Tag Archives: Kids Jiu Jitsu

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Discover the Benefits of Training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

If you’ve been searching for “Jiu Jitsu in El Dorado Hills,” you’re in the right place! El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is more than just a place to train; it’s a community, a source of empowerment, and a hub for people of all ages and skill levels to grow in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). Here’s a quick look at why El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu might be the perfect fit for you or your family.

Why El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu?

1. Experienced Instructors

Our instructors bring years of experience from competing and training around the world. Head instructor Eliot Kelly is a decorated competitor, ADCC veteran, multiple Nogi Worlds medalist at the black belt division including representing Team USA at the UWW Grappling World Championships. At our gym, you’ll learn directly from experts who understand the nuances of each technique.

2. Programs for All Ages and Skill Levels

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we offer classes for everyone. Our youth program is divided into Peewee (ages 4-7), Kids (ages 7-10), and Juniors (ages 11-17), with a curriculum designed to help young students develop confidence, discipline, and respect. Our adult classes welcome everyone, from beginners to experienced practitioners.

3. A Safe, Supportive Environment

Safety is our priority. Our instructors are dedicated to maintaining a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can train hard and learn without fear of injury. Our youth classes incorporate monthly “mat chats” to discuss life skills—this month, we’re focusing on bravery, teaching students to overcome challenges both on and off the mat.

4. Comprehensive Curriculum

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers a structured curriculum tailored to help students advance with confidence. White belts start with a foundation of 12 positions and 350 movements, providing a strong base to grow in the art.

5. Flexible Training Schedules

We know life is busy, so we offer flexible training schedules. With early morning classes at 6am for adults on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, as well as various afternoon and evening options, it’s easy to find a class that fits your schedule.

6. Community and Events

Being part of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu means joining a close-knit community that extends beyond the gym. We host regular in-house events, like our “Ruckus in the Hills” competition and Jiu Jitsu camps for kids, providing opportunities to train, compete, and celebrate as a team.

The Benefits of Training Jiu Jitsu

Training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu goes beyond self-defense. It’s an incredible way to build physical strength, flexibility, and mental resilience. Whether you’re interested in competing, getting in shape, or building confidence, BJJ offers benefits for every individual. Many of our adult students started Jiu Jitsu in their 30s, 40s, and even 50s, proving that it’s never too late to begin.

Visit El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Ready to start your journey? Visit El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and see firsthand why our members love training here. Drop by for a trial class or call us to learn more about our programs and class schedules. Join us in discovering the many benefits of Jiu Jitsu in a supportive and engaging environment!

Kids Jiu Jitsu

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: Transition to Gi in Youth Classes Starts Today!

Today marks an exciting transition at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu as all of our youth classes—Peewee, Kids, and Juniors—move from No-Gi to Gi training. This shift will help our young athletes focus on the fundamentals of traditional Jiu Jitsu, providing them with new challenges and techniques to master.

Wearing the gi brings a different dynamic to training, as students will learn to utilize grips, manage the opponent’s clothing, and develop a deeper understanding of leverage and control. It’s also an excellent opportunity to further instill discipline and respect, as wearing the uniform reinforces these important values.

What Does This Mean for Students?

  • New Skills: Students will now learn how to apply techniques that involve the use of the gi, including lapel chokes, grip breaks, and gi-specific sweeps and submissions.
  • Discipline and Respect: The gi is a symbol of the martial arts tradition. Wearing it encourages mindfulness, respect, and care for the uniform and each other.
  • Excitement and Growth: Gi training challenges students to expand their game, making them more well-rounded grapplers.

Gi Rentals for New Students and Trials

If you’re new to the gym or trying out a class, we’ve made it easy! El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers gi rentals for new students and trial members. When you arrive for class, let us know you’d like to rent a gi, and we’ll provide you with on for free during your first week. This allows you to experience gi training without needing to purchase your own right away.

Remember to have your gi clean and ready for each class, and we look forward to seeing how our young athletes grow and develop in this new phase of their training!

See you on the mats!

— The El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Team

Tournaments

IBJJF Sacramento Open Results: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu update

This past weekend, our El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu/ American Jiu Jitsu Syndicate competitors stepped up at the IBJJF Sacramento Open and made us proud with their impressive performances. Here’s a breakdown of the results:

Saturday – Adults/Masters:

  • Connor had an incredible run, taking home gold in his weight division. He didn’t stop there, earning a hard-fought silver in the absolute division, where he battled against competitors of all weight classes.
  • Leo also had a standout performance, securing a silver in his weight class.

Sunday – Kids:

  • Adam represented our kids’ program well, bringing home a bronze medal in the kids’ tournament. His effort, skill, and determination are a reflection of his dedication to the mats.

We are proud of everyone who competed, whether you medaled or not. These events push us to grow and improve, and the effort each competitor put into preparation and performance is what truly matters.

As we celebrate these successes, we look forward to continuing the grind, learning from these experiences, and preparing for the next challenge. Great job, team!

community

Ruckus in the Hills: A Success for Competition and Community

This past Friday, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu hosted our highly anticipated “Ruckus in the Hills” in-house competition, and it was a tremendous success! The energy in the room was electric as competitors from all levels showcased their hard work, skill, and determination on the mats. From our youngest Peewees to seasoned adults, everyone brought their A-game in what turned out to be a night full of exciting matches and valuable lessons.

Not only did this event give our students a chance to test their abilities in a friendly but competitive environment, but it also served as a fundraiser for the Guardian El Dorado Hills project. Thanks to the generosity of our participants and supporters, we raised nearly $1,000 for our scholarship program, which helps provide financial assistance to youth athletes who want to train but may face financial barriers. We are incredibly grateful for this support, as it ensures that Jiu Jitsu remains accessible to all.

A Huge Thank You

This event wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible effort of our volunteers. A special thank you goes out to the coaches who spent extra time helping prepare our competitors and offering guidance throughout the event. To those who worked the score table, ensuring everything ran smoothly, and to the photographers who captured all the amazing moments, we appreciate your dedication. We also want to extend our gratitude to our on-call medic, who provided peace of mind and was ready to assist if needed. Your contributions made “Ruckus in the Hills” an unforgettable experience!

Transition to Gi Training

As we wrap up this thrilling competition, we’re shifting gears to focus on training in the gi for all Peewee, Kids, and Junior classes. With the fall season approaching, it’s the perfect time to get back to the fundamentals of traditional Jiu Jitsu. Gi training teaches patience, grip fighting, and technical precision in ways that complement the no-gi lessons learned during competition preparation.

For our Peewee students, the focus will be on familiarizing themselves with gi grips and basic techniques, laying a solid foundation for their future growth. Kids and Juniors will dive deeper into advanced concepts, such as guard passing, sweeps, and submissions with the added challenge of controlling grips and utilizing the gi.

We look forward to seeing the continued development of all our students as we embrace this new phase of training! Whether you’re coming off the excitement of “Ruckus in the Hills” or just starting your Jiu Jitsu journey, there’s so much to learn in the gi.

community, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Youth Jiu Jitsu at El Dorado Hills: The Role of Parent Participation and the Power of Silent Support

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our youth classes are a place for learning, growth, and fun. Parents play a crucial role in this process, but often in ways that differ from traditional sports environments. In Jiu Jitsu, parent participation is essential, but it takes on a unique form—one that emphasizes silent support over direct cheering.

A Different Approach to Encouragement

In many sports, parents are often encouraged to cheer from the sidelines, shouting out words of encouragement or advice. However, in the world of Jiu Jitsu, the focus is on fostering independence, mental clarity, and resilience in young students. This is where the concept of “no direct cheering” comes into play.

When a parent is constantly shouting instructions or encouragement, it can actually add pressure and distract their child from the task at hand. In Jiu Jitsu, where focus and adaptability are key, children need the space to think critically, make decisions, and learn from both success and failure. Silent support allows them to do just that. It helps them build confidence in their own abilities, without feeling the need to perform for others.

We value coaching, and giving important feedback to athletes at the right time. We want parents to understand the difference between cheering and coaching and understand the various support systems that exist in the development of a young athlete and martial artist.

The Value of Silent Support

Silent support doesn’t mean parents take a passive role. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It means parents are present, attentive, and engaged in their child’s journey, without directly influencing their experience on the mat. Here’s how parents can offer silent support during Jiu Jitsu classes:

  1. Be Present: Simply being there for your child shows them that you care and that their progress matters. Your quiet presence on the sidelines allows them to know they’re supported without the need for constant verbal reinforcement.
  2. Celebrate Milestones, Not Every Moment: Jiu Jitsu is a long journey filled with ups and downs. Rather than celebrating every move, wait for those bigger milestones—whether it’s mastering a new technique, earning a stripe, or simply persevering through a tough session. This teaches patience and the value of persistence.
  3. Encourage Reflection: After class, take the time to talk with your child about what they learned or what challenges they faced. This helps them process their experience and gives you an opportunity to provide positive reinforcement away from the immediate pressure of performance.
  4. Support the Process, Not Just the Result: One of the core lessons of Jiu Jitsu is that progress often comes through small, incremental improvements. Parents can reinforce this by praising effort, determination, and focus, rather than just outcomes.

Building Confidence on the Mat

By refraining from direct cheering, we give our youth students the room to grow into confident, self-reliant individuals. They learn to trust themselves and rely on their own problem-solving abilities. The absence of vocal instructions from the sidelines also helps them stay in the moment, developing the awareness and adaptability needed for success in Jiu Jitsu.

Join Us in Cultivating Independence and Growth

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage parents to actively participate in their child’s journey, but in ways that cultivate independence and personal growth. Our approach to parent participation and silent support creates an environment where young students can thrive off the mats.

We invite you to visit our Peewee, Kids, and Juniors classes to see this philosophy in action. With the right balance of guidance and quiet encouragement, your child will develop the skills, confidence, and character to succeed in Jiu Jitsu—and in life.

community

September Mat Chat: Focusing on Safety at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our monthly mat chats are an opportunity to teach valuable life skills that go beyond the techniques and physical training on the mat. This September, our focus is on safety, a key principle both in and out of the gym.

Why Safety Matters in Jiu Jitsu

Safety is the foundation of successful training. When practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), we trust our training partners and instructors to create an environment where we can push ourselves without unnecessary risk. This principle applies to every roll, every drill, and every technique. Proper safety habits ensure that we can continue to grow and train, free from injury.

Key Concepts of Safety in BJJ

  1. Respect for Your Partner
    A core part of safety is having respect for your training partner. We encourage our students, from Peewee to Juniors, to communicate with their partners—whether it’s tapping out when necessary or discussing how to practice a new technique. By understanding each other’s limits, we create an environment of mutual trust.
  2. Controlled Movements
    Learning to control your movements is essential to preventing injuries. This month, we’ll discuss the importance of practicing with precision rather than relying on force. Whether you’re going for a takedown or an armbar, control ensures that you’re not accidentally putting your partner in danger.
  3. Awareness and Listening
    Awareness is a critical aspect of safety. In September’s mat chat, we’ll talk about listening to your body, understanding when to ease off during a drill, and being mindful of your surroundings. We also remind our students to listen to their coaches, whose experience helps guide them in safely navigating their training.

Safety Beyond the Mat

The lessons we learn about safety in Jiu Jitsu apply to our daily lives as well. Whether it’s crossing the street, riding a bike, or playing a sport, staying safe requires awareness, communication, and control. We want our students to take these lessons and apply them at home, at school, and in their communities. Our goal is to instill a sense of responsibility for both personal safety and the well-being of those around them.

As we discuss this important life skill in our youth classes throughout September, we encourage parents to engage in conversations with their children about how they can stay safe in different aspects of life. Through the practice of BJJ and these vital life skills, we are developing strong, aware, and responsible individuals.

Let’s have a safe and productive month on and off the mat!

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Teaching Safety to Our Students: Mat Chat at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our goal is not just to teach martial arts but to instill important life skills in our students. One of the most critical lessons is safety. This month, we dedicated our mat chat to discussing what it means to stay safe both on and off the mats.

Why Safety Matters

Whether our little ones are rolling on the mat or playing with friends, understanding safety helps them stay out of harm’s way. At this age, children are still developing their awareness, which makes it essential to teach them how to protect themselves and those around them. Here’s how we broke down this important lesson in our latest mat chat:

3 Key Safety Lessons We Shared:

  1. Listening to Your Coach:
    We emphasized the importance of listening to coaches during class. Coaches give instructions not only to teach new techniques but also to keep everyone safe. If a student isn’t following directions, they could unintentionally hurt themselves or their training partners.
  2. Taking Care of Your Friends:
    We teach our students to work together, not against each other. When practicing techniques, being gentle and aware of our partner’s comfort is key. Understanding the importance of tapping out and stopping immediately when their partner taps is something we reinforce every day. It’s a vital part of learning mutual respect and ensuring no one gets hurt.
  3. Being Aware of Your Surroundings:
    Whether they’re rolling on the mats or playing outside, we teach our kids to always be aware of their surroundings. Bumping into others, tripping, or even moving too close to the edge of the mat are common risks we address. By teaching them to keep an eye on where they are and what’s happening around them, we help them avoid unnecessary accidents.
Safety mat chat poster

Safety On and Off the Mats

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe these safety skills extend beyond Jiu Jitsu. Whether at home, at school, or out with friends, kids need to be mindful of the people and environment around them. The values of listening, caring for others, and staying aware of their surroundings are essential for every part of their lives.

By teaching these lessons early, we help our youngest students grow into responsible martial artists who understand that safety comes first—both in training and in everyday life.

Join Us in Teaching Life Skills Through Jiu Jitsu

Interested in learning more about our youth programs? Our classes for Peewees (ages 4-7) offer a fun, safe, and engaging environment where children can learn the fundamentals of Jiu Jitsu while building life skills that will benefit them for years to come. Come visit us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and see how we’re helping kids grow stronger, safer, and more confident every day!

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Jiu Jitsu Camp at El Dorado Hills: Fun for Kids of All Ages!

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re excited to offer our monthly Jiu Jitsu camp for kids—a unique experience that combines learning, fun, and fitness in a dynamic environment. Whether your child is brand new to martial arts or a seasoned practitioner, our camp is designed to provide an engaging and rewarding experience for all.

What to Expect

Our camp runs for three hours, packed with activities that keep kids of all ages excited and involved. We’ve crafted each session to accommodate children with varying levels of experience, ensuring everyone feels welcome and challenged.

  • Skill Development: Participants will have the opportunity to learn and refine Jiu Jitsu techniques in a supportive setting. For beginners, this is an excellent introduction to the basics, while more advanced students can deepen their understanding and sharpen their skills.
  • Games and Drills: We believe in making learning fun! Our camp includes a variety of games and drills that help kids apply what they’ve learned on the mat, all while building confidence and teamwork.
  • Character Building: Beyond the physical skills, our camp emphasizes important life skills like discipline, respect, and perseverance. These lessons are woven into the fabric of our activities, helping kids grow both on and off the mat.

Who Can Join?

Our camp is open to kids of all ages, with or without prior Jiu Jitsu experience. Whether your child is curious about starting martial arts or looking to enhance their existing skills, they’ll find a place in our camp. It’s a great way for them to explore the sport in a fun, low-pressure environment.

When and Where?

The camp takes place about once a month at our El Dorado Hills facility. It’s the perfect way for your child to spend a few hours on a weekend or school break, staying active and engaged in a positive community setting.

Why Choose El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Camp?

  • Experienced Instructors: Our coaches bring years of experience and a passion for teaching kids, ensuring that every child gets the attention and guidance they need.
  • Safe and Inclusive Environment: Safety is our top priority. We create an environment where every child feels secure, respected, and motivated to do their best.
  • Fun for Everyone: Our camp isn’t just about training—it’s about making friends, having fun, and enjoying the journey of learning Jiu Jitsu.

Join Us for the Next Camp!

Spaces for our monthly camps fill up quickly, so be sure to reserve a spot for your child as soon as possible. Whether they’re new to the sport or eager to refine their skills, our Jiu Jitsu camp at El Dorado Hills is an experience they won’t want to miss!

For more details or to register, contact us today. We can’t wait to see your child on the mat!

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Youth Jiu Jitsu Classes at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: Tailored Training for Every Age Group

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand that children develop at different paces, both physically and mentally. To ensure each child receives the best possible training experience, we’ve organized our youth program into three distinct classes: Peewees, Kids, and Juniors. Each class is specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of its age group, allowing every student to grow in confidence, skill, and character.

Peewees (Ages 4-7)

The Peewee class is perfect for our youngest students, ages 4 to 7. At this stage, children are full of energy and eager to explore their abilities. Our focus in the Peewee class is to introduce them to the basics of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) through fun, engaging activities that emphasize movement, coordination, and balance.

In each session, Peewees learn fundamental techniques like breakfalls, basic positions, and simple escapes, all within a playful environment. Our instructors make sure that learning is enjoyable, using games and activities that keep the children excited and motivated. Importantly, we also teach essential social skills like teamwork, following instructions, and respect for others, laying a strong foundation for both their martial arts journey and everyday life.

Kids (Ages 7-10)

The Kids class is designed for children aged 7 to 10, who are ready to build on the basics and start learning more structured Jiu Jitsu techniques. At this age, students are capable of grasping more detailed instructions and can begin to understand the strategic elements of BJJ.

In the Kids class, we introduce more advanced techniques and drills, focusing on body mechanics, leverage, and positional control. Students also start to engage in light sparring, where they apply what they’ve learned in a safe and controlled environment. Beyond physical skills, this class emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and maintaining composure under pressure. These are essential life skills that extend beyond the mats and into everyday challenges.

Juniors (Ages 11-17)

Our Juniors class is for older students, ages 11 to 17, who are ready to take their training to the next level. This class is more intensive, focusing on refining techniques, improving conditioning, and preparing students for potential competition.

In the Juniors class, we delve deeper into advanced Jiu Jitsu concepts, including submissions, guard passes, and sweeps. Students are encouraged to think strategically about their movements and to develop a personal style that suits their strengths. This class also emphasizes the importance of discipline, perseverance, and respect—values that are integral to both Jiu Jitsu and personal development. For those interested in competition, we provide guidance and support to help them succeed in a competitive setting.

Why Age-Specific Classes Matter

By dividing our youth classes by age, we create an environment where every child can thrive. Younger students get the opportunity to learn in a playful, low-pressure setting, while older students can challenge themselves and develop leadership skills.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re committed to helping each child reach their full potential, both as martial artists and as individuals. Our Peewee, Kids, and Juniors classes provide the perfect balance of fun, challenge, and support, ensuring that every student can grow and succeed.

If you’re looking for a positive and nurturing environment for your child to learn Jiu Jitsu, we invite you to try a class with us and see the benefits firsthand!