Learn the essential BJJ Double Leg Takedown. This guide covers step-by-step instructions, key details, common mistakes, and how to effectively apply...
Takedown
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Intermediate
The Double Leg Takedown is a foundational wrestling technique universally applied in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for securing a dominant top position. It's a powerful and direct way to bring your opponent to the mat, often leading directly into advantageous control or submission opportunities. Mastering this takedown is crucial for anyone looking to improve their stand-up game in BJJ.
Technique Map
graph LR
Takedown["Takedown"]:::catNode
Takedown --> Double_Leg_Takedown
Double_Leg_Takedown["Double Leg Takedown"]:::currentNode
Double_Leg_Takedown -.-> Single_Leg_Takedown["Single Leg Takedown"]:::relNode
Double_Leg_Takedown -.-> Osoto_Gari["Osoto Gari"]:::relNode
Double_Leg_Takedown -.-> Ankle_Pick["Ankle Pick"]:::relNode
classDef currentNode fill:#ec4899,stroke:#fff,color:#fff,font-weight:700
classDef relNode fill:#141926,stroke:#1f2840,color:#a78bfa
classDef catNode fill:#1f2840,stroke:#7c6af7,color:#7c6af7,font-style:italic
How to Execute
1
Stance and Setup: Start in an athletic stance, level change by dropping your hips, and use head movement or a fake shot to create an opening and get your opponent to react.
2
Penetration Step: Explode forward with a deep penetration step, aiming your lead knee between your opponent's legs while keeping your head up and chest out.
3
Secure the Legs: Drive your lead shoulder into your opponent's midsection, wrapping both arms around their legs, just above the knees, and clasping your hands tightly.
4
Drive and Finish: Maintain head position on the outside of their hip, drive through them with your legs, and pivot to one side to off-balance and take them down.
5
Follow Through: Continue driving and immediately transition to a dominant position like side control or mount, preventing them from scrambling or recovering guard.
Key Details & Tips
1
Head Position is King: Always keep your head up and drive it to the outside of your opponent's hip to maintain posture and leverage, preventing guillotines.
2
Penetration Step Depth: A deep, explosive penetration step is vital; don't just lean in, *drive* through your opponent to establish strong contact.
3
Hip Connection: Maintain tight hip-to-hip connection throughout the finish to deny space, maximize your driving power, and control your opponent's center of gravity.
4
Finish Direction: Don't just pull them down; drive *through* them and then pivot or angle to complete the takedown safely and land in a dominant position.
Variations
1
High Crotch Single Leg to Double Leg: Start with a strong single leg grip, then transition to a double leg as your opponent defends by squaring up or dropping their weight.
2
Ankle Pick to Double Leg: Use an ankle pick to off-balance your opponent, creating an opening for a quick follow-up double leg shot as they regain balance.
3
Blast Double Leg: A more aggressive, explosive version where you drive straight through the opponent with immense power and speed, often without extensive setup.
When to Use
The Double Leg works best when your opponent is standing tall or has a wide, accessible base. It's highly effective after creating an opening with fakes, misdirection, or level changes that cause them to react upwards. Use it against opponents who are hesitant to Sprawl or have slow reactions to shots, or when you want to quickly establish a dominant top position and avoid guard pulling.
Counters & Defenses
1
Sprawl: The most common defense, where you drive your hips back and down quickly, flattening out your opponent's shot and denying their penetration.
2
Guillotine Choke: If your opponent shoots with their head inside and exposed, threaten or finish a guillotine choke to either submit them or force them to abandon the takedown.
3
Whizzer/Underhook: Catch a whizzer (overhook on the attacking side) or an underhook to create leverage, stop the drive, and potentially transition to a scramble or takedown of your own.
Elite Athletes Who Use This Technique
βοΈ Training Safety & Performance
Q: What is the most common mistake when attempting a Double Leg Takedown?
The most common mistake is shooting with your head down, which exposes your neck to guillotines, compromises your posture, and significantly reduces your driving power. Always keep your head up and drive it to the outside of your opponent's hip for safety and effectiveness.
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