Zhou (肘) — meaning "Elbow" — is one of the Four Corner Energies (Si Yu) and represents the use of the elbow as a striking, neutralizing, or controlling tool in close-quarters combat.

Zhou refers to elbow energy, which involves using the elbow joint (not just the arm) to issue short, explosive power in close range.

• It's typically applied when the opponent has closed the distance, making long-arm techniques less practical.

• The elbow is used both defensively (to jam, block, or redirect) and offensively (to strike or shock).

Energetic Concept:

• Kao Jin (靠劲) is the energy of body contact power — compact, powerful, and rooted.

• The power comes from the legs, dantian (lower abdomen), and waist rotation, and is issued through the shoulder or torso.

• It’s often used to disrupt the opponent’s root, shock their center, or finish a close-range exchange after techniques like Cai, Lie, or Zhou.

Application:

• Used to finish a close-range situation, such as after pulling the opponent in with Cai, controlling with Lie, or striking with Zhou.

• Can be used to strike the chest, ribs, or jaw, or to push the opponent off balance.

• It’s also effective in grappling, throws, or when resisting being grabbed or clinched.