Muay Thai Elbow

Muay Thai elbow strikes are among some of the simplest and most powerful weapons around in martial arts. They feature in the repertoire of all MMA fighters and can be used effectively when dirty fighting (close combat) and in ground and pound. With a little footwork to close the distance these elbow strikes are excellent follow ups to a lead jab and, with a little more athleticism, they can be employed with a jump from kicking range effectively too. Given that the elbow is much closer to the body than the fist the torque you generate with correct body mechanics is much more successfully transferred into an elbow strike. The elbow itself is also less prone to injury than the fist and the 'sharpness' of the elbow also means that it is much easier to cut an opponent.

In the following video Rob McCullough demonstrates a variety of devastating Muay Thai elbow strikes.

Muay Thai Elbow Notes

* Keep the non-striking hand / forearm up for protection.

* keep the shoulder tight, the palm open and drop the elbow into the target.

* Use your hip to allow you to extend the elbow strike into the target. Using your hip in this way will also generate more power.

* Ensure that you are using the elbow bone to strike the target.

* The hook elbow is a variation that follows the same trajectory as the hook punch; that is, it hooks in from the side to connect with the target.

* When performing the hook elbow, make sure your non-striking arm continues to protect your head.

* Apply pressure to the balls of your feet to further aid you in torquing your body to release the technique and make it more powerful.

* With the uppercut elbow use your hips to drive the point of your elbow upwards and forwards into the target.

* Once you are comfortable with delivering a single elbow technique effectively, begin to throw combinations of different elbow techniques while protecting your head at all times.

* The spinning elbow technique requires you to turn your body. Pivot on your lead foot after moving it across your body. Turn you head quickly and focus on the target as the rest of your body catches up. Your hips still play a crucial role in generating power.

* After completing the turn you can deliver a hooking elbow or an uppercut elbow, or you can drive your elbow down onto your target.

* You can practice your strikes on the heavy bag or on the Thai pads.

* Work the elbow strikes with punch combinations. Use the punches to confuse and opponent while you close the distance on him to be able to deliver an elbow strike.