Elbow Down

Most Aikido techniques are done to one of Uke's arms. These techniques are divided into techniques where Uke's elbow is pointed up and techniques where Uke's elbow is pointed down. If Uke's arm is straight the arm is likely to break so it is assumed that Uke will either put the elbow up or down. Elbow Down techniques include the techniques based on Waki Gatame and Shiho Nage. Figure Four can be done from either Elbow Up or Elbow Down.