At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in more than just teaching martial arts—we aim to instill confidence, resilience, and character in every child who steps onto our mats. Our youth program is thoughtfully designed to empower kids, fostering not only physical fitness but also critical life skills like discipline, teamwork, and self-respect. Whether you live in Cameron Park, Folsom Ranch, or right here in El Dorado Hills, our program is a welcoming space for children of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Why Choose Jiu Jitsu for Your Child?
Jiu Jitsu is often called the “gentle art” because it emphasizes technique, leverage, and problem-solving over brute strength. It’s a fantastic way for children to develop physical and mental agility while having fun in a safe, supportive environment. Beyond the techniques, students learn to:
• Build Self-Confidence: Overcoming challenges on the mat translates to real-world confidence.
• Practice Self-Control: Our structured classes teach focus and patience, crucial skills for school and beyond.
• Develop Resilience: Kids learn how to fail gracefully, get back up, and try again—a valuable lesson for life.
Program Highlights
Our youth program is tailored to meet the developmental needs of three age groups:
1. Peewees (Ages 4–7): Classes focus on basic motor skills, playful drills, and building comfort with movement.
2. Kids (Ages 7–10): Students begin learning foundational Jiu Jitsu techniques while reinforcing teamwork and respect.
3. Juniors (Ages 11–17): Advanced training prepares young grapplers for competitions and life’s challenges.
Each class incorporates our monthly “Mat Chat,” where we discuss key life skills such as integrity, humility, and bravery. These conversations tie martial arts training to everyday situations, helping our students grow into well-rounded individuals.
Community Connection
Many of our young students come from nearby communities like Cameron Park and Folsom Ranch. For parents seeking a positive outlet for their children, we offer a convenient and enriching option just minutes away. Whether your child is interested in learning self-defense, staying active, or making new friends, our program provides a strong foundation for personal growth.
Try a Class Today
Experience firsthand what makes our youth program special! Come meet our instructors, watch our students in action, and see how Jiu Jitsu can benefit your family. Whether you’re in Cameron Park, Folsom Ranch, or El Dorado Hills, we’d love to welcome you to our growing community.
Contact us today to schedule your trial class. Together, let’s help your child build confidence, discipline, and a love for learning—both on and off the mats.
Are you a resident of the vibrant new Folsom Ranch neighborhood? Welcome to the area! If you’re looking for a fun, engaging way to get active, meet new people, and challenge yourself, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is just a short drive away.
Why Choose Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is more than just a martial art—it’s a lifestyle that promotes fitness, confidence, and discipline. Whether you’re looking for a full-body workout, a way to learn self-defense, or an activity to bond with your family, BJJ offers something for everyone.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we take pride in providing high-quality instruction for all ages and skill levels. Our classes range from beginner-friendly sessions to advanced training for seasoned practitioners.
What We Offer
• Adult Classes: Improve your fitness, relieve stress, and develop practical self-defense skills.
• Youth Programs: Our Peewee, Kids, and Junior classes build confidence and focus in a fun, structured environment.
• Welcoming Community: Join a team of like-minded individuals who support each other in their goals.
Why El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu?
We’ve been a trusted name in martial arts for over 15 years, helping people of all backgrounds achieve their goals. From complete beginners to world-class competitors, our experienced coaches are here to guide you every step of the way.
Folsom Ranch is growing rapidly, and we’re excited to welcome new neighbors into our community. Our gym is easily accessible from Folsom Ranch, making it a convenient choice for families and individuals looking to get started with Jiu Jitsu.
Try a Class!
Not sure if Jiu Jitsu is right for you? No problem! We offer a trial class so you can experience the benefits firsthand. Bring your family and step onto the mats to see what makes our gym special.
Come join the El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu team. Your journey to a stronger, healthier, and more confident you starts here!
Visit us today or contact us to schedule your trial class. We can’t wait to meet you, Folsom Ranch!
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is thrilled to announce an exciting event—a black belt promotion and seminar for Scott on Tuesday, December 17th, at 9:30 AM!
Scott’s journey to black belt has been nothing short of inspiring. Over the years, he has demonstrated unparalleled dedication to the art of Jiu Jitsu, consistently setting an example of hard work, resilience, and humility. This promotion celebrates not only his technical mastery but also his positive impact on our team as a teacher, training partner, and role model.
To commemorate this significant milestone, Scott will be leading a seminar immediately following the promotion ceremony. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn from his unique perspective and skill set. Whether you’re new to Jiu Jitsu or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll gain valuable insights to elevate your training.
Event Details:
• Date: Tuesday, December 17th
• Time: 9:30 AM
• Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
We encourage all members, family, and friends to join us in celebrating Scott’s well-earned achievement. Let’s come together to honor his journey and continue to support the growth of our Jiu Jitsu team.
Mark your calendar and don’t miss this special day!
In Simon Sinek’s Start with Why, Sinek explores how businesses and organizations thrive by focusing on their purpose rather than getting caught in endless battles for market share. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, these ideas resonate deeply with how we approach training, competition, and community.
Competing Against Yourself
Sinek emphasizes that true success doesn’t come from beating others—it comes from staying true to your “why.” In Jiu Jitsu, this aligns with the idea of personal growth over external validation. While competition is a valuable tool for testing skills, the real opponent is often yourself:
• Improving consistency: Did you show up on the tough days?
• Measuring progress: Are you better than you were last month?
• Focusing on fundamentals: Have you deepened your understanding of key techniques?
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our students to embrace these questions, ensuring that their journey on the mats is driven by internal motivation rather than external comparisons.
Infinite vs. Finite Games
Sinek contrasts finite games (with set rules and winners) with infinite games (focused on continued growth and contribution). Jiu Jitsu is both. While tournaments are finite, the art itself is infinite—there’s always something new to learn, refine, or teach.
Our gym embodies this infinite mindset. Whether you’re a white belt mastering escapes or a black belt honing subtle details, the path never ends. It’s about engaging with the process, not just chasing medals.
Inspiring Through Purpose
Organizations that succeed inspire people by sharing their “why.” For us, our “why” goes beyond teaching techniques—it’s about building confidence, resilience, and a supportive community. This purpose drives everything we do, from kids’ classes teaching life skills like bravery and humility to adult classes that foster camaraderie and personal growth.
Applying These Lessons
Here’s how you can bring the lessons to your Jiu Jitsu journey:
1. Define your “why”: Why did you start training? Why do you keep showing up? Keep this purpose front and center.
2. Focus on improvement: Compete with the person you were yesterday, not the person across the mat.
3. Celebrate the journey: Remember, the medals and belts are milestones, not destinations.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we aim to create an environment where everyone is inspired to keep growing—on and off the mats. Whether you’re preparing for your first competition or simply looking to improve your fitness and mindset, let your “why” guide the way.
Want to explore this mindset for yourself? Join us on the mats and discover how Jiu Jitsu can align with your purpose.
A milestone achievement was celebrated recently as Brian Beck, a dedicated member of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, was awarded his black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The promotion took place at Adrenaline Training Center in Carson City, where Brian trains and also serves as an instructor. This moment marked the culmination of years of relentless effort, growth, and contributions to the Jiu Jitsu community.
Brian’s journey in Jiu Jitsu has been nothing short of inspiring. Splitting his time between Adrenaline Training Center and El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, he has been a consistent presence on the mats, sharing his knowledge and pushing his teammates to new heights. His promotion is a testament to his technical expertise, perseverance, and the leadership qualities that make him a valuable instructor.
The promotion ceremony was a celebration of not only Brian’s individual achievements but also the supportive community that has helped shape his journey. Surrounded by teammates, family, and students, the event underscored the values of camaraderie and continuous improvement that are central to the art of Jiu Jitsu. After the short ceremony, Brian taught his first seminar as a Black belt instructor, focusing on some of his favorite transitions and details from the x guard.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we are honored to have Brian as part of our extended team. His new rank reflects years of sacrifice, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to mastering the art. We look forward to seeing how he continues to contribute to both Adrenaline Training Center and our gym as a leader and role model.
Congratulations, Brian, on this well-deserved accomplishment! Your promotion is a reminder to all of us that with hard work and passion, anything is possible.
Are you a new resident of Folsom Ranch looking for a way to stay active, learn self-defense, or find a enthusiastic jiujitsu community? Welcome to the neighborhood! At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re excited to invite you to join us on the mats and experience the life-changing benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ).
Why Try Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is more than just a martial art; it’s a way to boost confidence, build discipline, and develop mental resilience. Whether you’re looking to improve fitness, relieve stress, or make new friends, Jiu Jitsu offers a journey that can be as challenging or rewarding as you want it to be. Our classes are designed to accommodate all ages and experience levels, so you’ll feel comfortable no matter where you’re starting from.
What You’ll Find at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
1. Expert Coaching: Our instructors have years of experience and bring a wealth of knowledge to each class. With personalized guidance, we make sure you’re learning techniques effectively and safely, all while having fun.
2. Community and Support: Our gym isn’t just a place to train; it’s a community. Here, you’ll find people who encourage each other to reach new goals and overcome challenges together. For new residents in Folsom Ranch, it’s a great place to connect with like-minded people and establish a supportive network.
3. Classes for All Ages and Skill Levels: We offer adult classes, as well as specialized youth programs, so you can bring the whole family. Whether you’re interested in Jiu Jitsu for self-defense, fitness, or competition, we have classes to meet your needs.
Beginner-Friendly Classes
If you’re new to Jiu Jitsu, we have beginner-friendly classes where you can learn fundamental techniques and build confidence from day one. Our instructors break down each technique into manageable steps, so you’ll never feel overwhelmed. As you progress, you’ll have the opportunity to advance at your own pace, with the support of both instructors and training partners.
Join Us for a Trial Class
If you’re a Folsom Ranch resident looking to get started, we’re happy to offer a trial class. It’s a no-obligation opportunity to see if Jiu Jitsu is right for you, meet our instructors, and experience the energy and camaraderie at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Just show up in comfortable workout clothes, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Ready to Start Your Jiu Jitsu Journey?
Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and experience a unique and fulfilling way to train and grow. Whether you’re looking to start a new hobby, improve your fitness, or dive into a new challenge, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Location: We’re located just a short drive from Folsom Ranch, making it convenient for residents in the area to stop by for a class.
Contact Us: Reach out to us to schedule your trial or to learn more about our class offerings. We’re excited to welcome new Folsom Ranch residents to our team!
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we strive to build a strong, resilient team culture—one that doesn’t just focus on wins and losses but on long-term growth, humility, and camaraderie. There are few teams in the world that exemplify these values better than New Zealand’s All Blacks. Known as one of the most successful and respected teams in sports history, the All Blacks’ commitment to excellence both on and off the field is a powerful model. Legacy by James Kerr explores the principles that drive their culture, and many of these lessons resonate deeply in Jiu Jitsu.
Here are some key takeaways from the All Blacks’ philosophy that we can bring to the mat:
1. “Sweep the Sheds” – Humility at Every Level
The All Blacks have a famous saying, “No one is too big to sweep the sheds,” which means no one is above the team, regardless of their role or status. After every game, players themselves clean the locker rooms, reinforcing a sense of humility and mutual respect. In Jiu Jitsu, this lesson reminds us that no one—no matter how experienced—is above the basics or too important to help out. Whether it’s setting up for a class, rolling out mats, or helping a beginner with a technique, humility is at the core of our practice. It’s about being part of something bigger than ourselves.
2. “Champions Do Extra” – Committing to Mastery
The All Blacks emphasize going above and beyond. In their world, “champions do extra”—they practice longer, watch more film, or perfect their fitness routines. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our members to do just a little bit more every day, whether it’s drilling a technique a few extra times, attending open mat sessions after class, or reviewing a move at home. This “extra” mindset is what leads to mastery and sets champions apart.
3. “Leave the Jersey in a Better Place” – Building Legacy
The All Blacks view the jersey as a symbol of the team’s legacy. Every player sees it as their duty to “leave the jersey in a better place” for the next person. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our team members to embrace a similar mindset. Every time we step onto the mat, we’re contributing to the legacy of our gym. Through our commitment, discipline, and respect for each other, we aim to leave a positive mark for future generations of students.
4. “Embrace the Pressure” – Strength Through Adversity
Pressure is something the All Blacks thrive under. They see it as a privilege—a sign that they’re in a position to do something meaningful. In Jiu Jitsu, pressure is a constant, whether it’s during a match, a challenging class, or even overcoming personal obstacles. Embracing pressure rather than fearing it helps us build resilience, both mentally and physically. It’s a chance to grow, adapt, and find strength in the face of challenges.
5. “Know Thyself” – Finding Purpose and Identity
The All Blacks focus deeply on self-awareness, knowing that success on the field starts with understanding who they are and what they stand for. In Jiu Jitsu, we also recognize that each individual brings a unique style, purpose, and personality to the mat. Knowing your “why” for training can make a huge difference in your progress and dedication. Are you here to challenge yourself, learn self-defense, compete, or just stay active? Whatever it is, knowing yourself helps you stay connected to the journey.
6. “Follow the Kaizen” – Constant Improvement
The concept of “Kaizen,” or continuous improvement, is central to the All Blacks’ philosophy. Instead of chasing perfection, they focus on making small, incremental gains every day. Jiu Jitsu is the ultimate journey of Kaizen. Each time we practice, we improve bit by bit, day by day. It’s about recognizing that progress is rarely fast, but with patience and dedication, growth is inevitable. At our gym, we emphasize the journey over the destination, embracing every opportunity to learn and get better.
Bringing It All Together
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our goal is not just to develop skilled athletes but to create individuals who embody humility, resilience, and an endless drive to improve. The values that have guided the All Blacks are timeless principles that build strong teams and even stronger individuals. Through Jiu Jitsu, we aim to instill these values, creating a legacy that goes beyond the mat and into every area of life.
Let’s keep pushing, keep learning, and keep sweeping the sheds—together.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, one of the most common questions among students is, “Should I focus on winning in practice or on learning?” The answer isn’t always straightforward because both “winning” and “learning” have their place on the mats. Each approach has distinct benefits, and understanding when to prioritize one over the other can make a huge difference in your progress and overall experience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ).
Let’s explore the similarities and differences in practicing to win versus practicing to learn — and how each can help you grow as a martial artist.
Practicing to Win: Building Confidence and Execution
When you practice to win, your focus is on using techniques and strategies you’ve already mastered to come out on top in live training. You’re aiming to execute moves decisively, maintain control, and work to “win” exchanges or positions. Here are some key benefits:
1. Strengthening Your Core Game: Practicing to win lets you polish techniques you know well, such as the fundamentals of positional control, escapes, and submissions. This helps solidify your “A-game,” or the techniques you’ll rely on in a competitive situation.
2. Building Confidence: Consistently aiming to win in practice can build mental toughness and confidence. When you know you can hold your own against challenging opponents, it reinforces your ability to stay composed under pressure.
3. Testing Techniques in Realistic Scenarios: When you practice to win, you create high-pressure scenarios that mirror competition. This is an ideal way to see if you can execute your go-to moves and strategies under realistic conditions, like keeping guard or setting up a submission against someone actively resisting.
When to Focus on Winning: Practicing to win is especially useful as you prepare for an upcoming competition or want to gauge your current skill level. It’s also a great way to build up confidence after learning a new technique, so you feel ready to use it in a live roll.
Practicing to Learn: Fostering Growth and Adaptability
On the other side of the coin, practicing to learn means you’re not concerned about “winning” each roll. Instead, you’re experimenting, exploring, and sometimes intentionally putting yourself in less favorable positions to develop specific skills. Here’s why this approach is so valuable:
1. Experimenting with New Techniques: Practicing to learn gives you the freedom to test new moves, entries, or transitions without worrying about the outcome. If you’ve just learned a new guard or submission, training with a learning focus lets you experiment with it until you become comfortable using it in live situations.
2. Embracing Failure as Growth: When you’re open to learning, mistakes become part of the process. Getting swept, tapped, or outmaneuvered provides valuable insights into your game. It shows where you can improve and highlights areas to revisit and refine.
3. Increasing Adaptability and Creativity: Learning-oriented practice encourages you to problem-solve on the fly. This fosters adaptability — a critical skill in Jiu Jitsu. By putting yourself in uncomfortable or unfamiliar situations, you develop the flexibility to adjust to opponents’ actions and explore techniques you may not have considered otherwise.
When to Focus on Learning: Practicing to learn is ideal for regular training sessions where long-term improvement is your goal. It’s also useful if you’re working through a plateau, as it allows you to identify and address weak spots in your game.
Similarities: Discipline, Consistency, and Growth
Both approaches share common values and can enhance your practice in powerful ways. Practicing to win and practicing to learn both require:
• Discipline: Whether you’re aiming to “win” or “learn,” maintaining discipline in your technique and control is essential.
• Consistency: Regular training — with a balance of winning and learning — is what keeps you moving forward in your BJJ journey.
• Commitment to Growth: In both approaches, you’re working to improve your skill set and develop as a martial artist.
Finding the Right Balance
So, which is better? Truthfully, a well-rounded approach that incorporates both is the most effective way to improve. Here are a few tips on achieving that balance:
• Set Intentions Before Practice: Each training session is an opportunity to focus on something specific. Going in with a clear goal, whether it’s sharpening a particular technique or testing out a new one, helps you direct your energy and intentions.
• Alternate Your Focus: Not every session needs to be about “winning” or “learning.” Allow yourself the flexibility to switch your focus based on what you feel needs more attention in your game.
• Talk with Your Training Partners: Letting your partners know what you’re working on, whether it’s drilling a certain move or rolling with full intensity, helps you get the most out of each session.
Growth Through Both Winning and Learning
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that every roll has something to teach. The balance between practicing to win and practicing to learn is what makes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu such a unique and rewarding journey. So, whether you’re focusing on perfecting a skill you know or testing new techniques, embrace both approaches as complementary tools for growth.
Ready to get on the mat and find your balance? Join us for a class and experience how Jiu Jitsu can push you to be your best — both in winning and learning.
Welcome to Folsom Ranch! Moving to a new community is exciting, and finding activities to enrich your life here is a big part of that journey. If you’re looking to start something new, connect with others, and challenge yourself, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu invites you to step onto the mat and experience the many benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). Our school is just a short drive away and offers classes for all ages and experience levels.
Why Try Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
Jiu Jitsu is more than just a martial art; it’s a full-body workout, a mental challenge, and a community of people committed to growing together. Whether you want to build strength, learn self-defense, or relieve stress, BJJ can help you achieve your goals. In our classes, you’ll experience both the physical and mental aspects of Jiu Jitsu, gaining skills that improve both fitness and confidence.
A Warm, Welcoming Community
Starting something new can feel intimidating, but our instructors and members are here to make sure you feel comfortable and supported from day one. Many of our students are new to BJJ and come from all walks of life. Whether you’re stepping into your first class or coming back after years away, you’ll find that our community is eager to help you succeed. We also host social events and competitions for those interested in deeper involvement.
Join Us for an Intro Class!
If you’re a Folsom Ranch resident, we invite you to join us for a complimentary trial class. Bring the whole family and see why so many of us are passionate about Jiu Jitsu. Our kids’ programs provide young students with focus, discipline, and self-confidence, while adult classes offer a challenging workout and a chance to learn from expert instructors.
Whether you’re interested in self-defense, fitness, or simply want to try something new, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is here to welcome you. Reach out today to schedule a trial class, and let’s get started on the mats!
In the world of Jiu Jitsu, the mat is like a chessboard, and every match is a battle of strategy, patience, and control. Just like chess, Jiu Jitsu relies on knowing when to make the right moves, how to open strongly, control the “center,” and ultimately close with a well-executed finish. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, understanding these connections helps students see that a strategic mindset is as crucial as physical strength or technique.
The Opening Moves
In chess, an opening move is designed to set the tone for the game, establish control over key areas, and test your opponent’s response. Similarly, in Jiu Jitsu, a solid opening sets you up for success and establishes control early in the match. Whether it’s setting up a grip, finding an angle, or initiating a takedown, the first move can dictate the pace and rhythm. A well-planned opening in Jiu Jitsu might mean controlling your opponent’s posture, maintaining a strong guard, or quickly taking top position. These moves set up the rest of the match and show your opponent that you’re in command.
Controlling the Center
In chess, controlling the center squares is essential for maneuverability and putting pressure on your opponent. In Jiu Jitsu, controlling the “center” can mean various things depending on your position—whether you’re on top, in guard, or trying to pass. For instance, if you’re in guard, controlling your opponent’s hips and centerline can give you leverage for attacks or sweeps. When passing, keeping your weight and pressure aligned over their center of gravity can break down their defense and limit their options. Just as in chess, when you control the center in Jiu Jitsu, you increase your options while restricting your opponent’s movement.
Anticipating Moves Ahead
Chess requires players to think several moves ahead, predicting their opponent’s intentions while preparing counters and traps. In Jiu Jitsu, this is mirrored in the constant anticipation of your opponent’s next move. Are they setting up a triangle? Trying to sweep? Experienced grapplers develop a sense of anticipation, recognizing patterns and understanding potential threats. Like a chess player predicting an opponent’s queen sacrifice, a skilled Jiu Jitsu practitioner sees the setup before it’s executed and responds accordingly.
Setting Traps
In both chess and Jiu Jitsu, sometimes the best offense is a well-timed trap. In chess, traps lure the opponent into making a seemingly favorable move that leads to disadvantage. In Jiu Jitsu, setting traps might look like giving an opponent an opening that they’re eager to take—only to counter with a well-prepared submission or sweep. For instance, you might leave an arm exposed in half guard, making it tempting for your opponent to reach for it, only to transition to an armbar or shoulder lock. Learning to set traps adds a new layer to your game, turning defense into offense and using your opponent’s intentions against them.
Closing the Game
The final moves in chess aim for checkmate—a decisive end to the game. In Jiu Jitsu, the closer, or finish, can be thought of in the same way. Submissions are the “checkmate” of Jiu Jitsu, where all preceding moves culminate in a decisive ending. From a choke to an armbar or leg lock, a well-executed submission brings the game to a close. Just as a chess master strategically builds toward a checkmate, a Jiu Jitsu athlete uses each position, grip, and shift in weight to build toward a finish, eliminating escape routes until the opponent is out of options.
Lessons from the Mat and the Board
The parallels between chess and Jiu Jitsu extend beyond individual matches; they encourage a mindset of patience, strategy, and adaptability. Just as chess players learn from every game, Jiu Jitsu practitioners learn from every roll. By studying both, we build the mental resilience and strategic insight that make us better not only as martial artists but also as thinkers and problem-solvers.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we embrace the chess-like nature of Jiu Jitsu, teaching students to think, control, and strategize. By building these skills, every student not only sharpens their physical game but also strengthens their mind, preparing to roll with both skill and purpose.
