Push ups are one of the simplest and most effective exercises to strengthen your upper body. However, if you want to take your push ups to the next level, you can try clap push ups. Clap push ups are a plyometric exercise that involves explosive movements and can provide numerous benefits for your body. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of clap push ups and how to perform them correctly.
What are Clap Push Ups?
Clap push ups are a variation of the traditional push up exercise. Instead of just pushing yourself up and down, you add a plyometric element to the movement by clapping your hands together in mid-air between each rep. This explosive movement engages your fast-twitch muscle fibers and increases your power and explosiveness.
Benefits of Clap Push Ups
1. Increased Upper Body Strength: Clap push ups engage your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles. By performing this exercise regularly, you can increase your upper body strength and build muscle mass.
2. Improved Explosiveness: Clap push ups are a plyometric exercise that require you to generate a lot of power in a short amount of time. This explosive movement can help you improve your overall explosiveness and power in other exercises or sports.
3. Burn More Calories: Clap push ups are a compound exercise that work multiple muscle groups at the same time. This means that you burn more calories during the exercise and continue to burn calories after your workout is over due to the afterburn effect.
4. Better Cardiovascular Health: Clap push ups are an intense exercise that get your heart rate up and increase your cardiovascular endurance. By incorporating this exercise into your workout routine, you can improve your overall cardiovascular health.
How to Perform Clap Push Ups
1. Start in a high plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart and your feet together.
2. Lower your body down towards the ground by bending your elbows.
3. Push yourself up explosively and clap your hands together in mid-air.
4. Land softly in the starting position and repeat for your desired number of reps.
5. Make sure to keep your core tight and your body in a straight line throughout the movement.
Tips for Beginners
1. Start with regular push ups before attempting clap push ups.
2. Practice explosive movements with other exercises like squat jumps or burpees.
3. Focus on proper form and technique before trying to do as many reps as possible.
4. Land softly on your hands to avoid injury.
Conclusion
Clap push ups are an intense exercise that can provide numerous benefits for your body. By incorporating this exercise into your workout routine, you can increase your upper body strength, explosiveness, and cardiovascular health. However, it is important to start slowly and focus on proper form to avoid injury. So, give clap push ups a try and see how they can take your fitness to the next level!