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Kids Jiu Jitsu

Junior & Teens Jiu Jitsu: Building Strong, Confident Leaders

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.

📅 Class Schedule: [Tuesday & Thursday 5:20pm / Friday 6pm / Saturday 9am]

📍 Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

📩 Sign Up for a Trial Class: [ edhbjj@gmail.com ]

We can’t wait to welcome you to the EDH Jiu Jitsu family!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

The Value of Flexibility Training in Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we emphasize the importance of movement efficiency, control, and longevity on the mats. One of the often-overlooked aspects of improving movement in Jiu Jitsu is flexibility training. Developing flexibility doesn’t just help with injury prevention—it enhances your ability to flow between techniques, maintain strong positions, and apply submissions with greater ease.

Kit Laughlin’s Approach to Flexibility

One of the leading figures in the field of flexibility training is Kit Laughlin, whose principles focus on:

  • Progressive Stretching: Moving beyond passive flexibility by incorporating contract-relax techniques that help the body gradually adapt to greater ranges of motion.
  • End-Range Strength: Developing strength in stretched positions, ensuring that flexibility isn’t just passive but functional.
  • Dynamic Movement: Using controlled movement to improve flexibility dynamically, rather than relying solely on static stretching.

These principles are especially valuable in Jiu Jitsu, where flexibility isn’t just about being able to stretch further—it’s about being able to move effectively in challenging positions.

How We Incorporate Flexibility Training in Our Classes

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we integrate flexibility work into our training in several ways:

  • Warm-Ups with Purpose: Rather than generic static stretches, our warm-ups often include mobility drills that open up the hips, shoulders, and spine—areas crucial for effective grappling.
  • Dynamic Stretching for Movement Prep: Before drilling, we use controlled, movement-based flexibility exercises to prepare the body for Jiu Jitsu-specific positions.
  • End-Range Strength Training: Certain drills help build strength in stretched positions, such as working from deep squats, modified splits, and bridge positions to improve hip and spine mobility.
  • Cool-Down and Recovery: After training, we incorporate longer-held stretches and relaxation techniques to enhance recovery and maintain flexibility over time.

Why It Matters for Your Jiu Jitsu

Increased flexibility means:

  • Better Guard Retention & Recovery – More mobility in the hips and hamstrings allows you to recover guard more effectively.
  • Improved Defense – Flexible shoulders and hips can help you escape submissions with greater movement in the hips and shoulders.
  • Greater Longevity in the Sport – A flexible body is more resilient, reducing the risk of injuries that can sideline your training.

If you’re looking to improve your movement in Jiu Jitsu, consider focusing more on flexibility training. At EDH Jiu Jitsu, we’re committed to helping our students move better, train smarter, and stay on the mats for years to come. See you on the mats!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

The 6AM Jiu Jitsu Crew: Start Your Day on the Mat

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!

See you on the mats!

Wrestling

Wrestling Clinic at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu with Combat Label’s Shimizu Seshito and Nakamura Miyu

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!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Building Complete Grapplers: The Hybrid Nogi Curriculum at EDH Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that a truly well-rounded martial artist is dangerous both on the feet and on the ground. That’s why our nogi curriculum for kids and adults is designed as a hybrid system that seamlessly blends wrestling and submission grappling. This approach ensures that our students develop the skills and confidence to excel in all aspects of grappling, whether they’re competing in tournaments or simply training to improve their craft.

Why a Hybrid Approach?

Traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu focuses heavily on ground techniques, with an emphasis on positional control and submissions. While these are essential skills, grappling starts on the feet, and the ability to dictate where the fight goes is just as critical. Wrestling brings the explosiveness, takedowns, and positional dominance that are often overlooked in traditional BJJ. By merging wrestling with submission grappling, our students learn to master transitions between the two realms, becoming more adaptable and effective athletes.

What Does Our Nogi Curriculum Look Like?

1. Wrestling Foundations:

Incorporating wrestling into our nogi classes gives students the tools to control the match from the very beginning. We focus on:

  • Takedowns like double legs, single legs, and snap downs.
  • Defensive techniques to avoid being taken down, such as sprawls and counter-offense.
  • Clinch work, including setups for trips and throws.

2. Submission Grappling Techniques:

Once the fight hits the mat, submission grappling shines. Our curriculum emphasizes:

  • Positional control, such as side control, mount, and back control.
  • Smooth transitions to maintain dominance.
  • Submissions, including chokes, arm locks, and leg locks, tailored for nogi scenarios where grips are different.

3. Bridging the Gap:

The true magic of our curriculum lies in teaching students to seamlessly transition between wrestling and grappling. For example:

  • Using wrestling takedowns to enter dominant positions for submissions.
  • Escaping from bad positions by blending wrestling scrambles with Jiu Jitsu scrambles.
  • Developing the ability to flow between explosive movements and calculated control.

Why It Works for Kids and Adults

For our younger students, this hybrid curriculum builds a strong athletic foundation. Kids learn coordination, balance, and strength while also developing discipline and resilience. For adults, the integration of wrestling and submission grappling creates versatile athletes who are prepared for any situation—whether in competition or self-defense.

Becoming a Complete Grappler

At EDH Jiu Jitsu, our goal is to create well-rounded athletes who excel in both nogi and gi environments. By combining the best of wrestling and submission grappling, our nogi curriculum gives students the confidence to take on any challenge, both on the feet and on the ground.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to refine your skills, our hybrid nogi program will help you become a complete grappler. Ready to elevate your game? Join us on the mats and experience the difference at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu.

community

Cultivating a Growth Mindset at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that success on the mat isn’t just about physical ability—it’s about mindset. Carol Dweck’s groundbreaking research on mindset, as described in her book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, provides a powerful framework for how we approach learning and growth in our academy.

Dweck outlines two types of mindsets: fixed and growth. A fixed mindset sees abilities as static—either you’re “good at something” or you’re not. In contrast, a growth mindset embraces challenges, views effort as a path to mastery, and sees setbacks as opportunities to learn.

In Jiu Jitsu, this distinction is crucial. Whether you’re a beginner learning to escape side control or an advanced practitioner refining your guard, how you perceive failure will dictate your progress. Do you see a lost match as a reflection of your limitations? Or do you see it as feedback on where to improve?

Building a Growth Mindset Culture

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we strive to foster a culture where growth mindset is at the core of everything we do:

1. Normalizing Mistakes as Part of the Journey

Mistakes aren’t just inevitable in Jiu Jitsu—they’re essential. Each failed attempt teaches you something new. We encourage our students to approach mistakes with curiosity instead of frustration.

During our classes, you’ll often hear coaches reminding students, “This is where the learning happens.” When you struggle with a technique, it’s not a sign of failure but an opportunity to grow stronger, more technical, and more resilient.

2. Celebrating Effort, Not Just Results

While medals and victories are worth celebrating, we place equal emphasis on effort and perseverance. Whether it’s showing up consistently for the 6am class, working on a weak area, or helping a teammate improve, these actions reflect the true spirit of Jiu Jitsu.

By valuing hard work over natural talent, we create an environment where everyone feels empowered to grow, no matter where they start.

3. Feedback as a Gift

Carol Dweck highlights the importance of constructive feedback in cultivating a growth mindset. At our academy, feedback is given with the intention of helping you reach your potential. Rather than focusing on what went wrong, we ask, “What can we do better next time?”

This approach helps students detach their ego from the process, making it easier to embrace challenges and setbacks.

4. Modeling Growth Mindset

Our instructors lead by example, showing that even black belts are perpetual students. When our coaches share their own struggles and breakthroughs, it reinforces the idea that growth is a lifelong journey.

Why It Matters

Cultivating a growth mindset isn’t just about becoming a better martial artist; it’s about becoming a more adaptable, resilient person in every aspect of life. Whether you’re facing challenges at work, school, or in personal relationships, the lessons learned on the mat—perseverance, humility, and continuous improvement—carry over.

Join Us on the Journey

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re committed to building a community where growth is celebrated, and everyone feels empowered to reach their potential. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a first-time student, our culture of learning and support will help you unlock new levels of skill and confidence.

Ready to embrace the journey? Join us for a class and experience the growth mindset in action.

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!

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

      Safety Features in Jiu Jitsu Practice at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

      At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, safety is our priority. From beginner to advanced levels, we ensure that every student trains in an environment that promotes learning, respect, and physical well-being. Jiu Jitsu is a martial art that challenges the body and mind, and we’ve implemented several safety measures to make the journey enjoyable and sustainable for everyone.

      1. Structured Curriculum and Progression

      Our training is built on a structured curriculum designed to match skill levels. Beginners are introduced to techniques with low risk of injury, focusing on fundamentals like posture, movement, and basic submissions. This gradual progression ensures students build confidence and competence without unnecessary risks.

      2. Safe Training Spaces

      Our mats are made of high-quality materials designed to minimize impact and protect joints during falls, rolls, and takedowns. The space is kept clean and sanitized regularly to prevent skin infections and create a healthy training environment.

      3. Qualified Instructors

      All our instructors are experienced practitioners who emphasize safety in every class. They monitor training closely to ensure techniques are performed correctly and provide guidance to prevent accidents.

      4. Tap Culture and Controlled Sparring

      In Jiu Jitsu, “tapping” is a universal signal to stop, ensuring that practitioners can safely test techniques without the risk of injury. Our students are taught to respect the tap and train at controlled intensities that prioritize learning over competition.

      5. Open Communication

      We maintain an open-door policy where students and parents can communicate any concerns about safety, including speaking up to your partner to ask for more or less resistance or intensity. Whether it’s about training partners, techniques, or personal comfort, we listen and adapt to create a positive experience.

      6. Emergency Preparedness

      Our instructors are trained in basic first aid and CPR, and the facility is equipped with a first aid kit and an AED machine to handle minor or serious emergencies promptly.

      7. Life Skills Through Safety

      In our youth program, we dedicate time to teaching safety as a life skill. During mat chats, we discuss the importance of self-awareness, respecting boundaries, and looking out for training partners—lessons that extend beyond the mats.

      8. Rest and Recovery Emphasis

      We encourage students to listen to their bodies and take breaks when needed. Recovery is an essential part of training safely and avoiding burnout or overtraining.

      At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that a safe environment fosters confidence, teamwork, and long-term growth. Whether you’re new to Jiu Jitsu or a seasoned practitioner, our commitment to safety ensures that you can enjoy your training and progress with peace of mind.

      Ready to experience safe and effective Jiu Jitsu training? Visit us for a trial class and see how we prioritize your well-being on and off the mats.

      community

      The Value of Martial Arts: Why Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Is a Life-Impacting Practice

      Martial arts have long been celebrated for their ability to transform lives, instilling discipline, confidence, and resilience in those who practice them. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’ve seen firsthand how Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) becomes more than just a sport or self-defense system—it can shape how we eat, think, and behave.

      Building Physical and Mental Strength

      BJJ is often called “the gentle art” because it allows practitioners to overcome stronger opponents using technique and leverage rather than brute force. This focus on technique helps build a deep connection between body and mind.

      • Physical Benefits: Improved strength, flexibility, cardio, and overall fitness.

      • Mental Benefits: Problem-solving under pressure, improved focus, and stress relief.

      As students learn to navigate the challenges on the mat, they develop the confidence to handle challenges off the mat, too.

      Fostering a Growth Mindset

      Jiujitsu is unique in that progress is earned through consistent effort and perseverance. There are no shortcuts—progress represents dedication and improvement. This teaches students that setbacks are opportunities to grow and refine their skills.

      This mindset, known as kaizen (continuous improvement), extends to other areas of life, such as work, relationships, and personal development.

      Creating a Community of Support

      Martial arts thrive on a dedicated team. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our mats are a place where people from all walks of life come together to train, learn, and grow.

      • Inclusive Environment: Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced competitor, everyone is welcome.

      • Shared Goals: Training partners push each other to improve while fostering mutual respect and encouragement.

      • Lasting Friendships: The bonds formed on the mat often carry over into lifelong friendships.

      Practical Self-Defense Skills

      In today’s world, self-defense is an invaluable skill. Jiujitsu equips practitioners with the tools to stay calm and protect themselves in real-life situations. It emphasizes control and de-escalation, ensuring safety for all parties involved.

      A Path to Wellness for All Ages

      From kids learning discipline and respect to adults finding an outlet for stress, jiujitsu offers something for everyone:

      • Youth Programs: Teaching focus, humility, and bravery.

      • Adults: A way to stay active, challenge yourself, and achieve personal goals.

      • Older Practitioners: A low-impact way to maintain fitness and mobility while enjoying the mental stimulation of problem-solving.

      Join the Journey

      At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that martial arts are more than a workout—they’re a path to personal growth, resilience, and community. Whether you’re looking to build strength, develop discipline, or simply try something new, jiujitsu is a transformative experience that can enrich your life in ways you never imagined.

      Come try a class and discover the value of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for yourself!