John Danaher Instructionals: From Beginner to Advanced in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
John Danaher is one of the most respected and methodical figures in modern Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As the mastermind behind the success of grapplers like Gordon Ryan and Garry Tonon, Danaher is known for his elite coaching and detailed, system-based instructional series.
This guide will walk you through which of his instructionals to start with and how to progress from beginner to advanced based on your goals and experience level.
Why Danaher’s Instructionals Are Different
Unlike typical instructionals that focus on scattered techniques, Danaher builds complete systems. He teaches BJJ through conceptual frameworks, prioritizing control, leverage, and predictability.
- System-based progression
- Clear positional hierarchies
- In-depth, lecture-style teaching
- Focus on principles, not just moves
Beginner-Friendly Starting Points
1. Go Further Faster Series (Parts 1–5)
This is Danaher’s most accessible instructional series. It focuses on the fundamentals of BJJ and teaches you how to build a defensively sound, positionally aware game.
Covers:
- Escapes from bad positions
- Guard retention and recovery
- Top control principles
- Guard passing concepts
- Submission mechanics
Also recommended in our guide for older grapplers due to its emphasis on efficiency and control.
Intermediate Instructionals: Building Your Game
2. The Closed Guard
Learn how to control posture, break grips, and build an attacking game from closed guard.
3. The Half Guard System
Covers sweeps, back takes, and transitions from bottom half guard.
4. The Front Headlock System
A hybrid wrestling/BJJ position that focuses on dominant control and guillotine variations.
Advanced Systems and Mastery-Level Content
5. Enter the System: Back Attacks
Danaher’s most complete instructional on back control, transitions, and finishing mechanics.
6. Enter the System: Leg Locks
The series that revolutionized leg lock strategy. It covers Ashi Garami, transitions, and finishing mechanics.
7. Go Further Faster: Pin Escapes and Turtle
A deeper dive into escaping from side control, mount, and turtle—critical skills for all levels.
Tips for Learning from Danaher Instructionals
- Don’t binge—watch one module at a time
- Drill the module live with a training partner
- Take notes and organize them by position
- Rewatch complex sections after drilling
- Drill sequences, not isolated moves
Related Reading
- Which Danaher Videos Should You Start With?
- Gordon Ryan Instructionals: From Beginner to Advanced
- How to Teach Yourself to Learn Skills in BJJ
- The Problem-Solver’s Mindset in BJJ
Summary
John Danaher’s instructional videos on BJJ Fanatics aren’t quick tutorials, but rather blueprints for long-term improvement. Following his systems from the “Go Further Faster” foundation to the advanced leg lock and back attack instructionals, you can develop a complete, structured BJJ game.
Use the link below to explore his instructionals on BJJ Fanatics!
