Who makes the best BJJ instructionals?

John Danaher and Gordon Ryan are widely considered two of the best BJJ instructional creators. Danaher is known for deep system-based teaching, while Gordon Ryan is known for practical no-gi instructionals based on competition-tested techniques.

Best BJJ Instructionals (2026 Guide)

Q: Are BJJ instructionals worth it?

Yes, high-quality BJJ instructionals are worth it because they provide long-term value and can be revisited many times. Compared to private lessons, they are often a more affordable way to keep learning.

Q: Which BJJ instructional is best for beginners?

For beginners, instructionals that focus on fundamentals and positional understanding are usually the best choice. John Danaher’s Go Further Faster series is one of the most recommended starting points.

Q: How do you learn from BJJ instructionals?

The best way to learn from BJJ instructionals is to focus on one concept at a time, take notes, drill it in training, and apply it during sparring. Trying to learn too much at once usually slows progress.

Q: Is BJJ Fanatics worth it?

BJJ Fanatics is worth it for many grapplers because it offers a large selection of instructionals from top-level coaches and competitors. The value depends on choosing videos that match your level and goals.

Looking for the best BJJ instructionals? The top choices right now are John Danaher’s systems for fundamentals and Gordon Ryan’s instructionals for advanced no-gi strategies. Both offer detailed, system-based learning that can dramatically improve your Jiu-Jitsu.

In the early days, finding quality BJJ instructional videos was difficult. You had to rely on books like Mastering Jiu-Jitsu by Renzo Gracie or Advanced Jiu-Jitsu by Marcelo Garcia. Today, there is no shortage of high-level video content.

Platforms like BJJFanatics have made it easier than ever to learn from world-class instructors.

Best BJJ Instructionals (Quick Answer)

Best overall: John Danaher – Go Further Faster
Best for no-gi: Gordon Ryan – Systematically Attacking the Legs
Best for beginners: Danaher Fundamentals
Best for advanced: Gordon Ryan systems

For beginners, also check our best BJJ instructionals for beginners.

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John Danaher Instructionals

John Danaher is widely considered one of the best BJJ instructors ever. His instructionals focus on systems rather than individual techniques, which makes them extremely effective for long-term learning.

His Go Further Faster series is one of the best instructional collections available. It covers fundamental positions, escapes, and control systems in incredible detail.

Best Danaher Instructionals

Go Further Faster Bundle – Best fundamentals system
Enter The System – Leglocks, back attacks, submissions
New Wave Jiu Jitsu – Modern escape systems
Guard Retention – Essential defensive skill

👉 Read more in our full John Danaher instructional guide.

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Gordon Ryan Instructionals

Gordon Ryan is considered the greatest no-gi competitor of all time. His instructionals are highly practical and based on techniques he uses in competition.

Compared to Danaher, Gordon’s teaching is faster and more direct, making it easier for many students to follow.

Best Gordon Ryan Instructionals

Systematically Attacking the Legs – Best leglock system
The Pillars of Defence – Essential defensive skills
They Shall Not Pass – Guard retention system
Systematically Attacking the Guard – Passing system

👉 See all his instructionals on our Gordon Ryan page.

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How to Choose the Best BJJ Instructional

The best instructional depends on your level:

Beginners: Focus on fundamentals and escapes
Intermediate: Build systems (guard, passing, submissions)
Advanced: Specialize in specific areas (leglocks, back attacks)

Instructionals that teach systems rather than isolated techniques tend to give the best results.

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How to Learn From BJJ Instructionals

Watching videos is not enough. You need to apply what you learn:

Focus on one concept at a time
Take notes
Drill during training
Use techniques in sparring

The fastest learners are the ones who immediately apply new techniques during live training.

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Are BJJ Instructionals Worth It?

Yes, high-quality BJJ instructionals are worth it.

Compared to private lessons, they are much cheaper and provide long-term value. You can revisit them anytime and continue improving over years.

However, avoid buying instructionals that only cover a single technique. Systems provide far more value.

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Best Instructionals for Older Grapplers

Older grapplers should focus on efficiency, timing, and positioning instead of explosive techniques.

See our full guide: Best BJJ instructionals for older grapplers.

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FAQ: BJJ Instructionals

What are the best BJJ instructionals?

The best BJJ instructionals are John Danaher’s systems and Gordon Ryan’s no-gi instructionals. They provide the most complete and effective learning methods.

Are BJJ instructionals worth it?

Yes, they are worth it if you choose high-quality systems. They offer long-term value and can significantly improve your skills.

Which BJJ instructional is best for beginners?

Beginners should start with fundamental systems like John Danaher’s Go Further Faster series.

How do you learn from BJJ instructionals?

Focus on one concept at a time, drill it, and apply it during sparring. Avoid trying to learn everything at once.

Is BJJ Fanatics worth it?

BJJ Fanatics is one of the best platforms for instructional content. It offers videos from top-level instructors and is widely trusted in the BJJ community.

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Final Thoughts

The best BJJ instructionals come from system-based instructors like John Danaher and Gordon Ryan. Their content can act as a complete learning library that you can revisit throughout your journey.

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