Tag Archives: self-control

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Discipline as a Skill: Unlocking Your Potential

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.

    Kids Jiu Jitsu

    Why You Should Consider BJJ for Your Kids: Insights from Codie Sanchez

    In today’s fast-paced, distraction-filled world, finding activities that truly benefit our children can be a challenge. Codie Sanchez recently shared compelling insights on X (formerly Twitter) about the positive impact Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) can have on young people. Her post highlights the growing body of research that suggests BJJ is more than just a physical activity—it’s a tool for personal development.

    The Study: BJJ’s Impact on Self-Control

    According to the study Codie references, children who practiced BJJ 1-3 times per week, for about 45 minutes each session, saw a significant increase in self-control compared to their peers. This improvement was particularly noticeable in their ability to focus and avoid distractions—skills that are increasingly rare but crucial in our digital age.

    Youth Jiu Jitsu scholarship program at EDH Jiu Jitsu

    BJJ vs. MMA: A Comparison

    Another study compared the effects of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and BJJ on children. The results were eye-opening: kids who practiced BJJ not only demonstrated increased self-control but also showed more pro-social behavior and decreased levels of aggression. This reinforces the idea that BJJ fosters not just physical strength but also emotional and social growth.

    Martial Arts and Autism: A Special Case

    One of the most remarkable findings highlighted by Sanchez involves a study on boys with autism. The research found that those who practiced martial arts, including BJJ, had a 12.79-point lower score on problem behaviors compared to a control group. This suggests that BJJ can be particularly beneficial for children with special needs, offering them a structured environment to develop both social and motor skills.

    The Bigger Picture: Discipline and Connection

    In an era where distractions are everywhere, BJJ teaches discipline. It requires focus, patience, and persistence—qualities that are invaluable both on and off the mat. Moreover, BJJ brings kids together, providing them with a supportive community that challenges them physically and mentally. This sense of connection is vital in a world where children are increasingly isolated by technology.

    Why El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu?

    At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’ve seen firsthand the positive effects BJJ has on kids. Our classes are designed not just to teach martial arts but to develop life skills like self-control, respect, and teamwork. Whether your child is shy, energetic, or somewhere in between, BJJ offers a unique opportunity for them to grow in a safe and supportive environment.

    So, what do you think? Would you consider enrolling your child in BJJ? The evidence is clear: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is more than just a sport—it’s a powerful tool for personal development. If you’re ready to see the benefits for yourself, come visit us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and experience what BJJ can do for your child.