Belfast Wado-Kai Karate Association

Otoshi Empi (落とし肘) is a powerful downward elbow strike used in karate and other martial arts. The word comes from Japanese: “Otoshi” meaning to drop or bring down and “Empi” meaning elbow strike. 🥋
In this technique, the fighter raises the elbow and then drives it sharply downward toward the opponent, targeting areas such as the head, collarbone, or upper back. Because the elbow is a very hard part of the body, Otoshi Empi is extremely effective at close range, especially when an opponent is bent forward or when breaking through their guard.
This technique is commonly practiced in styles like Kyokushin Karate and Shotokan Karate, where strong close-range strikes are important. Fighters often combine Otoshi Empi with grabs, clinch situations, or follow-up attacks to finish a combination.