Why do a staggered pushup? There are a million different types of pushups and each variation focuses on something specific. Pushups are commonly used to build arm, shoulder and chest strength and the abs, back and butt are also engaged. Staggered pushups focus on one side of the chest at a time and challenge the shoulders, arms and abs. This move has been featured several times lately in health and fitness magazines because many top trainers have been suggesting this pushup variation to their celebrity clients.

To do a staggered pushup:
Start kneeling on the floor. Place the hands down in front of you and take the legs out behind you. The body should be in a straight line, with the hands right under the shoulders. Now move the right arm a few inches higher and the left arm a few inches lower. This will move the arms out to the sides of the body just a bit. Now lower yourself to the ground, keeping the neck neutral and squeezing the stomach and butt. Bring it back up. Do 10. If you can’t do 10 in a row, take a a break or keep working until you can do 3 sets of 10. Persistence will be rewarded with a strong upper body and stomach!

Remember that form is the most important part of this or any exercise. When the form starts to suffer, your chance of injury increases. In the Staggered Pushup, it is important to squeeze the stomach to avoid lower back pain. This also prevents the back from dipping toward the ground which can lead to poor form and even a sore back. You also must squeeze the butt because it helps to keep the body in a straight line. Finally, it is important to have a neutral neck to avoid strain and make you breathe during the exercise!