"I Can't Do Pushups" Week 1

At Perfect Fitness, we believe that if you could only do one exercise to change the look and function of your arms, chest, shoulders, back and abs, the pushup is it! But pushups can be hard if you have never done them or haven’t mastered good technique. If you can’t do pushups, we’re about to change that. We’ve got a three week program that will have you doing pushups in no time, plus give you a kick start to a healthier lifestyle.

Before you get started, review the push up movements following the workout.  All of these exercises can be done with or without the Perfect Pushup.  If you use the Perfect Pushup, make your focus on proper position, rather than on rotating the handles. Good luck!

 

Workout:

Week One

·         Day 1:

o   Conduct 3 repetitions of 5 second negatives on your knees

o   Hold the plank position for 5 seconds (3 times – take a 30 second break in between your plank holds)

·         Day 2: OFF – Go for a walk!

·         Day 3:

o   Conduct 3 repetitions of 5 second negatives on your knees

o   Hold the plank position for 5 seconds (3 times – take a 30 second break in between your plank holds)

·         Day 4: OFF

·         Day 5:

o   Conduct 3 repetitions of 5 second negatives on your knees

o   Hold the plank position for 5 seconds (3 times – take a 30 second break in between your plank holds)

·         Day 6: OFF

·         Day 7:

o   Conduct 3 repetitions of 5 second negatives on your knees

o   Hold the plank position for 5 seconds (3 times – take a 30 second break in between your plank holds)

 

Movement Descriptions:

Negative Pushup: Start from your knees in the plank position and slowly lower your body until your chest touches the floor - make sure to maintain control.  Eventually, you will move to a full body position (legs extended).  The point of the negative is to focus on the down movement, not the push phase.  Once your chest touches the floor the movement is complete and you can return to the starting position.

Plank Position:  Place hands slightly wider than shoulder width apart with arms extended.  You can either start on your knees or with legs extended.  The feet can be together or as much as shoulder width apart.  Make sure your body maintains a straight line from ears to toes (or knees) with no sagging or bending.  Keep your head in a neutral position looking down.

Equipment:

• Perfect Pushup (optional)

Make sure to practice good form and safe technique. These exercises can be challenging (and sometimes dangerous), especially if performed without proper pre-exercise evaluation and thorough understanding of the drills. As always, consult with a physician before beginning this or any exercise program.