Elbows are a vital component of Muay Thai. Because of it’s use of clinch fighting and wrestling, elbows and knees along with it’s ‘Long range’ weaponry, one can argue that Muay Thai is a highly versatile and powerful combat system.
Elbows in Muay Thai are devastating and can cause significant damage due to the sharp point of the elbow bone. They are utilized in close-range combat, usually during the clinch or when the fighters are in tight proximity to each other. Elbows can be delivered in various directions and angles, making them highly effective in inflicting cuts, breaking bone, and knockouts.
In this video we cover the three basic elbows that we introduce to those first learning the sport. The three elbows covered are the ‘Straight/Horizontal Elbow, the Diagonal or ‘Overhand’ Elbow and the Vertical, ‘Uppercut’ Elbow.
I believe these three alongside the spin back elbow are the most commonly thrown and thus highest rate of success for elbow strikes.
Due to the danger of elbow strikes, fighters need to be cautious and precise when using them during training and competition.
Please spend a lot of time and caution refining your techniques so as to not hurt your training partners. We recommend using elbows pads and never actually strike your partners with elbows because even with pads, injuries and especially cuts still do occur.
Affordable:
RDX Elbow Pads
My favorite:
Venum Kontact Elbow Protector
Professional Style:
Combat Sports Advanced IMF Tech™ Striking Elbow Pads
Splurge Purchase:
Fairtex Elastic Elbow Pads