Double Leg Takedown: The Complete BJJ Guide
By BJJ Sportswear Editorial Team
Reviewed by competitive black belts | Last Updated: February 1, 2026
The Double Leg Takedown is the king of takedowns.
Whether you are watching Jordan Burroughs in the Olympics or Georges St-Pierre in the UFC, the Double Leg is the most direct way to put an opponent on their back. For BJJ players, it is the perfect antidote to the “guard puller” mentality. If you can blast through your opponent’s hips, you not only score 2 points but also land in a dominant top position.
In this guide, we break down the mechanics, setups, and finishes for the perfect Double Leg Takedown.
Table of Contents
What is the Double Leg Takedown?
The Double Leg Takedown is a technique where you change levels, shoot underneath your opponent’s defense, and grab both of their legs to drive them to the mat.
- The Shot: A deep “penetration step” between their legs.
- The Grip: Hands locked behind their knees or thighs.
- The Drive: Using your head and legs to push them backward or sideways.
As BJJ Fanatics explains, the secret is not bending your back; it is bending your knees. You must be lower than your opponent to win the leverage battle.
The 2 Main Variations
There are two distinct ways to finish the Double Leg, and they depend on where you put your head.
1. The Blast Double (Head in Chest)
This is the power version, famously used by Jordan Burroughs.
- Head Position: Center of their chest (Sternum).
- Goal: To run straight through them like a football tackle.
- Best For: Explosive athletes and MMA (avoids the Guillotine).
2. The Technical Double (Head Outside)
This is the traditional “turning the corner” version.
- Head Position: Outside their hip (tight to the ribs).
- Goal: To drive them laterally (sideways) by “running the pipe.”
- Risk: If you leave your neck exposed, you can get caught in a Guillotine Choke.
Step-by-Step Mechanics
To execute a perfect shot, remember the “Level Change → Penetration → Drive” sequence.
- Level Change: Drop your hips straight down (like an elevator). Do not bend at the waist.
- Penetration Step: Step your lead foot deep between their legs. Drop your lead knee to the mat.
- Connection: Your shoulder should hit their hips at the same time your hands grab their legs.
- The Corner: Step your trail leg up and drive your head into their ribs to turn them over.
Top 3 Setups for BJJ
You can’t just shoot from far away. You need to clear the hands first.
1. The Arm Drag
- Action: Drag their arm across your body to expose their side.
- Result: As they step to square up, their legs become an open target.
2. The Snap Down
- Action: Pull their head down aggressively.
- Result: When they pull their head back up (posture reaction), their hips open up for the shot.
3. The Fake Guard Pull
- Action: Pretend to sit for guard.
- Result: As they relax or step forward to pass, explode upward into the shot (Ankle Pick or Double Leg).
Troubleshooting: Why You Get Sprawled On
Mistake #1: Looking Down
If you look at the floor, you will go to the floor.
The Fix: Keep your head up and back straight. “Look where you want to take them.”
Mistake #2: Shooting from Too Far
If you shoot from 6 feet away, they have time to sprawl.
The Fix: You should be able to touch their shoulder before you change levels.
Mistake #3: Stopping the Drive
You grab the legs and stop moving.
The Fix: The takedown starts after you grab the legs. You must run your feet until they fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Blast Double safe for BJJ?
Yes, but be careful of clashing heads. It is safer against the Guillotine because your head is buried in their chest.
What if I get caught in a Guillotine?
If they wrap your neck, do not pull out. Drive across their body to Side Control on the opposite side to release the pressure (Von Flue Choke opportunity).
Conclusion
The Double Leg Takedown is a non-negotiable skill for any grappler. It teaches you how to close the distance and impose your will.
Start by drilling the “Level Change” without a partner. Once your legs are strong, the takedown will feel effortless.