Overview and Safety Benefits

The double under guard pass is presented as one of the safest and most accessible guard passes for beginners, particularly white and blue belts. Unlike single-arm passes that expose practitioners to arm drags, triangles, and armbars, this technique minimizes such vulnerabilities by protecting the neck and using proper posture.

Initial Setup and Grip Establishment

The practitioner begins by breaking open the opponent's guard legs, then immediately establishes two hands underneath the hips or thighs. The hands can be clasped together directly, gripped on the belt, clasped on the opponent's hip, or locked using an S-grip, depending on arm length and opponent size.

Posture and Elbow Position

Proper posture is critical for safety—the passer must hunch shoulders like a turtle retreating into its shell and keep elbows clamped inward rather than flared outward. This defensive positioning prevents the opponent from attacking the passer's arms or neck during the pass.

Transition to Standing and Drag

From the gripped position, the passer jumps explosively to their feet while dragging the opponent's body underneath them to compromise their posture. The practitioner should avoid using excessive strength during this drag to prevent accidentally flipping the opponent onto their head.

Collar Control and Weight Distribution

Once standing, the passer reaches down with their dominant hand to grab the opponent's collar (gi) or neck/shoulder (no-gi), then drives all body weight through the opposite shoulder by extending that leg backward. This weight distribution keeps the opponent's legs elevated and prevents escape.

Positional Control and Guard Pass Completion

The passer maintains the stack position while slowly rolling their upper body to create space, keeping the opponent's feet off the ground throughout to prevent hip escape or knee recovery. Once side control is secured, the passer can establish dominant position and begin attacking.

No-Gi Grip Variations

In no-gi situations, the initial grip can utilize the thighs or a clasped hand position, while the upper body control shifts to grabbing the hip, neck, or shoulder for a cross-face. The fundamental mechanics remain identical to the gi version.

Tactical Advantages and Recovery

The stacked position provides cardio recovery benefits—the passer's open chest allows efficient breathing while the opponent's compressed ribcage restricts their oxygen intake. This positioning allows the passer to rest while maintaining offensive pressure before completing the guard pass.

The GREAT DOUBLE UNDER Guard Pass!

The Grappling Academy
2 min read·8 key moments·PT6M10S video

Key Takeaways

  • Overview and Safety Benefits
  • Initial Setup and Grip Establishment
  • Posture and Elbow Position
  • Transition to Standing and Drag

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about double under pass?

This video covers overview and safety benefits, initial setup and grip establishment, posture and elbow position. It provides detailed instruction from The Grappling Academy.

How long does it take to learn double under pass?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.

What are the key details for finishing double under pass?

In no-gi situations, the initial grip can utilize the thighs or a clasped hand position, while the upper body control shifts to grabbing the hip, neck, or shoulder for a cross-face. The fundamental mechanics remain identical to the gi version.