Clearing the elbow is one of those principles that, once you understand it, you can use for any type of entry or attack you want. In this video lesson I show various methods of clearing the elbow. It is for martial artists, pressure point students and anyone training self-defence.

You can also use it for defence, by taking the opponent's balance, which lets you attack with a much higher chance of success. Take the time to learn this thoroughly.

Why the Elbow Matters

The elbow controls the arm. If an opponent's elbow is in the way, it protects their body and gives them a strong position to hit or grab from. Move the elbow and you open a line straight into the target.

The elbow is also one of the balance points. Push or turn it in the right direction and the shoulder follows, then the body follows the shoulder. Even a small movement at the elbow can take a much bigger person's balance. That is why it is so useful.

What Clearing the Elbow Does

When you clear the elbow, you move it out of your way, usually by pushing, pulling, slapping or turning it. Depending on how and where you move it, you can:

  • Open a line for a strike to the body or head
  • Turn the opponent so they cannot hit you with the other hand
  • Take their balance, so they cannot defend properly
  • Set up a lock or a takedown
  • Create an angle that gets you out of their line of attack

The principle stays the same. The method changes depending on the situation and what you want to do next.

Common Mistakes

The most common mistake is grabbing the elbow and trying to hold it. That ties up your hand and becomes a strength contest. A quick, sharp movement is far better than a long grip. Another mistake is clearing the elbow without following up. Clearing it is the entry, not the finish. Something has to come straight after it.

How to Practise

Work with a cooperative partner holding a simple guard. Practise clearing the elbow in different directions, then add a light strike to the line you have opened. Then do it from a grab or a push. Keep the speed down and the contact light, especially when following up with pressure point strikes, and build up gradually.

Take It Further

The elbow and the other balance points are a core part of the Pressure Point Fighting Course. To see how balance points fit into the bigger picture, read Pressure Point Fighting: The Complete Guide.