Gordon Ryan is widely regarded as the greatest no-gi grappler of all time. His instructionals on BJJ Fanatics are more than just popular—they’ve become essential study material for anyone serious about building a modern, systematic jiu-jitsu game.
But with over a dozen high-level BJJ instructionals available, one question always comes up:
Where should you start?
This guide ranks Gordon Ryan’s top instructionals—from beginner-friendly foundations to advanced competitive systems—so you can build your game step by step with confidence.
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Why Learn from Gordon Ryan?
When it comes to teaching, Gordon is known for precision and clarity. His instructionals are designed to give you a **complete system**, not just a collection of random techniques. They’re ideal if you:
- Want to understand the underlying mechanics of positions
- Prefer structured, long-form learning over quick tips
- Value control, pressure, and step-by-step dominance
While his content is best suited for intermediate and advanced grapplers, motivated beginners can also make huge progress by starting with his most accessible courses.
Best Gordon Ryan Instructionals (Ranked)
Here’s the progression we recommend, moving from core fundamentals to advanced systems.
1. Systematically Attacking the Guard
Best for: Beginners and intermediates developing strong passing fundamentals 
Why it’s a great starting point:
This series lays out Gordon’s signature passing framework with concepts like inside positioning, distance control, and knee-cut mechanics. Perfect for anyone who wants to understand how to break down guard systematically.
- Clear, step-by-step breakdowns
- Focus on positional advancement
- Excellent first course for new students
2. The System: Closed Guard
Best for: Beginners with some experience in guard 
Why it’s effective:
Closed guard remains one of the most reliable positions in BJJ. Gordon shows how to use it not just to hold but to attack, with high-percentage submissions and back takes.
- Practical for white and blue belts
- Emphasizes posture control and grips
- Builds a submission-oriented guard game
3. Systematically Attacking from Mount
Best for: Intermediates developing top-pressure dominance 
Why it stands out:
Mount is a fight-ending position in Gordon’s system. This instructional shows how to maintain crushing pressure while isolating arms and applying submissions.
- Teaches chest-to-chest control
- Explains transitions to armbars and triangles
- Perfect for building confidence in finishing from mount
4. Systematically Attacking the Back
Best for: Intermediate to advanced players 
Why it’s legendary:
Arguably Gordon’s most acclaimed instructional. He covers diagonal control, hand fighting, and submission chains—giving you the blueprint for turning back control into the ultimate finishing position.
- Emphasis on retention before submission
- Techniques tested at the highest levels
- Considered a must-watch for serious competitors
5. Passing the Half Guard
Best for: Intermediates learning to handle seated guards 
Why it’s valuable:
Seated and half guard positions dominate modern no-gi. This instructional gives you pressure-based strategies and knee-wedge mechanics to dismantle these guards.
- Excellent for players who want a heavy top game
- Teaches how to neutralize modern guards
- Best applied by students with prior passing experience
6. The System: Leg Locks
Best for: Advanced grapplers
Why it’s famous:
The leg lock system that made Gordon and the Danaher team dominant at ADCC. Covers inside sankaku, ashi garami, and devastating finishing mechanics.
Important: This series is not suitable for beginners. A solid base in positional control and safety is required before diving into heel hooks and advanced entanglements.
Where Should You Begin?
If you’re just starting with Gordon Ryan’s material, Systematically Attacking the Guard is the best entry point. From there, work through closed guard, mount, and back control. Once your foundation is solid, move on to half guard passing and advanced leg lock systems.
Progression Path:
- Beginner: Guard Passing, Closed Guard
- Intermediate: Mount, Back Control, Half Guard Passing
- Advanced: Leg Locks, Counter Wrestling, Open Guard Retention
Explore Gordon Ryan’s Instructionals
FAQ: Gordon Ryan Instructionals
What is the best Gordon Ryan instructional for beginners?
The best starting point is Systematically Attacking the Guard, since it explains core passing concepts and sets the stage for Gordon’s other systems.
Are Gordon Ryan instructionals worth it?
Yes. While they are detailed and lengthy, they offer comprehensive systems rather than random moves, making them some of the most valuable BJJ instructional videos available.
Do I need experience before watching?
Beginners can benefit, but most of Gordon’s content is designed for intermediate and advanced students. Starting with his passing and closed guard instructionals will make the material much easier to follow.
Which Gordon Ryan instructional is most advanced?
The Leg Lock System is the most advanced and should only be studied after a solid foundation in positional control has been established.
