Pseudo Planche Push-Up
An advanced calisthenics push-up variation where your shoulders are positioned far forward over your hands, building intense upper body and core strength.
Instructions
- Start in a push-up position with your hands shoulder-width apart on the ground.
- Position your shoulders far forward over your hands, approximately aligned with your elbows or beyond.
- Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels.
- Engage your core and glutes throughout the movement.
- Lower your body toward the ground by flexing your elbows.
- Keep your elbows tucked close to your torso at approximately a 45-degree angle.
- Press through your hands to return to the starting position.
- Maintain the forward shoulder position throughout the entire movement.
Tips
- Start with a minimal forward lean and gradually increase the angle as you build strength.
- Keep your core extremely tight to prevent sagging hips.
- This exercise is significantly more challenging than a standard push-up.
- Your hands may need to be slightly wider than shoulder-width for balance.
- Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or volume.
- Breathe out as you push and breathe in as you lower.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 7 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps |
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