Master front and side body locks with conversions that keep you stapled to tough guards.
The Bottom Line
You get entries, hand positions, finishing mechanics, and smart transitions when your first lock fails. The 'Golden Trilemma' clarifies when to stuff, shelf, or split legs. It is best for advanced passers or coaches building a pressure-first curriculum.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Pressure passers
Skip if: You are brand-new
Tech focus: Front Body Lock, Side Body Lock, Tight Waist, High Tripod, Double Unders, Hip Switch
Biggest takeaway: Convert, do not reset
📋 Jump to a section (Click to expand)
What You'll Learn
A 10-volume deep study on front and side body locks, tight waists, leg pummeling, and the 'Golden Trilemma.'
Best if you already pass with body contact and want next-level nuance.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Front Body Lock
- Side Body Lock
- Tight Waist
- Hip Switch
- High Tripod
- Double Unders
- Leg Pummeling
- Shelfing
- Stuffing Splitting
- Half Guard Conversions
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual, Footage Breakdown
- Skill level: Advanced
- Format: No-Gi
- Volumes: 10
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I gained more passes by drilling only conversions when the initial lock stalled.
Why Gordon Ryan?
Gordon’s body lock has become a staple of modern nogi passing. Expect detailed grip, head, and hip rules that match what you see in his competition footage.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Advanced and highly recommended once you already use body locks.
- Several users report immediate improvements after only a few volumes.
- Great for understanding conversions to half guard and double unders.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Price and runtime feel heavy unless you are committed.
- Beginners may prefer a simpler body lock primer first.
Free Preview Lesson
Smart Alternatives
- New Wave Jiu Jitsu: No Gi Guard Passing – Includes body lock material with broader passing context. (Price: $197.00, 2021)
- The Body Lock Pass – Simpler primer to start your body lock journey. (Price: $99.00)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View Systematically Attacking The Guard: Body Lock Study on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.