Pike push-up

A push-up from an inverted V position that targets the shoulders and prepares you for handstand push-ups.

How to do it

1. 01From a high plank, lift your hips high into an inverted V with your hands shoulder-width apart.
2. 02Walk your feet in so your hips stack over your shoulders as much as possible, legs straight or slightly bent.
3. 03Bend your elbows and lower the top of your head to a spot in front of your hands, forming a triangle.
4. 04Push the floor away to straighten your arms, keeping your hips high throughout.

Common mistakes

• Elbows flaring out — keep them angled back about 45° from your body.
• Lowering the head straight between the hands — aim slightly in front of them to form a triangle.
• Hips dropping into a regular push-up — keep them high so the load stays on your shoulders.

In the Vertical push progression

1. 1Pike push-up
2. 2Wall walk
3. 3Wall handstand