Hey Guys,

This is the best topic in a while IMO. How relevant my answer is
depends on whether you are a reconstructionist or someone using BKB
for self defence. If the former, then this post won't interest you
much.

IMHO, using the classical elbow up method is asking for someone to
elbow push you and execute a go behind or pull on your structure to
unbalance you. If you are close enough to throw the backfist as a
counter easily then you are close enough to take advantage of the
inside position that a good tight guard will give you and perhaps
clinch to throw knees or attempt a takedown.

One form of the elbow up method I do use is based on old Russian
pugilism and involves first contacting a round punch with the elbow
down (on the centre forearm) and then rotating the elbow up and the
hand down to allow the punch to travel it's path but pass above and
in front of your head. I only consider this method safe because it
moves you to the outside line of his punching arm in really good
position to take control of the fight.The advantage of this method is
that your opponent remains committed to his blow well after you
complete the defence which gives ample time for a considered counter.
Cheers,
Stu.




--- In classicpugilism@yahoogroups.com, Ken Pfrenger
<kenpfrenger@g...> wrote:
> On 4/14/05, baldmonkeyboy <baldmonkeyboy@y...> wrote:
> >
> >
> >
> > Last night we where working on blocking and parries with the
forearms
> > and I was wondering which way people favor? Through prior
training I
> > instinctively go with the elbow down, I'm trying to work the
elbow up
> > but it's not a natural reaction yet. Elbow up is great for
setting up
> > the back fist from the opponents straight and I believe Kent
mentions
> > on Kirks video how it was also used to stop someone from shooting
in
> > for a takedown. Any other thoughts on the subject?
> > Chuck
>
> Hi Chuck,
>
> I am running late on my replies:)
>
> Sometimes I block up and sometimes down. It really depends on the
> angle of the attack and where my arm happens to be. I really really
> like to do the Mendoza style elbow up as often as I can since in
leads
> to that sweet backfist but sometimes a more modern elbow down style
is
> more practical. And yes you definitely can use that elbow to
> aggressively defind yourself with.
>
> ken