Tag Archives: wrestling

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Stopping the Head Inside Single Leg Takedown in Wrestling & Jiu Jitsu

In the intricate dance of takedown wrestling, mastering specific techniques can be the difference between victory and defeat. One such technique is the single leg takedown, a fundamental maneuver that every serious grappler needs to have in their arsenal. Among the various variations of the single leg takedown, the “head inside” single leg is particularly effective. This post will delve into the nuances of stopping the head inside single leg takedown, breaking down the mechanics, strategies, and common mistakes to avoid.

Understanding the Head Inside Single Leg

The single leg takedown involves grabbing one of your opponent’s legs to disrupt their balance and bring them to the mat. The “head inside” variation means that the attacker’s head is positioned inside, closer to the opponent’s body, rather than outside. This positioning offers several advantages, including better control and negate guillotine type attacks.

Steps to Perform the Head Inside Single Leg

  1. Setup: Begin with a proper stance, keeping your hips low and your posture upright. Engage with your opponent using hand fighting techniques to create an opening.
  2. Penetration Step: Take a deep penetration step towards your opponent. Your head should be positioned to the inside of their body.
  3. Grip the Leg: As you step in, use your hands to secure a strong grip around your opponent’s leg.
  4. Head Position: Keep your head pressed against your opponent’s side, driving into them to disrupt their balance.
  5. Finish the Takedown: From here, there are multiple finishes. You can lift the leg and drive forward, sweep the standing leg, or rotate to trip your opponent backward.

Defending Against the Head Inside Single Leg

Defending against a head inside single leg takedown requires anticipation, timing, and proper technique. Here are the steps to effectively counter this move:

  1. Sprawl: As your opponent shoots in, immediately sprawl by throwing your legs back and driving your hips down into their back. This action forces their head downward and away from your body, neutralizing their leverage.
  2. Whizzer: If they manage to get a grip on your leg despite your sprawl, use a whizzer (overhook) with your near arm. Hook your arm over their attacking arm and apply downward pressure. This adds another layer of defense, making it challenging for them to complete the takedown.
  3. Hip Pressure: Maintain consistent hip pressure on your opponent’s back and shoulder to keep them flat on the mat. Shifting your weight appropriately can control their movements and limit their ability to advance the takedown.
  4. Recover and Counter: Once you’ve disrupted their takedown attempt, transition to a counter-attack. This could involve circling behind them for a takedown, executing a front headlock, or standing up to reset the position.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in defending a single leg

  • Wrapping around the back: Sometimes people wrap around the back to hold on. This only makes things worse as you have no hip pressure to fight against the takedown.
  • Lack of Hip Pressure: Without adequate hip pressure, your opponent can regain their stance and drive through your defenses.
  • Overcommitting to the Sprawl: While sprawling is crucial, overcommitting can lead to a loss of balance, allowing your opponent to recover and potentially counter your sprawl.

Mastering the head inside single leg takedown, both offensively and defensively, is essential for any grappler aiming to improve their takedown game. Understanding the mechanics, maintaining proper technique, and anticipating your opponent’s moves can give you a significant edge on the mat. Practice these steps diligently, and you’ll find yourself more confident and successful in executing and defending against this fundamental wrestling move.

EDH Jiu-Jitsu: Empowering Communities Through Martial Arts

EDH Jiu-Jitsu is a dedicated martial arts academy that focuses on teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Located in the vibrant community of El Dorado Hills, California, EDH Jiu-Jitsu serves a diverse group of practitioners, ranging from young children to adults, including beginners and advanced competitors. The academy emphasizes discipline, respect, and personal growth, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. By offering tailored programs and classes, EDH Jiu-Jitsu helps students build physical fitness, self-defense skills, and mental resilience, contributing positively to the overall well-being and cohesion of the communities it serves.

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Youth classes transition to nogi at edhbjj

Transitioning from gi to no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) involves several adjustments in technique, strategy, and mindset due to the differences in attire and grips. Here are the key aspects of this transition:

Differences in Attire

  • Gi: The gi (kimono) includes a jacket, pants, and a belt, which provides numerous grip opportunities for both offensive and defensive techniques.
  • No-Gi: Practitioners wear a rash guard and shorts, eliminating the use of clothing for grips. Students can also wear gi pants for practice sessions. Please wear the gi belt for stripes and belt promotions during the summer session.

Technical Adjustments

  • Grips and Control: In gi, grips on the collar, sleeves, and pants are fundamental. No-gi requires more reliance on body grips, such as underhooks, overhooks, and wrist control, since there are no gi grips available.
  • Friction: No-gi tends to be faster-paced because the lack of friction from the gi and increased sweat make it harder to maintain control, leading to more scrambles and dynamic movement.
  • Submissions: Certain submissions and sweeps that rely heavily on gi grips, like collar chokes and spider guard sweeps, are not applicable in no-gi. Instead, practitioners focus more on techniques that don’t require cloth grips.

Strategic Adjustments

  • Speed and Athleticism: No-gi often demands higher levels of athleticism and speed due to the decreased friction and grip options, which results in faster transitions and more explosive movements.
  • Positioning and Pressure: Controlling positions in no-gi can be more challenging, necessitating tighter control and better body mechanics to prevent escapes.
  • Guard Playing: Guards like spider guard or lasso guard, which depend on gi grips, are replaced by guards like butterfly guard, half guard, and variations of the open guard that rely more on hooks and underhooks.

Mindset Shifts

  • Adaptability: Practitioners must adapt their game to the absence of gi grips, which often involves developing a different set of techniques and refining those that are gi-independent.
  • Defensive Awareness: Without the gi to slow down the pace, defensive awareness and reaction times need to be sharper to prevent submissions and positional losses.

Training and Drilling

  • Cross-Training: Many BJJ practitioners train both gi and no-gi to become well-rounded. This cross-training enhances their adaptability and overall grappling proficiency.
  • Specific Drills: Practicing specific drills that focus on no-gi grips, positional control, and transitions helps in developing the necessary skills for effective no-gi grappling.

The transition from gi to no-gi BJJ can be challenging but also rewarding, as it broadens a practitioner’s skill set and adaptability. By focusing on the unique aspects of no-gi grappling and continuously refining techniques, practitioners can smoothly transition and excel in both styles.

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Unlocking Excellence: Essence of EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy doing Extra of the Ordinary is Extraordinary

In the bustling world of martial arts academies, there exists a beacon of innovation at the EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy. More than just a place to train, EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy embodies a philosophy that celebrates the extraordinary in every aspect of martial arts practice. In this post, we delve into the ethos of EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy and how it fosters a culture where doing extra of the ordinary is embraced as the pathway to greatness.

Embedded in our core principles, EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy stands apart from traditional martial arts schools by challenging its students to push beyond the boundaries of conventional training. Here, practitioners are encouraged to explore innovative techniques, experiment with new approaches, and embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth.

At the heart of EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy is the belief that excellence is not achieved by following the status quo but by daring to venture into uncharted territory. Instructors empower students to tap into their full potential by encouraging them to go beyond their comfort zones and challenge themselves both mentally and physically.

In the dojo of EDH Jiu-Jitsu, every training session is an opportunity for students to unlock their inner greatness. Through drills, sparring sessions, and personalized instruction, practitioners hone their skills and develop the resilience needed to overcome obstacles.

Moreover, EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among its members. Students support and uplift each other, celebrating not only individual achievements but also collective progress. In this inclusive environment, everyone is encouraged to strive for excellence, knowing that their journey is supported by a network of like-minded individuals.

What sets EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy apart is its commitment to innovation and continuous improvement. In addition to traditional Jiu-Jitsu techniques, instructors incorporate elements from other martial arts disciplines, sports psychology, and strength conditioning to provide students with a well-rounded training experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or a beginner taking your first steps onto the mat, EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy offers a transformative journey toward self-discovery and mastery. By embracing the philosophy of EDH and daring to do extra of the ordinary, students unlock the extraordinary within themselves and emerge as empowered individuals both on and off the mat.

In a world where conformity often stifles creativity and growth, EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy stands as a beacon of inspiration—a place where the pursuit of excellence knows no bounds. So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and unlock your full potential, come join us at EDH Jiu-Jitsu Academy, where greatness awaits.

community

Mastering The Power of Consistent Routine at EDH Jiu Jitsu

In the world of martial arts, there exists a profoundly effective discipline known as consistency. Consistency is a super power that is often dismissed when contrasted with intensity. At EDH Jiujitsu, we embrace the value of consistent training over random spurts of intensity training. Does intensity matter? Yes! However not at the expense of consistent, intentional effort over a period of time.

At the heart of EDH Jiu-Jitsu lies a fundamental philosophy: the importance of consistency over intensity. Intensity can be alluring as it’s exciting, hard, rigorous training sessions and bursts of physical exertion looks cool on a highlight reel. However, EDH Jiu-Jitsu places a premium on the steady, disciplined pursuit of improvement over time.

In many ways, the practice at EDH Jiu-Jitsu mirrors the journey of life itself. Just as success in any endeavor often hinges on sustained effort and dedication, mastery of this martial art requires a commitment to regular practice and incremental progress. Rather than relying solely on sporadic bursts of energy and enthusiasm, practitioners of EDH Jiu-Jitsu understand that true growth comes from the daily grind, the small victories, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

First and foremost, EDH Jiu-Jitsu is not just about physical combat; it’s about cultivating a mindset of resilience, adaptability, and self-awareness. Through the practice of various techniques, drills, and sparring sessions, practitioners learn to anticipate and respond to challenges not only on the mat but also in their everyday lives. By honing their ability to remain calm under pressure, make quick decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances, they become better equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern world.

Moreover, the emphasis on consistency at EDH Jiu-Jitsu fosters a sense of discipline and accountability that extends far beyond the confines of the dojo. By committing to a regular training schedule and holding themselves accountable for their progress, practitioners develop valuable habits and routines that translate into other areas of their lives. Whether it’s pursuing career goals, maintaining healthy relationships, or simply staying fit and active, the discipline practiced at EDH Jiu-Jitsu empowers individuals to strive for excellence in all aspects of life.

Of course, this is not to say that intensity has no place in the practice at EDH Jiu-Jitsu. On the contrary, there are moments when pushing oneself to the limit can lead to breakthroughs and new levels of proficiency. However, the key distinction lies in the balance between intensity and consistency. While occasional bursts of intensity may yield temporary gains, it is the consistent, day-to-day effort that ultimately leads to lasting growth and mastery.

In a world that often glorifies overnight success and instant gratification, the philosophy of EDH Jiu-Jitsu serves as a powerful reminder of the timeless virtues of patience, perseverance, and hard work. By embracing the journey rather than fixating on the destination, practitioners of this martial art discover that true fulfillment comes not from reaching the summit but from the climb itself.

In conclusion, the practice at EDH Jiu-Jitsu offers a compelling case for the importance of consistency over intensity in the pursuit of mastery. By committing to a regular routine of training and self-improvement, practitioners not only enhance their physical skills but also cultivate a mindset of discipline, resilience, and personal growth that serves them well both on and off the mat. So, whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or someone looking to embark on a journey of self-discovery, remember: in the marathon of life, it’s not the sprinters who win the race, but those who have the strength and endurance to go the distance.

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JJWL Pacific Cup Results

The jiujitsu world league no was in Stockton CA again this weekend and competitions from el dorado hills jiujitsu showed up in with over 40 competitors. As a team we finished overall 8th out of 160+ competitors! An incredible accomplishment for us as we grow into the Northern California competition scene. We are very thankful to our teammates who helped with the preparation process, families and teammates in attendance to support and encourage the competitors and the many coaches who were out on the floor coaching!

As an association American Jiu Jitsu Syndicate finished in 2nd place! EDH Jiu-Jitsu is very thankful to be part of an association that is excited to train hard, have fun and enjoy the process of constant improvement.

We weren’t able to catch a photo of everyone but it was great to see our kids and adults out there in action!

Adults Jiu Jitsu, Kids Jiu Jitsu

Cultivating a practice of gratitude in jiujitsu and martial arts

In a world that often focuses on what’s lacking or what needs improvement, cultivating a practice of gratitude can be transformative. Gratitude is the act of recognizing and appreciating the good things in our lives, both big and small. It’s a powerful mindset that can bring about a shift in our perspective, leading to increased happiness, contentment, and overall well-being. In this post, we will explore the many benefits of gratitude and how we can incorporate it into our daily lives.

Gratitude has been found to have a significant impact on our mental health. Research suggests that expressing gratitude can increase positive emotions, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and improve overall life satisfaction. By focusing on what we have rather than what we lack, we train our minds to seek out the positive aspects of our lives, fostering a sense of optimism and resilience.

Gratitude has the power to deepen our connections with others. When we express gratitude towards someone, it not only makes them feel appreciated and valued but also strengthens the bond between us. Whether it’s a simple thank you note, a heartfelt conversation, or acts of kindness, expressing gratitude towards loved ones and even strangers can foster a sense of belonging and create a ripple effect of positivity in our relationships.

Practicing gratitude helps us shift our perspective from scarcity to abundance. It reminds us that even during challenging times, there are still things to be thankful for. Instead of dwelling on what’s going wrong, we redirect our attention to the blessings, opportunities, and lessons present in our lives. This shift in perspective can lead to increased resilience, a greater sense of control, and a more positive outlook on life.

Gratitude and mindfulness go hand in hand. When we practice gratitude, we train ourselves to be fully present in the moment, appreciating the beauty and goodness around us. By focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, we can experience a greater sense of peace and contentment. Gratitude serves as an anchor, grounding us in the here and now, and reminding us to savor life’s precious moments.

Gratitude is a catalyst for personal growth and self-improvement. When we embrace gratitude, we become more aware of our strengths, accomplishments, and the progress we’ve made. It encourages us to acknowledge and learn from our challenges, seeing them as opportunities for growth and development. Gratitude empowers us to cultivate a growth mindset and pursue our goals with enthusiasm and determination.

Here are some ways we can incorporate gratitude into our daily lives
Keep a gratitude journal: Write down three things you are grateful for each day.

  • Practice gratitude meditation: Set aside a few minutes to reflect on the things you appreciate in your life.
  • Express gratitude to others: Take the time to thank those who have made a positive impact on your life.
  • Focus on the present moment: Engage in activities mindfully, savoring the experience and expressing gratitude for it.
  • Shift your language: Replace complaints and negative statements with gratitude and positive affirmations.

Gratitude is a powerful practice that can transform our lives, fostering happiness, contentment, and resilience. By cultivating an attitude of gratitude, we shift our focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant, paving the way for greater joy and fulfillment. So, let’s make gratitude a part of our daily lives and unlock its remarkable benefits. As Melody Beattie wisely said, “Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”

Coach Danny

Tournaments

Essential aspects of jiujitsu tournament preparation

 Jiu Jitsu tournaments provide a platform for practitioners to test their skills and compete against equally passionate opponents. However, success in these competitions does not come easily. It requires meticulous preparation, both physically and mentally, to ensure optimal performance. In this essay, we will explore the essential aspects of Jiu Jitsu tournament preparation, highlighting the significance of conditioning, technique refinement, mental fortitude, and strategic planning.

Jiu Jitsu is an incredibly demanding sport that requires a high level of physical fitness. Athletes must possess strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility to excel in the tournament setting. Preparing one’s body through a well-rounded conditioning program is crucial for success. This program may include cardiovascular exercises to improve stamina, strength training to build functional muscle, and flexibility training to enhance joint mobility. Moreover, specific Jiu Jitsu drills and exercises targeting core strength and explosiveness are essential to execute techniques effectively.

Technique refinement is the backbone of Jiu Jitsu tournament preparation. Practitioners must devote ample time to drilling and refining their techniques to ensure precision and efficiency in execution. This involves practicing fundamental moves such as sweeps, submissions, escapes, and transitions. Additionally, studying and analyzing different strategies, positions, and submissions used by successful competitors can provide valuable insights to expand one’s repertoire of techniques. Continuous refinement and mastery of techniques not only enhance performance but also boost confidence when facing challenging opponents.

Jiu Jitsu tournaments demand mental resilience and composure, as matches can be physically and mentally draining. Athletes must develop mental fortitude to overcome the pressure, stress, and potential setbacks they may encounter during competition. Mental preparation involves various strategies such as visualization, meditation, and positive self-talk. Visualizing successful execution of techniques and envisioning oneself victorious can enhance focus and confidence. Meditation and mindfulness practices can help manage anxiety and maintain mental clarity during intense matches. Positive self-talk is also crucial, as it reinforces belief in one’s abilities and helps overcome self-doubt.

Strategic planning plays a vital role in Jiu Jitsu tournament preparation. It involves analyzing opponents’ strengths, weaknesses, and preferred techniques to formulate an effective game plan. Understanding an opponent’s tendencies can provide valuable insights to exploit their vulnerabilities. Additionally, developing a diverse set of strategies that adapt to different situations within a match is crucial. This includes recognizing opportunities to attack, defend, or counterattack based on the opponent’s reactions. Coaches and training partners play an instrumental role in devising effective strategies and helping athletes refine their tactical approach.

Preparing for a Jiu Jitsu tournament requires a holistic approach that encompasses physical conditioning, technique refinement, mental fortitude, and strategic planning. Athletes must commit themselves to rigorous training and discipline in each of these areas to maximize their chances of success. The combination of physical fitness, technical proficiency, mental resilience, and strategic acumen sets the stage for achieving victory in the competitive arena. By diligently preparing in these areas, Jiu Jitsu practitioners can enter tournaments with confidence and pursue their goals with determination.

Coach Danny

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Watching and understanding Judo for fun and to learn Tachi Waza (standing technique)

In my free time I have been enjoying watching Judo lately. It is an exciting sport with a lot of similarities and some big differences to BJJ. I started watching it to study techniques that I could add to my takedown game. Then I kept watching  matches because I found them really entertaining. 

Watching Judo I learned about the rules. Each player is trying to “Ippon” the other one. This means they are trying to throw them and get their back flat on the mat. If one player throws the other on their side with partial back to the mat they score a “waza-ari”. Two of those are equal to an Ippon. The matches are four minutes and pretty fast paced. Stalling is called very quickly by the refs for lack of action, which I’m a fan of. Once the match is on the ground one player can win by pin or submission but the ref will stand both players up pretty quickly if the action stops. Most Judo players don’t engage very much on the ground based on the matches I watched. I think the length of the matches in Judo help make it an exciting sport, I probably have an unpopular opinion about this but I think BJJ should copy that. There are so many black belt Jiu Jitsu matches that are a very slow eight minutes with a two minute sprint at the end. I could be missing some rules but this is what I have learned so far. 

My favorite athlete to watch and study so far is Shohei Ono. He is an athlete from Japan. He has won three world titles and two Olympic gold medals. His matches are very exciting and he is known for doing a double sleeve grip throw (I don’t know the name of the technique). I will continue to watch and study this sport and hopefully be able to add some cool throws to my stand up.

Coach Danny

Adults Jiu Jitsu

Jiu Jitsu Black belt promotion at El Dorado Hills BJJ

We had a chance to do a short Q&A with Kunk and reflect on his jiujitsu journey over the years. Kunk has been a “big” part of edh jiujitsu. Not only does he train regularly 2-3 sessions a week but also he has contributed to the peewee, kids, and jiujitsu classes as a volunteer coach. Kunk is an open book of grappling knowledge and finds every opportunity to share with his team what he knows and what he is developing in his game.

When & how did you get started:

I started doing Jiu Jitsu in 2010ish.

I began doing Jiu Jitsu because I loved wrestling in high school and college, but when I stopped I didn’t have a physical outlet I enjoyed, got out of shape and gained weight. After wrestling was over, I fell into the old man trap of eating and drinking whatever I wanted, with the mindset that I would just work it off at practice. I continued to work out but nowhere near enough to counteract some of the unhealthy habits and I ended up weighing over 330lbs.

One day a friend of mine told me he had started going to EDHBJJ. I had watched MMA and the UFC shows and always thought that Jiu Jitsu would be fun to try. So I got permission from my girlfriend/ now wife, to join my friend in a trial class. The first thing I noticed was how much hard work people were putting into learning Jiu Jitsu. A few classes into starting at EDHBJJ, I finally got to roll with Eliot. During this roll I had turtled, turned into him grabbing his inside leg and did a sit out. In wrestling I would have scored five points and possibly a pin. In Jiu Jistu, Eliot having a wealth of knowledge, took advantage of this position and did a crucifix choke. I was forced to tap. This was the first time I was submitted by anyone in the school and I instantly fell in love with Jiu Jitsu from that moment forward.

What are your goals?

My goals in Jiu Jitsu are to keep learning new ways to improve my technique, help people learn, be the best training partner I can be, and most importantly have fun.

What are some quotes or phrases you like?

– Winners never quit and quitters never win.
– If it was easy everyone would do it.
– Embrace the grind.

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Disciplien & motivation

Something I have struggled a lot with and seen others struggle with is finding a way to feel motivated, especially to do things that I don’t enjoy. Even though it does seem easier to get things done when I feel motivated it doesn’t actually change anything about the activity. If I need to clean my house I am still going to do all of the same chores whether I feel like doing them or not.

Same with Jiu Jitsu, whether or not i feel motivated to go to practice is not going to change what takes place at that practice. Motivation seems like something out of my control. It’s nice when it is there but it does not stay forever.

However, when people have discipline they will get things done with or without feeling motivated. Discipline is a skill that we can practice where as motivation is a feeling that we experience. Developing a routine and sticking to it whether it’s with diet, exercise, learning are all opportunities to practice discipline. Anytime hanging out at home and watching Netflix or playing video games sounds better than going to the gym for training, I have an opportunity to practice discipline. This means being disciplined is totally in my control and that no matter how bad I am at it, I can improve with practice.
Personally, I find it much easier to be very disciplined in things that I enjoy and areas where I feel motivated. I find that it takes much more effort and focus to practice being disciplined when it comes to things I don’t enjoy.

I know if and when I put in that focus and effort and practice being disciplined, the payout is always worth it. I used to really dislike weight lifting and strength training in general. I would never do it because i just did not feel motivated to lift weights. About a year ago I decided to just put it into my routine twice a week. Every Tuesday and Thursday I would show up and do the workout whether I felt like it or not until it became a habit. Now it’s one of my favorite parts of my routine.

Another thing I have always struggled to find motivation for is cleaning. For a long time I would neglect my chores because…. well, who wants to clean, right? Somebody I shared this with suggested that I plan to do my cleaning at specific times of the day and week, and make it a routine. So I made a commitment with myself and set up a weekly cleaning schedule. At first this was very difficult for me and felt like it took forever. Now that I have been doing it for a few years it is just a habit. Even with things I don’t enjoy much, I know if I practice being disciplined with those activities for long enough, they will become easier and easier and sometimes even enjoyable. If I depend on motivation to reach my goals, I will never get there. If I practice discipline to work towards my goals, almost anything is within reach. 

Coach Danny