Body Hack: Push Ups

WEARING: Cozy Orange Brahma Yoga Tank (get 20% off with the code cozymisfit now through 2/10) and Aquarius Yoga Crops, Nike Free Flyknits

Over the years, I've tried a lot of different kinds of workouts. And throughout them all, I've picked up a few favorite exercises that have really helped me see results. One of my favorites, believe it or not, are push ups and believe it or not, they're also considered to be one of the most perfect exercises of all time. 

Not only do they give you Cameron Diaz arms, but they also work your abs (this is one of my favorite ab exercises ever - major results!) and lower back like crazy, not to mention your entire lower body, front and back. But aside from incredible strengthening and toning, the thing that really makes them work for you is the fact because you're working so many muscles at once, your heart rate is going up in a serious way and will boost your metabolism like crazy. 

I've always thought it was ridiculous that push-ups on your knees were considered 'girl push ups' because the fact of the matter is, women are just as equally capable of doing full body push ups as men. And to help get you here, here are a few steps I learned to get you there.

xx,

Tienlyn

1.  Start with a railing and focus on getting your form down. Hips should be tucked under, abs pulled in, wrists should be under your shoulders, and your elbows should point slightly back. Try to engage your quads for perfect posture and for extra full body strengthening.

2. Once you've got step 1. down, lower your incline by finding stairs or bleachers and repeating step 1. This will be easier than a full push up, but challenging all the same muscles. Stay here as long as you need to but make sure to maintain good posture!

3. Once you're able to do about 10 of step 2, you're ready for the real deal. Remember to keep your hips tucked, your lower back straight, and your abs pulled in. Make sure to keep your chin off your chest! And a quick tip: Push ups can actually become easier to do once your heart rate is already slightly up so try taking a light jog first. You'll be surprised at how much this will help. 

Photos by Nikko DeTranquilli