What To Know
- As you can see, both exercises work similar muscle groups, but the handstand push up places a greater emphasis on the shoulders and upper chest.
- If you’re looking to build strength and stability in your shoulders and upper chest, the handstand push up is an excellent choice.
- The handstand push up is a more challenging exercise that targets the shoulders and upper chest, while the push up is more accessible and focuses on the chest and triceps.
When it comes to upper body strength and conditioning, two exercises stand out: the handstand push up and the push up. Both are challenging exercises, but which one is better? In this blog post, we’ll compare the two exercises and help you decide which one is right for you.
Muscles Worked
Handstand Push Up:
- Shoulders (anterior deltoids)
- Triceps
- Upper chest
- Core
Push Up:
- Chest (pectorals)
- Triceps
- Shoulders (anterior deltoids)
- Core
As you can see, both exercises work similar muscle groups, but the handstand push up places a greater emphasis on the shoulders and upper chest.
Difficulty
The handstand push up is a significantly more difficult exercise than the push up. It requires advanced strength, balance, and coordination. Push ups, on the other hand, are accessible to most fitness levels.
Benefits
Handstand Push Up:
- Improved shoulder stability
- Increased upper body strength
- Enhanced coordination
- Boosted core strength
Push Up:
- Strengthened chest and triceps
- Improved core stability
- Increased upper body mass
- Enhanced posture
Which Exercise is Better?
The best exercise for you depends on your individual fitness goals and abilities. If you’re looking to build strength and stability in your shoulders and upper chest, the handstand push up is an excellent choice. However, if you’re new to strength training or have limited upper body strength, the push up is a more accessible option.
Progression
If you’re new to the handstand push up, start by practicing against a wall or with assistance from a spotter. Gradually increase the distance from the wall or reduce the assistance as you get stronger.
For push ups, start with modified versions such as knee push ups or inclined push ups. As you progress, gradually increase the difficulty by performing full push ups or adding weight.
Safety Considerations
Both handstand push ups and push ups can be performed safely with proper technique. However, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise and consult a healthcare professional.
Final Note: The Handstand Push Up vs. Push Up Showdown
The handstand push up and the push up are both effective upper body exercises. The handstand push up is a more challenging exercise that targets the shoulders and upper chest, while the push up is more accessible and focuses on the chest and triceps. Ultimately, the best exercise for you depends on your individual fitness goals and abilities.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I do handstand push ups if I have shoulder pain?
A: It’s best to avoid handstand push ups if you have shoulder pain. Consult a healthcare professional for advice on exercises that are safe for your condition.
Q: How many handstand push ups should I do?
A: Start with a few repetitions and gradually increase the number as you get stronger. Aim for 3-5 sets of 5-10 repetitions.
Q: What are some alternatives to handstand push ups?
A: Pike push ups, shoulder presses, and dumbbell flyes are good alternatives to handstand push ups.
