Double Action Betting Term Meaning
Those who have read our article on the betting term ‘action’, will know that it means having a bet. For this term, double action, you could conclude that it simply means having two bets; however, there is a little more to it than that as you’re about to find out.
The easiest way to describe a double action bet is to call it an ‘if bet’ or ‘conditional bet’ that involves two events which are starting at different times of the day. First and foremost, the punter needs the first bet to be successful. Without this happening, there is no double action.
If the first bet is a winner, then there are a number of options open to the punter in regards to the second bet. Let us work through an example to illustrate how a double action bet can play out:
- The punter picks two selections that he/she wants to bet on.
Arsenal to win vs Leicester City (k.o. 12:30) | 2.05 |
|---|---|
| Newcastle United to win vs Huddersfield (k.o. 15:00) | 2.50 |
- They wager £100 on the double action bet, which starts with the £100 being on Arsenal to beat Leicester is the match with the earlier kick-off time.
- If Arsenal lose, the bet is finished.
- Let’s say Arsenal triumph, so the punter receives £205 which is a profit of £105.
- There are now a few options available to the punter for the second bet (Newcastle to beat Huddersfield):
- Wager the whole £205 on Newcastle to win (a double bet)
- Wager the £105 profit from bet 1 on Newcastle to win.
- Wager any amount £0 - £205 on Newcastle to win.
It is important to note that the action concerning the second bet is confirmed when placing the wager, this why it is known as an ‘if bet’. The other alternative would be betting in singles at two different times: Arsenal win, back to the bookie and place the second bet. This might not be convenient, which is why double action betting exists.
Why Place A Double Action Bet?
The clear advantage of double action betting as opposed to placing straight-up doubles is that you control the profit/loss margin on the second wager. You may decide to only use the profit made on the first bet as your stake for bet 2. This will result in a smaller profit overall, but it gives total security knowing that you will not lose any of your original stake if your selection loses.
Bookmaker odds can also play a role. Prices often move around more just prior to the action getting underway. A flurry of late money may come in for Newcastle and drive the price down to 2.30. This is a considerable dent in your profits; double action removes that risk for you.
