2 tips to Do more HS Push Ups

Published: Sun, 01/27/13

Lately I've been getting several questions about Handstand Push Ups (HSPU) & how to do more of them
 
So here are 2 quick tips that will help you do more of them:
 
First off you need to increase your tricep and core strength + stabilization
 
You might be able to hold a handstand hold for some seconds but might get stuck with your elbows flexed & can't push yourself up when trying a HSPU
 
If that's the case then do the following:
 
#1 - Get Stronger at Push Ups
 
The HSPU as just another push up variation and this one requires your triceps to be a lot stronger
 
If you are used to only doing standard push ups, try adding some variations that will make them harder like:
  • Elevated push ups
  • Dive Bomber Push ups (AKA Hindu push ups)
  • Super Slow push ups (5 secs up, 5 secs down)
  • Clapping push ups
  • Diamond push ups
  • Spiderman Push Ups
  • 1 Arm Push Ups
  • Add weight to your push ups (50+ pounds)

These variations are not just to strengthen your triceps but also getting your writs & arms used to be in different positions & develop a good foundation to avoid injury in the long term

Same principle applies to any bodyweight movement: always practice their variations& change the tempos
 
#2 - Walk Side to Side when doing HS Holds (against the wall)
 
If you have never done this you will lose your balance & fall fast!
 
This is an excellent way to also get used to having your wrists flexed, increasing shoulder stability & strengthening your core stabilization (since your gonna have to always keep your core & body tight to not lose balance & fall)
 
Start off by only shifting side to side for short distances & then progress to taking longer strides...You'll get stronger at this in a couple of weeks as your body increases stability in your core & shoulders
 
Adding these 2 exercises will help you get your handstand push ups faster & also increase the amount of reps your can do
 
If your not used to being upside down, don't rush things & just do holds for 1- 2 secs first (don't max out & practice good form to develop good habits)
 
You are learning a new skill & it will take time: Just like when you were a baby & were learning to walk, you had to build up your strength to hold yourself up & walk without falling
  • At first you tried to stand up but lost balance & fell
  • But slowly the more you tried the stronger you got & eventually you were able to hold yourself up & walk without falling
Same thing will happen here: you will fall & lose your balance but slowly you will get stronger & do handstand push ups like it's nobody's business!
 
That's it for today guys, hope your are having an awesome weekend!