Double leg takedown is probably the most utilized and high percentage takedown in MMA. And it is not only used in that sport, but also in many others like freestyle wrestling, BJJ, grappling, sambo, sanshou…etc.
First lets look at the key principles needed to execute a double leg takedown. First you need to be within arms reach before shooting in. Any farther and its telegraphed to the point that even a boxer can sprawl out of it. Second, you need a level change where your going lower then your opponents mid section, but with good straight aligned posture. This means not making your back look like it has a camels hump. Third, you need a deep penetration step where your foot steps between your opponents feet. Way to often the penetration step is far to shallow. Once you get to this point the variations start to kick off.
The problem with many double leg set ups especially using classic Wrestling double leg set ups in a BJJ match is that you will often get caught in a guillotine when shooting in.
In this video from Bradley Hill, we see a very effective double leg variation which is risk free because you won’t get caught in a guillotine.
