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Striking
Horizontal Elbow
A close-range strike using the point of the elbow, effective for causing cuts and stopping forward pressure.
Key Points
- •Very effective at close range and in the clinch
- •Prone to cause cuts due to the sharp point of contact
- •Keep elbows tight to avoid telegraphing
Instructions
- 1From close range, raise your striking-side arm so the elbow is level with your shoulder.
- 2Rotate your hips and shoulder together, whipping the elbow across horizontally.
- 3Aim the point of the elbow at the opponent's temple, cheekbone, or brow.
- 4Keep your other hand up to guard as you strike.
- 5Return to a tight guard immediately after the strike.
More Striking Techniques
Jab
A quick, straight punch with the lead hand used to gauge distance, set up combinations, and disrupt an opponent's rhythm.
Cross (Straight Right)
A powerful straight punch thrown with the rear hand, generating power from hip and shoulder rotation.
Hook
A curved punch thrown with a bent arm, targeting the side of the head or body.
Uppercut
A vertical, rising punch designed to land under an opponent's guard, often used at close range.
Low Kick
A roundhouse kick to the opponent's lead or rear thigh, used to wear down mobility over a fight.
Body Kick
A roundhouse kick aimed at the ribs or midsection to target the body and slow an opponent's breathing.