Spider Crawl Push up

Build full-body strength and stability with the Spider Crawl Push Up. This dynamic exercise combines a push-up with an oblique crunch, enhancing core,

Advanced
Compound
Push
30s per set1 min rest

Description

A challenging variant of the standard push-up, the Spider Crawl Push Up targets the chest, shoulders, and core, as well as the legs to a lesser extent. The movement involves a push-up followed by bringing the knee to meet the elbow on the same side.

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How to Do Spider Crawl Push up

  1. 1
    Setup

    Start in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders, fingers pointing forward, and feet hip-width apart. Maintain a straight line from your head to your heels.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Engage your core and ensure your hips are level, neither sagging nor piking upwards, creating a rigid torso.

  3. 3

    Lower your chest towards the floor by bending your elbows, keeping them tucked slightly towards your body. Inhale as you descend.

  4. 4

    As you push back up to the high plank, simultaneously bring your right knee towards your right elbow, crunching your obliques. Exhale as you push up and drive the knee forward.

  5. 5

    Return your right foot to the starting position with control as you complete the push-up. Immediately repeat the push-up, bringing your left knee towards your left elbow on the next repetition.

  6. 6

    Alternate sides with each push-up, maintaining a controlled tempo throughout the entire exercise.

Tips

  • Focus on a strong plank: Keep your core tight and glutes squeezed throughout the entire movement to prevent your lower back from arching or sagging.
  • Control the descent and ascent: Avoid dropping quickly; control the lowering phase and powerfully push back up, coordinating the leg movement smoothly.
  • Engage your obliques: Actively crunch your knee towards your elbow, thinking about shortening the distance between your hip and rib cage on that side for maximum core engagement.
  • Synchronize movement: Aim to have your knee reach its peak forward position just as you complete the upward phase of your push-up, ensuring both actions are intentional.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Sagging hips: Allowing your hips to drop towards the floor indicates a lack of core engagement; keep your core braced and glutes squeezed to maintain a straight body line.
  • ×Rushing the movement: Performing the exercise too quickly can lead to poor form and reduced muscle activation; slow down the tempo and focus on the mind-muscle connection for both the push-up and the knee-to-elbow crunch.
  • ×Not bringing the knee far enough forward: Failing to drive your knee close to your elbow reduces the oblique and hip flexor engagement; actively aim for contact or as close as possible to maximize benefits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Spider Crawl Push up work?
Spider Crawl Push up primarily targets Gluteus Medius, Rectus Abdominis. Secondary muscles include Deltoid Anterior, Gluteus Maximus, Pectoralis Major Clavicular Head, Pectoralis Major Sternal Head, Quadriceps, Tensor Fasciae Latae, Triceps Brachii.
Is Spider Crawl Push up good for beginners?
Spider Crawl Push up is rated advanced. Beginners can still attempt it with lighter weight and careful form, but it's best to master easier variations first.
What equipment do I need for Spider Crawl Push up?
You need Body weight to perform Spider Crawl Push up. If you don't have this equipment, look for variations that target the same muscles with what you have available.
What are the best tips for Spider Crawl Push up?
Focus on a strong plank: Keep your core tight and glutes squeezed throughout the entire movement to prevent your lower back from arching or sagging. Control the descent and ascent: Avoid dropping quickly; control the lowering phase and powerfully push back up, coordinating the leg movement smoothly. Engage your obliques: Actively crunch your knee towards your elbow, thinking about shortening the distance between your hip and rib cage on that side for maximum core engagement. Synchronize movement: Aim to have your knee reach its peak forward position just as you complete the upward phase of your push-up, ensuring both actions are intentional.
What are common mistakes when doing Spider Crawl Push up?
Sagging hips: Allowing your hips to drop towards the floor indicates a lack of core engagement; keep your core braced and glutes squeezed to maintain a straight body line. Rushing the movement: Performing the exercise too quickly can lead to poor form and reduced muscle activation; slow down the tempo and focus on the mind-muscle connection for both the push-up and the knee-to-elbow crunch. Not bringing the knee far enough forward: Failing to drive your knee close to your elbow reduces the oblique and hip flexor engagement; actively aim for contact or as close as possible to maximize benefits.

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Spider Crawl Push up

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