All Exercises

Superman Push up

Challenge your balance and strength with the Superman Push-up, an advanced bodyweight exercise targeting chest, triceps, shoulders, and core stability.

Advanced
Compound
Push
1 min per set2 min rest

Description

A full body exercise that targets chest, arms, and core muscles by performing a regular push up with one arm and leg off the ground.

How to Do Superman Push up

  1. 1
    Setup

    Begin in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders and feet hip-width apart, ensuring your body forms a straight line from head to heels.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Engage your core, then simultaneously lift one arm and the opposite leg a few inches off the ground, maintaining a stable, straight body alignment.

  3. 3

    Inhale as you slowly lower your chest towards the floor by bending your grounded elbow, keeping the lifted arm and leg elevated and your core tight.

  4. 4

    Exhale and push through your grounded hand and foot to extend your arm, returning to the elevated plank position with your body in a straight line.

  5. 5

    Complete all desired repetitions on one side before carefully switching your lifted arm and leg to perform the same number of reps on the other side.

Tips

  • Maintain a rigid torso throughout the movement by actively bracing your core as if preparing for a punch, which prevents hip sagging or rotation.
  • Control the eccentric (lowering) phase of the push-up; a slow, controlled descent enhances muscle activation and reduces injury risk.
  • Ensure your grounded hand is directly under your shoulder to maximize leverage and distribute the load effectively, preventing undue stress on the wrist or shoulder.
  • Keep your gaze slightly forward or down to maintain a neutral cervical spine, aligning your neck with the rest of your straight body.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Allowing hips to sag towards the floor compromises core stability; fix this by actively engaging your glutes and abs to keep your body in a straight line.
  • ×Wobbling or rotating your torso indicates insufficient core stability; correct by focusing on a slower, more deliberate movement and reducing the height of your lifted limbs if needed.
  • ×Flaring elbows out to the sides puts excessive strain on shoulders; fix this by keeping your grounded elbow tucked closer to your body (about 45 degrees) during the descent.

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