Reverse Handstand Push-up

Shoulders, TricepsBodyweight

The reverse handstand push-up is a demanding pressing exercise for the shoulders, triceps, and core stabilizers that places high axial load on the body and tests balance.

How to do it

1Kick up into a handstand against a wall or freestanding, setting a solid vertical line.

2Squeeze your core and glutes to prevent excessive arching in your lower back.

3Slowly bend your elbows, lowering your head toward the floor under control.

4Lower until your head lightly touches the floor or reaches a comfortable depth.

5Press forcefully into the floor with straight arms to drive back up into the handstand.

Common mistakes

Excessive arching in the lower back, shifting dangerous stress onto the spine.

Flaring your elbows out to the sides, which reduces pressing power and strains the shoulders.

Losing control on the descent, creating a risk of hitting your head on the floor.

Breathing

Inhale on the way down, and exhale forcefully as you press back up.

Make it harder or easier

To make it easier, place an abmat under your head to shorten the range of motion, or do pike push-ups.

To make it harder, perform the movement freestanding on parallettes.

This is general guidance, not a medical opinion. Listen to your body: if it hurts, stop. If you have an injury or a chronic condition, talk to a doctor first.