How To Counter An Elbow Strike

This page provides information on how martial artists 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 an attacker.

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

All martial arts techniques should only be practiced under the supervision of a trained martial arts instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. In addition, all martial arts techniques and training should be used safely and responsibly.

Krav Maga – Defense Against A Front Elbow Strike

Muay Thai – Defense Against An Elbow Strike