If you’re looking for a fun, easy way to build strength and stability, the push-up to shoulder tap is a fantastic exercise to add to your routine. This move combines a classic push-up with an extra balance challenge by adding shoulder taps. Here’s a friendly guide on how to do it right, with each step broken down so you can build strength, control, and confidence.
Why Try Push-Up to Shoulder Taps?
This exercise strengthens your chest, shoulders, and arms while challenging your core to keep your body stable. It’s perfect if you want to improve your upper body strength while also working on balance. Plus, it’s a great way to get a full-body workout in one move!
Step-by-Step Guide to Push-Up to Shoulder Tap
Let’s walk through each part of this move. Here’s how to get started:
- Set Up in a High Plank
- Start by getting into a high plank position.
- Place your shoulders directly over your wrists.
- Keep your core tight, making sure your body forms a straight line from shoulders to hips to heels.
- Engage your glutes (the muscles in your butt) and thighs to keep your legs straight and steady.
- Do a Push-Up
- Bend your elbows slowly and lower your chest toward the floor.
- Keep your body in that straight line as you lower.
- Push through your hands to bring your body back up to the high plank position.
- Add a Shoulder Tap
- Lift your left hand off the floor and reach it across your chest to tap your right shoulder.
- Keep your core tight to help you stay balanced. Try to avoid letting your hips tilt or sway.
- Place your left hand back on the floor, returning to the high plank position.
- Repeat on the Other Side
- Now, lift your right hand to tap your left shoulder.
- Return to the high plank position again.
- Finish One Rep
- Doing a push-up and tapping both shoulders completes one full rep.
- Try to do 10 reps in a row for a full set.
Tips to Remember
Here are some helpful hints to make the most of your push-up to shoulder taps:
- Keep Your Core Engaged: This means keeping your stomach muscles tight to help keep your body stable.
- Move Slowly and Control Each Movement: Moving too quickly can make you lose balance, so go slowly to focus on each tap.
- Watch Your Form: Make sure your body stays in a straight line. Don’t let your hips sag or stick up.
How This Exercise Helps You
The push-up to shoulder tap doesn’t just work your upper body; it helps your core, too. By challenging your balance, you’re training your body to stay steady, which helps build a stronger core. This can also help improve your posture, make other exercises easier, and even boost your confidence as you notice your strength grow.