So, I’ve been hitting the boxing gym lately, trying to get in shape and learn a thing or two about self-defense. I was doing my practice today, and I’ve got this question that’s been bugging me: can you actually use your elbows in boxing? I mean, I see it all the time in those MMA fights, but boxing seems like a whole different world.
First things first, I asked my coach during practice. He’s this big, tough-looking dude who’s been around the block a few times. His answer? A bit of a mixed bag. He said, “Technically, you can use your elbows to block, but you can’t go around throwing elbow strikes like you’re in a street fight.”
That got me thinking, so I did what any curious person would do – I hit the internet after training. I started digging through articles, forums, and even some old boxing rulebooks. Turns out, it’s a bit of a gray area.
- Some sources say it’s totally fine to use your elbows to block punches. They even say that elbows can be used at times when punches are impractical. This makes sense since elbows are close-range strikes, while punches (with the exception of hook punches) are medium range, and also, because an elbow can be thrown in more directions.
- Others say it’s a big no-no. They claim that using your elbows to strike is against the rules of boxing and can get you disqualified. 12–6 elbow strikes are illegal under the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts, defined as “striking downwards using the point of the elbow”. Such bans were justified for medical and safety reasons.
Then I found this one article that talked about something called the “Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts.” Apparently, these rules specifically prohibit downward elbow strikes, which they define as “striking downwards using the point of the elbow.” They say it’s for medical and safety reasons, which I guess makes sense.
I even watched a few videos of professional boxing matches. I noticed that some boxers do use their elbows to deflect punches, especially when they’re in close range. But it’s more of a defensive move, not an all-out attack.
So, after all this digging and asking around, here’s what I’ve gathered: you can use your elbows to block in boxing, but it has to be a passive defense. You can position your elbow to take an incoming punch, but you can’t actively strike with it. It’s like, you can use your elbow as a shield, but not as a sword. You should raise your elbow to block a punch or hook in boxing. While practicing boxing, keep in mind that throwing a punch is equally essential as blocking a throw.
Anyway, it’s been an interesting little investigation. I’m still not 100% sure about all the nuances, but at least I have a better understanding now. I’ll keep practicing and see how it goes. Maybe one day I’ll be good enough to use my elbows effectively, even if it’s just for blocking.
My Conclusion
Using elbows to block is okay, but throwing elbow strikes is a big no-no in boxing. It’s all about defense, not offense, when it comes to elbows in the boxing ring. Keep your elbows up to block, but don’t go swinging them around!
