Wall Handstand Push-Up

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A challenging shoulder exercise where you perform push-ups in a handstand position with support from a wall. Builds pressing strength and shoulder stability.

Instructions

  1. Face a wall and place your hands on the ground about 6-12 inches from the wall.
  2. Kick your feet up and lean against the wall, supporting yourself in a handstand position with your chest facing the wall.
  3. Your hands should be shoulder-width apart with fingers spread for stability.
  4. Lower your body by bending your elbows, bringing your head toward the floor between your hands.
  5. Push through your hands to extend your arms and return to the starting handstand position.
  6. Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.

Tips

  • Start with partial range of motion and gradually increase depth as strength improves.
  • Keep your core engaged to maintain body alignment.
  • Lower your head between your hands rather than in front of them.
  • Maintain steady breathing throughout, exhaling as you press up.
  • Progress by reducing wall contact and eventually performing free-standing versions.

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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