Tag Archives: training

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Gratitude on the Mat: A Core Value at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

As the year draws to a close and the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on one of the most profound values we can cultivate in life and in Jiu Jitsu: gratitude. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, gratitude is more than a fleeting feeling—it’s a mindset that shapes how we train, interact with others, and grow both on and off the mat.

Gratitude for the Journey

Every training session, every competition, and every technique mastered represents countless hours of effort, perseverance, and support from others. Gratitude allows us to appreciate the journey rather than just the destination. Each roll teaches us something new, whether it’s the thrill of a submission, the humility of being tapped, or the resilience built from starting over.

Take a moment to thank your training partners—the ones who challenge you, push you, and celebrate your victories. Without them, there would be no progress.

Gratitude for the Team

Our El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community is special because of the people who come together to train, learn, and grow. From coaches who dedicate their time to passing on knowledge, to teammates who show up consistently to drill and roll, we are surrounded by individuals who contribute to our success. Gratitude reminds us not to take this camaraderie for granted.

This season, consider how you can express your appreciation. A simple “thank you” after class or an encouraging word during a tough roll can go a long way in building a stronger team.

Gratitude for Challenges

It’s easy to feel grateful when everything is going smoothly, but what about during tough times? In Jiu Jitsu, challenges are inevitable. Injuries, plateaus, or even a bad day on the mat can feel discouraging, but they’re also opportunities to grow.

When we face adversity with gratitude, we shift our perspective. Instead of seeing challenges as obstacles, we view them as necessary steps on the path to mastery. Each struggle teaches us resilience, patience, and problem-solving.

Practicing Gratitude Off the Mat

The lessons we learn in Jiu Jitsu extend far beyond the gym. Gratitude helps us stay grounded, even in the chaos of daily life. It reminds us to appreciate the small things—a kind word, a supportive friend, or the privilege of good health that allows us to train.

This month, we encourage everyone to practice gratitude daily. Write down things you’re thankful for, share a kind gesture with someone, or simply take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come.

Thank You for Being Part of Our Community

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are incredibly grateful for each and every one of you. Your dedication, positivity, and hard work make this community what it is. Whether you’ve been training with us for years or just started your journey, thank you for trusting us to be part of it.

Let’s continue to lift each other up, celebrate our progress, and approach every roll with gratitude. See you on the mat!

— The El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Team

community

The Importance of Pressure and Patience in Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we often say that mastering Jiu Jitsu requires more than just physical strength or speed; it requires the wisdom to balance pressure with patience. This approach is essential not only for success on the mats but also for growth in life, making it a core principle we emphasize in training sessions and classes. Here’s why learning to apply pressure with patience is crucial for every Jiu Jitsu practitioner.

Understanding Pressure in Jiu Jitsu

Pressure in Jiu Jitsu is more than just leaning on an opponent. It’s about strategically applying weight, controlling your opponent’s movement, and creating an environment where they have limited options. The goal is to make your opponent uncomfortable enough to force them into mistakes, but this must be done with finesse. Uncontrolled pressure often leads to openings that your opponent can exploit, but when applied thoughtfully, it restricts their movement and leads you toward success.

Why Patience is a Game-Changer

Patience is the unsung hero of Jiu Jitsu. When we’re patient, we don’t rush for submissions or quick points; instead, we wait for the right moment, trusting in the process we’ve practiced. In training, patience teaches us to observe our partner’s reactions, feel their intentions, and respond in a way that maintains control. It prevents us from wasting energy on brute force, allowing us to become more efficient and calculated in our movements.

Pressure + Patience = Success

Combining pressure with patience is a winning formula in Jiu Jitsu. When you use controlled pressure, you limit your opponent’s options, creating a psychological game where they feel the need to react. With patience, you don’t chase a quick finish; you wait for the right opportunity, which often presents itself when your opponent is flustered or out of options. This dynamic teaches us that sometimes, the best way to win is not by overpowering our opponent but by maintaining steady control until they yield.

Lessons for Life

The concept of pressure with patience extends beyond the mats. In life, we often encounter challenges that require us to persist without rushing to conclusions or forcing outcomes. Just as in Jiu Jitsu, we apply steady pressure toward our goals, exercising patience as we wait for opportunities to arise naturally. This mindset helps us build resilience, teaching us to remain calm and composed, even in challenging situations.

Practicing This Mindset at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage students to incorporate pressure and patience into their training. Whether you’re a beginner learning foundational positions or a seasoned practitioner refining your technique, focusing on controlled pressure and patient execution is key. Over time, you’ll find that this approach not only enhances your game but also fosters mental discipline and clarity.

So next time you step on the mat, remember: pressure and patience go hand in hand. Together, they create a powerful approach that will elevate your Jiu Jitsu and serve you well in life. Keep pushing forward, be patient, and trust that the right moment will come.

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Incorporating Wrestling and Judo into Training 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!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Craig Jones Invitational: Grappling for Glory at the Million Dollar Showdown

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is excited to shine a spotlight on one of the most groundbreaking events in the grappling world—the Craig Jones Invitational (CJI). This event is set to redefine the landscape of competitive jiu-jitsu with its staggering prize pool and unique format, where the world’s best grapplers will compete for a chance to win $1 million in a fierce new arena known as “The Pit.”

The Stakes: $1 Million to Win, $10,000 to Show

The CJI isn’t just another jiu-jitsu competition—it’s a game-changer. With a $1 million prize awaiting the winner, the stakes are higher than ever before. Each participant receives $10,000 just for stepping onto the mat, but the ultimate goal is the seven-figure payout reserved for the last man standing. This massive prize pool has attracted top-tier talent from around the globe, ensuring that the competition will be as intense as it gets.

The Pit: A New Arena for Grappling

What truly sets the CJI apart is its innovative competition format—The Pit. Unlike traditional mats or cages, The Pit is designed to force non-stop action and continuous engagement. This sunken, circular arena leaves no room for running or stalling, pushing competitors to stay in the fight at all times. The Pit’s design amplifies the intensity of the matches, creating an environment where every move matters and only the most strategic and aggressive grapplers will prevail.

For spectators, The Pit promises to deliver some of the most thrilling jiu-jitsu action ever seen. With nowhere to hide and no breaks in the action, the matches will be a true test of skill, endurance, and willpower.

The Evolution of Competitive Jiu-Jitsu

The Craig Jones Invitational represents a significant evolution in the sport of jiu-jitsu. The combination of high stakes and a groundbreaking format reflects the growth and mainstream appeal of the sport. For those of us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, the CJI serves as an inspiration—a reminder that the limits of what’s possible in jiu-jitsu are constantly being pushed.

This event is also a testament to Craig Jones’ influence on the sport. As a world-renowned grappler, Jones has always been at the forefront of innovation in jiu-jitsu, and the CJI is a natural extension of his vision to elevate the sport to new heights.

Why This Matters to Our Students

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we emphasize the importance of setting goals, embracing challenges, and constantly pushing your limits. The Craig Jones Invitational embodies these values. While few of us will compete for a million-dollar prize, the principles that drive success in the CJI—discipline, resilience, and strategy—are the same ones we cultivate on the mats every day.

We encourage our students to watch the CJI, not just for the spectacle, but as a source of inspiration. The competitors who enter The Pit are demonstrating the highest levels of skill and determination—qualities that we strive to develop in each of our members.

Join Us on the Journey

As we continue our training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, let the Craig Jones Invitational serve as a reminder of the possibilities within martial arts. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or you’re an experienced practitioner aiming for your next milestone, the lessons learned on the mats prepare you for any challenge—be it in competition or in life.

Stay focused, train hard, and remember that every time you step onto the mat, you’re one step closer to achieving your own personal victory.

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is here to support you in your martial arts journey, whether you’re looking to improve your technique, compete at the highest level, or simply become the best version of yourself. Stay tuned for more updates, events, and inspiration from the world of jiu-jitsu.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Choosing the Right Jiu Jitsu Gym: What to Look For

Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is an exciting journey, whether you’re aiming for self-defense, fitness, or competition. One of the most crucial steps in this journey is choosing the right gym. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know what to look for. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’ve put together some essential tips to help you find the perfect gym to meet your needs.

1. Instructors

The quality of instruction is paramount in your BJJ journey. Look for gyms with experienced, reputable instructors who have a solid background in BJJ. Instructors should be able to explain techniques and provide individual attention. Belt level alone can be misleading when determining someone’s qualification, so don’t be misled by the color of the belt someone is wearing. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our instructors are not only skilled practitioners but also passionate teachers dedicated to helping each student progress.

2. Welcoming Atmosphere

The environment of the gym should be friendly and welcoming. A positive atmosphere fosters learning and growth. When you visit a gym, take note of how the staff and members interact with newcomers. Are they approachable and willing to help? A supportive community can make a significant difference in your training experience.

3. Cleanliness and Safety

Cleanliness is a critical factor in any martial arts gym. Mats and equipment should be regularly cleaned to prevent infections and injuries. The gym should also have a clear protocol for injuries and emergencies. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we prioritize the health and safety of our members, ensuring a clean and hygienic training environment.

4. Class Structure and Schedule

Consider the class structure and schedule. A good BJJ gym will have systems in place for different skill levels, including beginners, and have a variety of class times to fit different schedules. Look for a structured curriculum that covers all aspects of BJJ, from basics to advanced techniques. El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu offers a comprehensive schedule with classes designed to accommodate both beginners and advanced practitioners.

5. Student Progression

A quality gym will have a clear system for tracking and promoting student progression. This includes regular assessments and promotions based on skill and dedication. It’s motivating to see your progress and have goals to work towards. Our gym follows a structured curriculum with regular evaluations to ensure that our students are continuously improving.

6. Trial Classes

Many gyms offer trial classes. Take advantage of these opportunities to get a feel for the gym’s atmosphere, teaching style, and community. It’s an excellent way to determine if the gym is the right fit for you. El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu welcomes potential members to join us for a trial class to experience our training environment firsthand.

7. Additional Programs and Community

Beyond regular classes, consider what additional programs and community events the gym offers. Seminars, Q&A sessions, competition training, open training after class, and social events can enrich your BJJ experience and help you integrate into the community. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we regularly host events, seminars, and open sessions to foster a strong and connected community.

Choosing the right BJJ gym is a personal decision that can significantly impact your martial arts journey. By considering factors such as qualified instructors, welcoming atmosphere, cleanliness, class structure, student progression, trial classes, and additional programs, you can find a gym that aligns with your goals and values.

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we strive to provide an environment where students of all levels can thrive. Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your training to the next level, we invite you to join our community and discover the benefits of training with us.

Happy training!

If you’re interested in trying a class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, please contact us to schedule your free trial session. We look forward to welcoming you to our family!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Takeaway lessons from Anthony Bourdain Kitchen Confidential and Brazilian Jiujitsu

Relating “Kitchen Confidential” to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) reveals several intriguing parallels between the culinary world and martial arts:

  1. Intense Training and Dedication: Just as chefs in Bourdain’s book undergo rigorous, often grueling training to hone their skills, BJJ practitioners spend countless hours on the mat perfecting techniques. Both fields demand a high level of dedication, discipline, and perseverance to achieve mastery.
  2. Respect for Technique and Tradition: Bourdain emphasizes the importance of respecting culinary techniques and traditions, a sentiment echoed in BJJ where practitioners honor the martial art’s rich history and the precise execution of techniques.
  3. Hierarchy and Apprenticeship: Professional kitchens and BJJ gyms both have clear hierarchical structures. In kitchens, there are sous chefs, line cooks, and the head chef. In BJJ, there are belts that denote rank and experience. Both systems rely on apprenticeship and mentorship, where novices learn from seasoned experts.
  4. Camaraderie and Culture: The kitchen and the BJJ gym are both environments where strong bonds and a unique subculture develop among participants. The camaraderie, mutual respect, and shared experiences create a tight-knit community in both settings.
  5. Handling Pressure: Both chefs and BJJ practitioners operate under significant pressure. Chefs must deliver consistently high-quality dishes under tight deadlines, while BJJ athletes face the development of physical and mental stressors, competition, and intense training sessions.
  6. Continuous Learning: Bourdain’s narrative highlights that even experienced chefs are always learning and evolving. Similarly, in BJJ, there is a continuous pursuit of improvement and knowledge, as the art is dynamic and constantly evolving.
  7. Overcoming Adversity: Both chefs and BJJ practitioners encounter setbacks and challenges that test their resilience. Whether it’s a tough service in the kitchen or a difficult match on the mat, overcoming adversity is a common theme.
  8. Personal Growth and Passion: Bourdain’s passion for cooking mirrors the passion many have for BJJ. Both activities offer profound personal growth, teaching patience, humility, and the value of hard work.

By drawing these parallels, we see that the underlying principles of hard work, respect, community, and continuous improvement are central to both the culinary world described in “Kitchen Confidential” and the practice of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

If you’re a jiujitsu practitioner and looking for a fun read this might be a great one to pick up. Give the book a try and give us your feedback, insights, thoughts!

community

Exploring the Dichotomy of Gi and No-Gi Training at EDHBJJ

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that offers practitioners a diverse range of training options, each with its own unique benefits and challenges. At the Jiu Jitsu academy of El Dorado Hills, students have the opportunity to delve into both gi and no-gi training, each offering a distinct experience that contributes to their overall growth and proficiency in the art. Let’s explore the fascinating differences between gi and no-gi training at EDHBJJ:

1: The Gi: Tradition and Technique

Training in the gi at EDHBJJ embraces the rich tradition of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The gi, or kimono in Portuguese and dougi in Japanese, is a traditional uniform that adds layers of complexity to techniques. Grips on the collar, sleeves, and pants create opportunities for intricate submissions, sweeps, and control techniques. The gi also emphasizes the importance of leverage, timing, and precision, as practitioners learn to manipulate the fabric to their advantage. At EDHBJJ, students immerse themselves in the technical nuances of gi training, honing their skills with a focus on detail and finesse.


2. No-Gi: Speed and Adaptability

In contrast, no-gi training at EDHBJJ offers a dynamic and fast-paced experience. Without the gi to grip onto, practitioners must rely on different strategies and tactics. No-gi training emphasizes fluid movement, agility, and adaptability. Techniques such as leg locks, foot sweeps, and scrambles become more prevalent as practitioners learn to navigate the absence of traditional grips. No-gi training at EDHBJJ challenges students to think quickly, react decisively, and capitalize on openings with precision and speed.

3. Complementary Benefits

While gi and no-gi training offer distinct challenges, they are inherently complementary. Training in both modalities at EDHBJJ provides students with a well-rounded skill set that translates seamlessly between the two environments. The technical proficiency gained from gi training enhances the precision and attention to detail in no-gi scenarios, while the speed and adaptability cultivated in no-gi training improve the fluidity and agility of techniques in the gi. By embracing both modalities, students at EDHBJJ develop a comprehensive understanding of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that extends beyond the confines of any one training style.


4. Community and Camaraderie

Beyond the technical aspects, both gi and no-gi training at EDHBJJ foster a sense of community and camaraderie among students. The shared experience of training together, overcoming challenges, and supporting one another creates bonds that extend beyond the mats. At EDHBJJ, students form lasting friendships and alliances as they journey together through the intricacies of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, regardless of whether they train in the gi or no-gi.

In conclusion, the difference in training in the gi and no-gi at EDHBJJ offers students a multifaceted approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether they’re navigating the grips and controls of the gi or embracing the speed and adaptability of no-gi, students at EDHBJJ develop a comprehensive skill set that prepares them for any scenario. With a focus on tradition, technique, speed, and adaptability, EDHBJJ provides a holistic training experience that transcends the boundaries of any single training modality.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Training and staying healthy

 Something I’ve been struggling with lately is staying healthy while preparing for tournaments. I tend to always get sick when I am a couple of weeks out from competing. It is stressful and frustrating for me to take a break from training so that I can rest and if I try to ignore how I’m feeling and train while I think I might be getting sick, I end up getting worse and worse until I cannot ignore it.

In these situations it’s really important for me to decide what is in my control and what is not. If I stress out and obsess over the things that are outside of my control I am putting myself in a losing battle. When I figure out what I can control I can give those things my best effort. In this situation where I keep getting sick before tournaments I can’t control how I feel, I can’t control that I am sick and am missing practice. Some things that I can control are how well I take care of myself to get better, how consistent I am with my rest and supplements to try and prevent this from happening as much as possible, and my attitude. When I separate things into those two categories it makes it really clear what I need to work on. For me in this situation I have bad rest/recovery habits that I should change to see if that fixes the problem.

One of my coaches was telling me about a book he read. In the book it talked about athletes continuing to train through injury and sickness through visualization. I’ve been trying that out a little bit. It feels kind of silly but they have done studies on it and it’s proven to work so I’m going to keep using it. 

Danny

Adults Jiu Jitsu, community

Wim Hof Method Workshop in El Dorado Hills, CA

EDH Jiu Jitsu is hosting a unique workshop with a certified Wim Hof Method WHM instructor Reed Shelger on March 18th. The Wim Hof Method, developed by none other than Wim Hof himself, is a training method of breath, stretching, exercises, and ice cold submersions. The scientifically proven method is designed to strengthen the cardiovascular system, with great benefits that result from cardiovascular health.

All in the EDH, Folsom, Cameron Park, and in general the greater Sacramento are welcome to join us for this workshop. We look forward to hosting Reed and you on March 18th! Here is an interview our coach Eliot Kelly did with Reed Shelger while he was visiting his academy in Houston, TX.

REGISTER ONLINE HERE

DESCRIPTION

Discover the techniques of “The Iceman” and learn breathing, mindset, and cold adaption techniques that will help increase focus, boost recovery, enhance performance, and uncover the hidden abilities of your physiology. An incredibly simple, insanely effective and scientifically proven way to strengthen the cardiovascular system, and become the best athlete you can be. Benefits include fat loss, improved cardio, reduced stress, among other health benefits.

FAQs

What can I bring into the event?

Towel

Clothing for Ice Bath, i.e. swimsuit

Yoga Mat-Optional

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Rshelger@gmail.com

 

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Belt Promotion: Gray-White Belt EDH Jiu Jitsu

Ben is a student in our juniors bjj class at el dorado hills. This is a class for kids age 10 to 17 and is a time when we begin to really challenge the students mentally and physically in class. Ben is never afraid of a challenge. He takes on a difficult task with courage and a humble attitude to learn from challenges. To Ben training with others who are much bigger or stronger than him is an opportunity to improve.

His natural talent to move on the mat was very apparent when he first started. Especially his good body control and balance. With time, he developed more skills that gave him the ability to control others using technique. In his technical development Ben has embraced attacks from all positions and continues to be “well balanced” in his Jiu-Jitsu development! Congrats!