Double Guard Pull in BJJ — Tactics and Strategy

Intermediate

The double guard pull happens when both competitors choose to play guard simultaneously. Common in gi competition, the resulting bottom-on-bottom situation requires specific technical and tactical knowledge to navigate successfully. The player who establishes grips, angle, and attacks first almost always wins this exchange.

The Double Pull Dynamic

When both players pull guard, the first to establish a dominant sitting position gains the initiative. This is usually the player who pulls second — they can choose their entry based on what the opponent establishes.

Grip Priority in Double Pull

In gi, the race is to establish a cross grip, collar grip, or sleeve control before the opponent. Whoever gets the dominant grip first controls the pace and attack direction of the double pull exchange.

The First-to-Sitting Advantage

The player who sits up first, rather than lying back, controls the distance. From the upright sitting position you can attack the other player who is still leaning back — creating a guard passing opportunity.

IBJJF Scoring in Double Pull

In IBJJF rules, neither player scores for pulling guard. The first player to come on top — whether via sweep or stand-up — scores 2 points. Understanding this scoring incentive shapes the entire tactical approach.

Submission Hunting from Bottom-on-Bottom

The double pull situation is ideal for heel hooks (no-gi), kneebars, and toehold attacks. In gi, focus on omoplatas, triangles from seated guard, and loop chokes if the opponent reaches forward.

Step 1: Win the Grip Race

As soon as both players sit, immediately fight for the dominant grip. Prioritize sleeve control or collar grip. A cross-grip advantage lets you dictate the first sweep or attack attempt.

Step 2: Establish Your Angle

Shift your hips to your dominant side immediately. Playing flat-back in a double pull is passive — create a 45-degree angle to open up your offensive guard.

Step 3: Attack Before the Opponent Sits Up

If the opponent is still leaning back, attack immediately: knee bar, toehold, heel hook (no-gi), or sit up yourself and begin passing their guard.

Step 4: Chain Sweeps with Submission Threats

Sweep attempts force the opponent to post and react. When they post to prevent the sweep, that arm is momentarily vulnerable to an omoplata or triangle. Build sweep-to-submission chains.

Step 5: Be Ready to Stand and Pass

If the exchange becomes neutral, stand up first. Voluntarily coming to top position creates scoring and psychological pressure — the opponent must now defend a guard pass.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this technique used for?

Double Guard Pull is a fundamental BJJ technique used to control, escape, or submit opponents in training and competition.

How long does it take to learn?

Most practitioners develop basic competency within 3–6 months of consistent drilling, though true mastery takes years of rolling.

Is this technique suitable for beginners?

Yes — this technique forms part of the core BJJ curriculum and is taught at all belt levels with appropriate progressions.

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Common Mistakes in Double Guard Pull

Losing Hip Position

One of the most common errors is allowing the hips to flatten to the mat, which eliminates frames and makes sweeps ineffective. Keep active hip engagement at all times.

Neglecting Grip Fighting

Grips are the foundation of guard work. Failing to break or establish grips early puts you at a structural disadvantage before any technique begins.

Telegraphing Attacks

Pausing before initiating sweeps or submissions signals your opponent. Combine setups and attacks in smooth, continuous motion.

Ignoring Posture Breaking

Allowing your partner to establish a strong, upright posture neutralizes most guard attacks. Prioritize posture disruption with collar, sleeve, or wrist control.

Training Tips for Double Guard Pull

Build Active Hip Movement

Hip mobility is the engine of guard play. Drill hip escapes, bridges, and granby rolls daily — 50+ reps per session — to develop the automatic responses needed in live rolling.

Drill Combinations, Not Isolates

Guard attacks rarely work in isolation. Chain sweeps and submissions: if the armbar is defended, flow to the triangle; if blocked, transition to the omoplata.

Study Your Escapes

Understanding how opponents escape strengthens your guard. Deliberately practice the top position to identify and close the holes in your game.

Train Both Sides Equally

Developing guard attacks from both sides doubles your options and prevents opponents from predicting your go-to moves.

Learning Progression for Double Guard Pull

Start with controlled drilling of the core mechanics at 30% resistance.
Progress to positional sparring: your partner starts in the relevant position and you practice Double Guard Pull with moderate resistance.
Integrate into flow rolling — actively hunt for Double Guard Pull opportunities without forcing.
Add to live sparring with full resistance. Focus on recognizing setups, not just finishing.
Record and review footage to identify timing gaps and mechanical errors.

Recommended Drills for Double Guard Pull

Isolated Entry Drill — With a cooperative partner, repeat the entry sequence for Double Guard Pull 20 times each side. Focus on timing and body positioning.
Reaction Drill — Partner resists at 40–60%. Practice recognizing when the Double Guard Pull window opens and executing within 1–2 seconds.
Chain Drill — Link Double Guard Pull with 2 follow-up attacks. If the primary is defended, flow immediately into the backup without pausing.
Timed Round — 3-minute positional round: start in the setup position and apply Double Guard Pull as many times as possible. Track completions per session.