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.
When to use it
Use the spinning back elbow at close range when the opponent circles toward your rear side or after a missed rear punch has turned you. It also lands as they break a clinch and step back. Throw it rarely so it stays a surprise.
Step by step
- 01
Set your stance
Square enough to begin the turn at close range.
- 02
Coil and spot
Step across and turn, finding the target over your shoulder before the elbow follows.
- 03
Whip the elbow across
Complete the spin and whip the rear elbow horizontally across the target at head height as the body unwinds.
- 04
Recover to guard
Bring the arm back to your guard and reset. Elbows are close-range, so stay tight.
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.
Common counters
Opponents who read the turn clinch your back or step away so the elbow misses. A straight punch lands as you finish the spin. Spot the target before you commit.
How to drill it
Your partner holds a mitt at head height. Step across, turn, spot the mitt over your shoulder and land the point of the elbow, finishing in your stance. Do two slow rounds, then two at speed.
Related techniques
- Horizontal ElbowStrikingA lead elbow swung horizontally across the jaw, the most common cutting elbow.
- Diagonal ElbowStrikingA lead elbow that slashes downward on a diagonal across the brow, a classic cutter.
- Uppercut ElbowStrikingAn elbow driven straight up the centre under the chin from inside the pocket.
- Downward ElbowStrikingAn elbow raised high and speared straight down onto the crown or face.
Train it with the AI coach