Gordon Ryan recently appeared on the Push Press BJJ podcast, where he gave a lighthearted yet insightful look into his preferences, mindset, and approach to training.
When asked the classic question – gi or no-gi – Ryan didn’t hesitate with his answer…
Although he did give it somewhat jokingly:
I gotta go no-gi…
Because when someone grabs my sleeves, I don’t know what to do.
I just flail around and hope for the best.No-gi, at least I can kind of just spaz my way out of things.
The conversation then shifted to his most effective submissions, where Ryan highlighted two techniques he relies on heavily:
Probably a rear naked choke or a high-wrist guillotine.
High-wrist guillotine is actually a higher percentage for me than a rear naked choke.
When it comes to improving in Jiu-Jitsu, Ryan believes the biggest obstacle isn’t physical:
Just have a general vision of what you’re trying to accomplish.
The number one thing that hinders progression is boredom.If you go into class every single day with one to three things that you’re trying to accomplish, with both long-term and short-term goals, it makes progression a lot easier.
Just avoiding getting bored and always having things that you’re trying to accomplish will make it easy to show up to practice.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.


