Tag Archives: life skills

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

The New Competition: Insights for Jiu Jitsu from Start with Why

In Simon Sinek’s Start with Why, Sinek explores how businesses and organizations thrive by focusing on their purpose rather than getting caught in endless battles for market share. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, these ideas resonate deeply with how we approach training, competition, and community.

Competing Against Yourself

Sinek emphasizes that true success doesn’t come from beating others—it comes from staying true to your “why.” In Jiu Jitsu, this aligns with the idea of personal growth over external validation. While competition is a valuable tool for testing skills, the real opponent is often yourself:

• Improving consistency: Did you show up on the tough days?

• Measuring progress: Are you better than you were last month?

• Focusing on fundamentals: Have you deepened your understanding of key techniques?

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our students to embrace these questions, ensuring that their journey on the mats is driven by internal motivation rather than external comparisons.

Infinite vs. Finite Games

Sinek contrasts finite games (with set rules and winners) with infinite games (focused on continued growth and contribution). Jiu Jitsu is both. While tournaments are finite, the art itself is infinite—there’s always something new to learn, refine, or teach.

Our gym embodies this infinite mindset. Whether you’re a white belt mastering escapes or a black belt honing subtle details, the path never ends. It’s about engaging with the process, not just chasing medals.

Inspiring Through Purpose

Organizations that succeed inspire people by sharing their “why.” For us, our “why” goes beyond teaching techniques—it’s about building confidence, resilience, and a supportive community. This purpose drives everything we do, from kids’ classes teaching life skills like bravery and humility to adult classes that foster camaraderie and personal growth.

Applying These Lessons

Here’s how you can bring the lessons to your Jiu Jitsu journey:

1. Define your “why”: Why did you start training? Why do you keep showing up? Keep this purpose front and center.

2. Focus on improvement: Compete with the person you were yesterday, not the person across the mat.

3. Celebrate the journey: Remember, the medals and belts are milestones, not destinations.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we aim to create an environment where everyone is inspired to keep growing—on and off the mats. Whether you’re preparing for your first competition or simply looking to improve your fitness and mindset, let your “why” guide the way.

Want to explore this mindset for yourself? Join us on the mats and discover how Jiu Jitsu can align with your purpose.

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Building Bravery on the Mat: November’s Youth ‘Mat Chat’ at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

In November, our youth program at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu will focus on a life skill that applies both on and off the mat: bravery. Through our monthly ‘mat chat,’ we aim to help our young students understand that bravery isn’t just about big, heroic actions—it’s also about showing courage in everyday situations, standing up for what’s right, and pushing through challenges.

What Is Bravery?

We’ll start by discussing what bravery looks like in different forms. For some, it might mean facing their fears, like trying a challenging new move in Jiu Jitsu. For others, it could mean speaking up in a tough situation or supporting a friend who’s going through a hard time. We want our students to recognize that bravery doesn’t mean being fearless; it means acting despite the fear.

Bravery on the Mat

In Jiu Jitsu, bravery often shows up as perseverance. For our younger students, bravery might mean stepping onto the mat to spar, trying a new technique, or challenging themselves against a stronger opponent. We encourage them to face these challenges with an open mind, reminding them that the true measure of bravery isn’t whether they win or lose, but that they show up and try their best.

How Can Bravery Shape Our Lives?

Our goal is to help students see that bravery is a skill they can carry beyond the dojo. By encouraging our students to face their fears and persevere through challenges, they’ll develop resilience that can support them in school, friendships, and all areas of life. We’ll also talk about how brave people are often leaders—not because they’re the loudest, but because they’re willing to do what’s right, even when it’s difficult.

Helping Our Youth Understand Their Own Bravery

Each child experiences bravery in their own way, and we want to create an environment where they feel safe to share. We’ll invite our students to talk about times when they’ve been brave, whether it’s in class or elsewhere. By sharing, they’ll see that bravery is something they can build on every day, no matter how small the steps may seem.

Closing Out with Encouragement

Throughout the month, our instructors will recognize moments of bravery in class, from a student attempting a challenging technique to someone helping a teammate who’s feeling discouraged. By highlighting these moments, we hope our students leave November with a stronger sense of how bravery can positively impact their lives and those around them.

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The Founding Purpose of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: Building Strong Individuals and a Stronger Community

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu was founded on a simple yet powerful vision: to create an environment where individuals of all ages can cultivate resilience, discipline, and community through the art of Jiu Jitsu. As a martial art that demands dedication, technique, and respect, Jiu Jitsu serves as both a physical and mental discipline. At our gym, we believe that this journey, whether pursued competitively or as a lifelong practice, shapes individuals into stronger, more compassionate, and more self-aware people.

The Heart of Our Mission: Character Development

Our mission goes beyond just building champions on the mat. We are committed to building character. Each class, each drill, and each moment of sparring is an opportunity for growth, both technically and personally. For kids, we emphasize the development of life skills such as integrity, respect, humility, and safety. Our monthly “mat chats” for the youth program focus on these skills, embedding them in a way that’s accessible and relevant to young minds. For adults, we emphasize the concept of kaizen—continuous improvement. We believe that every individual, regardless of age or background, can make steady progress, learning something new with every step.

A Place for All: Diversity and Inclusion in Jiu Jitsu

Our belief is that Jiu Jitsu should be for everyone, and we are proud to offer classes and programs for people of all ages and backgrounds. Many of our members come from El Dorado Hills and surrounding areas to train in our early morning classes, after-work sessions, and dedicated weekend training camps. We’ve seen that Jiu Jitsu has a unique way of uniting people, creating friendships and bonds among individuals who might not have met otherwise. This shared experience on the mat fosters understanding, mutual respect, and camaraderie that lasts a lifetime.

Giving Back: Supporting the Community Through Scholarships and Events

We are committed to ensuring that Jiu Jitsu remains accessible to as many as possible. Through the Guardian El Dorado Hills program, we offer scholarships to teens who wish to train but might not otherwise have the opportunity. Additionally, we host in-house events like “Ruckus in the Hills,” which bring the community together, celebrate the spirit of competition, and raise funds to expand our scholarship offerings.

Looking Forward: A Vision of Growth and Positivity

As we continue to grow, our purpose remains steadfast. El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu will always be a place where you can challenge yourself, where you can connect with others, and where you can grow in every area of life. Each day, we work to fulfill this mission and to ensure that our members not only become skilled practitioners but also embody the values and respect inherent in martial arts.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. We look forward to many more years of training, learning, and growing together. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, we’re here to help you become the best version of yourself.

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

How the Positive Coaching Alliance Philosophy Enriches Training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in a holistic approach to martial arts that goes beyond just technique. We strive to foster personal growth, resilience, and camaraderie in every student. This commitment aligns well with the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) philosophy, which emphasizes creating a positive, character-building sports environment. Let’s dive into how we incorporate these core principles of PCA to support our students’ growth both on and off the mats.

What is Positive Coaching Alliance?

Founded in 1998, PCA is dedicated to developing “Better Athletes, Better People.” The organization’s approach focuses on creating a balance between striving for improvement (pursuing success in sport) and emphasizing the character lessons that competition naturally teaches. Through concepts like “Double-Goal Coaching,” PCA encourages coaches to make winning important but, more importantly, to place an equal focus on teaching life lessons and building character. This perspective aligns closely with our philosophy at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, where our mission is to empower students through both skill and mindset development.

Applying PCA in Jiu Jitsu Training

1. Fostering a Positive Environment

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we aim to create an encouraging space where each student feels valued. Our instructors emphasize respect, support, and teamwork over rivalry. Whether students win or lose in a tournament or sparring session, the focus remains on what they learned from the experience. By highlighting growth over results, we teach our students to appreciate both success and setbacks as part of the journey.

2. Embracing the ‘Mistake Ritual’

PCA teaches that mistakes are opportunities for growth. This is crucial in jiu jitsu, where trial and error are fundamental to learning new moves and improving technique. For example, if a student gets caught in a submission, instead of feeling discouraged, our instructors encourage them to view it as a learning opportunity. We use the “flush it” technique — a simple physical or mental cue to let go of mistakes and refocus. This practice helps students develop resilience and a positive mindset, building both confidence and adaptability.

3. Focusing on Effort and Improvement

Jiu jitsu is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. By celebrating effort and dedication, we encourage our students to focus on long-term growth over instant success. This approach helps to build grit, self-discipline, and a growth mindset — qualities that apply to life beyond the mats. Each month, we discuss these values in our youth mat chats, underscoring the importance of perseverance and respect.

4. Role of ‘Honoring the Game’

A core PCA principle is to “Honor the Game,” which aligns with the respect inherent in jiu jitsu. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we emphasize the importance of respecting teammates, opponents, and instructors alike. Our students bow before entering the mats as a mark of respect for the art and those who practice it. This tradition serves as a constant reminder that jiu jitsu is not just a sport but a way of life, teaching humility, honor, and respect.

5. Building a Culture of Team Support

Jiu jitsu can be a very individual pursuit, yet at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we operate as a team. Instructors often pair students of varying skill levels to build a supportive learning environment. Our advanced students become role models, helping beginners with technique, and sharing insights. By encouraging this camaraderie, we foster an atmosphere where everyone feels they belong and contribute to each other’s growth.

A Lasting Impact On and Off the Mats

The PCA’s emphasis on life lessons in sports meshes perfectly with the broader mission of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. As our students learn to apply the principles of resilience, respect, and positivity on the mats, they naturally carry these values into their personal lives. Many of our adult students have shared that jiu jitsu has improved their patience, problem-solving skills, and overall mental resilience — all values championed by PCA.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re more than just a gym; we’re a community committed to building strong, well-rounded individuals. Through PCA’s guidance, we continue to create a safe and supportive environment where students can learn, grow, and thrive, both on and off the mats.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Is after 50 Too Old to Start Jiu Jitsu? Absolutely Not!

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we often get asked if there’s a class “for older adults,” especially from people in their 50s or beyond who are just starting out. And while we don’t have a specific class labeled for older adults, we have great news: you won’t need one! Out of the 100 or so adults training with us, only 5 are under 30. That means most of our students are in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, training and improving every day.

Jiu Jitsu is a lifelong art. It’s not about brute strength or being the fastest person in the room—it’s about technique, strategy, and patience. Our students, many of whom began their journey in their 40s and 50s, prove that age is no barrier to learning and enjoying the benefits of Jiu Jitsu. The community you’ll find at our school is supportive and understanding, and your training partners will work with you at a pace that suits your fitness and skill level.

If you’re worried about being too old to start, consider this: some of our members are in their 60s and thriving on the mats. Jiu Jitsu provides a fantastic way to stay active, build confidence, and develop self-defense skills—all while being part of a community of people with similar goals.

So, if you’re in your 50’s and wondering if there’s a place for you, the answer is a resounding yes. You’ll fit right in. There’s never a perfect age to start Jiu Jitsu—there’s only the perfect time: now!

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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

Starting Martial Arts as a Teenager: Embracing the Journey at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Starting martial arts as a teenager can be a transformative experience, offering benefits that extend beyond the mat. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with beginning this journey during your teenage years.

1. Building Confidence and Discipline

For teenagers, martial arts provide a structured environment to develop self-discipline and confidence. Learning techniques, setting goals, and achieving milestones helps build a sense of accomplishment. This newfound confidence often translates into other areas of life, including academics and social interactions.

2. Improving Physical Fitness

Martial arts training is an excellent way to enhance physical fitness. Teenagers will experience improvements in strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. The diverse range of techniques and drills ensures a full-body workout, which is crucial during the teenage years when the body is still developing.

3. Learning Valuable Life Skills

Martial arts instill important life skills such as respect, perseverance, and resilience. Through the challenges faced on the mat, teenagers learn to handle adversity with a positive mindset. These skills are invaluable as they navigate the complexities of adolescence.

4. Fostering a Sense of Community

Joining a martial arts class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu means becoming part of a supportive and inclusive community. Teenagers can form friendships with peers who share similar interests and values. The camaraderie built in class often extends beyond the dojo, creating lasting bonds.

5. Exploring Personal Growth

Martial arts provide a platform for personal growth and self-discovery. Teenagers have the opportunity to explore their strengths and weaknesses, setting and achieving personal goals. The journey through belts and ranks reflects their progress and commitment, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment.

6. Preparing for Future Challenges

The lessons learned in martial arts prepare teenagers for future challenges. The problem-solving skills, focus, and resilience developed through training are assets that will serve them well in various aspects of life, including higher education and career pursuits.

Starting martial arts as a teenager at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is more than just learning self-defense; it’s about embarking on a journey of personal growth and development. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, build confidence, or be part of a supportive community, our classes are designed to help you thrive. Join us and discover how martial arts can positively impact your teenage years and beyond.

Kids Jiu Jitsu

August Mat Chat: Embracing Humility at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

As the summer draws to a close and a new school year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on essential life skills that go beyond the mat. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our youth program is dedicated to not only teaching martial arts techniques but also instilling values that shape strong, respectful individuals. This August, our mat chat will focus on the life skill of humility.

Understanding Humility

Humility is often misunderstood as a sign of weakness, but in reality, it is a profound strength. It involves recognizing our own limitations, valuing others’ contributions, and maintaining a sense of gratitude. For young martial artists, humility is a cornerstone of growth, both in jiu jitsu and in life.

Humility on the Mat

In jiu jitsu, humility teaches us to:

  1. Respect Our Opponents: Every sparring partner, regardless of their skill level, offers an opportunity to learn and improve. By respecting others, we create a positive and supportive training environment.
  2. Accept Constructive Criticism: Feedback from coaches and peers is essential for progress. Embracing humility allows us to accept constructive criticism without defensiveness, helping us to refine our techniques and strategies.
  3. Stay Grounded: No matter how skilled we become, there is always more to learn. Humility keeps us grounded, reminding us that mastery is a continuous journey, not a final destination.

Humility in Daily Life

Off the mat, humility can be practiced in many ways:

  1. Listening to Others: Truly listening to others’ perspectives and experiences shows respect and can broaden our understanding of the world.
  2. Admitting Mistakes: Acknowledging our mistakes and taking responsibility for them is a sign of maturity and strength.
  3. Helping Others: Offering help without expecting anything in return fosters a sense of community and reinforces the value of teamwork.

Activities and Discussions

During our August mat chat, we will engage in activities and discussions that highlight the importance of humility. These might include:

  • Role-Playing Scenarios: Students will participate in role-playing exercises to practice humility in various situations, both on and off the mat.
  • Sharing Stories: Encouraging students to share personal stories where they experienced or witnessed acts of humility.
  • Group Discussions: Facilitating open discussions about how humility can positively impact their lives and relationships.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that the lessons learned on the mat extend far beyond the dojo. By focusing on humility this August, we aim to nurture not only skilled martial artists but also compassionate, respectful, and humble individuals. We look forward to seeing our students embrace this essential life skill and carry it with them in all their endeavors.

Join us for a month of growth, learning, and humility at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Empowering Teens at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Entering the world of martial arts is an exciting and transformative experience, especially for teens. Starting disciplines like Jiu Jitsu offers young individuals a unique opportunity to develop physically, mentally, and emotionally. Beyond just learning self-defense techniques, martial arts training instills discipline, enhances self-confidence, and fosters a sense of respect and camaraderie. As teens navigate the challenges of adolescence, the structured environment of a martial arts dojo (martial arts gym) provides a supportive community and a constructive outlet for their energy and aspirations. Through consistent practice and dedication, teens can uncover their potential, build resilience, and gain lifelong skills that extend far beyond the mat.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we offer a dynamic and engaging program specifically tailored for teens. Our classes are designed to help young individuals develop confidence, discipline, and physical fitness while learning the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Why Jiu Jitsu for Teens?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is more than just a martial art; it’s a journey that fosters personal growth and resilience. Our teen program is structured to provide a supportive environment where students can thrive both on and off the mat. Through consistent training, teens will gain:

  • Self-Confidence: Mastering new techniques and overcoming challenges in class helps build a strong sense of self-assurance.
  • Discipline: The practice of Jiu Jitsu requires focus and dedication, which translates to improved discipline in everyday life.
  • Physical Fitness: Our classes provide a full-body workout, enhancing strength, flexibility, and overall health.
  • Respect and Camaraderie: Training with peers fosters a sense of community and mutual respect, important values both in and out of the dojo.

What to Expect in Our Teen Classes

Our teen program is designed to be both challenging and fun. Classes are led by experienced instructors who are passionate about teaching and mentoring young students. Here’s what teens can look forward to:

  • Structured Curriculum: Our curriculum covers fundamental techniques as well as advanced strategies, ensuring continuous growth and learning.
  • Safe Environment: Safety is our top priority. We maintain a controlled and respectful training atmosphere where students can learn at their own pace.
  • Personalized Attention: With a focus on individual progress, our instructors provide personalized guidance to help each student reach their full potential. We also encourage parent participation. Parents are always encouraged and welcome to join class whether they train or not.
  • Life Skills: Beyond physical skills, our program emphasizes important life skills such as goal setting, perseverance, and teamwork.

Join Us Today!

If you’re looking for an activity that will empower your teen and equip them with valuable life skills, look no further than El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Our teen program is open to students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.

Come see the positive impact Jiu Jitsu can have on your teen’s life. Contact us today to learn more about our class schedule and enrollment options. We look forward to welcoming your family to our Jiu Jitsu community!

EDH Jiu Jitsu is a martial arts school located in El Dorado Hills, CA. We cater to those living the the greater Sacramento area along the highway 50 corridor in the areas of Placerville, Shingle Springs, Cameron Park, Folsom, El Dorado county and Amador county. Our jiujitsu program is for all ages and all skill levels. Start with a trial program and get a feel for what we offer!

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Embracing the Gentle Art: How Learning Jiu-Jitsu at EDHBJJ Cultivates Leadership Skills

The journey of learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is often likened to a transformative path, one that builds not just physical prowess but also mental and emotional strength. As practitioners navigate the complexities of this martial art, they inadvertently develop key leadership skills that translate seamlessly into everyday life. Here’s how we foster leadership qualities at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu.

  1. Resilience and Perseverance

In BJJ, every practitioner experiences moments of defeat and frustration. Whether it’s being caught in a chokehold or struggling to master a technique, the mat humbles everyone. This resilience to keep going despite setbacks is a cornerstone of effective leadership. Leaders often face challenges that test their patience and resolve. Jiu-Jitsu teaches them to persevere, adapt, and eventually overcome obstacles, instilling a mindset that views failure as a stepping stone rather than a roadblock.

  1. Humility and Confidence

BJJ is a unique blend of humility and confidence. On the mat, there is always someone better, and this reality keeps practitioners grounded. This humility is critical for leaders who need to stay open to feedback and continuous improvement. At the same time, successfully executing techniques and progressing through ranks builds confidence. Leaders must balance humility with the confidence to make decisions and inspire others, a balance finely tuned through Jiu-Jitsu training.

  1. Problem-Solving Skills

Each roll (sparring session) in Jiu-Jitsu is a dynamic puzzle. Practitioners must constantly assess their position, anticipate their opponent’s moves, and react accordingly. This environment sharpens analytical and strategic thinking. Leaders benefit from this enhanced problem-solving ability, enabling them to navigate complex situations, devise strategies, and make informed decisions under pressure.

  1. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Effective communication is vital in BJJ. Whether asking for advice, giving feedback, or coordinating with a training partner, clear and respectful communication is a must. Leaders need these skills to build strong teams, resolve conflicts, and foster a positive work environment. The respectful culture of Jiu-Jitsu, where everyone learns from each other, directly translates to a collaborative and inclusive leadership style.

  1. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Jiu-Jitsu cultivates empathy as practitioners often experience both dominant and vulnerable positions. Understanding and managing one’s emotions and empathizing with others’ perspectives are critical aspects of emotional intelligence. Leaders with high emotional intelligence can build stronger relationships, manage stress, and create a supportive atmosphere for their teams.

  1. Discipline and Time Management

Consistency and discipline are essential to progress in Jiu-Jitsu. Regular training requires time management and prioritization, skills that are equally important in leadership. Leaders must balance various responsibilities, set goals, and maintain focus on long-term objectives. The disciplined approach learned through Jiu-Jitsu helps leaders stay organized and productive.

  1. Building a Growth Mindset

Jiu-Jitsu is a never-ending journey of learning and self-improvement. Practitioners embrace the process of continuous learning, understanding that mastery is a lifelong pursuit. This growth mindset is invaluable for leaders who need to adapt to changing circumstances and encourage innovation within their teams. A leader who embodies a growth mindset inspires others to embrace challenges and view setbacks as opportunities for growth.

Learning Jiu-Jitsu at EDHBJJ is much more than acquiring self-defense techniques; it’s a holistic practice that shapes character and cultivates leadership skills. From resilience to empathy, the principles and experiences gained on the mat foster qualities that make effective and inspiring leaders. As you tie your belt and step onto the mat, remember that each roll is not just a test of physical skill but a step towards becoming a better leader.