A diamond pushup is a variation of the traditional pushup that targets the triceps muscles more intensely.
How to Do a Diamond Pushup
- Start in a pushup position: Hands shoulder-width apart, fingers pointing forward, body in a straight line from head to heels.
- Form a diamond shape: Bring your hands together so that your index fingers and thumbs touch, forming a diamond shape with your hands.
- Lower your chest towards the ground: Keep your elbows close to your body as you slowly lower your chest towards the ground.
- Push back up: Once your chest touches the ground, press back up to the starting position, keeping your core engaged.
Benefits of Diamond Pushups
- Increased triceps activation: The diamond hand position places more emphasis on the triceps muscles, leading to greater strength and definition.
- Improved shoulder stability: The close-grip hand position helps to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, improving stability and reducing injury risk.
- Enhanced core engagement: Diamond pushups require greater core engagement to maintain proper form, leading to a stronger core.
Tips for Performing Diamond Pushups
- Start slowly: If you are new to diamond pushups, start with a few repetitions and gradually increase the number as you get stronger.
- Focus on form: Maintaining proper form is crucial to avoid injury and maximize results. Keep your body straight, core engaged, and elbows close to your body throughout the exercise.
- Modify as needed: If you find diamond pushups too challenging, you can modify them by performing them on your knees or against a wall.
Diamond pushups are a great exercise for building upper body strength and improving overall fitness. By incorporating them into your workout routine, you can target your triceps, enhance shoulder stability, and strengthen your core.