Day 4 · Push · Strength Development

Pike Push-Ups

The first step toward handstand push-ups, five movements that train the whole body, and a pull-to-push ratio.

Foundational Move: Pike Push-Up

Pike Push-Ups set the groundwork for overhead pressing strength.

It's not a super common movement, so newcomers easily slip into the "push-up" habit — but by shifting your hips up and your torso downward, you redirect your pushing angle vertically, preparing your body for wall handstand push-ups and other vertical strength skills.

The difficulty can scale by placing your feet on a box, bench, or any surface and performing incline pike push-ups, raise the incline to progress until eventually you can perform handstand push-ups against a wall.

Pike Pushup · THENICS LAB on YouTube

Key Insight: Core 5 Movements

Unlike traditional bodybuilding, which isolates individual muscles, bodyweight training focuses on functional movements that treat the body as a single unit.

This approach builds strength (the ability to generate force), boosts coordination, and supports everyday activities.

The dip: an upper-body pushing exercise targeting the chest, shoulders, and triceps
The row: an upper-body pulling exercise strengthening the back and arms
The pistol: a single-leg squat enhancing leg strength and balance
The L-sit: a core exercise engaging the abdominals, hip flexors, and arms
The handstand: a full-body exercise combining strength, mobility, and coordination

Longevity Tip: 1.5:1 Pull/Push Ratio

To stay balanced, include equal or slightly more pulling exercises (like rows) compared to pushing ones (like pushups), incorporate leg movements that target both hips and knees, and strengthen your core for a solid foundation.

Coach ChazFounder, THENICS LAB

Pike Push-Ups in CaliQuest

Push tree · Strength Development · 4 ranks, 5 reps to 12 reps

Log your sets in CaliQuest and rank it up as you reach each standard.

  • Unlocks afterPush-Ups (rank 3)
  • Leads toPseudo Planche Push-Ups, Wall Handstand Push-Ups