronger and ready to train in January!

Why Start Jiu Jitsu in the New Year?

If you’ve been curious about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, there’s no better time to start than at the beginning of the year. With new classes and a welcoming community, we’re here to help you set and achieve your goals. Whether you’re looking to improve fitness, learn self-defense, or find a supportive group of like-minded individuals, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is the place to be.

We’re Inviting the Local Community to Join Us in 2025!

Located in the heart of El Dorado Hills, we’re proud to serve students from all walks of life, including residents of Folsom, Cameron Park, and surrounding communities. Our programs cater to all ages and experience levels—from beginners to advanced practitioners.

Mark your calendars and come experience what makes El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu a standout martial arts school in the area. Classes resume on January 2nd, 2025—start the year on the mat with us!

Get Started

If you’re new to Jiu Jitsu, contact us today to schedule your trial class in January. Whether you’re an individual or a family looking for a fun and challenging activity, our friendly coaches and supportive environment will help you take the first step in your Jiu Jitsu journey.

We can’t wait to see our team—and new faces—on the mats in the new year. Happy Holidays from all of us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!

Contact Us

📍 4669 Golden Foothill pkwy suite 208

📞 916.595.4064

📧 edhbjj@gmail.com

💻 http://www.edhjiujitsu.com

Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, resilience, and community on and off the mats!

community

Learning Jiu Jitsu Like a Video Game: Leveling Up on the Mats

If you’ve ever picked up a controller to play your favorite video game, you’re familiar with the thrill of unlocking new levels, mastering challenging skills, and discovering hidden treasures. What if we told you that learning Jiu Jitsu at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is a lot like playing a video game? Whether you’re a casual gamer or a martial arts enthusiast, this perspective might just change the way you approach training on the mats.

The Beginner Level: Starting Your Journey

Every video game begins with a tutorial level. As a white belt, this is your time to learn the basics—how to grip, move, and defend yourself. Like navigating a new game, you might feel a little clumsy at first, but with consistent practice, those awkward movements become smooth and efficient.

At our gym, we structure our curriculum much like a well-designed game. Beginners work through foundational techniques, like learning guard passes or escapes, similar to earning basic power-ups. Each class is an opportunity to level up and improve your “stats” in strength, flexibility, and confidence.

Earning Experience Points (XP)

Every roll (live sparring session) is an XP boost. Some days, you might “win” by landing a sweep or submission. Other days, you “lose” but gain critical insights into what you need to work on. In Jiu Jitsu, there’s no such thing as failure—only opportunities to learn and grow.

Just like in a game, the more you show up and put in the work, the faster you accumulate XP. The best part? Training with different partners adds variety to your experience, much like encountering new characters or challenges in a game.

Unlocking Advanced Levels and Moves

As you progress through the belts, you’ll notice how your understanding of Jiu Jitsu deepens. Techniques that once felt complicated now seem intuitive, like unlocking a hidden combo or special ability in a game. For example, as a blue belt, you might start chaining moves together—setting up an armbar from a triangle or transitioning from a sweep to a guard pass.

The written standards curriculum at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu helps guide your progress, ensuring that you’re not just randomly mashing buttons but developing a structured, comprehensive skillset.

Boss Battles and Tournaments

Every video game has boss battles, and in Jiu Jitsu, tournaments serve as your real-life equivalent. Facing opponents outside your gym challenges you to apply your skills under pressure. Win or lose, these experiences are invaluable for leveling up.

Even if competing isn’t your thing, every class presents its own “mini-bosses”—those teammates who push you to your limits and force you to problem-solve on the fly.

The Never-Ending Game

Unlike a video game, Jiu Jitsu doesn’t have a final level. Even black belts continue to learn and refine their craft. This endless journey is what makes Jiu Jitsu so rewarding. There’s always a new “move set” to explore, a different “quest” to embark on, and a deeper understanding of the art to unlock.

Join the Game

If you’re ready to start your Jiu Jitsu adventure, we invite you to join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Our coaches and teammates are here to help you level up, one step at a time. Whether you’re a white belt just starting out or a seasoned practitioner looking for new challenges, there’s always room for you to press play and continue your journey on the mats.

Let’s train, level up, and have fun along the way!

community

Learning Jiu Jitsu Through Experience

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that learning is best achieved through experience. Whether you’re drilling an armbar, learning a new guard pass, or rolling during open mat, every moment on the mat is an opportunity to grow. David Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle provides an excellent framework for understanding how we learn from these experiences and apply them to improve over time.

Kolb’s model consists of four stages that form a continuous loop: Concrete Experience, Reflective Observation, Abstract Conceptualization, and Active Experimentation. Let’s explore how these stages connect to Jiu Jitsu training.

1. Concrete Experience

The journey begins with hands-on experience. In Jiu Jitsu, this could be your first attempt at a technique, like a scissor sweep, or your first live roll with a training partner. These experiences provide the raw material for learning.

• On the mat: You try a sweep during sparring but end up losing positioning and getting your guard passed. While it might feel frustrating, this moment is crucial because it sets the stage for growth.

2. Reflective Observation

After the experience, it’s time to reflect. What went well? What didn’t? This stage is all about analyzing what happened to uncover patterns, strengths, and areas for improvement.

• On the mat: You think back to your failed sweep attempt. Was your opponent’s weight too centered? Did you forget to block their arm? By observing and questioning, you begin to identify the reasons behind the outcome.

3. Abstract Conceptualization

This is where you form theories or strategies based on your reflections. You might discuss the technique with your coach, watch instructional videos, or visualize how to make adjustments for the next attempt.

• On the mat: You realize that controlling your opponent’s posture and momentum is critical for a successful sweep. You commit to focusing on these elements during your next practice.

4. Active Experimentation

Now it’s time to test your new understanding. Armed with your insights, you apply the updated strategy during your next training session. This stage completes the learning cycle and begins it anew, as each experiment becomes another concrete experience.

• On the mat: You try the sweep again, this time controlling your opponent’s posture. It works! Even if it doesn’t, you’ve gathered more data to refine your approach further.

The Cycle in Action

Kolb’s cycle emphasizes that learning is not a one-time event but a continuous process. In Jiu Jitsu, this loop repeats every time you step on the mat. Each mistake, success, and adjustment propels you forward.

Why Kolb’s Cycle Matters in Jiu Jitsu

• Individualized Learning: Everyone progresses through the cycle at their own pace. Whether you’re a white belt or a seasoned black belt, the process remains the same: experience, reflect, conceptualize, experiment.

• Building Resilience: The cycle normalizes setbacks as part of the journey. Mistakes are not failures—they’re opportunities to learn.

• Encouraging Curiosity: By reflecting and experimenting, students become active participants in their learning, fostering a deeper understanding of techniques and concepts.

Putting It Into Practice

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our students to embrace this cycle:

• Experience: Attend classes regularly and immerse yourself in drills and sparring.

• Reflect: Take time after training to think about what you learned. Keep a journal or discuss your experiences with teammates.

• Conceptualize: Watch videos, ask questions, and think critically about how to improve.

• Experiment: Come back to the mat ready to test your ideas, knowing that every session is another step forward.

Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle reminds us that mastery in Jiu Jitsu is a journey shaped by experience and reflection. Whether you’re a beginner learning your first guard pass or a seasoned competitor refining your game, the process never ends.

Ready to start your own learning cycle? Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and discover how learning through experience can transform your Jiu Jitsu.