The Muay Thai Elbow is one of the most dangerous close-quarter techniques used in Muay Thai. It can be used in a variety of different ways and in conjunction with other moves. Although it is powerful, it can only be used in certain situations and also with caution. Have you ever noticed why certain elbows are banned in the UFC and other fighting sports? Some of these elbows can seriously hurt and disable somebody in an instant if used correctly.
What Are Some Different Types Of Elbows?
Here are the different elbow variations:
1. Horizontal
2. Diagonal Up
3. Diagonal Down
4. Vertical Up
5. Vertical Down
6. Inward
7. Back or Out Elbow
8. Punching Elbow
9. Spinning Back Elbow
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Some of these elbows are used more than the others, like the 1, 2 and 3. Especially for beginners, because a lot of these elbows require good coordination and balance for them to be effective and useful. One example of this type of elbow is the spinning back elbow. It takes time to develop correct form and precision with this elbow, because the technique requires you to lose sight of the target for a split second. Check out this video showing the first 3 variations.
Portland Kickboxing Technique: The Muay Thai Elbow
How The Elbow Is Used
The elbow is used in a close-quarters situation or in clinching range, where punching may not be as effective. It can be delivered quickly with devastating results if it lands correctly. Imagine the elbow like a knife, a slashing motion for variations 1, 2, 3, 4 and a stabbing motion for 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9.
*For example; in variation 1, a right horizontal elbow would look like this:
Step 1: From the Muay Thai Stance, the elbow starts out with the right shoulder cocked back.
Step 2: The right hand is relaxed, while the palm of left hand is on top of the forehead for cover.
Step 3: The right elbow is then brought across the body with the turn of the waist, and the back of the right hand ends up touching the chest.
Step 4: Go back to Muay Thai Stance.
When Is It Applicable
The elbow is extremely effective in close-range and can be easily linked to other moves, too.