Each month at Move Move we set ourselves a Move of the Month Challenge. Throughout the month we focus on mastering that move. Sometimes our Move of the Month is just one move, other times it maybe a series of moves. But our aim is to progress in some way.
Our Move of the Month for June is Push-Ups. From the classic mat version that incorporates a roll-down & plank to variations using the wall and reformer we’ll be trying them all.
Here are a few of my favourite ways to mix up a basic push-up:
- Use a wall – if you struggle with push-ups on the floor, start with wall push-ups. Start standing straight and as you improve move your feet further away from the wall taking more weight into your arms.
- Triceps – wherever you’re doing your push-up a narrow hand position to start and focus on angling your elbow back more will challenge your triceps. Good-bye batwings!
- On the Reformer – kneeling with hands on the footbar, move the carriage away from the stopper. Mix it up with different springs – light will challenge your abs and stability, heavier will put more focus onto your chest. Like the wall push-up you can change the angle – just move the carriage in or out.
Wherever you’re doing your push-ups this month, remember that the first rule of push-ups is shoulder stability. Focus on getting your shoulders in a good position and maintaining it throughout the move.