This modified pushup changes the angle to work the lower chest, helping you push yourself up off the ground. (Note, if you’re in the gym this would be the “decline” bench press)
HOW TO DO IT:
- Start standing near a stable chair, ottoman, or other elevated surface
- Place hands on the surface, about 1-2 inches wider than your shoulders
- Angle hands so your pointer finger aims forward or hands are draped off the side
- Step back until you’re in a plank position, shoulders directly over your hands
- Lower your upper body as far as you can
- Keep elbows close to your torso
- Push yourself back up to the starting position
- Repeat
MAKE IT COUNT:
- Do as many as you can
- Literally – don’t stop until you can’t safely complete another rep
MAKE IT EASIER:
- Lower yourself only halfway
- Decrease the angle by pushing off a counter top or wall (make sure your feet won’t slip!)
MAKE IT HARDER:
- Let your navel sink downward slightly
- Go slower
- Do a second set
MAKE IT FUN:
- Do it in front of your kids while they’re trying to watch TV
PRACTICAL USES:
- Digging with a shovel
- Getting out of a pool
- Leap frogging your friends
- Using a jackhammer
- Chopping wood
- Making your pecs dance like Terry Crews
DISCLAIMER: To reduce the risk of injury, before beginning this or any exercise program, please consult a healthcare provider to ensure you are able to safely participate in this or any exercise program. All exercise programs carry some risk of injury.
If you engage in this exercise or exercise program and/or use any information provided by Squirrel Fitness, LLC, regardless of where or how you access it, you agree that you do so at your own risk, are voluntarily participating in these activities, assume all risk of injury to yourself, and agree to release and discharge Squirrel Fitness, LLC, from any and all claims or causes of action, known or unknown, arising out of your participation in activities with Squirrel Fitness, LLC.