Introduction to Double Leg Takedown Variations
The double leg takedown is the most effective and commonly used takedown in MMA, yet numerous variations exist with distinct advantages and disadvantages. This guide breaks down seven variations in order of preference, analyzing each through live sparring footage to demonstrate practical application.
Head-Inside Standing Double Leg (Football Tackle)
The head-inside variation is the most powerful and fastest double leg takedown. Execute by changing levels, stepping forward with the lead leg, placing the head inside, and grabbing behind both knees. Drive forward aggressively by running and pulling the opponent's legs to generate lift and momentum. This variation excels against strikers who stand upright but is vulnerable to guillotine chokes if the opponent reacts quickly and ineffective against wrestlers who maintain a low stance.
Head-Inside Knee Drop Double Leg
This variation sacrifices power for improved distance closure and lower penetration. Shoot the lead leg between the opponent's legs, drop the knee, place the head inside, and grab behind the knees. Sweep the rear leg forward and stand up onto both feet while lifting the legs to the opposite side of the head. Use this variation in pure grappling scenarios or when the opponent maintains an exceptionally low defensive stance.
Standard Head-Outside Knee Drop Double Leg
The head-outside variation is the conventional double leg taught to most athletes. Shoot the lead leg between the opponent's legs, drop to the knee with the head outside, and grab behind the knees. Sweep the rear leg forward and stand up onto both feet, lifting the opponent's legs to the same side as the sweeping leg. This positioning allows better posture control, vision of the opponent, and the ability to lift and carry the opponent across the shoulders.
Head-Outside Knee Finish Double Leg
When an opponent is too heavy to stand completely upright or when deep penetration eliminates the need to rise, finish the takedown from the knee position. Cut the angle by sweeping the rear leg 45 degrees to the side while simultaneously turning the torso to maintain forward pressure and control.
Stance Transition Double Leg
Execute a double leg while transitioning from one fighting stance to its opposite stance to finish the takedown. This variation proves effective when the shooter begins in orthodox stance and the opponent is positioned in southpaw stance, allowing the practitioner to shift into the opposite stance while completing the takedown.
Key Technical Principles Across Variations
Regardless of variation, the fundamental principle for finishing against a sprawling opponent is continuous forward drive. If the opponent sprawls but the shooter maintains grip on at least one leg, continue running forward while the opponent hops on one leg until the second leg can be secured. Be aware that aggressive forward commitment creates vulnerability to over-the-head reversals if the opponent establishes control.
7 Double Leg Takedown Variations (sparring footage)
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to Double Leg Takedown Variations
- •Head-Inside Standing Double Leg (Football Tackle)
- •Head-Inside Knee Drop Double Leg
- •Standard Head-Outside Knee Drop Double Leg
0:00 - 1. Head Inside Standing Double Leg 2:17 - 2. Head Inside Knee Drop Double Leg 4:09 - 3. Head Outside Knee Drop to Standing Double Leg 5:34 - 4. Head Outside Knee Drop to Angle Cut Double Leg 5:43 - 5. Head Outside Orthodox to Southpaw Standing Double Leg 6:32 - 6. Head Outside Standing Double Leg 7:15 - 7. Following Up After Double Leg Train like a fighter & get access to my new program here: https://www.mmashredded.com/fitnessfundamentals FIND ME: ➥ IG: https://www.instagram.com/mmashredded/ ➥ WEB: https://www.mmashredded.com ➥ FB: https://www.facebook.com/mmashredded/ ➥ SUPPORT ME & JOIN THE COMMUNITY: https://www.patreon.com/mmashredded
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard high double leg?
This video covers introduction to double leg takedown variations, head-inside standing double leg (football tackle), head-inside knee drop double leg. It provides detailed instruction from Jeff Chan MMAShredded .
How long does it take to learn standard high double leg?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard high double leg?
Execute a double leg while transitioning from one fighting stance to its opposite stance to finish the takedown. This variation proves effective when the shooter begins in orthodox stance and the opponent is positioned in southpaw stance, allowing the practitioner to shift into the opposite stance while completing the takedown.
