All posts by edhjiujitsu

community

Celebrate the Holidays with El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu – Our Holiday Schedule

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!

community

Celebrating 15 Years of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and Our 10th Black Belt

This year marks an incredible milestone for El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu: 15 years of building a thriving martial arts community. From our humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of Jiu Jitsu in the area, we’ve been on an amazing journey of growth, perseverance, and shared passion for the art.

As if that wasn’t enough cause for celebration, we’re also thrilled to announce a historic achievement—our 10th black belt promotion. Each black belt in Jiu Jitsu represents years of dedication, countless hours on the mat, and the embodiment of values like discipline, respect, and resilience. This achievement is not only a personal milestone for the individual but also a testament to the strength and unity of our team.

The Journey of 15 Years

When we first opened our doors, our vision was simple: to create a space where people of all ages and skill levels could discover the transformative power of Jiu Jitsu. Over the years, we’ve welcomed hundreds of students, from kids taking their first steps on the mat to adults pursuing lifelong fitness and self-improvement.

Through competitions, seminars, and everyday training sessions, our team has built a reputation for excellence and camaraderie. Whether you’ve been here since day one or joined us more recently, you’ve played a vital role in making El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu what it is today—a family united by a shared love for Jiu Jitsu.

Honoring Our 10th Black Belt

The promotion of our 10th black belt is a special moment for us all. Achieving a black belt is about more than technical skill—it signifies leadership, mentorship, and a commitment to helping others grow. Our newest black belt embodies these qualities, inspiring students and teammates alike with their perseverance and humility.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on 15 years of memories, challenges, and triumphs, we’re also looking to the future with excitement. We remain committed to growing our community, refining our craft, and continuing to change lives through the art of Jiu Jitsu.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey. Here’s to 15 years of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our 10th black belt, and many more milestones to come!

— The El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Team

Adults Jiu Jitsu

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Black belt promotion: Celebrating Scott’s Journey to Black Belt

Yesterday, the mats of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu were filled with excitement and pride as we gathered to celebrate a monumental achievement: Scott’s promotion to black belt. This milestone is the culmination of years of dedication, discipline, and perseverance, and it was an honor for all of us to witness.

Scott’s journey in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a testament to his character and work ethic. From the first time he stepped on the mat while he was at CU Boulder, he embraced the challenges of the art with an open mind and an unrelenting spirit. Over the years, he has grown not just as a practitioner but also as a leader and mentor to everyone in our community.

His promotion ceremony was an emotional and inspiring moment, as he shared the story of his father who passed when he was 12 sparked his interest in martial arts. We have seen Scott’s contributions both on the mat through his willingness to help others, his ability to overcome setbacks, and his unwavering commitment to improving himself and those around him.

As a black belt, Scott now joins an elite group that represents the pinnacle of achievement in Jiu Jitsu. It’s not just about technical skill but also about embodying the values of humility, perseverance, and respect.

We are incredibly proud of Scott and grateful for the example he sets for everyone in our gym. His journey reminds us that the path to mastery is long and demanding, but it’s also deeply rewarding.

Congratulations, Scott, on this well-deserved accomplishment! We look forward to seeing how you continue to grow and inspire others as a black belt.

—The El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Team

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Building Strong Youth Through Sports: Insights from Dr. Dan Gould

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.

community

Celebrating 15 Years of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu

This past weekend, we wrapped up 15-year anniversary with a screening of the 2018 animated The Grinch. It was a fun-filled evening that brought together students, families, and friends to celebrate the holiday season and this incredible milestone for our gym. In 2025 we look to hold a few events celebrating 15 years of jiujitsu in el dorado hills.

Celebrating 15 Years Together

The movie night was the first event in our 15-year anniversary celebration, and it gave us a chance to relax and enjoy the festivities of the December months. Additionally a reminder that EDH Jiu Jitsu has grown into a space where people of all ages come together to learn, train, and have fun.

A Holiday Classic for All Ages

The 2018 The Grinch was the perfect pick for this event. Its colorful animation and updated storytelling made it a hit with the kids, while its humor and timeless message about the importance of community resonated with everyone. It was great to see families enjoy the movie together and kick off the holiday season with a little extra cheer.

Looking Ahead

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the screening and helped make this event a success. Here’s to 15 incredible years of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and to everything that lies ahead! We’re excited to continue building this community and look forward to more events, training, and growth in the new year.

Stay tuned for more opportunities to connect and celebrate—both on and off the mats!

Adults Jiu Jitsu

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu take home 2 medals from IBJJF No-Gi Worlds

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is proud to celebrate the outstanding efforts of our team at the IBJJF No-Gi Worlds! Competing against some of the best grapplers in the world, our athletes showcased incredible skill, heart, and determination.

Kiet stood out with a stellar performance in the Master 4 Black Belt division, earning a well-deserved bronze medal. His technical expertise and relentless spirit carried him through a challenging bracket to claim a spot on the podium.

Sonja also delivered an inspiring performance, taking bronze in the Master 4 Blue Belt division. Her determination and resilience were evident as she battled through with a podium finish.

Ken and Eliot also represented our team with great effort and determination, competing fiercely in their respective divisions. While they didn’t place this time, their performances demonstrated their dedication to the art and commitment to improvement. Every competition is a chance to learn and grow, and we’re proud of their hard work and perseverance.

These achievements and efforts highlight the strength of our El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community. Kiet and Sonja’s podium finishes and Ken and Eliot’s grit remind us that the journey in Jiu Jitsu is one of constant growth and camaraderie.

Congratulations to our entire No-Gi Worlds team! Let’s keep training, improving, and supporting each other as we prepare for the next challenge.

Adults Jiu Jitsu

El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu Heads to IBJJF No-Gi Worlds in Las Vegas!

This weekend, December 12-14, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu will have four talented competitors representing our team at the prestigious IBJJF No-Gi World Championships in Las Vegas!

  • Ken blue belt adult division
  • Eliot black belt adult division
  • Kiet black belt master division
  • Sonja: blue belt master division

The IBJJF No-Gi Worlds is one of the biggest stages in grappling, and we are proud to see our athletes competing against the best in the world. Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to improvement have brought them to this moment, and we can’t wait to cheer them on.

If you’re in Las Vegas, come out to support the team! Matches will be live-streamed on FloGrappling for those watching from home. Let’s go, EDH Jiu Jitsu!

Stay tuned for updates on their performances, and send them your encouragement as they prepare to leave it all on the mats.

community

Learning Jiu Jitsu Like a Video Game: Leveling Up on the Mats

If you’ve ever picked up a controller to play your favorite video game, you’re familiar with the thrill of unlocking new levels, mastering challenging skills, and discovering hidden treasures. What if we told you that learning Jiu Jitsu at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is a lot like playing a video game? Whether you’re a casual gamer or a martial arts enthusiast, this perspective might just change the way you approach training on the mats.

The Beginner Level: Starting Your Journey

Every video game begins with a tutorial level. As a white belt, this is your time to learn the basics—how to grip, move, and defend yourself. Like navigating a new game, you might feel a little clumsy at first, but with consistent practice, those awkward movements become smooth and efficient.

At our gym, we structure our curriculum much like a well-designed game. Beginners work through foundational techniques, like learning guard passes or escapes, similar to earning basic power-ups. Each class is an opportunity to level up and improve your “stats” in strength, flexibility, and confidence.

Earning Experience Points (XP)

Every roll (live sparring session) is an XP boost. Some days, you might “win” by landing a sweep or submission. Other days, you “lose” but gain critical insights into what you need to work on. In Jiu Jitsu, there’s no such thing as failure—only opportunities to learn and grow.

Just like in a game, the more you show up and put in the work, the faster you accumulate XP. The best part? Training with different partners adds variety to your experience, much like encountering new characters or challenges in a game.

Unlocking Advanced Levels and Moves

As you progress through the belts, you’ll notice how your understanding of Jiu Jitsu deepens. Techniques that once felt complicated now seem intuitive, like unlocking a hidden combo or special ability in a game. For example, as a blue belt, you might start chaining moves together—setting up an armbar from a triangle or transitioning from a sweep to a guard pass.

The written standards curriculum at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu helps guide your progress, ensuring that you’re not just randomly mashing buttons but developing a structured, comprehensive skillset.

Boss Battles and Tournaments

Every video game has boss battles, and in Jiu Jitsu, tournaments serve as your real-life equivalent. Facing opponents outside your gym challenges you to apply your skills under pressure. Win or lose, these experiences are invaluable for leveling up.

Even if competing isn’t your thing, every class presents its own “mini-bosses”—those teammates who push you to your limits and force you to problem-solve on the fly.

The Never-Ending Game

Unlike a video game, Jiu Jitsu doesn’t have a final level. Even black belts continue to learn and refine their craft. This endless journey is what makes Jiu Jitsu so rewarding. There’s always a new “move set” to explore, a different “quest” to embark on, and a deeper understanding of the art to unlock.

Join the Game

If you’re ready to start your Jiu Jitsu adventure, we invite you to join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Our coaches and teammates are here to help you level up, one step at a time. Whether you’re a white belt just starting out or a seasoned practitioner looking for new challenges, there’s always room for you to press play and continue your journey on the mats.

Let’s train, level up, and have fun along the way!

Kids Jiu Jitsu

Building Skills Through Fun and Focus: The Unique Approach of Our Kids’ Jiu Jitsu Classes

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our kids’ classes are designed to do more than just teach techniques—they’re about building confidence, discipline, and coordination in a way that’s both fun and effective. By blending structured drills with engaging games, we ensure our young students stay excited about learning while developing essential Jiu Jitsu skills.

The Structure of Our Kids’ Classes

Our youth program is divided into three age groups to ensure every student receives age-appropriate instruction:

• Peewee (Ages 4-7)

• Kids (Ages 7-10)

• Juniors (Ages 11-17)

Each class begins with a warm-up to get the kids moving and focused, followed by skill-based drills, technique instruction, and sparring for the older age groups. However, what makes our program stand out is the incorporation of games and creative activities to reinforce key concepts.

Skill-Building Through Games

Games are an integral part of our teaching philosophy because they provide a hands-on way for kids to learn while having fun. Here are a few examples:

• Situational Drills: This game helps kids develop situational awareness and improve their positional escapes. One student defends while others take turns trying to achieve a dominant position, building both resilience and strategic thinking.

• Sumo Wrestling: By challenging kids to push or pull their partner out of a designated area, this game enhances balance, grip strength, and core stability—key attributes for success in Jiu Jitsu.

• Jiu Jitsu Freeze Tag: Combining the classic game of tag with Jiu Jitsu techniques, kids practice takedowns and control while staying engaged and energized.

The Power of Drills

While games provide a fun learning environment, structured drills lay the foundation for mastery. We use repetitive, focused exercises to help kids sharpen their techniques, build muscle memory, and improve their overall athleticism.

For example:

• Guard Retention Drills: Students practice maintaining guard against a partner’s passing attempts, developing their defense and timing.

• Takedown Entries: Age-appropriate takedown drills help build confidence and teach the importance of technique over strength.

More Than Just Skills on the Mat

In addition to improving their Jiu Jitsu, our classes instill life skills like teamwork, respect, and perseverance. Whether they’re working with a partner during drills or showing good sportsmanship in a game, our young students grow both on and off the mat.

Come Join the Fun

If you’re looking for an activity that engages your child’s body and mind, our kids’ Jiu Jitsu program might be the perfect fit. Stop by El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and watch a class or let your child schedule a trial class. They’ll have fun, learn valuable skills, and gain the confidence to tackle challenges both on and off the mat!

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.