Tag Archives: martial arts

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Start Your Day Strong with Adult Jiu Jitsu Classes at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand that everyone has a different schedule, which is why we offer adult Jiu Jitsu classes at a variety of times to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re an early riser, prefer mid-morning training, or are looking to unwind and challenge yourself after work, we’ve got you covered with classes at 6am, 9:30am, and in the evenings.

6am Class: The Ultimate Morning Routine

Our 6am classes are perfect for those who like to start their day with a powerful jolt of energy. This early morning class is all about setting the tone for the day, giving you the chance to train hard, build mental and physical strength, and walk away feeling accomplished before most people have even started their day. With a community of like-minded individuals, our 6am crew is full of people from various backgrounds who come together to push each other, creating a sense of camaraderie and dedication that makes the early wake-up worth it.

9:30am Class: A Mid-Morning Boost

For those who have a more flexible schedule, the 9:30am class offers a perfect time to train after the morning rush. Whether you’ve just dropped the kids off at school or have some time between work meetings, this mid-morning class lets you get in a high-quality workout and skill-building session without disrupting your day. It’s a great way to relieve stress and sharpen your mind, leaving you energized and ready to tackle the rest of the day.

Evening Classes: End Your Day with Growth

Our evening classes provide the perfect opportunity for those looking to unwind after a long day. After work, you can come in and focus on personal growth, mastering techniques, and sparring with fellow students. These classes attract a diverse group of participants, from beginners to advanced practitioners, making these sessions a great way to challenge yourself in a supportive environment. Whether you’re looking to refine your game or simply enjoy the mental and physical benefits of Jiu Jitsu, the evening classes offer a chance to end your day on a high note. You’ll leave the mats feeling accomplished, refreshed, and connected to a community that thrives on continuous improvement.

Tailored for All Skill Levels

One of the best things about our adult classes, whether in the morning or evening, is that they’re designed for practitioners of all skill levels. If you’re brand new to Jiu Jitsu, our instructors will guide you through the basics, ensuring you build a strong foundation while learning at your own pace. For more advanced students, there’s always room to refine techniques, explore new strategies, and sharpen your skills through higher-level drills and live rolling.

Why Train Jiu Jitsu?

Jiu Jitsu isn’t just about self-defense or sport; it’s a transformative practice that can positively impact many areas of your life. Regular training can improve your fitness, flexibility, and strength, while also sharpening your mental resilience, problem-solving skills, and ability to stay calm under pressure. It’s not uncommon for our students to notice improved focus and reduced stress in their day-to-day lives as a result of consistent training.

Beyond the physical and mental benefits, Jiu Jitsu creates a community. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, you’ll train with people who support each other, challenge one another to grow, and celebrate each other’s successes. The friendships formed on the mats often extend beyond the gym, making Jiu Jitsu not only a workout but a lifestyle.

Find the Class That Fits Your Schedule

Whether you’re a morning person looking to conquer the day with a 6am session, someone who enjoys the flexibility of a 9:30am workout, or someone who prefers to wind down in the evening, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers a class for you. No matter your skill level or experience, you’ll find a welcoming environment that pushes you to be your best.

Jiu Jitsu is more than a martial art – it’s a journey of constant improvement. So why not start your journey today? Join us for a class that fits your schedule, meet a group of dedicated practitioners, and experience the many benefits Jiu Jitsu has to offer. We look forward to seeing you on the mats!

Class Schedule:

• 6am – Monday, Wednesday, Friday

• 9:30am – Tuesday, Thursday, Friday

• Evening Classes – Monday through Friday, starting after 6pm

To find out more about class times, membership options, and how to get started, visit our website or drop by El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu today!

Camp

Anthony Hernandez Shines in Main Event Victory with Eliot from El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu in His Corner

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is celebrating an incredible achievement with Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez, who has trained with our coach Eliot Kelly, secured a dominant victory in his UFC main event. This win represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to improvement.

Anthony’s performance in the Octagon showcased not only his grit and heart but also his technical mastery. His striking and ground game were on full display, but perhaps the most impressive aspect was his ability to stay calm under pressure—something that’s been a cornerstone of his training.

Coach Eliot has been a part of Anthony’s journey since 2021, helping to refine his Jiu Jitsu skills and prepare him for the top levels of competition. As a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and a respected coach with a wealth of grappling knowledge, Eliot’s guidance has made a contribution to Anthony’s success in the cage. Whether it’s drilling submissions, refining transitions, or developing fight strategy, Anthony is a constant student of the sport.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in building not only strong competitors but also strong individuals. Anthony’s victory is a testament to the perseverance, discipline, and dedication that martial arts instills in its practitioners. We are incredibly proud to have been part of his journey, and we look forward to seeing even more success in his future.

For anyone inspired by Anthony’s win, remember that the path to success starts right here on the mats. Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, whether you’re looking to compete or just improve your fitness, discipline, and mental strength, we’re here to help you on your journey.

Congratulations to Anthony Hernandez on this amazing accomplishment! The entire El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community is behind you as you continue to make waves in the martial arts world.

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Incorporating Judo and Wrestling into Our Jiu Jitsu Program

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re committed to offering a well-rounded grappling experience that goes beyond traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. By incorporating techniques from Judo and wrestling, we’re not only broadening our students’ skill sets but also enhancing their overall effectiveness on the mat. Both disciplines bring unique elements that complement and elevate Jiu Jitsu, providing our students with a more diverse and complete game.

Why Incorporate Judo?

Judo, with its emphasis on balance, leverage, and throws, offers key advantages in transitioning from standing to ground. Many Jiu Jitsu practitioners find themselves starting in positions where both opponents are standing, and Judo provides a structured, efficient way to take the fight to the ground while maintaining control. Classic techniques like hip throws (ogoshi) and sacrifice throws (hikikomi gaeshi) give our students the ability to execute dynamic takedowns with precision and power. By mastering these moves, students learn how to control the momentum of a match right from the start, gaining an edge in competition or self-defense situations.

Why Wrestling Matters

Wrestling’s contribution to our Jiu Jitsu program lies in its unparalleled focus on takedowns, control, and explosiveness. The application of single-leg and double-leg takedowns provides our students with efficient ways to bring their opponents to the mat without compromising their own base or stability. Wrestling also emphasizes positional dominance, which is a key concept in Jiu Jitsu—being able to control your opponent from top positions like side control or mount is crucial to setting up submissions.

Additionally, the grit and work ethic emphasized in wrestling help develop mental toughness, persistence, and the ability to scramble out of tough situations—all important traits for success in Jiu Jitsu.

The Integration at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At our gym, we have the unique advantage of having coaches with high-level experience in both Judo and wrestling. Barrett, a former Division 1 wrestler, leads our efforts to incorporate these powerful elements into our curriculum. His expertise in setups, chain wrestling, and transitions ensures that students not only learn the techniques but also understand how to apply them in live rolling situations. For those interested in Judo, we offer classes that explore essential throws and grips, connecting them directly to the Jiu Jitsu game, so students can apply these skills in real time.

We believe that by offering a mix of Judo, wrestling, and Jiu Jitsu, our students develop a more dynamic and adaptable style. Whether you’re competing in tournaments or training for personal development, this integration allows you to be comfortable standing or on the ground, increasing your chances of success in any grappling situation.

The incorporation of Judo and wrestling into our Jiu Jitsu program is about offering the best possible training environment. We want our students to be complete grapplers, capable of handling any position, whether standing or on the ground. By embracing these disciplines, we not only honor the roots of Jiu Jitsu but also push the boundaries of what’s possible in grappling.

If you’re ready to expand your game and learn how to seamlessly blend these powerful arts, join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Let’s take your training to the next level.

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!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Starting Your Jiu Jitsu Journey in El Dorado County: Discover Our Trial Program at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

If you’ve been thinking about trying Jiu Jitsu, there’s no better time to start than now. Whether you’re from El Dorado Hills, Cameron Park, Folsom, or anywhere in the greater El Dorado County area, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu welcomes you to step onto the mats and begin a transformative experience. Our trial program is the perfect way to see what Jiu Jitsu is all about while experiencing the supportive and skilled environment we’ve built over 15 years.

Why Start Jiu Jitsu?

Jiu Jitsu offers a unique blend of physical and mental development, teaching you self-defense, discipline, and resilience. It’s an incredible workout that challenges your body while sharpening your mind, improving focus, problem-solving, and perseverance. Whether you’re looking for a new fitness routine, a self-defense skill set, or a way to meet new people in the community, Jiu Jitsu provides all of that and more.

Our Trial Program: A No-Risk Way to Begin

We understand that starting something new can be intimidating, especially when it comes to martial arts. That’s why our trial program is designed to make it easy and enjoyable for beginners. With a one-week free trial, you can attend any of our classes for your age and skill level. Whether you’re an adult or want to enroll your child in one of our youth programs, we have classes tailored to everyone—from those completely new to Jiu Jitsu to seasoned practitioners looking to sharpen their skills.

During your trial, you’ll be introduced to fundamental techniques by our experienced instructors, many of whom have years of competition and coaching experience. You’ll also get a sense of our welcoming community, where teammates help each other grow on and off the mats.

Training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we emphasize a structured learning environment that focuses on individual growth. For beginners, we’ve developed a standards curriculum that breaks down the essentials of the sport into manageable steps. All students receive weekly technique videos, so you can continue to learn and review outside of class. This system has helped countless students in El Dorado County start their Jiu Jitsu journey with confidence.

Our classes run throughout the day, with options for all levels, including early morning sessions, evening practices, and weekend training. No matter your schedule, we make it easy to find a time that works for you.

Building a Jiu Jitsu Community in El Dorado County

The El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu team is more than just a place to train—it’s a community. People from all over the region, including El Dorado Hills, Placerville, Shingle Springs, and beyond, join us to practice, learn, and grow together. Many of our students in their 30s, 40s, and 50s have found Jiu Jitsu to be a great way to stay active, connect with others, and challenge themselves in a new way.

With our strong community focus, we offer programs and events beyond daily training, including in-house competitions, seminars, and youth camps. Plus, our team often competes at local and national tournaments, where you can support or even participate as you progress.

Start Today

Ready to begin your Jiu Jitsu journey? Visit El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and take advantage of our trial program to see firsthand what makes our gym a special place to train. No matter where you’re coming from in El Dorado County or the surrounding areas, you’ll find a team that’s ready to welcome you, support your goals, and help you grow through Jiu Jitsu.

Sign up today to start your trial and see why so many people are choosing Jiu Jitsu for their fitness, self-defense, and personal growth. We can’t wait to see you on the mats!

community

Join Us for El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu’s 15th Anniversary Black Belt Seminar!

As we celebrate 15 years of training, community, and growth, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is excited to invite you to a special Black Belt Seminar in honor of our anniversary. The seminar date is to be determined, but we couldn’t wait to share the exciting news with you!

Our Humble Beginnings

Fifteen years ago, we started as the first Jiu Jitsu gym on the western Sierra slopes along the highway 50 corridor without a resident black belt instructor. Back then, we relied on our passion and dedication to learn and grow. What started as a small group of grapplers has evolved into a thriving academy with a team of black belts and dedicated practitioners who train hard and support each other.

Why This Seminar is Special

Reaching our 15-year milestone is a testament to the dedication of our members, coaches, and the families who have supported us along the way. To commemorate this journey, we’ll be hosting an exclusive Black Belt Seminar, led by our highest-ranking instructors and special guest black belts. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to the mats, this event will offer valuable insights into Jiu Jitsu techniques, mindset, and the martial arts lifestyle.

What to Expect

  • World-Class Instruction: Learn from experienced black belts who have spent decades refining their skills and developing their teaching methods.
  • Exclusive Techniques: Get access to high-level strategies and moves that will take your game to the next level.
  • Community Celebration: This seminar will not just be about training, but about coming together as a team. There will be time to connect, share stories, and celebrate how far we’ve come as a school.

Who Can Join?

The seminar is open to all students, regardless of rank or experience level. Whether you’ve been training with us for years or just joined, this is an opportunity to be part of something big.

Stay Tuned!

We’ll be announcing the exact date for the 15th Anniversary Black Belt Seminar soon, so keep an eye on your email and social media for updates. This is an event you won’t want to miss.

Let’s celebrate 15 incredible years of Jiu Jitsu excellence together—on the mats and in the community! From a small gym without a black belt instructor to becoming a hub for Jiu Jitsu in the area, this milestone is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of everyone who has been a part of our journey.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Exploring Jiu Jitsu Through the Wisdom of Winnie the Pooh

Starting Jiu Jitsu can feel like stepping into the unknown—something new, exciting, and maybe even a little daunting. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand that. Whether you’re new to martial arts or thinking about giving it a try, we believe everyone can find a bit of themselves on the mats. Surprisingly, the journey of learning Jiu Jitsu can be related to the charming, timeless lessons from a certain honey-loving bear and his friends from the Hundred Acre Wood. That’s right, Winnie the Pooh!

Here’s how you can see your Jiu Jitsu journey through the eyes of Pooh and his pals:

“You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” – Christopher Robin

When you first step onto the mats, it’s easy to feel out of place or overwhelmed. There’s a lot to learn—positions, techniques, and a different way of moving your body. It can feel like being lost in a forest, but like Christopher Robin reminds Pooh, you are more capable than you realize. Jiu Jitsu is all about discovering your inner strength, building confidence, and realizing that you can achieve more than you ever imagined. Your first class is just the beginning of discovering your bravery.

“Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there someday.” – Winnie the Pooh

Progress in Jiu Jitsu is a journey, not a race. Just as Pooh approaches life with calm and patience, the mats teach us the same. You won’t learn everything in a day, and that’s okay! Jiu Jitsu is a practice of constant growth, where small improvements add up over time. Trust the process, and remember to enjoy each step along the way—whether you’re learning how to escape from mount or drilling the basics of guard. Like Pooh, embrace the joy of the journey.

“It never hurts to keep looking for sunshine.” – Eeyore

Sometimes Jiu Jitsu can be tough. You might feel stuck in a position, frustrated with a technique, or even feel like giving up. But, as Eeyore reminds us, it’s always possible to find the bright side. There’s always a lesson in every roll, whether you win or lose. When things seem hard, focus on what you’re learning and the small victories—like improving your guard retention or simply showing up for class on a tough day.

“A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference.” – Eeyore

Jiu Jitsu is a team sport as much as it is an individual one. Your training partners are essential to your progress, and being considerate on the mats is crucial. Just like Pooh and his friends help each other out, in Jiu Jitsu, you’ll find a community that supports and challenges you. We train hard, but we do so with respect and care for each other’s safety. Every partner helps you grow, and you’ll soon find that you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

“Think it over, think it under.” – Winnie the Pooh

Pooh is known for taking time to reflect (usually over a pot of honey). Jiu Jitsu is a mental game as much as a physical one. As you train, you’ll learn to think things through—whether it’s figuring out how to improve a technique or applying a new concept during sparring. The ability to problem-solve is key in Jiu Jitsu. Every class is an opportunity to ‘think it over’ and refine what you’ve learned, even if it takes some time.

“A friend is one of the nicest things you can have, and one of the best things you can be.” – Winnie the Pooh

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, you’ll quickly discover that the friendships you make on the mats are special. Like Pooh’s tight-knit group of friends, our gym community is supportive, welcoming, and encouraging. Whether you’re just starting or have been training for years, we’re all here to help each other grow. You’ll find lifelong friends and training partners who share in your successes and help you through challenges.

Welcome to Your Journey

Starting Jiu Jitsu is like entering the Hundred Acre Wood—a place full of discovery, learning, and camaraderie. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you feel like Tigger bouncing into a new adventure, Pooh happily learning something new, or even Eeyore slowly but surely finding your way, your journey on the mats will be uniquely yours.

Come join us, and remember: you’re braver, stronger, and smarter than you think.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Starting Jiu Jitsu at El Dorado Hills BJJ: Elevate Your Learning with Weekly Technique Videos

Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) can feel like stepping into a new world. The techniques, the culture, and the experience of rolling on the mats are unlike anything else. At El Dorado Hills BJJ, we understand that the first few weeks can be overwhelming, which is why we’re dedicated to making your journey smoother and more enriching right from the start.

A Structured Path to Success

From the moment you begin your training, you’ll be part of a structured curriculum designed to help you grow quickly and confidently. One of the unique aspects of training at El Dorado Hills BJJ is the weekly technique videos you’ll receive. These videos are specifically designed to reinforce the techniques taught in class, so you’ll never feel like you’re falling behind or missing key details.

Why Weekly Technique Videos Matter

Jiu Jitsu is an art that takes time and repetition to master, but with consistent access to technique videos, you can review and study at your own pace. Each week, you’ll get a breakdown of the techniques we cover in class, including explanations and demonstrations by our skilled instructors. These videos will serve as an invaluable resource for:

  • Reinforcing What You Learned: After class, it can be tough to remember every detail of a technique. The videos allow you to review and refresh your memory before your next training session.
  • Learning at Your Own Speed: Everyone progresses at different rates, and the videos allow you to revisit techniques as many times as you need to fully grasp them.
  • Building a Strong Foundation: By focusing on fundamental movements and positions, you’ll develop a solid base that will support your progression in Jiu Jitsu.

What to Expect in Your First Few Weeks

Starting out, you’ll be introduced to core movements, like shrimping, bridging, and basic guard work. The weekly technique videos will cover foundational techniques in detail, ensuring you have a strong understanding of the mechanics and purpose behind each movement.

Here’s an example from one of our weekly videos.

A Supportive Community to Guide You

Beyond the videos, you’ll be joining a community of supportive teammates and experienced instructors. Whether you’re just learning how to tie your belt or preparing for your first tournament, you’ll always have guidance both in class and through our online resources.

At El Dorado Hills BJJ, we’re committed to your success from day one. With our blend of hands-on training and video support, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your Jiu Jitsu goals.

Ready to Start?

If you’re ready to dive into the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, now is the perfect time. Come train with us, and let our weekly technique videos help you build the confidence and skill you need to thrive on the mats.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re proud to welcome students from all over El Dorado County and Folsom, creating a diverse and thriving community of martial artists. Whether they’re commuting from Placerville, Cameron Park, or even Folsom, people of all backgrounds and experience levels come together here to train, improve, and support one another. Our morning classes, draw dedicated practitioners from across the region, each committed to their personal growth and to being part of a team that values hard work, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence.

community, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Ruckus in the Hills: In-House Tournament and Fundraiser for Guardian El Dorado Hills

On Friday, September 27th, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is proud to host the highly anticipated Ruckus in the Hills, an in-house competition that promises to be an exciting showcase of skill, determination, and community spirit. This event is not only a chance for our members to challenge themselves on the mats but also a meaningful opportunity to give back through our Guardian El Dorado Hills project.

A Competition with a Purpose

Ruckus in the Hills is more than just a friendly tournament—it’s a fundraiser aimed at supporting the Guardian El Dorado Hills initiative. This project provides scholarships for students in need, allowing them to train and grow through the transformative art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We believe that everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances, should have access to the life-changing benefits of Jiu Jitsu, including discipline, confidence, and community.

What to Expect

The in-house competition will feature divisions for all skill levels, from beginners to intermediate practitioners. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or it’s your first time stepping onto the mats, the event is designed to foster growth and sportsmanship in a supportive environment. Plus, it’s a great way for our gym community to come together, test their skills, and cheer each other on.

Spectators are welcome to attend and show their support! All proceeds from the event will go directly to funding Guardian El Dorado Hills, ensuring that more students have the chance to step onto the mats and begin their martial arts journey.

How You Can Help

If you’d like to contribute to the Guardian project but aren’t competing, you can still make a difference. We’ll be accepting donations throughout the event, and all funds raised will go towards providing scholarships for underprivileged youth. Every bit helps to bring the empowering lessons of Jiu Jitsu to those who need it most. Or you can donate here: https://givebutter.com/edh

Mark your calendars for Friday, September 27th, and join us for an action-packed evening at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Together, we can make a positive impact in our community, one match at a time.

Let the Ruckus begin!

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, September 27th
  • Doors Open: 4:30pm
  • Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
  • Purpose: Fundraiser for Guardian El Dorado Hills, providing scholarships for students to train Jiu Jitsu

We look forward to seeing everyone there, whether you’re competing or cheering from the sidelines!

community

Kosen Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Exploring the Grappling Connection

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are deeply connected to the history and evolution of grappling arts. One of the most fascinating influences on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is Kosen Judo, a specialized form of judo with a strong emphasis on ground fighting, or ne-waza. Understanding the connection between these two arts can enrich our approach to BJJ and shed light on how the grappling world evolved.

What is Kosen Judo?

Kosen Judo originated in Japan in the early 20th century as a subset of traditional judo. While judo, founded by Jigoro Kano, is known for its dynamic throws and stand-up grappling (tachi-waza), Kosen Judo placed much greater emphasis on ground techniques, including pins, joint locks, and strangles. The style developed largely within Japan’s university system, where teams competed under special rules that favored longer periods of groundwork, unlike traditional judo competitions.

Kosen Judo quickly became known for its sophisticated and technical approach to controlling opponents on the ground—a trait that heavily influenced the development of BJJ.

The Evolution of BJJ from Judo

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu owes much of its foundation to judo, and especially to Kosen-style ne-waza. When Mitsuyo Maeda, a Kodokan judoka, arrived in Brazil in the early 20th century, he passed on his grappling knowledge to the Gracie family and others. Maeda’s teachings included many of the ground-fighting techniques that had been refined in Kosen Judo, which eventually evolved into the distinct style we know as BJJ today.

While early judo retained a focus on both throws and groundwork, BJJ took the groundwork aspect to a new level. Practitioners honed their skills in controlling, submitting, and neutralizing opponents on the mat, developing a vast array of sweeps, guards, and submissions.

Key Similarities Between Kosen Judo and BJJ

  1. Emphasis on Groundwork: Both arts prioritize the ability to control an opponent on the ground. While Kosen Judo does incorporate throwing techniques, the majority of the strategy revolves around transitioning to the mat and gaining a dominant position.
  2. Submissions: Just like in BJJ, Kosen Judo includes various joint locks and chokes. The key difference is that BJJ refined these techniques further, allowing for even more diverse and fluid submissions from various positions.
  3. Guard Play: Kosen Judo’s influence can be seen in the way BJJ developed guard positions. Guard, in BJJ, is a key part of defense and attack, where a practitioner can control or submit an opponent from their back. Kosen Judo already contained the seeds of this idea, though it was in BJJ where it truly flourished.
  4. Competitive Focus: In modern judo competitions, groundwork is often limited due to rule changes that favor stand-up techniques. However, Kosen Judo, with its university competition rules, allowed for a much greater focus on groundwork, similar to how BJJ competitions play out today.

Why Understanding Kosen Judo Matters for BJJ Practitioners

As BJJ continues to evolve, understanding its roots in Kosen Judo can provide a deeper appreciation for the techniques we practice daily. By studying the methods of Kosen Judo, we can refine our own ground game, gaining insights into leverage, control, and the finer details of ne-waza.

In fact, some techniques used in BJJ today, such as certain sweeps, transitions, and escapes, can be traced back to the strategic groundwork of Kosen Judo. Recognizing this historical lineage helps us to approach BJJ not just as a modern martial art, but as part of a larger grappling tradition.

Bringing Kosen Judo Concepts to El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are always looking to grow and expand our grappling knowledge. By incorporating Kosen Judo-inspired drills and concepts into our classes, we can help students refine their ability to control and submit opponents on the mat. Whether it’s working on efficient pins, dynamic guard work, or chaining submissions together, the influence of Kosen Judo offers a wealth of techniques to explore.

So next time you’re on the mat, think about the roots of your favorite submissions and sweeps. They likely have a long history that stretches back to the mats of Japanese universities, where Kosen Judo was once king.

Let’s continue to grow, evolve, and learn from the best aspects of both Kosen Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as we develop our skills here at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!