The pushup is one of the most basic but effective moves for strength and conditioning.
This humble muscle-building exercise trains the muscles in your chest, shoulders, triceps, and abs. Add the slightest tweak and that burn can quickly shift from a killer chest pump to a brutal ab ripper. While there are countless variations—some of which require near-superhuman strength—these modifications are suitable for both beginner and intermediate athletes.
Men's Fitness' Mike Simone demonstrates each variation in the video above.
1. Traditional pushupThe basic starting point.
2. Wide-grip pushupEngages the shoulders more.
3. Close-grip pushupEngages the triceps more.
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4. Clap pushupImproves power and explosiveness.
5. One-leg pushupEngages the core more.
6. Dead-stop pushupAlso known as a "hand-release pushup," this can help ease tension on the joints.
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7. Eccentric pushupEmphasizes the muscle-lengthening phase of the pushup, enabling you to change the stimulus on your muscles.
8. Spider-Man pushupEngages the core more and improves hip mobility.
9. One-armed incline pushupForces the chest to work in an unbalanced state.
10. Decline pushupWorks more of the upper chest and shoulders.
11. Incline pushupWorks more of the lower chest and triceps.
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