Happy New Year! After a well-deserved holiday break, we’re excited to announce that all classes are back on our regular schedule starting today, January 2nd. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting your martial arts journey, now is the perfect time to hit the mats and kick off 2025 with focus, growth, and energy.
What to Expect
We’re diving right back into training with a full lineup of classes for all ages and levels:
• Peewee (Ages 4-7): Building coordination, focus, and foundational skills in a fun environment.
• Kids & Juniors (Ages 7-17): Strengthening techniques and life skills while having a blast.
• Adult Classes: From beginner fundamentals to advanced sessions, we’ve got you covered.
• Morning and Evening Options: Whether you’re an early riser or prefer evening classes, our schedule has flexibility for everyone.
Why Start the Year on the Mats?
Training Jiu Jitsu is more than just a workout—it’s a chance to challenge yourself mentally and physically, build discipline, and be part of a supportive community. Whether your goal is to improve your fitness, compete, or simply have fun, our team is here to help you succeed.
Upcoming Highlights
Keep an eye out for exciting events and seminars in the coming months, including special guest instructors, in-house competitions, and community gatherings. Make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter for updates!
Ready to Roll?
Let’s make 2025 your best year yet. Grab your gi, tie your belt, and join us today!
As the new year approaches, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and setting goals for the future. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that growth requires more than just resolutions—it requires bold action and stepping into the unknown. To illustrate this, let’s explore an analogy we often use in training: the dark alley.
Imagine you’re walking down a familiar street. It’s well-lit, comfortable, and predictable. You know exactly where it leads because you’ve walked it a hundred times before. But this year, let’s consider something different. What if you chose to turn down a dark alley?
This alley is unknown. It’s intimidating. It’s filled with challenges you can’t yet see. But it’s also where transformation happens.
The Comfort of the Well-Lit Path
Most people stick to what’s comfortable: routines, habits, and behaviors that feel safe. There’s nothing wrong with that—it’s human nature to avoid unnecessary risks. But in Jiu Jitsu, as in life, growth comes from embracing discomfort and doing things differently.
Repetition may refine your skills, but innovation pushes boundaries. If you want to be different—whether as a martial artist, a professional, or a person—you have to do things that others won’t.
The Challenge of the Dark Alley
Walking down that dark alley means trying what feels uncertain. It’s the beginner who steps onto the mat for the first time, unsure of what to expect. It’s the seasoned practitioner learning a new technique that feels awkward and clunky at first. It’s competing in your first tournament, not knowing how it will turn out.
In 2025, we challenge you to take those steps into the unknown. Whether it’s committing to early morning classes, focusing on a weak area of your game, or simply showing up when life feels overwhelming, the dark alley is where you’ll find your edge.
Choosing to Be Different
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re proud of our community’s drive to continually improve. This year, let’s all commit to doing something different to be different. Here’s how:
Set Uncomfortable Goals: What scares you? What feels just out of reach? Write it down and take the first step.
Seek Out Challenges: Roll with higher belts. Drill the techniques that frustrate you. Embrace failure as part of the process.
Stay Consistent: The dark alley doesn’t get easier overnight, but showing up consistently will build your confidence and strength.
Growth Beyond the Mats
The lessons learned on the mats translate directly into life. Maybe your dark alley is starting a new career, having a difficult conversation, or pursuing a passion you’ve set aside. The mindset of doing different to be different isn’t limited to Jiu Jitsu—it’s a philosophy that can redefine your year.
Join Us in 2025
This year, we invite everyone in the El Dorado Hills community to step into their own version of the dark alley. Whether you’re new to Jiu Jitsu or a longtime practitioner, our mats are a place to grow, adapt, and thrive.
Let’s make 2025 the year of doing different to be different. The well-lit path may be safe, but the dark alley is where greatness is forged.
Are you ready to take the turn?
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers classes for all ages and experience levels. Join us to start your journey of transformation today.
Martial arts have long been celebrated for their ability to transform lives, instilling discipline, confidence, and resilience in those who practice them. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’ve seen firsthand how Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) becomes more than just a sport or self-defense system—it can shape how we eat, think, and behave.
Building Physical and Mental Strength
BJJ is often called “the gentle art” because it allows practitioners to overcome stronger opponents using technique and leverage rather than brute force. This focus on technique helps build a deep connection between body and mind.
• Physical Benefits: Improved strength, flexibility, cardio, and overall fitness.
• Mental Benefits: Problem-solving under pressure, improved focus, and stress relief.
As students learn to navigate the challenges on the mat, they develop the confidence to handle challenges off the mat, too.
Fostering a Growth Mindset
Jiujitsu is unique in that progress is earned through consistent effort and perseverance. There are no shortcuts—progress represents dedication and improvement. This teaches students that setbacks are opportunities to grow and refine their skills.
This mindset, known as kaizen (continuous improvement), extends to other areas of life, such as work, relationships, and personal development.
Creating a Community of Support
Martial arts thrive on a dedicated team. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our mats are a place where people from all walks of life come together to train, learn, and grow.
• Inclusive Environment: Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced competitor, everyone is welcome.
• Shared Goals: Training partners push each other to improve while fostering mutual respect and encouragement.
• Lasting Friendships: The bonds formed on the mat often carry over into lifelong friendships.
Practical Self-Defense Skills
In today’s world, self-defense is an invaluable skill. Jiujitsu equips practitioners with the tools to stay calm and protect themselves in real-life situations. It emphasizes control and de-escalation, ensuring safety for all parties involved.
A Path to Wellness for All Ages
From kids learning discipline and respect to adults finding an outlet for stress, jiujitsu offers something for everyone:
• Youth Programs: Teaching focus, humility, and bravery.
• Adults: A way to stay active, challenge yourself, and achieve personal goals.
• Older Practitioners: A low-impact way to maintain fitness and mobility while enjoying the mental stimulation of problem-solving.
Join the Journey
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that martial arts are more than a workout—they’re a path to personal growth, resilience, and community. Whether you’re looking to build strength, develop discipline, or simply try something new, jiujitsu is a transformative experience that can enrich your life in ways you never imagined.
Come try a class and discover the value of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for yourself!
Have you ever wanted to try Jiu Jitsu but weren’t sure where to start? At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we understand that beginning something new can feel intimidating. That’s why we’ve created a trial program designed to make your first steps on the mat easy, welcoming, and exciting.
Why Try Jiu Jitsu?
Jiu Jitsu offers benefits far beyond physical fitness. It’s a practice that strengthens your body, sharpens your mind, and builds resilience. Whether you’re looking to improve your self-defense skills, gain confidence, or simply try something new, Jiu Jitsu is for everyone—regardless of age, fitness level, or experience.
What Our Trial Program Offers
Our trial program is designed to introduce you to Jiu Jitsu in a supportive and beginner-friendly environment. Here’s what you can expect:
• A Welcoming Community: From the moment you step onto our mats, you’ll be greeted by a friendly and supportive team that’s excited to help you on your journey.
• Beginner-Focused: In class instructors will tailor material for beginners, where we focus on teaching fundamental techniques and movements in a safe and structured way with your partner.
• Personalized Guidance: Our experienced instructors take the time to ensure you’re comfortable and confident as you learn, offering individual attention throughout your trial.
• All Levels Welcome: Whether you’re a complete beginner or have tried Jiu Jitsu before, our trial program is an excellent way to experience our training style and community.
What to Bring and What to Expect
All you need to bring is comfortable workout clothes, a positive attitude, and a willingness to try something new! We’ll provide you with a loaner gi (Jiu Jitsu uniform) for your trial classes, so you can get the full experience of training on the mat.
During your first session, you’ll learn basic positions and movements, giving you a solid foundation to build upon. Expect to have fun, work up a sweat, and leave feeling accomplished!
Join Our Jiu Jitsu Family
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that training is about more than techniques—it’s about team, personal growth, and building lifelong skills. Our trial program is the perfect way to see if Jiu Jitsu is the right fit for you while getting to know the people who make our gym special.
How to Get Started
Getting started is easy! Contact us today to schedule your first trial class. We’ll answer any questions you have, help you prepare for your first day, and ensure your experience is nothing short of exceptional.
Discover the art of Jiu Jitsu and see how it can transform your life. We can’t wait to welcome you to the mats!
Ready to start your journey? Contact us now to book your trial and take the first step toward a healthier, stronger, and more confident you.
As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect. Whether you’ve spent the year honing your skills on the mat, setting personal goals, or navigating life’s challenges, the end of the year provides a unique opportunity for self-evaluation. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that taking time to assess where you’ve been and where you want to go is as important as drilling techniques or rolling in class.
Reflecting on the Year
Reflection is about more than recounting achievements; it’s about understanding the lessons you’ve learned. Ask yourself:
• What did I accomplish this year? Celebrate your victories, no matter how small. Did you finally nail that armbar or feel more confident during sparring?
• What challenges did I face, and how did I respond? Whether it was an injury, a tough loss, or finding balance between training and life, identifying areas of struggle helps highlight your resilience.
• How have I grown off the mat? Jiu Jitsu teaches us patience, discipline, and perseverance. How have these traits influenced your relationships, work, or other areas of life?
Setting Intentions for the New Year- New Season
Once you’ve reflected on the past, it’s time to look forward. Growth doesn’t happen by accident; it’s built through intentional effort and consistent routines. Here are some ways to level up both on and off the mat in the coming year:
1. Create a Training Routine
Consistency is key in Jiu Jitsu. Set a realistic schedule that works with your life. Whether it’s committing to 3 classes a week or joining the 6am crew, showing up regularly will sharpen your skills and deepen your connection to the team.
2. Focus on One Area of Improvement
Instead of trying to master everything at once, focus on one aspect of your game. Maybe it’s guard retention, takedowns, or learning how to relax under pressure. Off the mat, consider adopting a similar approach—like improving your time management or prioritizing mental health.
3. Incorporate Cross-Training or Recovery
Your body is your tool, so take care of it. Add yoga, strength training, or active recovery days to your routine to complement your Jiu Jitsu practice. Prioritizing sleep and proper nutrition can make a world of difference in your energy levels and performance.
4. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude
Mental growth is just as important as physical growth. Take time each day to meditate, journal, or simply list things you’re grateful for. This small habit can help you stay present and find joy in your journey.
Building Momentum for the Future
The lessons learned on the mat often mirror those in life. By reflecting on the past year and setting intentional routines, you can move into the new year with purpose and determination. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistent effort, you’ll surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
Let’s make the new year one of progress, not perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting your Jiu Jitsu journey, the path to improvement is always open. Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu as we step into another year of learning, growing, and supporting one another—on and off the mat.
What are your goals for the new year? Let us know next time you’re at the gym, or share them in the comments below. We can’t wait to see what 2025 holds for our amazing community!
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that learning a skill should go hand-in-hand with building strength, improving fitness, and cultivating discipline. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) offers a unique blend of mental and physical growth, where every step on the mat is a step toward mastering technique and transforming your body.
Why Skill-Based Training Matters
Skill-based training, like BJJ, keeps you engaged. Unlike repetitive workouts at the gym, every session brings new challenges. Whether it’s learning to escape side control, setting up a triangle, or perfecting your guard retention, the focus on technique makes every class feel purposeful.
When you’re practicing a skill, your mind and body are working together. This mental engagement sharpens focus and problem-solving abilities while simultaneously building functional strength, agility, and endurance. You’re not just burning calories—you’re gaining confidence and self-defense skills that can last a lifetime.
Fitness Through Repetition
Practice is the foundation of growth in Jiu Jitsu. Each time you drill a movement or spar with a partner, you’re improving muscle memory and fine-tuning your coordination. The beauty of this process is that fitness becomes a byproduct.
Strength: Grappling movements like sweeps and takedowns build full-body strength.
Cardio: Rolling (sparring) increases stamina as you flow through positions and transitions.
Flexibility: Techniques like guard retention improve flexibility and joint mobility.
As you focus on mastering techniques, you’ll notice your fitness improving almost effortlessly.
The Joy of Progress
The journey in BJJ is about incremental growth. One day, you’ll nail a sweep that seemed impossible weeks ago. These “aha!” moments fuel motivation and reinforce the value of consistent practice. And as your skills improve, so does your physical conditioning.
Our structured curriculum at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu ensures that everyone, from beginners to advanced students, has a clear path for growth.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re looking for a way to challenge your mind, get fit, and learn a valuable skill, Jiu Jitsu might be the perfect fit. We welcome students of all ages and fitness levels to join us on the mats.
Come in for a trial class and experience how practice can lead to both skill mastery and a stronger, healthier version of yourself.
Start your journey with us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu—where practice doesn’t just make perfect, it makes progress.
The holidays are a time to relax, reflect, and recharge—and for us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, it’s also a chance to prepare for an exciting year ahead! As the holiday season approaches, we’d like to share our schedule for December 23rd through January 1st, 2025.
During this time, we’ll be taking a brief break to celebrate with loved ones and recharge for the new year. Regular classes will pause on Monday, December 23rd, and we’ll resume our full schedule on Thursday, January 2nd, 2025.
This means:
No regular classes from 12/23 through 1/1
Classes will restart on 1/2/2025
Youth jiujitsu workshop on 12/23 & 12/26
Check calendar for pop up classes during break
We encourage everyone to use this time to enjoy the season, stay active, and reflect on your Jiu Jitsu journey. Whether it’s reviewing techniques at home, rolling with family, or simply taking time to reset, let’s come back stronger and ready to train in January!
Why Start Jiu Jitsu in the New Year?
If you’ve been curious about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, there’s no better time to start than at the beginning of the year. With new classes and a welcoming community, we’re here to help you set and achieve your goals. Whether you’re looking to improve fitness, learn self-defense, or find a supportive group of like-minded individuals, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is the place to be.
We’re Inviting the Local Community to Join Us in 2025!
Located in the heart of El Dorado Hills, we’re proud to serve students from all walks of life, including residents of Folsom, Cameron Park, and surrounding communities. Our programs cater to all ages and experience levels—from beginners to advanced practitioners.
Mark your calendars and come experience what makes El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu a standout martial arts school in the area. Classes resume on January 2nd, 2025—start the year on the mat with us!
Get Started
If you’re new to Jiu Jitsu, contact us today to schedule your trial class in January. Whether you’re an individual or a family looking for a fun and challenging activity, our friendly coaches and supportive environment will help you take the first step in your Jiu Jitsu journey.
We can’t wait to see our team—and new faces—on the mats in the new year. Happy Holidays from all of us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!
Contact Us
📍 4669 Golden Foothill pkwy suite 208
📞 916.595.4064
📧 edhbjj@gmail.com
💻 http://www.edhjiujitsu.com
Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, resilience, and community on and off the mats!
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our youth program is about more than just learning techniques and building physical fitness—it’s about creating confident, resilient, and well-rounded individuals. Recently, we’ve been reflecting on the work of Dr. Dan Gould, director of the Michigan State University Center for Youth Sports. Dr. Gould’s research offers invaluable insights into how coaches, parents, and programs like ours can positively influence young athletes.
The Role of Youth Sports in Life Skills Development
Dr. Gould emphasizes that youth sports should be a vehicle for teaching critical life skills like discipline, teamwork, leadership, and emotional resilience. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we see these skills come alive on the mats every day. Whether a young student is learning to persevere after a tough round of sparring or practicing respect through bowing to a training partner, these lessons transcend the sport itself.
As Dr. Gould highlights, sports don’t automatically teach life skills—they must be intentionally woven into training. This is why we hold monthly Mat Chats in our youth program, focusing on values like integrity, humility, safety, and bravery. By combining Jiu Jitsu with meaningful life discussions, we help students make connections between their practice and their daily lives.
Creating a Positive Youth Sports Environment
Dr. Gould’s research stresses the importance of a positive sports environment—one that balances competitiveness with encouragement and learning. For us, this means fostering a culture where mistakes are seen as opportunities to grow. A child may not always hit the perfect technique, but through patient coaching and reinforcement, they’ll learn to embrace challenges rather than fear failure.
We also encourage parents to focus on effort and progress over winning or losing. As Dr. Gould points out, parents and coaches who highlight a child’s personal improvement rather than external results are more likely to keep kids motivated, confident, and happy.
Avoiding Burnout and Keeping Sports Fun
One of Dr. Gould’s most important messages is that sports should be fun, especially for younger athletes. Overemphasizing competition can lead to burnout and cause kids to drop out of sports altogether. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we ensure that fun remains a priority—whether it’s through games to teach new techniques, friendly in-house competitions like Ruckus in the Hills, or celebrating milestones in class.
By keeping Jiu Jitsu engaging and rewarding, we help kids develop a lifelong love for movement, fitness, and personal growth.
The Long-Term Impact of Jiu Jitsu for Youth
Dr. Gould’s findings remind us that the true value of youth sports lies in the long-term impact on a child’s character and mindset. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re proud to contribute to this journey. Every young student who steps on the mat learns to be a little braver, a little more focused, and a little more resilient—skills they’ll carry with them long after they leave the gym.
We’re inspired by Dr. Gould’s vision of youth sports as a transformative experience, and we remain committed to providing the best possible environment for young athletes in our community.
If you’re a parent looking for a program where your child can build physical skills and grow as a person, come visit us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Let’s help your child reach their full potential—on and off the mat.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that discipline is not just a personality trait—it’s a skill that anyone can develop and refine. Whether you’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or training for a world-class competition, discipline is the key to unlocking your potential in Jiu Jitsu and beyond.
But what exactly is discipline, and how can we cultivate it in our training and daily lives?
What Is Discipline?
Discipline is the ability to stay committed to your goals, even when the journey gets tough. It’s choosing consistent effort over fleeting motivation and prioritizing long-term growth over immediate comfort.
In Jiu Jitsu, discipline means showing up to class even when you’re tired, drilling techniques repetitively to perfect them, and keeping your emotions in check during a match. Off the mat, it can mean maintaining a healthy lifestyle, setting clear goals, and consistently working toward them.
How to Practice Discipline
The good news is that discipline isn’t something you either have or don’t have—it’s a skill you can build with intentional practice. Here are a few ways to develop discipline both on and off the mat:
1. Start Small
Discipline begins with small, manageable habits. For example, commit to attending one additional class per week or set aside 10 minutes a day to review techniques. As you succeed in these smaller goals, you’ll build the confidence and momentum to tackle bigger challenges.
2. Embrace Consistency
Consistency is the foundation of discipline. It’s better to train regularly, even if it’s just a few times a week, than to overtrain sporadically. Consistency helps you establish routines that make discipline feel natural rather than forced.
3. Focus on the Process
Discipline is about falling in love with the journey, not just the outcome. Celebrate the small victories, like mastering a new guard pass or maintaining focus during a challenging roll.
4. Practice Self-Control
Discipline requires controlling impulses. On the mat, this might mean resisting the urge to muscle through a technique and instead focusing on precision. Off the mat, it could mean choosing meal prep over fast food or study time over Netflix.
5. Learn from Setbacks
Setbacks are inevitable, but disciplined individuals use them as opportunities to grow. Missed a class? Reflect on why and recommit. Lost a match? Analyze what went wrong and come back stronger.
Why Discipline Matters in Jiu Jitsu
Discipline isn’t just about improving your skills in Jiu Jitsu; it’s about becoming a better version of yourself. Here’s why it matters:
• Resilience: Discipline helps you push through tough times and bounce back from failure.
• Focus: It sharpens your ability to stay present and intentional in your training.
• Growth: Discipline ensures steady, incremental improvement over time.
• Leadership: As you develop discipline, you inspire those around you to do the same.
A Lifelong Skill
The beauty of discipline is that it transcends Jiu Jitsu. The habits you build on the mat—showing up, working hard, and staying consistent—will serve you in every area of life.
So the next time you tie your belt, remember: every class, every drill, and every roll is an opportunity to practice discipline. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up and doing the work.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re here to help you develop the discipline to succeed—not just in Jiu Jitsu, but in everything you set out to achieve.
Ready to Start?
Join us on the mat and begin your journey toward greater discipline and self-mastery. Your future self will thank you.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in more than just teaching martial arts—we are building a legacy. When we think about the future, we imagine a thriving community where the principles of Jiu Jitsu extend far beyond the mats, shaping lives, families, and the world for generations to come. Our vision is strong, looking 100 years ahead, to a time when the seeds we plant today have grown into something truly extraordinary.
A Legacy of Excellence
One hundred years from now, we envision a school that continues to uphold the highest standards of martial arts education. Our structured curriculum, which already sets a high bar, will evolve to include new techniques, philosophies, and methods, while staying rooted in the timeless principles of Jiu Jitsu: efficiency, mutual benefit, and adaptability.
Generations of students will pass through our doors, each learning not just the art of Jiu Jitsu but the discipline, respect, and resilience that come with it. We dream of black belts who will look back and say, “This is where it all started,” as they carry our legacy forward to new heights.
A Stronger Community
A century from now, our impact on the local community will be immeasurable. El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu will remain a cornerstone for personal growth, leadership, and connection. Families will look to us as a place where values are cultivated and where people of all ages come together to pursue a shared goal of self-improvement.
Through programs like our youth ‘mat chats’ on life skills, adult mentorship, and initiatives like the Guardian Scholarship, we will continue to shape confident, compassionate leaders who make their mark on the world.
Global Reach, Local Heart
In 100 years, we see our school’s influence stretching beyond El Dorado Hills, with alumni teaching and training around the globe. Yet, our foundation will remain steadfastly local—a place where beginners and world champions alike feel at home.
Imagine a network of Jiu Jitsu practitioners, all tracing their lineage back to our small town, each spreading the values we hold dear: integrity, humility, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Innovation with Purpose
The art of Jiu Jitsu is constantly evolving, and so will we. One hundred years from now, we envision embracing new technologies and teaching methods to ensure that the art remains accessible to all. From virtual reality training tools to advances in biomechanics, we will use innovation to preserve the art’s purity while enhancing the learning experience. Who knows what things could look like if we continue to incorporate technology and scientific principles into our program!
A Vision Rooted in Tradition
As we look to the next century, we are inspired by the words of Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, who emphasized “Jita Kyoei”—mutual welfare and benefit. This philosophy guides everything we do. Whether it’s on the mat, in our community, or in our personal lives, we strive to build a culture where everyone grows stronger together.
Our 100-year vision is bold, but it is also grounded in the daily work we do right now: coaching our students, fostering a positive environment, and building a culture of continuous improvement. Each day, we lay a brick in the foundation of a legacy that will stand the test of time.
Join the Journey
We invite you to be a part of this vision. Whether you’re a brand-new student or a seasoned practitioner, your journey at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu contributes to something much larger than any one of us. Together, we are building not just a school but a legacy—one that will inspire and empower generations to come.
Let’s train for today. Let’s dream for tomorrow. And let’s build for the next 100 years.
Learn More
Curious about how you can be part of our vision? Contact us or drop by for a trial class. Together, we can build a legacy that lasts.
