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.

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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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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Superman Push up good for beginners?
Superman 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 Superman Push up?
You need Body weight to perform Superman 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 Superman Push up?
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.
What are common mistakes when doing Superman Push up?
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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Superman Push up

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