How to Throw Brutal Elbow Strikes
Elbow strikes are perhaps the signature weapon for the Muay Thai fighter. Elbow strikes can give severe injuries to opponents and are often used when an opponent is very near. The motion of the elbow when used in close proximity allows for great flexibility in striking. Here are a few traditional Muay Thai elbow strikes.
Slashing Elbow
An attack toward the upper part of the face, usually in response to a knee attack because of the closeness required. Bend the elbow closely against the arm and twist the body and shoulder to throw the elbow toward the attacker’s upper face.
Uppercut Elbow
The elbow is bent like the slashing elbow, but it is thrown upward from underneath the chin. Bend your knees as you step in so you can straighten the body for extra power.
Smash Downward Elbow
The elbow in this move strikes from a downward angle. Use the sharp edge of the elbow to come down quickly at the bridge of the nose. This has the possibility to really change a fight because of the possibility of a broken nose or tears from being hit in the nose. Be sure to guard your own solar plexus and chin with your offhand; a counter-attack can prove very dangerous.