Plyo pushups are an explosive variation of the standard pushup designed to increase upper body power. They involve pushing off the ground with enough force to lift your hands completely off the ground.
Here's a breakdown of what they involve:
- Explosive Movement: The primary characteristic is the explosive push, aiming to generate maximum force in a short amount of time.
- Upper Body Power Development: Plyo pushups target the muscles responsible for pushing movements, building both strength and power.
- Core Engagement: Maintaining a stable core throughout the movement is crucial for proper form and preventing injury. As the video states, "We want to lock our core."
- Controlled Descent: A controlled lowering phase is important before the explosive push. The video recommends going "down slow."
In summary, plyo pushups are a dynamic exercise that enhances upper body explosiveness by incorporating a jumping or clapping component into the traditional pushup.