13

Jul

10 Flavors of Pushups

I'm growing tired of the plethora of pushup apps, programs and social campaigns. It seems that the pushup has become the next de facto "get healthy" exercise after running.

While any sort of physical activity is certainly a good thing, the problem I have with these campaigns is that they don't create a long term sustainable interest or passion for exercise. Performing the same exercise repeatedly is not a good way to increase your overall fitness level. It's always going to favor some areas over others and the body adapts to such routines hindering your progress. Moreover it's just boring.

With that in mind, I've compiled a list of my personal favorite 10 pushup alternatives you can do to target different muscle groups and keep your workouts interesting. I would still recommend you discover exercises that don't involve pushups at all!

Scorpion Pushups
These may look odd but they're really effective at engaging your core
Jack-Knife Pushups
Dive Bombers
See Suzana from BodyRock.tv perform them. A cousin to the Dive Bomber is the Hindu Pushup.
Bosu Ball Pushups
are great for engaging the core and increasing your balance.
are great for stability and your arms
Plank to Pushup
Props go out to @wolfklinker for showing me this one.
Dumbbell Pushups with Row
Gymnastic Pushups
help you focus on your chest for strength.
Single Leg Pushups
Suzana showing off another one of her favorites. These are great for bringing the lower abdominals and quadriceps.
are my personal favorite. In this video, Al Kavadlo, teaches you many body weight exercises you can use to work your way up to handstand push ups.
What are your personal favorites?