From 2 to 60 in 1 month!
We could all do with focusing on our upper body strength, particularly us runners who spend a lot of time concentrating on our body from the waist down! It is also rare to hear a woman say she is good at press ups. So here is your chance in the second of the month long lock down challenges.
We will start with a nice attainable target of 2 press ups on May the 1st. Add 2 press ups a day for the next 30 days and you’ll be amazed at how strong you become.
If you were in any doubt about getting involved, Medical News Today had this to say about the benefits from doing press ups:
“Push ups are a type of strength building exercise. Though they mainly activate muscles in the arms and shoulders, they also engage muscles in the core and legs. Doing daily push ups can help build muscle tone and strength in the upper body. Other potential benefits include improved cardiovascular health and better support around the shoulder joints“.
For some of you starting at 2 press ups might seem like it’s too easy to even bother with. But the challenge is not just physical it’s mental. You must do it daily and that’s not as easy as it sounds. To keep it interesting when the reps are low why not try different types of press ups. They all activate slightly different muscle groups.
o Knee press-ups o Wide press-up o Narrow press up o Forward press up o Diamond press up o One legged press up o Jumping press up o T press up o Clap press up o The list is endless…..
As ever, form is crucial. Get someone to spot you or use a mirror to check your doing them correctly. Remember:
> Keep your back straight and your core engaged. > Your bum should be down, not lifted. > Keep your head stable and in line with your shoulders. Don’t try to get closer to the floor by dropping your head. > Your body should form a straight line. Don’t arch your back or let your back sag down.
Enjoy the discipline and the fun of getting stronger!