The Outward Elbow Strike

Korean: Palgup Yeop Chigi / Meonge Chigi

                This technique can be executed as one single elbow strike, a reinforced elbow strike, or as a pair of outward elbow strikes.  When executed as a double elbow strike, two simultaneous outward elbow strikes are performed almost as though you are gripping something with both of your hands and then pulling it apart.  It is this pulling action that makes this version of the elbow strike particularly unique and useful.  Regardless as to which variation you use, the palms should always be pointing downward in order to relax the shoulders.

                For the single outward or reinforced outward elbow strike, a rotation of the hips should precede any movement in the upper torso and the elbow should be thrust outward like the tip of a whip.  This version of the outward elbow strike relies heavily on the rotation of the hips to produce power.

                The double outward elbow strike originates with a contraction of the upper body followed by an explosive expansion outward toward the sides.  This contraction and expansion also originates from the center as the hips move in a backward to forward pendulum motion.  To execute the technique, begin with a forward pendulum movement of the hips by rotating the pelvis forward followed by an expansion of the chest.  Next, the shoulders should roll back as the elbows follow and are thrust straight outward.