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Adults Jiu Jitsu

The Value of a Structured Curriculum in Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that a well-structured curriculum is the cornerstone of progress for every student, from brand-new beginners to advanced practitioners. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art with seemingly endless techniques, strategies, and variations. Without a clear roadmap, navigating this complexity can feel overwhelming. A structured curriculum provides the guidance and clarity needed to help students learn effectively, grow as martial artists, and achieve their goals.

Building a Strong Foundation for Beginners

When beginners first step onto the mat, the vast world of Jiu Jitsu can seem daunting. A structured curriculum breaks down the art into manageable pieces, ensuring that students focus on learning the essential positions, movements, and concepts. At our gym, white belts are introduced to 12 key positions and over 350 movements in an organized, step-by-step process.

This approach ensures that:

  • Basics Are Mastered: Techniques like escaping side control or performing a basic guard pass become second nature.
  • Confidence Builds: Students can measure their progress, creating a sense of achievement early on.
  • Learning is Consistent: Every beginner learns the same foundational skills, creating a cohesive team where everyone speaks the same “language” of Jiu Jitsu.

Creating a Path for Intermediate Growth

As students progress into the intermediate level, a structured curriculum continues to be invaluable. It provides a clear path for building upon the fundamentals while introducing more advanced techniques, strategies, and combinations.

At this stage, the curriculum helps students:

  • Refine Their Skills: Revisiting foundational techniques with a deeper understanding enhances effectiveness.
  • Expand Their Arsenal: Understanding how techniques like sweeps, submissions, and counters are layered on top of the basics.
  • Develop Strategy: Intermediate students start to see how techniques fit into larger game plans for competition or self-defense.

Supporting Advanced Practice and Mastery

For advanced students, a structured curriculum serves as a guide for continued development. Even black belts benefit from revisiting fundamental concepts and exploring advanced strategies with precision and purpose.

An advanced curriculum focuses on:

  • Specialization: Students can tailor their training to their unique style, whether it’s guard work, passing, or submissions.
  • Innovation: Understanding core principles allows advanced practitioners to experiment and innovate new techniques.
  • Mentorship: Advanced students are equipped to mentor beginners and intermediates, fostering a collaborative and supportive team culture.

Why Structure Matters for the Team

A structured curriculum doesn’t just benefit individual students—it strengthens the entire team. When everyone learns and grows together, the team becomes more cohesive, supportive, and skilled.

  • Consistency Across Classes: Whether you train in the morning or evening, the curriculum ensures all students are learning aligned material.
  • Progress for All Levels: Beginners, intermediates, and advanced students can train together more effectively, sharing knowledge and experience.
  • Cultural Unity: A shared curriculum creates a unified team culture where everyone is working toward common goals.

Commit to the Journey

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re proud of our structured approach to teaching. It allows students to focus on the process, trust in their progress, and enjoy the journey. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, a structured curriculum ensures you’re always building upon a solid foundation.

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of training with a team that values structure, growth, and community, we invite you to join us on the mat. Let’s build together!

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Empowering Through Jiu Jitsu: The Guardian El Dorado Hills Program

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that martial arts is more than just self-defense or competition—it’s a pathway to personal growth, community, and opportunity. This belief inspired the creation of Guardian El Dorado Hills, our 501(c)(3) nonprofit program, which is dedicated to providing scholarships for teens to train Jiu Jitsu, regardless of financial circumstances.

What Is Guardian El Dorado Hills?

Guardian El Dorado Hills is a program designed to break down barriers that prevent young people from accessing the life-changing benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. By covering the costs of training, uniforms, and other essentials, we make it possible for teens to join our mats, learn valuable skills, and become part of a supportive community.

Why Jiu Jitsu?

Jiu Jitsu teaches much more than physical techniques. It builds discipline, humility, and resilience—qualities that help young people face life’s challenges both on and off the mats. For teens, it’s a transformative experience that fosters confidence and mental fortitude. Whether they’re learning how to escape a difficult position in a match or navigating a tough situation in life, Jiu Jitsu provides tools to succeed.

How It Works

Guardian El Dorado Hills provides scholarships to eligible students who are passionate about learning Jiu Jitsu but face financial challenges. The program is supported by generous donations, fundraising events, and the tireless efforts of our gym community.

Students in the program receive:

  • Free or reduced-cost training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
  • Access to uniforms and training gear
  • A welcoming environment with mentorship from experienced instructors

Building a Stronger Community

Through Guardian El Dorado Hills, we aim to make a positive impact not just on the individuals who train, but on our community as a whole. Jiu Jitsu teaches values like respect, accountability, and teamwork, which ripple outward into families, schools, and neighborhoods.

How You Can Help

The success of Guardian El Dorado Hills relies on the support of people like you. There are several ways to get involved:

  • Donate: Contributions of any amount directly fund scholarships and training equipment for students in need. https://givebutter.com/edh
  • Volunteer: Help us organize fundraising events or assist with the program.
  • Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends, family, and local businesses to raise awareness and support.

Looking to the Future

We are proud of what Guardian El Dorado Hills has already achieved, but we’re just getting started. With continued support, we can expand the program to reach even more teens and ensure that financial hardship is never a barrier to joining our mats.

By empowering young people through Jiu Jitsu, we’re building a stronger, more connected community—one student at a time.

For more information or to make a donation, contact us or visit us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Together, we can make a difference!

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

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

Winter Break Workshops Recap | El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

This winter break, El Dorado Hills BJJ hosted two fantastic workshops filled with technical drills, live sparring, and lots of opportunities to improve and have fun. Here’s a recap of what we covered during the sessions:

Day 1: Guard Passing
Our first day focused on the art of passing the guard. Students worked on techniques from three key positions:

  • Combat Base
  • Headquarters
  • Cross Pant Grip

The session was structured with technical drills, positional sparring, and even some fun technical games to keep the energy high. Everyone had the opportunity to refine their skills, try out their favorite techniques, and see real improvement by the end of the day.

Day 2: Back Attacks
The second day was all about back control and attacks. Students learned to finish from the back using techniques such as:

  • Rear Naked Choke (RNC)
  • Bow and Arrow Choke
  • Armbar
  • Triangle Choke

In addition to submission finishes, we explored various ways to take the back and maintain control. The day included detailed drills and situational sparring, allowing everyone to apply what they learned in live scenarios.

Takeaways from the Workshops


Both days emphasized key principles like repetition, technical precision, and creativity. It was incredible to see participants of all levels pushing their limits, learning from each other, and having fun along the way.

Thank you to everyone who attended and made these workshops a success. We’re excited to see you all continue to grow and apply these techniques on the mats. Stay tuned for more events in the future!

See you at training!

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Doing Different to Be Different in 2025: Embracing the Dark Alley Challenge

As the new year approaches, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and setting goals for the future. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that growth requires more than just resolutions—it requires bold action and stepping into the unknown. To illustrate this, let’s explore an analogy we often use in training: the dark alley.

Imagine you’re walking down a familiar street. It’s well-lit, comfortable, and predictable. You know exactly where it leads because you’ve walked it a hundred times before. But this year, let’s consider something different. What if you chose to turn down a dark alley?

This alley is unknown. It’s intimidating. It’s filled with challenges you can’t yet see. But it’s also where transformation happens.

The Comfort of the Well-Lit Path

Most people stick to what’s comfortable: routines, habits, and behaviors that feel safe. There’s nothing wrong with that—it’s human nature to avoid unnecessary risks. But in Jiu Jitsu, as in life, growth comes from embracing discomfort and doing things differently.

Repetition may refine your skills, but innovation pushes boundaries. If you want to be different—whether as a martial artist, a professional, or a person—you have to do things that others won’t.

The Challenge of the Dark Alley

Walking down that dark alley means trying what feels uncertain. It’s the beginner who steps onto the mat for the first time, unsure of what to expect. It’s the seasoned practitioner learning a new technique that feels awkward and clunky at first. It’s competing in your first tournament, not knowing how it will turn out.

In 2025, we challenge you to take those steps into the unknown. Whether it’s committing to early morning classes, focusing on a weak area of your game, or simply showing up when life feels overwhelming, the dark alley is where you’ll find your edge.

Choosing to Be Different

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re proud of our community’s drive to continually improve. This year, let’s all commit to doing something different to be different. Here’s how:

  1. Set Uncomfortable Goals: What scares you? What feels just out of reach? Write it down and take the first step.
  2. Seek Out Challenges: Roll with higher belts. Drill the techniques that frustrate you. Embrace failure as part of the process.
  3. Stay Consistent: The dark alley doesn’t get easier overnight, but showing up consistently will build your confidence and strength.

Growth Beyond the Mats

The lessons learned on the mats translate directly into life. Maybe your dark alley is starting a new career, having a difficult conversation, or pursuing a passion you’ve set aside. The mindset of doing different to be different isn’t limited to Jiu Jitsu—it’s a philosophy that can redefine your year.

Join Us in 2025

This year, we invite everyone in the El Dorado Hills community to step into their own version of the dark alley. Whether you’re new to Jiu Jitsu or a longtime practitioner, our mats are a place to grow, adapt, and thrive.

Let’s make 2025 the year of doing different to be different. The well-lit path may be safe, but the dark alley is where greatness is forged.

Are you ready to take the turn?

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers classes for all ages and experience levels. Join us to start your journey of transformation today.