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!
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in creating well-rounded martial artists by blending the best aspects of multiple disciplines. While Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) forms the core of our training, we also incorporate key elements of wrestling and judo, adding variety to our techniques and improving our members’ overall grappling skillsets.
Wrestling: Emphasizing Control and Takedowns
Wrestling offers powerful tools for controlling opponents and gaining advantageous positions. Our classes frequently integrate wrestling techniques like the single-leg and double-leg takedowns, emphasizing a strong base and explosive movement. Under the guidance of former wrestlers, students learn how to apply these techniques with precision, especially when transitioning from standing to ground combat. Whether you’re a beginner learning to chain together basic takedowns or an advanced student looking to sharpen your control, our integration of wrestling into Jiu Jitsu ensures a well-rounded ground game.
Judo: Leveraging Throws and Balance
Judo’s focus on off-balancing an opponent and executing throws adds another dimension to our training. In class, we incorporate judo techniques such as the Ouchi Gari (inner reap) and Seoi Nage (shoulder throw), teaching students how to blend them into their Jiu Jitsu strategy. Our instruction emphasizes timing and leverage, giving students the ability to execute throws effectively even against larger opponents. By combining Judo throws with BJJ groundwork, members gain a seamless connection between standing and grappling, making their training more comprehensive.
The Benefits of Blending Disciplines
The integration of wrestling and judo gives our students the tools to deal with any grappling situation. Whether it’s transitioning from standing to the ground or controlling an opponent once you’re down, this blend improves versatility and confidence. Plus, these additional skill sets make our members more competitive in tournaments where takedowns and throws often determine the pace of the match.
We are proud to offer this unique approach to training, keeping El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu a place where students of all backgrounds and skill levels can continue to evolve. Whether you’re looking to improve your wrestling, judo, or Jiu Jitsu, our gym offers an environment where you can learn and apply techniques from each discipline, growing your abilities in all areas of grappling.
Join us on the mats to experience how wrestling and judo are seamlessly integrated into our training sessions!
When you first step onto the mats at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, the vast world of techniques can feel overwhelming. Arm drags, guard passes, submissions, and escapes—there’s so much to learn. But whether you’re brand new to the art or refining years of experience, drilling technique is the foundation for success. Consistent, focused practice on the basics will elevate your game and help you absorb the core principles of Jiu Jitsu.
Building Muscle Memory Through Repetition
In Jiu Jitsu, muscle memory is your best friend. The more you repeat a movement, the more natural it becomes. The process of drilling embeds these movements deep into your neuromuscular system so that, when you need them in a live roll, they are there automatically, without hesitation.
For beginners to Jiu Jitsu, this means the first steps are about drilling with precision and patience. You might start with simple techniques like basic guard passes, sweeps, or escapes, breaking them down piece by piece until every movement becomes fluid.
The Importance of Resistance
Once you’ve practiced a technique in its most basic form, it’s time to add resistance. Adding controlled resistance helps test your understanding and ability to perform the technique in real-world scenarios. With your partner providing light resistance, you will notice where you need adjustments. Does your grip break? Do you lose balance while transitioning? These small adjustments are where you begin to refine your technique, making it more effective.
When resistance is added, the technique has to function under pressure—just like in a real match. This stage of drilling builds confidence, as you begin to trust your movements and develop the sensitivity needed to adjust based on your partner’s energy.
Doing Resets from a Position
One of the most powerful methods for beginners to ingrain techniques is by resetting from specific positions. Instead of starting from scratch with each drill, you and your partner return to a position where one person is attacking and the other defending. This could be the guard, half-guard, or side control.
Let’s say you’re drilling side control escapes. Each time you escape or get stuck in a submission, instead of standing up and restarting the whole sequence, you go back to the side control position and work the position again and again. This type of positional sparring helps you see how slight variations in your partner’s pressure or grips can alter the dynamics of the position and movement.
Drilling Is Where Champions Are Made
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in drilling with purpose. Whether you’re starting from square one or aiming to master advanced techniques, the path to progress is forged through diligent, consistent practice. By adding resistance and resetting from positions, you sharpen your movements under real conditions, allowing your Jiu Jitsu to thrive both in practice and in competition.
No matter your goals—whether for self-defense, competition, or fitness—drilling will always remain a cornerstone of your success. So, hit the mats, start drilling, and watch your game elevate over time!
We are thrilled to announce a monumental moment for El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. On October 1st, from 6:30-7:30 PM, our very own Jon Chan will receive his black belt, marking the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and resilience on the mats.
Jon has been an integral part of our community, consistently demonstrating the technical excellence, leadership, and perseverance that a black belt symbolizes. His journey is a true inspiration to everyone in the gym—both seasoned practitioners and new students alike.
But the celebration doesn’t stop there. Immediately following Jon’s promotion, he will be teaching his very first seminar as a black belt. This is an exciting opportunity to learn from someone who has lived the journey from white to black belt, and whose mastery of technique is paired with the humility and hard work that epitomize Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Whether you’re a regular at the gym or new to our community, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Come join us as we celebrate Jon’s incredible achievement and gain valuable insights from his years of experience.
Details:
Date: October 1st
Time: 6:30-7:30 PM
Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
Seminar led by Jon Chan following the promotion
Let’s come together to support Jon on this unforgettable night!
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is widely known for its practical application as a martial art and self-defense system, but its health benefits extend far beyond the mats. It offers a unique combination of mental and physical engagement, making it one of the most comprehensive ways to stay fit. Personally, my journey with Jiu-Jitsu not only improved my grappling skills but also motivated me to incorporate strength training and flexibility work into my routine. This holistic approach has made me stronger, more flexible, and overall healthier. Let’s explore the many benefits of BJJ and why it’s becoming a popular choice for individuals of all fitness levels.
Full-Body Workout: One of the immediate benefits I noticed with Jiu-Jitsu was how it worked my entire body. Every roll, drill, and technique engaged multiple muscle groups, whether I was sweeping an opponent or escaping a difficult position. Over time, this intense full-body workout improved my overall muscle tone, strength, and endurance. Additionally, when I started combining my Jiu-Jitsu training with strength exercises, I saw even greater improvements in my physical capabilities both on and off the mat.
Core Strength: The core is essential in Jiu-Jitsu, and I quickly realized how often I relied on it for almost every movement—whether defending a guard pass or attempting a submission. Developing my core through both BJJ and targeted strength training has not only enhanced my grappling ability but also improved my posture and reduced my risk of injury in daily life.
Cardiovascular Health: BJJ classes are physically demanding, especially during live sparring or “rolling.” My heart rate would soar, and this consistent cardiovascular activity has significantly improved my endurance over time. I’ve also noticed improvements in my overall stamina during other activities, and regular practice has helped lower my stress levels and promote heart health.
Weight Loss and Fat Burning: When I first started BJJ, I was looking for a fun way to stay active without the monotony of traditional workouts. Little did I know, BJJ would be an excellent tool for weight loss. A typical class can burn a significant number of calories, and it wasn’t long before I began shedding pounds and building muscle. As I integrated strength training into my routine, the results became even more pronounced, with greater fat loss and increased muscle definition.
Metabolic Boost and Sustainable Weight Loss: In addition to the intense workouts, BJJ’s combination of aerobic and anaerobic exercises helps boost metabolism. I found that my body was burning calories long after training, thanks to the “afterburn” effect. What makes this sustainable is how mentally engaging BJJ is—there’s always something new to learn, so it never feels repetitive. This has kept me consistent in my training, leading to long-term weight management.
Improved Balance and Coordination: Jiu-Jitsu has a strong emphasis on body control and balance. Grappling forces you to be aware of your positioning and how to control an opponent, which in turn improves your coordination. I found that this awareness has positively affected other areas of my life, from playing sports to preventing injuries in everyday movements. The agility I’ve gained through BJJ has even made my strength and flexibility training more effective.
Mental Benefits: Focus and Concentration One of the things I love most about Jiu-Jitsu is the mental challenge. Every roll is like a chess match, requiring intense focus and problem-solving as you react to your opponent’s moves. Over time, I’ve found that this ability to stay focused under pressure has carried over into my daily life, helping me manage stress more effectively and improve my work performance.
Stress Relief and Mental Well-Being: Like many people, I initially turned to exercise as a way to manage stress. Jiu-Jitsu, however, provided a level of stress relief I hadn’t experienced before. The physical exertion releases endorphins, and the mental focus required during class helps distract from any anxieties. After a tough day, stepping onto the mats and sparring provides a healthy way to release pent-up frustration. This feeling of catharsis has been instrumental in improving my mental well-being.
Self-Defense and Confidence: One of the most empowering aspects of BJJ is its effectiveness in self-defense. While I initially joined for fitness, the confidence I’ve gained from learning how to handle myself in difficult situations has been life-changing. Jiu-Jitsu teaches techniques that allow a smaller person to control and even subdue a larger opponent, which has helped boost my self-confidence both on and off the mats.
Long-Term Health and Longevity: Incorporating Jiu-Jitsu into my lifestyle has made me more conscious of my overall health. I’ve adopted better eating habits, improved my sleep patterns, and become more dedicated to maintaining a strong and flexible body through additional strength and flexibility training. BJJ’s holistic approach to fitness—combining cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and mental sharpness—has set me on a path for long-term health and well-being.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has transformed my health in ways I never anticipated. Not only has it improved my physical strength and flexibility through a combination of BJJ and supplementary training, but it has also sharpened my mind and given me a sense of confidence. Whether you’re looking to improve fitness, reduce stress, or challenge yourself mentally, Jiu-Jitsu offers a comprehensive and sustainable solution. If you’re ready to take control of your health, I highly recommend stepping onto the mats and experiencing it for yourself.
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
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.
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.
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!
Whether you’re traveling through El Dorado County, Folsom, or Sacramento County, we welcome you to drop in and train with us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu! Our gym is open to visitors from near and far, offering a space to sharpen your skills, meet new training partners, and experience the supportive community that defines our academy.
We understand that traveling can disrupt your training routine, but at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we make it easy to stay on track. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a work trip, or simply exploring the area, our doors are open to BJJ practitioners of all levels.
Our schedule offers flexible options, from early morning sessions to evening classes, so you can find the time to fit training into your day. Our instructors, provide top-notch instruction that welcomes everyone from white belts to seasoned black belts. You’ll also have the opportunity to roll with some of our talented members, including those who regularly compete.
We love hosting visitors and providing a warm, welcoming environment where you can challenge yourself, learn new techniques, and make the most of your time on the mats. Whether you’re looking to polish up your guard game, work on takedowns, or just enjoy a solid session, we’ve got you covered.
If you’re visiting the area, bring your gi and nogi stuff, bring your enthusiasm, and come experience the unique training atmosphere at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Feel free to look up our schedule or send a text to 965-954-064 to find the best time to drop in. We can’t wait to have you on the mats!
Meeting up with “Chez” a regular drop in from San Diego, at a tournament
Stay sharp, stay connected, and always remember, no matter where you are, you’re never far from a welcoming Jiu Jitsu community!
At the IBJJF World Masters and Jiu Jitsu Con, our team showcased remarkable skill and determination, with several standout performances that highlighted our community’s dedication to growth.
Jon made a triumphant return, capturing gold in the brown belt Master 5 division after four hard-fought victories. His journey to the top was especially significant given last year’s disappointment, making this win a testament to his perseverance and progress.
In the black belt Master 7 division, Allan dominated his first two matches, showcasing his technical prowess. Though he fell short in the final, his silver medal reflects his strong performance and the high level of competition.
Ken battled through four challenging matches in the blue belt Master 1 division, reaching the finals with a string of impressive victories. The final match was incredibly close, and despite losing by a referee’s decision, Ken’s silver medal was well-earned.
At Jiu Jitsu Con, our young competitor Colin delivered an outstanding performance, winning three dominant matches to take gold. His achievement is a sign of his bright future in the sport.
We also had strong showings from Kiet, Jerel, Aaron, Ryan, Brad, Danny, Raina, and Leo, who all gave their best efforts on the mat. Although they did not medal this time, their performances reflected significant improvements and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
But beyond the medals and accolades, what truly stands out is the sense of camaraderie and commitment to improvement that permeates our gym. Whether competing on the world stage or training at home, everyone is focused on making continuous improvements to each other’s game—be it in technique, competition strategy, or overall performance. This collective dedication ensures that, as a team, we are always growing and pushing each other to new heights.
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu / AJJ Syndicate cheering on Allan after his victory
When it comes to martial arts training, finding the right gym is crucial for achieving your goals, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we provide a comprehensive martial arts experience tailored to meet the needs of every student. Here’s why our gym stands out in the world of martial arts and how it can help you reach your full potential.
1. Expert Instructors with Diverse Martial Arts Backgrounds
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our instructors bring a wealth of experience from various disciplines, including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, wrestling and judo. Our team is equipped to offer top-tier training that covers all aspects of martial arts. This diverse expertise ensures that you receive well-rounded instruction that prepares you for any challenge, whether in competition or self-defense.
2. Comprehensive Curriculum for All Levels
Our gym offers a structured curriculum that caters to practitioners of all levels, from white belts just starting out to advanced competitors. Our white belt curriculum, for instance, is designed to help beginners master 12 key positions and over 350 movements, providing a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We also offer specialized classes, such as our 6am adult class, and Saturday competition class.
3. Youth Programs Focused on Life Skills
Our youth martial arts programs are divided into three age groups: Peewee (ages 4-7), Kids (ages 7-10), and Juniors (ages 11-17). These classes do more than just teach martial arts—they also focus on developing important life skills. Each month, we hold ‘mat chats’ where we discuss values like integrity and humility, helping our young students grow both on and off the mat.
4. A Supportive and Inclusive Martial Arts Community
One of the most significant benefits of training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is the strong sense of community. Our gym is a place where everyone, regardless of age or experience, is welcomed and supported. Whether you’re a woman just starting in martial arts or someone in your 40s looking to get back in shape, you’ll find a community that encourages you to push your limits and achieve your goals.
5. Proven Success in Competitions
We take pride in the achievements of our members in various martial arts competitions. Recently, our gym placed 2nd in the adult and masters division at the JJWL tournament, showcasing the skill and dedication of our athletes. Additionally, members like Jon, who took gold at the IBJJF World Masters, serve as inspiration for others to strive for excellence in their training.
6. Convenient Training Schedule and Facilities
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers a variety of class times to fit your busy schedule, including early morning and evening options. For holidays like Labor Day, we adjust our schedule to ensure you can still train, offering a 6am adult class and a special Jiu Jitsu camp for dedicated students.
Whether you’re interested in improving your fitness, learning self-defense, or competing at a high level, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is the place for you. Our expert instructors, comprehensive curriculum, and supportive community make us the top choice for martial arts training in the area. Come see for yourself why so many people are choosing El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu as their martial arts home. Join us today and take the first step on your martial arts journey!
