Zen Push-Ups?

by WiredBerries Editors — March 12, 2008

Want to have strong, toned arms when it's time to don the first sundress of Spring? Take a zen route to get there. Push-up pose, or Chataranga, will have passersby admiring your arms as well as your peaceful aura.

Start in a standing position with feet about shoulder-width apart, and bend at your waist into a forward bend, reaching your shins, the top of your feet, or maybe even the floor with your hands. With knees slightly bent, jump your feet back so that you are at the top of a push-up - a position that is called Plank pose. Ensure that your hands are directly under your shoulders and your fingers are spread wide. Press back through your heels with flexed feet, tighten your belly and bum, and make sure your hips are in line with your body. Looking forward a bit, lower your body so that your elbows bend in toward your body and line up with your ribcage. Hold here, at the "bottom" of the push-up and breathe.

Feel how strong you are. Feel the strength in your core - your buttocks, abs, and back - as well as your arms. When you're ready, push up into Upward Dog pose or push back into Child's pose to rest with a big grin.