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:

  • Zhou Jin (elbow energy) is short-range, coiled, and often sudden.

  • It is powered by the waist, shoulder rotation, and root, not just the local arm muscles.

  • Often connected to the spiral energy of Lie, or preceded by Cai (pluck) to bring the opponent in close for an elbow strike.

  Application:

  • Useful when the opponent moves too close for palm or fist strikes.

  • Examples:

    Elbow to the chest after pulling them off balance (Cai).

    Horizontal elbow across the jaw or ribs after closing in with a shoulder or joint lock.

    Using the elbow to jam an incoming strike and counter at the same time.