Marine Corps Martial Arts Tan Belt - Forward Horizontal Elbow Strike

This section focuses on tan belt techniques used by the Marine Corps martial arts program. This page examines the forward horizontal elbow strike technique used in the Marine Corps martial arts program. To learn about other martial arts hand strikes, please visit the main Punches & Hand Strikes section. Information from Public Domain Document, MCRP 3-02B, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP).

For more Marine Corps techniques, please visit the main Marine Corps Martial Arts Program section.

Forward Horizontal Elbow Strike

Elbow strikes in general are close range weapons that inflict a great amount of damage due to leverage and the transfer of your body weight.

Target Areas of the Body

The primary target areas are the temple, the spine, the jaw, and the face. By changing the angle of attack slightly you can target the collarbone and other areas depending on your body positioning.

Striking Surface

The striking surface is two inches above or below the point of the elbow, depending upon your angle of attack, the aggressor’s attack angle, and the position of the aggressor.

Technique

~ From the basic warrior stance bring your elbow up and tuck your right fist near your chest with the palm facing the deck.
~ Thrust your right elbow horizontally forward toward the aggressor, keeping your forearm parallel to the deck.
~ Keep your fist tucked near your chest with the palm heel facing the deck and your elbow bent throughout the movement.
~ Rotate your right shoulder and hip forward.
~ Return to the basic warrior stance.

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References

1. Information from Public Domain Document, MCRP 3-02B, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP), http://www.marines.mil/News/Publications/ELECTRONICLIBRARY.aspx, Added - 02/18/15