Handstand Push Up

Handstand Push Up is an advanced compound push using bodyweight. It loads Shoulders.

Why this lift

The Handstand Push Up is a advanced compound push lift. It primarily loads Shoulders. Triceps, Chest, Traps help. You need bodyweight. Most programs place it near the start of a session, while you are fresh. You may also hear it called Handstand Push Ups.

Presses and raises cover the delts. A little lateral-raise volume goes further than turning every press into a max attempt. This one asks for control and existing strength. Skip it until the easier variations in this library feel solid.

Muscles worked

• Primary: Shoulders
• Secondary: Triceps, Chest, Traps

Setup

• Set bodyweight. Shoulder blades packed, wrists stacked, feet planted.

How to do it

1. Lower under control, then press. Keep Shoulders as the prime movers.
2. Lock out without shrugging the shoulders into the ears.

Coaching cues

• Elbows under the load.
• Press yourself away from the weight.

Common mistakes

• Flaring and losing the lats. Tuck slightly and stay packed.
• Bouncing the bottom. Own the pause, then press.

How to program it

Treat the Handstand Push Up as a main lift: 3–5 working sets, add load or a rep when the last set still looks like the first. Leave isolation work for after.

If the Handstand Push Up does not agree with you, Arnold Press trains Shoulders with a different setup.

Related lifts

• Arnold Press Shoulders
• Barbell Front Raise Shoulders
• Barbell Push Press Shoulders
• Barbell Upright Row Shoulders
• Barbell Z Press Shoulders
• Behind the Back Barbell Overhead Press Shoulders

FAQ

What muscles does the Handstand Push Up work?

The Handstand Push Up works Shoulders (primary), Triceps, Chest, Traps (secondary).

What equipment do I need for the Handstand Push Up?

You need bodyweight.

Is the Handstand Push Up suitable for beginners?

No. The Handstand Push Up is marked advanced. Build the pattern with the easier related lifts first.