Fist Under Elbow 肘底捶
Zhǒu dǐ chuí
How to do it
Left hand rises in a vertical palm while the right forms a fist placed beneath the left elbow; left heel rests forward in an empty stance.
Step by step
- Turn the body and step the left heel forward
- Raise the left hand in a vertical palm at face height
- Make a loose right fist beneath the left elbow
- Keep the weight on the rear leg
Breathing
Exhale as the posture settles.
Health focus
Balance and posture.
Common mistakes
- Fist hidden too tightly
- Leaning back
Martial meaning
The upper hand intercepts; the fist hides a strike to the ribs.
How it varies between styles
| Yang | Empty stance after a turning step. |
|---|---|
| Chen | Fist under elbow with stronger spiral. |
| Wu | 'Fist Under Elbow Punch'. |
| Seated | Raise one palm, tuck the other fist under that elbow. |
Where it appears
- Yang Family Traditional 103 Form – step 18: Fist Under Elbow
- Chen Practical Method Yilu – 81 Movements – step 20: Fist Under Elbow
- Chen Laojia Yilu (Old Frame First Road) – 74 Movements – step 19: Fist Under Elbow
- Cheng Man-ch'ing 37-Posture Short Form – step 19: Fist Under Elbow
- Wu Jianquan 108 Long Form – step 19: Fist Under Elbow Punch
- Sun Style 73 Competition Form – step 22: Fist Under Elbow
Animated 2D guide (front view). The highlighted leg carries the weight, the faint trails show the path of the hands, and the cue at the top suggests the breath.
Video demonstrations 影片
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Move slowly, keep the knees soft and over the toes, and stay within a comfortable range. Every movement can be adapted for a chair.