Spinning Back Elbow

  • Striking
  • Elbows
  • advanced
  • Close range
  • 4 steps

A spinning strike that lands the point of the rear elbow across the head as the body unwinds. Also known as the Sok Klap or the Reverse elbow. Here is the exact breakdown from the DARCE app: 4 steps, the details that make it work, and the mistakes to avoid.

Step by step

  1. 01

    Set your stance

    Square enough to begin the turn at close range.

    Spinning Back Elbow step 1 of 4: Set your stance
  2. 02

    Coil and spot

    Step across and turn, finding the target over your shoulder before the elbow follows.

    Spinning Back Elbow step 2 of 4: Coil and spot
  3. 03

    Whip the elbow across

    Complete the spin and whip the rear elbow horizontally across the target at head height as the body unwinds.

    Spinning Back Elbow step 3 of 4: Whip the elbow across
  4. 04

    Recover to guard

    Bring the arm back to your guard and reset, elbows are close-range, so stay tight.

    Spinning Back Elbow step 4 of 4: Recover to guard

Key details

  • Turn the head first to spot the target, then the elbow follows.
  • Land the point of the elbow, powered by the spin.
  • Recover facing your opponent, do not stay turned.

Common mistakes

  • Spinning blind without re-spotting.
  • Leading with the forearm instead of the point.
  • Over-rotating and exposing the back.

Related techniques

See it animated in DARCE

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