Tag Archives: martial arts

The Power of Consistency: Building a Steady Jiu Jitsu Routine

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in the transformative power of consistency. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting your journey, establishing a regular training routine is key to progress and enjoyment. Here’s why committing to training 2-3 times a week is essential and how you can balance occasional challenges without disrupting your overall routine.

The Benefits of a Consistent Routine

1. Steady Progress: Training consistently allows you to build on your skills week by week. Each session adds to your knowledge and muscle memory, making techniques more natural and effective over time.

2. Improved Fitness: Regular training sessions enhance your overall fitness. You’ll notice improvements in strength, endurance, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.

3. Mental Resilience: Consistency in training builds mental toughness. It helps you develop discipline, focus, and the ability to push through challenges both on and off the mat.

4. Community Connection: Training regularly means you’ll be more involved with our Jiu Jitsu community. You’ll build stronger bonds with fellow students and instructors, making each class more enjoyable and motivating. Try to find a twice a week routine on a Monday / Wednesday or Tuesday / Thursday schedule. This will help you get to know your training partners and develop friendships on the mat.

Setting Up Your Weekly Routine

1. Commit to 2-3 Sessions Per Week: Aim to train at least 2-3 times a week. This frequency strikes a balance between allowing adequate rest and maximizing the benefits of regular practice. Our varied class schedule makes it easy to find sessions that fit your lifestyle.

2. Plan Ahead: Look at your weekly schedule and carve out dedicated time for Jiu Jitsu. Treat these sessions as non-negotiable appointments with yourself.

3. Mix It Up: While consistency is key, variety keeps things interesting. I’d your usually train in the 6am class, mix it up and pop in to the evening class or vice versa.

Embracing Challenges Without Overtraining

1. Gradual Increases: Occasionally, you might feel ready to push your limits by adding an extra session or tackling a particularly tough class. This is a great way to challenge yourself and break through plateaus.

2. Listen to Your Body: While it’s important to challenge yourself, it’s equally crucial to avoid overtraining. Pay attention to your body’s signals and allow adequate recovery time. Soreness and fatigue are signs that you might need to take a break.

3. Maintain Balance: The goal is to average around 12 training sessions a month. If you decide to push harder one week, make sure to balance it out with a regular week to avoid burnout. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

4. Reflect and Adjust: Periodically review your training routine. Are you meeting your goals? Are you staying injury-free? Adjust your schedule as needed to ensure long-term success and sustainability. Don’t hesitate to check in with your coach and peers on your progress.

Consistency is the cornerstone of success in Jiu Jitsu. By committing to a regular routine of 2-3 sessions per week, you set yourself up for steady progress, improved fitness, and a deeper connection with our El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community. Embrace challenges, but always listen to your body and maintain a balanced approach. With dedication and consistency, you’ll find that Jiu Jitsu becomes not just a hobby, but a way of life.

Join us on the mat and let’s build that consistency together!

Mastering the Standards: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu’s Curriculum

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that a strong foundation is crucial for success in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). Our written standards curriculum for all belts is designed to ensure that our students learn in an organized and systematic manner. This curriculum covers 12 essential positions and 350 movements, providing a comprehensive roadmap for beginners to develop their skills effectively and experienced practitioners to review and deepen their understanding of their standards.

The Importance of Structure in Learning BJJ

Starting your BJJ journey can be overwhelming. With countless techniques and positions to learn, it’s easy to feel lost. Our structured curriculum helps white belts navigate this complexity by breaking down the learning process into manageable sections. By focusing on 12 fundamental positions and their associated movements, we provide a clear path for progression.

The 12 Essential Positions

Our curriculum includes the mastery of 12 key positions. These positions form the foundation of standard Jiu Jitsu techniques and strategies. They include:

  1. Butterfly Guard: Learn to defend and attack from this versatile position.
  2. Closed Guard: Control your opponent while setting up submissions and sweeps.
  3. Open Guard: Use leverage and mobility to keep your opponent at bay.
  4. Half Guard: Develop sweeps, passes, and submissions from this transitional position.
  5. Collar Sleeve Guard: Transition smoothly and set up attacks from this often-overlooked position.
  6. Spider Guard: Utilize grips and leverage to control and attack from the bottom.
  7. Side Control: Control your opponent and set up attacks from a dominant position.
  8. Mount: Maintain control and apply submissions from the top.
  9. Back Control: Secure dominant control and execute high-percentage submissions.
  10. Turtle: Defend and counter-attack from a defensive posture.
  11. Standing: Engage and initiate takedowns from a standing position.
  12. Knee on Belly: Apply pressure and control while transitioning to submissions.

350 Movements: Building a Comprehensive Skill Set

Within these 12 positions, our curriculum outlines 350 specific movements. These include:

  • Escapes: Learn to free yourself from inferior positions.
  • Sweeps: Master techniques to reverse your opponent and gain a dominant position.
  • Passes: Neutralize the guard and move into dominant positions like side control, the back, and mount.
  • Submissions: Develop a repertoire of joint locks and chokes.
  • Transitions: Smoothly move between positions to maintain control and pressure.
  • Self Defense: Understand the untrained reactions you might experience in self defense positions.

Each movement is broken down step-by-step, with visual aids to ensure clarity and precision. By practicing these movements systematically, white belts build muscle memory and develop a deep understanding of the mechanics of BJJ. Upper belts who understand the standards curriculum benefit from a strong grasp of the basics and an opportunity to further deepen their understanding and elevate their baseline standards.

Benefits of the Written Standards Curriculum

  1. Consistency: All students receive the same high-quality instruction, ensuring a uniform learning experience.
  2. Progress Tracking: Our curriculum allows students to track their progress and identify areas for improvement.
  3. Confidence Building: Mastering fundamental positions and movements instills confidence, encouraging students to push themselves further.
  4. Foundation for Advanced Techniques: A strong grasp of basics provides the groundwork for learning more complex techniques and strategies.

Join Us on the Journey

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are committed to helping our students succeed. Our standards belt curriculum is designed to provide a structured and comprehensive approach to learning BJJ. By mastering 12 essential positions and 350 movements, our white belts are equipped with the skills and confidence needed to progress in their BJJ journey.

Whether you are a complete beginner or have some experience, our curriculum is tailored to guide you through the fundamentals of BJJ. Join us on the mats and start your journey towards becoming a skilled and confident practitioner.

Self-Defense: The Art of De-Escalation, Situational Awareness, and a Healthy Lifestyle at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

The ability to protect oneself is crucial. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe self-defense encompasses more than just physical techniques—it also includes the skills of de-escalation, situational awareness, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to defend against both physical threats and illness.

De-Escalation: The First Line of Defense

Physical confrontations are best avoided, and de-escalation techniques are your first line of defense. By learning how to calm a potentially volatile situation, you can often prevent violence before it begins. Our de-escalation training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu focuses on:

  • Effective Communication: Master the use of calm, assertive language to defuse tensions.
  • Non-Verbal Cues: Recognize and employ body language that communicates peace rather than aggression.
  • Emotional Intelligence: Understand and manage your own emotions to stay composed under pressure, creating a calming influence on others.

Situational Awareness: Staying One Step Ahead

Situational awareness is a critical component of self-defense. It involves being aware of your surroundings and understanding potential threats before they escalate. Our training includes:

  • Observation Skills: Learn to notice details in your environment that others might overlook, such as exits, potential hazards, and unusual behavior.
  • Risk Assessment: Develop the ability to quickly assess situations and make informed decisions about your safety.
  • Preventive Strategies: Understand how to position yourself in public spaces to maximize safety and minimize risk.

The Value of a Healthy Lifestyle

A strong body and mind are essential for effective self-defense. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we promote a healthy lifestyle not just for physical defense, but also to fortify against illness. Regular training and a balanced lifestyle offer numerous benefits:

  • Physical Health: Engage in regular exercise to boost cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility, enhancing your ability to defend yourself.
  • Mental Clarity: Physical activity is known to reduce stress and improve mental health, ensuring you stay calm and focused in stressful situations.
  • Immune Support: A healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and adequate sleep, strengthens your immune system, helping you fend off illnesses and stay at your peak performance.

Why Choose El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu?

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive self-defense training that integrates de-escalation, situational awareness, and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. Our instructors are committed to helping you build the skills and confidence needed to protect yourself and enhance your overall well-being.

By training with us, you’ll gain:

  • Community Guidance: Learn from a community of instructors and students who are passionate about your safety and growth.
  • Supportive Community: Join a community of like-minded individuals who support and motivate each other.
  • Holistic Training: Benefit from a well-rounded approach that prepares you physically, mentally, and emotionally for different situations.

Start Your Journey Today

Empower yourself with the knowledge and skills to stay safe and healthy. Visit El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu to learn more about our classes and sign up for a free trial session. Discover the benefits of a comprehensive self-defense program that prepares you for life’s challenges both inside and outside the dojo.

Embracing Empowerment: Women in Martial Arts at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that martial arts is for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Over the years, we’ve seen an inspiring increase in women taking up martial arts, discovering not just the physical benefits but also the profound impact it has on their confidence, mental strength, and sense of community.

Why Women Are Turning to Martial Arts

  1. Self-Defense Skills: One of the most compelling reasons women start training in martial arts is for self-defense. Learning techniques that can protect against real-world threats is empowering and builds a strong sense of security.
  2. Physical Fitness: Martial arts training provides a full-body workout. It improves cardiovascular health, increases strength, flexibility, and endurance. In the right environment, martial arts classes are dynamic, fun, and keep you engaged.
  3. Mental Resilience: Martial arts is as much a mental discipline as it is a physical one. Training requires focus, determination, and perseverance. Over time, these mental skills translate into other areas of life, helping women tackle everyday challenges with greater confidence and composure.
  4. Community and Support: Joining a martial arts gym means becoming part of a supportive and encouraging community. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming environment where everyone feels included and motivated.

Starting Your Journey

  1. Beginners: We offer beginner-friendly classes specifically designed to introduce the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and other martial arts. These classes focus on collaborative learning in small groups and provide a solid foundation for all newcomers.
  2. Supportive Instructors: Our instructors are not just experienced coaches; they are also passionate about teaching and supporting each student’s journey. They understand the unique challenges women might face and are dedicated to helping you overcome them.
  3. Flexible Scheduling: We understand that balancing work, family, and personal time can be challenging. That’s why we offer a variety of class times throughout the week to accommodate your busy schedule.

Taking the First Step

If you’ve been considering starting martial arts, now is the perfect time to take the plunge. Whether your goal is to learn self-defense, get fit, or find a supportive community, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is here to help you every step of the way.

Join us for a trial class and experience firsthand the many benefits martial arts can bring to your life. For more information, visit our website or contact us directly. We can’t wait to welcome you to our martial arts family!

Barrett Abel’s Guest Instruction on the wizzer-seatbelt position at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

Last week, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu had the honor of hosting a special guest instructor: Barrett Abel! With his impressive background as a Division One wrestler and the 2023 IBJJF World Masters Champion at blue belt, Barrett’s visit was highly anticipated and did not disappoint.

About Barrett Abel

Barrett Abel’s athletic achievements are truly remarkable. As a former Division One wrestler, he has competed at the highest levels of collegiate wrestling, showcasing his exceptional skills and dedication. Transitioning to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Barrett continued to excel, recently winning the 2023 IBJJF World Masters Championship at blue belt. His visit provided our students with an invaluable opportunity to learn from an athlete who understands both wrestling and Jiu Jitsu.

Highlights from the Small Group Lesson

Barrett Abel’s guest class was a unique and enriching experience for all who attended. Conducted as an intimate small group lesson, students received personalized attention and detailed instruction on specific techniques to enhance their game.

Key Highlights Included:

  1. Whizzer-Seatbelt Position: Barrett provided a detailed breakdown of the whizzer, or overhook, position. He demonstrated how to effectively use the whizzer to control opponents and set up attacks.
  2. Dogfight (jiujitsu) Position: Students learned the intricacies of the dogfight position, a critical transition point where the battle for control often takes place. Barrett emphasized the importance of maintaining balance and leverage in this position.

Student Reactions

The small group format of the lesson was a huge success, with students expressing their excitement and appreciation for the opportunity to learn from Barrett in such a personalized setting. With clarity and precision of his instruction, his techniques and insights have already made a positive impact on their training.

One student shared, “Learning from Barrett in a small group setting was an incredible experience. His approach to integrating wrestling and Jiu Jitsu was eye-opening, and I feel more confident in my takedown and control techniques now.”

A Lasting Impact

Barrett Abel’s visit left a strong impression on our community at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. His expertise and passion for the sport inspired our small group, and his techniques and strategies will continue to influence our training for a long time to come.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Barrett Abel for sharing his knowledge and making this event such a memorable experience. We look forward to more opportunities to learn from well rounded athletes like Barrett in the future.

Teaching Integrity on the Mats at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that the lessons learned on the mats extend far beyond the dojo. One of the values we emphasize to our young practitioners is integrity. But what exactly does integrity mean, especially for our younger-age students?

Understanding Integrity

Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. It’s about being honest, trustworthy, and making good choices simply because it’s the right thing to do. We teach our students that integrity is a cornerstone of both jiu jitsu and life.

Examples of Integrity in Action

To help our young students grasp the concept of integrity, we share relatable examples:

  1. Being Honest: If a student accidentally knocks over a water bottle and no one sees, we encourage them to pick it up and inform the coach. This simple act of honesty builds character.
  2. Playing Fair: When rolling with a partner, following the rules and not cheating to win is crucial. While winning is exciting, doing it the right way is what truly matters.
  3. Helping Others: If a student notices a friend struggling with a technique, we encourage them to offer help. Taking extra time to practice together not only improves skills but also fosters a supportive community.

Integrity: A Superpower

We tell our students that integrity is like having a superpower. It makes them better teammates, friends, and people. By being honest, fair, and kind, they can positively impact those around them.

Practicing Integrity Every Day

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we strive to instill integrity in our students daily. Whether on the mats or in their everyday lives, we want our young practitioners to understand the importance of doing the right thing.

Here are three questions to help our young students learn and reflect on integrity:

  1. “Is this the right thing to do?”
  • Encourage students to pause and consider their actions.
  1. “Would I be proud of my actions if others knew?”
  • This helps students think about their actions even when no one is watching.
  1. “How would I feel if someone did this to me?”
  • This promotes empathy and helps students understand the impact of their actions on others, fostering a sense of fairness and kindness.

Let’s continue to practice integrity, both here at the dojo and beyond. Together, we can build a community of strong, principled individuals who make an impact in a positive way.

Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu as we champion integrity and other core values that shape our students into outstanding individuals.

Rise and Shine: Embrace the 6 AM Jiu Jitsu Class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand the importance of starting your day with energy and focus. That’s why our 6 AM class, held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, is the perfect way to kickstart your morning and set a positive tone for the rest of your day.

Why Join the 6 AM Class?

1. Energize Your Morning:
There’s no better way to wake up than with a vigorous Jiu Jitsu session. Our early morning classes are designed to get your blood pumping, your mind sharp, and your body ready to tackle the day’s challenges.

2. Expert Instruction:
Our experienced instructors lead the 6 AM sessions, ensuring you receive top-notch guidance whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a complete beginner. Each class is structured to provide a balanced mix of technique drills, live sparring, and conditioning exercises.

3. Build a Consistent Routine:
Consistency is key in Jiu Jitsu, and attending our 6 AM classes can help you build a disciplined training regimen. By making Jiu Jitsu a regular part of your morning routine, you’ll see steady improvement in your skills and overall fitness.

Beginners Are Welcome!

If you’re new to Jiu Jitsu, our 6 AM classes are an excellent opportunity to start your journey. We pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all students, regardless of experience level. Here’s what beginners can expect:

1. Introduction to Basics:
Our instructors take the time to introduce beginners to fundamental techniques and concepts. You’ll learn essential movements, positions, and submissions in a way that’s easy to understand and apply.

2. Personalized Attention:
With a smaller class size typical of early morning sessions, beginners can benefit from more personalized attention. Instructors are available to answer questions, provide feedback, and ensure you’re progressing at a comfortable pace.

3. Community Support:
The 6 AM class has a tight-knit community of practitioners who are dedicated to helping each other grow. You’ll find training partners who are eager to share their knowledge and support your development on the mats.

Join Us and Transform Your Mornings

Whether you’re an experienced Jiu Jitsu practitioner or just starting, the 6 AM class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers a unique opportunity to train, improve, and connect with a passionate community. Don’t let the early hour deter you—embrace the challenge and see the positive impact it can have on your day and overall well-being.

Ready to get started? Join us every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 6 AM, and discover the benefits of early morning Jiu Jitsu training. We look forward to seeing you on the mats!

For more information or to sign up, visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s rise and shine together at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!

Mastering the Single Leg Takedown from an Inside Tie

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we pride ourselves on equipping our members with effective and high-percentage techniques. One such technique is the single leg takedown from an inside tie. This setup is a fundamental move that, when executed correctly, can give you a significant advantage over your opponent. Let’s break down the steps to master this technique.

Understanding the Inside Tie

Before diving into the single leg takedown, it’s crucial to understand the inside tie position. The inside tie involves controlling your opponent’s arm by gripping their armpit from the inside in a pulling motion and the other hand posting or pushing against the collar, creating a dominant position that allows you to manipulate their movement. This control is essential for setting up various takedowns, including the single leg.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Single Leg Takedown from an Inside Tie

  1. Establishing the Inside Tie: Begin in a neutral stance, facing your opponent. Reach your lead hand to secure an inside tie on your opponent’s collar. Ensure your grip is firm, with your thumb positioned near their neck to maintain control. The opposing hand can now enter to secure the inside tie in the arm pit. This push-pull is the foundation of a strong inside tie.
  2. Creating an Angle: Use your inside tie to pull your opponent slightly off balance. At the same time, step to the side to create an angle. This movement disrupts their base and opens up the opportunity for your attack.
  3. Changing Levels: Lower your level by bending your knees. This level change is crucial as it brings you closer to your opponent’s legs, making the single leg takedown more accessible.
  4. Penetration Step: Step in while pushing off your back leg, aiming to position your front leg between your opponent’s feet. Your lead leg should step forward, placing you in a deep, stable position. This penetration step is the cornerstone of the single leg takedown.
  5. Grabbing the Leg: As you complete your penetration step, reach with your push hand to grab your opponent’s leg at the knee. Your head should be positioned on the inside of their upper chest, and your head positioning should be tight to prevent them from sprawling.
  6. Finishing the Takedown: There are several ways to finish the single leg takedown from this position. One effective method is to drive forward, pushing your opponent off balance while lifting their leg.

Key Tips for Success

  • Maintain Control: Throughout the setup, maintaining control of the inside tie is crucial. This control prevents your opponent from countering your moves.
  • Stay Tight: Keep your movements compact and close to your opponent to minimize the chances of them escaping or countering.
  • Practice the Timing: The timing of each step is critical. Drilling the sequence repeatedly will help you develop the muscle memory needed to execute the move smoothly in live situations.

Drills to Enhance Your Single Leg Takedown

To build proficiency in the single leg takedown from an inside tie, incorporate the following drills into your training regimen:

  1. Inside Tie to Level Change Drill: Practice transitioning from an inside tie to a deep level change without completing the takedown. Focus on smooth, controlled movements.
  2. Partner Drills: Work with a partner to simulate the sequence. Start slowly, emphasizing the technical details, and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
  3. Resistance Training: Have your partner provide light resistance to mimic a live scenario. This helps in developing the strength and coordination needed to execute the takedown against a resisting opponent.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, mastering fundamental techniques like the single leg takedown from an inside tie is essential for building a strong foundation in your grappling game. Remember, consistent practice and attention to detail are key to becoming proficient in any technique. Happy training!


For more tips and detailed breakdowns of various techniques, stay tuned to our blog and join us on the mats for our next training session. If you have any questions or need personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced instructors. See you on the mat!

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Shines at the IBJJF American National Championships

This past weekend, the El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu team competed in the prestigious IBJJF American National Championships in Las Vegas. The event brought together some of the best jiu jitsu practitioners from across the country, and our team proudly represented our gym and community with exceptional performances.

We are thrilled to announce that Danny and Allan both secured gold medals in their respective divisions, showcasing their dedication, skill, and hard work. Danny’s relentless training paid off as he dominated with precise technique and unwavering determination. Unfortunately Allan’s opponent dropped out and he won his division with a bye. However, he was able to secure ranking points for his seeding in anticipation of the prestigious World Master Championships in the end of August.

Joe, competing in his debut IBJJF tournament, also gave an outstanding performance. Although he did not place, Joe demonstrated incredible potential and resilience. His efforts and attitude are a testament to the spirit of our gym, and we are confident that this is just the beginning of a promising competitive journey for him as a blue belt.

While not everyone in our gym chooses to compete, the camaraderie and support within our community are what truly set us apart. Whether preparing for a major tournament or just working hard in daily classes, each member of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu contributes to the collective strength and progress of our team. We celebrate each other’s victories and learn from our challenges, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to achieve their personal best.

Participating in such a high-caliber tournament is a significant milestone for our team. The experience gained and lessons learned are invaluable as we continue to grow and develop as martial artists. We are incredibly proud of all our competitors and the way they represented El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu on this national stage.

A special thank you to our coaches, training partners, and supporters who have been instrumental in preparing our athletes for this event. Your guidance, encouragement, and dedication are the foundation of our success.

As we return to our home mats, we are more motivated than ever to continue training hard and striving for excellence. Congratulations to Danny, Allan, and Joe for their preparation, performance and attitude to learn following their experiences. The future looks bright for El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!

Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming events, training sessions, and the journey of our amazing team. Let’s keep rolling and growing together!

Celebrate Independence Day with El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: Special Schedule Announcement

As we gear up for the Fourth of July festivities, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu wishes everyone a safe and joyful Independence Day! In observance of the holiday, please take note of our adjusted class schedule:

July 3rd (Wednesday):

  • 9:00 AM: Peewee & Kids Class
  • 10:00 AM: Junior & Adult Class

July 4th (Thursday):

  • CLOSED

July 5th (Friday):

  • 9:00 AM: Peewee & Kids Class
  • 10:00 AM: Junior & Adult Class

We encourage all our members to enjoy the holiday with family and friends, and to come back refreshed and ready to train on July 5th.

Thank you for being a part of the El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community. Have a fantastic Fourth of July!

Stay safe and see you on the mats!


For any questions regarding the schedule or upcoming events, please feel free to contact us. Keep training, stay strong, and celebrate freedom!