Pushups Strengthen The Core
Dear Friend,
This past weekend while taking a much needed
rest, I dreamt about the pushups written about in
Combat Conditioning - and how they don't just
strengthen the chest, shoulders and arms - but the
'core' as well.
Hindu pushups, for example, not only strengthen the
upper body, but the legs and hips as well. In addition,
they work the abdominals and the spine while increasing
circulation to the vital organs. It would be an understatement
to say that Hindu pushups strengthen the core. They do far
more than that.
Much is written about the 'core' these days - almost
as if it's a NEW section of the body that was finally discovered.
I'm not against such talk, although I do find it entertaining from
time to time. Visualizing 'the core' does help many people take
note of an area of the body in great need of training.
In the olden days, we had guys like Paul Bragg running
around saying, 'Fat can only accumulate on the body where
there is no activity.' One need only look at his bulging belly
or expanding arse to see the truth of his statement.
As you begin to master Hindu pushups, though, there is another
pushup in Combat Conditioning that is almost 'pure' core
training. Sure, having strong arms, shoulders and chest muscles
helps. But the key to 'Arms Extended Pushups' is really more
lower back and abs than anything else.
When you really get strong with the 'arm extend pushup' you
can venture into the 'one-arm extended pushup.' A number of
years ago a friend told me he knew of a Marine who could do
20 with one hand. I didn't think it possible at first - then I got
my arse to work. Was able to do them soon afterward - but they
are tough.
Speaking of Marines, had a few send a correction about one of
last week's tips. I let one of them tell you all about it:
Matt,
I wanted to thank you for mentioning the Marines in you latest e-mail,
but you did misquote us! I am a Marine...and we DO NOT say 'hoooahh'!
That is what the Army says. A Marine would bark, 'Ooh Rah'!! There IS
a difference! Thanks! You are the man, by the way!
Sincerely
John S. Lambeth, Jr.
M.F.: I stand corrected John. Thanks for letting me know. My very best
goes out to you and everyone else serving in the military.
Well, that's all for now. Get cracking on those pushups
and strengthen 'the core.'
Well, all for now.
Kick butt - take names!
Matt Furey
P.S. To get your hands on how to do Hindu pushups and 'arms extended
pushups' - be sure to order my best-selling book Combat Conditioning,
along with the videos. For more information on them go here.
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