Elbow strikes work at both close and long ranges with some modification to the application. Generally elbow strikes in Muay Thai are favored in clinching or to open up the guard of defending opponent but they also have some more unorthodox uses such as striking the legs after a catch and jumping attacks to the head. read more
In normal fight situations, use your fists. Yes, punching kan hurt or mess up your hands. But, unless you are trained in kicks or have fast kicks, your hands are your preferred defence. It’s strong, fast, and you’re used to it. But, if you use your elbow, you’ll have to be fast enough for the enemy not to see you or something like that. read more