Double Leg Takedown: Safe Entry and Finish

The double leg takedown is one of the most reliable ways to bring a standing opponent to the mat. You lower your level, step in deep, wrap both legs, and drive. The move looks like a tackle, but the control and the safe landing make it jiu-jitsu.

Timing the entry

Enter when your partner is standing flat-footed or leaning back, and set up the shot with a feint, a grip break, or a movement of your head. In our classes we often see students shoot from too far away. Close the distance first, because a good double leg is a step, not a dive.

Key details

• Drop your level by bending your knees, not by bending at the waist.
• Take a deep penetration step so your lead knee lands between their feet.
• Place your head on the outside of their hip, with your ear against their ribs.
• Wrap both legs behind the knees, then drive forward and turn the corner to land beside them.

How to drill it

Practice the level change and penetration step alone, with no partner. Then try the entry on a still partner and stop with the head in place. Repeat the full drive and turn at half speed, landing in side control. Over time, add a feint and a grip break. Keep your drilling partner safe by landing softly and never dropping them.

Common mistakes and safety

A frequent mistake is looking down and leaving the head in front of the hips, which invites a guillotine. Another is lifting the partner high and dropping them. Always bring them down in control and follow them into side control. Practice on soft mats with a qualified instructor, and agree on a pace before you start, because the first few rounds should be slow and cooperative.

You can also read how to stop this attack in the sprawl takedown defense. When you want a coach to check your setup, join a free trial class at Renzo Gracie West Boca Raton.