Sok Chieng / ศอกเฉียง
The diagonal elbow up, called Sok Chieng in Thai, is one of the most versatile and frequently utilized elbow techniques in Muay Thai competition. The name translates to "slanting elbow" or "diagonal elbow," describing the upward angular trajectory of the strike. Unlike the horizontal elbow that travels parallel to the ground, the Sok Chieng rises diagonally from a low chamber position upward toward the opponent's chin, jaw, or cheekbone. This upward diagonal path makes it exceptionally effective as a counter-strike and one of the most natural elbow techniques to integrate into combination fighting.
The mechanics of the diagonal elbow up begin with the striking arm chambered low, roughly at chest or ribcage height. The fighter dips slightly at the knees to load the legs, then explosively drives upward while rotating the hips and shoulders. The elbow travels along a diagonal line from approximately the fighter's hip level up to the opponent's face, making contact with the point of the elbow. The trajectory typically follows a path of about 45 degrees from horizontal, though this angle adjusts based on the relative heights of the fighters and the specific target being attacked. The non-striking hand remains pressed firmly against the head for protection throughout the technique.
What makes the Sok Chieng particularly dangerous is its ability to generate tremendous force through the combination of hip rotation and upward leg drive. The fighter essentially channels the power of a slight squat jump into the elbow, creating a rising force that can lift an opponent off their feet when landed cleanly on the chin. The upward angle also means the strike naturally targets the underside of the chin and jaw, areas that are notoriously vulnerable to concussive impact because force directed upward into the jaw transmits directly to the brain.
In traditional Thai fighting, the diagonal elbow up is most commonly used as a counter-technique. When an opponent throws a straight punch or reaches forward with a jab, the defending fighter can slip to the outside while simultaneously driving the diagonal elbow upward into the exposed chin. This counter-timing application is considered one of the highest expressions of Muay Thai skill, as it requires reading the opponent's attack, moving offline, and delivering a devastating counter all in one fluid motion. Thai legends like Dieselnoi and Samart Payakaroon were known for their exceptional timing with this particular technique.
The diagonal elbow up is also highly effective when thrown in combination after punches. A common and devastating sequence involves throwing a jab to occupy the opponent's vision, following with a cross to create an opening, and then driving the rear diagonal elbow upward through the gap created by the punching exchange. The forward momentum from the punches carries naturally into the elbow strike, and the short range of the elbow means the opponent often does not see it coming after focusing on defending against the longer-range punches.
Defending against the diagonal elbow up requires keeping the chin tucked and maintaining a tight guard. Fighters can also use a long guard or framing arm to keep the opponent at distance where the elbow cannot reach. Stepping back or leaning away is effective but can be baited if the elbow thrower feints the technique to draw the retreat and then follows with a knee or kick.