Do you want to learn the handstand pushup? You’ve come to the right place. This versatile exercise not only looks impressive but is also effective for building strength in your shoulders, triceps, and upper back. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of training towards your first handstand push-up.
Firstly, it’s important to note that the handstand push-up is an advanced calisthenics move, so it requires some foundational strength and stability. We’ll break down the progression into achievable steps to help you build up the necessary strength and skills. Let’s dive into the exciting journey of mastering the handstand push-up!
Table of Contents
Requirements for Handstand PushUp
Handstand Pushup Technique
Hand positioning
The first thing you do when starting with a handstand pushup is placing your hands. Maintain a width of at least shoulder-width apart. However, in the beginning, it will certainly help to go for about one and a half times shoulder-width.
By adopting a wider hand position, you reduce the range of motion (ROM) of the exercises, lowering the intensity. This is especially advisable for anyone taller than 1.75 meters, as the leverage from your legs makes the exercise extra challenging.
Next, spread your fingers and grip the ground to have a good hold on it.
Starting position (handstand)
The starting position for your handstand pushup is the standard handstand. Pay attention to 4 key points:
- Wrists, shoulders, hips, and feet are vertically aligned in a straight line
- Shoulder blades are fully extended
- Pelvis is tilted (posterior pelvic tilt)
- Abdomen, glutes, and legs are fully engaged
- Toes are pointed
Handstand pushup movement
During the handstand pushup, you perform a diagonal pushing movement. This means you don’t go straight down but at an angle forward.
The goal is to touch the ground with your head approximately 30 – 40cm in front of your hands. Keep your entire body engaged, forming a straight line.
Create this diagonal pushing movement by bringing your shoulder blades into a protracted (forward-pushed) position. Then, bend from your elbows, bringing your shoulders forward. It’s crucial to keep your elbows stable and certainly not move them backward. This technique ensures proper engagement of the targeted muscles and helps maintain control throughout the movement.
In 4 exercises to the Handstand Pushup
How do you train towards your first handstand pushup? For this, you’ll need to use simpler variations of the handstand pushup.
Below, you’ll find 4 exercises that will gradually help you achieve your first handstand pushup. These exercises all involve the same diagonal movement but at a lower intensity.
By training these exercises for an extended period and progressively increasing the difficulty, you will eventually reach the handstand pushup.
Pike Push up
The pike pushup is a variation of the handstand pushup where your feet remain on the ground. This is the first step on your training journey towards the handstand pushup itself.
To perform a pike pushup, follow these steps:
- Start in a pushup position with your hands shoulder-width apart.
- Push yourself up until your body forms an inverted V-shape.
- Bend your elbows as you lower your body towards the ground and then push yourself back up to the starting position.
When you can perform this exercise for 4 sets of 6 reps, it’s time to move on to the next variation.
Elevated pike pushups
Wall Handstand Pushup
Pike hold to handstand pushup
Assistance exercises
In addition to performing specific progressions for the handstand push-up, it’s crucial to incorporate exercises into your workout that address your weaknesses. Building more strength in your shoulders, chest, and triceps will undoubtedly make your handstand push-up easier. Read below to discover the assistance exercises we recommend.
Weighted dip
The weighted dip is arguably the most crucial exercise for building strength in calisthenics. By adding weight, you can easily scale your progression. Ensure that you perform the weighted dip with your shoulder blades in the correct position: protracted and depressed (pushed forward/down). This way, the weighted dip maximally complements the handstand push-up.
Useful calisthenics equipment: try using a dip belt for your weighted dips. A dip belt is far superior over a weighted vest, since you can load up a lot more weight, as well a follow a cleaner bar path.
Shoulder press
L-Sit
The handstand push-up works the entire body, including the shoulders and arms. The L-sit is a simple way to engage your abs and legs, making it an excellent complementary exercise for the core and lower body. By adding it to your routine, you’ll not only strengthen your muscles but also improve your balance and body control, which are essential for a seamless handstand push-up. Practicing the L-sit consistently will enhance your calisthenics skills, laying a solid foundation for advanced movements. So take the challenge and reap the benefits of improved body awareness and control.
Safety Tips for Handstand Pushups
Handstand pushup parallettes
FAQ
How can I progress or scale handstand pushup?
There are various ways to progress with handstand push-ups and gradually make them more challenging. One approach is to start with pike push-ups, where you keep your hips elevated, shifting the weight toward your shoulders. Once you master pike push-ups, you can move on to wall handstand push-ups. Finally, you can transition to freestanding handstand push-ups to further increase the difficulty.
It’s important to progress slowly and in a controlled manner, allowing you to build strength and technique for the more advanced variations. Remember to consistently work on foundational exercises and overall strength improvement.
What are the benefits of training the handstand pushup?
Handstand push-ups strengthen shoulders, arms, and core. They also improve balance and coordination. This exercise challenges multiple muscle groups, promoting upper body strength and stability. As you progress, you refine proprioception and body awareness.
Which muscles do I train with handstand push-ups?
Handstand push-ups are tough and work your shoulders, triceps, and chest. They also engage your core, back, and forearms. Doing them improves upper body strength, stability, and coordination all at once. They make for a great workout that adds variety to your fitness routine.
