100 Push-Ups

Workout 28-Apr-09

100 Ring Push Ups
For time, 10 reps of each:
Archer push ups, 5 per arm
Jackknife push ups
Ring Flys
Tricep Push ups
Wide Grip Push ups
Pseudo-planche Push ups
Dive Bomber Push ups
Conventional Push ups
Single Leg Push ups, 5 per leg
Elevated Push ups

Results: 14'25, rings at 15.5" off the ground
Previous best: 16'40, rings at 15.5" off ground (1-Nov-08)

This is one of my favorite workouts done solely on a pair of rings and although it emphasizes the chest and triceps, the combination works many more muscle groups than just regular push-ups. I was definitely pleased with the two minute improvement in time. However, I should mention that I did the jackknife and ring fly push ups on my knees to help prevent hurting my back. This made these two variations easier since I had more leverage. However, I think that benefit was balanced out since being on my knees allowed me to drop deeper than if I were on my toes. That definitely made me work a lot harder to push myself back up.

For detailed descriptions and photos of each of the push-up variations, see the above linked article. It also discusses how you can scale this workout to make it easier or more difficult. The main factor is height of the rings off the ground. The higher up, the easier the workout. If you're just starting out, I'd recommend placing the rings about 24-30" off the ground.

Mark Rippetoe Quote of the Day:
In response to this question: Whenever I do dips, the second I let go of the bar it feels like a ton of pressure was just taken off my shoulders and upper pecs. Do you know what causes this and what i can do about it? Thanks.

"Perhaps you weigh 2000 lbs., in which case your perception would be remarkably accurate. Otherwise, you're probably just happy to be through with the set. The remedy would be to never let go of the bar, but that is impractical. I suppose I don't understand your question."