Handstand Push-Ups
Handstand push-ups are probably the most intimidating push-up type, especially to new fitness enthusiasts. However, that has a lot more to do with how the exercise requires you to position your body rather than how difficult it is. It appears more like something for the gymnasts, but surprisingly, almost anyone can do it irrespective of how strong they are.
Fundamentals of Handstand Push-Ups
There are a few different variations of handstand push-ups, such as freestanding handstand, kipping handstand, wall walks, wall runs, handstand hold, and wall handstand push-ups. The difference is mainly in the level of difficulty, but they all have similar fundamentals.
Ideally, the only difference between a normal push-up and handstand push-up is that your body has to be parallel to the ground for the former and inverted for the latter. The exercise works on the arms, shoulders, chest, and back, a lot more than the normal push-up, which works mainly on the arms and chest only. A handstand push up training plan alone can be enough to cater to your upper body muscles.
Best Variation of Handstand Push-Ups
The freestanding handstand push-up is the best choice of all the variations. It works on all the upper body muscles, but the best part is that it forces you to maintain the right form throughout the exercise. You do have to know how to balance to be able to perform the freestanding variation. Patience and dedication are all you will need to be able to do it.
Right Way of Doing Handstand Push-Ups
Start by placing your hands about ten inches from a wall, with your palms facing the wall. Shift to a headstand position, with only your heels touching the wall. While in this position, try to establish a rigid midline position. For one repetition, you should lower your entire body until your head touches the mat or floor, and then raise yourself back up until your elbows extend fully. Ensure you maintain the right body form throughout the repetition.
The number of sets and repetitions that you should do for each workout session should be based on your current form. Whichever the number is, ensure that you increase it regularly as you get stronger with time. It would help if you also worked towards being able to do the handstand push-ups without a wall. That might take some time for many people, but it is an achievable goal that will help you reap more from the exercise.…