Best BJJ Instructionals: Reviews and Recommendations
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 1 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
☰Contents
Top BJJ instructional reviews: best DVDs and digital courses by Gordon Ryan, John Danaher, Craig Jones, and more.
Contents
Why Instructionals Accelerate BJJ Growth
A good BJJ instructional compresses years of discovery into hours. The best instructionals don't just show you techniques — they explain the underlying concepts that make techniques work, giving you a framework for understanding the whole game.
Top Instructionals by Category
Leg Locks
| Instructional | Instructor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Leglocks: Enter the System | John Danaher | Intermediate-Advanced |
| Leg Lock Anthology | Lachlan Giles | Beginner-Intermediate |
| Outside Heel Hooks | Gordon Ryan | Advanced |
Guard Play
| Instructional | Instructor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic Guard | Mikey Musumeci | Intermediate |
| Half Guard Anthology | Lucas Leite | All levels |
| New Wave Jiu-Jitsu | Gordon Ryan | Advanced |
Back Attacks
| Instructional | Instructor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Back Attacks: Enter the System | John Danaher | Intermediate-Advanced |
| The Gift Wrap | Gordon Ryan | Advanced |
Best for Beginners
For white and blue belts, prioritize instructionals that teach concepts over collections of techniques. Bernardo Faria's instructionals are excellent for beginners — they focus on fundamental high-percentage positions.
💡 Getting the most from instructionals: Watch one section, drill the concept for 2-3 sessions, then watch the next section. Don't binge-watch without mat time in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are BJJ instructionals worth it?
Yes — for practitioners who train consistently. An instructional from a world champion compresses years of their development into a few hours. The key is applying what you learn on the mat immediately, not just watching.
What is the best BJJ instructional for beginners?
For white belts, any instructional by Bernardo Faria (half guard, pressure passing) or Marcelo Garcia (rear naked choke, guard) is excellent. Focus on positions you encounter every session rather than advanced leg locks.
Danaher vs Gordon Ryan instructionals — which is better?
Different strengths. Danaher is more conceptual and systematic — better for understanding the "why". Gordon Ryan is more practical and live-demonstrated — better for seeing techniques at speed. Both are worth studying.