Pike push up
The pike push up keeps hips high in an inverted V so the press becomes more vertical, closer in angle to an overhead press. For many athletes it is an early step toward handstand work.
Shoulders · Triceps · Core
Instructions
- 1
Start in a downward-dog position: hands shoulder-width, hips piked high, heels reaching toward the floor.
- 2
Lower your head and shoulders toward the space between your hands. Elbows bend back and slightly out, not tucked in tight.
- 3
Touch or nearly touch the floor with the crown of your head. Use a mat. Never slam.
- 4
Press back up to the pike without letting the hips drop into a flat plank.
Helpful Tips
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Elevate hands on a step to reduce load while you learn the path.
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Look slightly back toward your feet, not straight down at the floor.
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Quality depth beats sloppy extra reps.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Dropping the hips and turning it into a flat push up.
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Hands too narrow for shoulder comfort.
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Lower back collapsing instead of the core staying braced.