Pike Pushups: The Ultimate Bodyweight Exercise for Shoulder Strength and Control

When it comes to bodyweight exercises, pushups are often the go-to movement for building upper body strength. But what if you're looking for something that goes beyond the chest and works more on shoulder development, core control, and functional strength? That’s where pike pushups come in. This often-overlooked pushup variation is not just a challenging shoulder workout—it's also a stepping stone toward mastering handstand pushups and building a rock-solid upper body. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pike pushups: what they are, how to do them properly, benefits, common mistakes, progressions, and more. What Are Pike Pushups? Pike pushups are a pushup variation performed with your hips elevated in a “pike” position, which resembles an inverted V. This shifts the focus from your chest (as in traditional pushups) to your shoulders and upper back. The movement mimics a vertical pressing pattern, similar to a shoulder press or handstand ...