Perfecting the Pushup

The pushup is unquestionably one of the most effective, time-efficient exercises you can do. If the gym ever gets too crowded, you can always drop down to the floor and give your upper body and core a great workout. But even a move as classic as the pushup isn’t beyond tweaking. Here are a few ways to add some much-needed variety to this time-honored exercise.

Triangle Pushup Make a triangle with your forefingers and thumbs, and lower your chest down as close to your hands as possible. This variation works the triceps especially hard.

Swiss-Ball Pushup Resting your shins on a Swiss ball really increases the demand on your core (your midsection, hips, and spine).

T Pushup Rotating your torso and balancing on one arm at the top of each rep is a great way to improve shoulder stability.

Pike Pushup Keeping your butt up high in the air and legs straight makes your shoulders and triceps work harder.