Instructions on How To Counter An Elbow Strike

This page provides instructions on how to counter or defend against an elbow strike. Given the power and bony mass of an elbow strike, this type of attack needs to be countered effectively in order to avoid being knocked out by your attacker.

For information on how to throw an elbow strike (i.e. spinning elbow strike), please visit the main Elbow Strikes section.

Written Instructions for Technique

• In this technique, you will need to keep your arms up near your head in a standard guarding position. If you hang your arms, you will be leaving your head vulnerable.
• If your arms are up high, you will be able to intuitively block an elbow strike without much movement. However, you will need to quickly counter with an your own elbow strikes or punches because an attacker's elbow strike can still be painful & damaging even if blocked.
• Or you can try to evade the elbow strike and counter your attacker from the side/rear with punches, kicks and/or grappling techniques.