How to Use Elbow Strikes for Krav Maga

Krav Maga is an Israeli combat system of defense. Much debate rages about whether it is appropriate to call it a martial art, but no doubt exists that Krav Maga is an efficient self-defense system. For obvious reasons of reach, elbow strikes are used when a person is fighting up close and personal. The straight-on elbow strike is perhaps the most powerful hand/arm technique, when executed properly, that humans possess.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Bring your forearm across your chest and close to your body.

2. Deliver a strike to your intended target, making contact with the point just above your elbow joint, while simultaneously stepping in. Good targets are the sternum, chin, throat or nose. If you're on the ground, a shot to the groin will have debilitating effects, especially if your opponent is a male.

3. Turn your hips into the strike just as you deliver it. This, along with twisting your trunk in the same direction, is what gives an elbow strike its devastating power.

4. Practice Krav Maga moves, including the elbow strike, on a heavy bag as an excellent workout.

Tips & Warnings

• Several other elbow strikes exist, such as striking a target behind you. It is important that you pivot at the waist with all strikes to generate power, however.
• Picture your target past the point of impact. Follow through with the strike.
• Don't hyperextend anything if you are practicing or just working out. Hitting your target (heavy bag) is the best way to avoid this injury.

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