Revolutionize Your Workout: Push Up Board vs Handles – Which is Better?

When it comes to strengthening your chest, shoulders, and triceps, push-ups are a classic exercise. But, what if you want to take your push-ups to the next level and target specific muscle groups or increase the challenge? That’s where push-up boards and handles come in.
The push up board vs handles debate is a common one, as both tools offer unique benefits and drawbacks. This blog post will dive deep into the world of push-up variations, exploring the advantages and disadvantages of each tool, helping you decide which one is best suited for your fitness goals and preferences.

Understanding Push Up Boards

Push-up boards are versatile pieces of equipment that enhance the traditional push-up by altering the angle of your body and engaging different muscle groups. They typically consist of two platforms connected by a bar, with various hand positions marked on the boards.

Benefits of Push Up Boards:

• Increased Range of Motion: The angled surface of the boards allows for a deeper push-up, increasing the range of motion and targeting more muscle fibers.
• Targeted Muscle Activation: By adjusting your hand position on the boards, you can focus on specific muscle groups, such as the chest, shoulders, or triceps.
• Enhanced Stability: The wider base of the boards provides greater stability compared to handles, which can be beneficial for beginners or those with balance issues.
• Portability and Affordability: Push-up boards are generally lightweight, compact, and affordable, making them convenient for home workouts.

Drawbacks of Push Up Boards:

• Limited Exercise Variety: While push-up boards offer different hand positions, they are primarily designed for push-ups, limiting the range of exercises you can perform.
• Potential for Wrist Strain: The angled surface of the boards can put extra strain on your wrists, especially if you have pre-existing wrist issues.
• Limited Grip Options: Some push-up boards may have limited grip options, which can be a drawback for those who prefer specific grip variations.

Understanding Push Up Handles

Push-up handles, also known as push-up bars, are another popular tool for enhancing push-ups. They typically consist of two handles that are placed on the floor, allowing you to perform push-ups with a wider grip.

Benefits of Push Up Handles:

• Increased Range of Motion: Similar to push-up boards, handles allow for a deeper push-up, increasing the range of motion and targeting more muscle fibers.
• Enhanced Stability: Handles provide a more stable base than push-up boards, especially for those who prefer a more traditional push-up motion.
• Versatile Exercise Options: Push-up handles can be used for a wider variety of exercises, including dips, rows, and even pull-ups with an additional strap.
• Improved Grip Strength: The handles allow for a stronger grip, which can benefit overall grip strength and forearm development.

Drawbacks of Push Up Handles:

• Higher Cost: Push-up handles are generally more expensive than push-up boards.
• Limited Portability: Handles can be bulkier and less portable than push-up boards, making them less convenient for travel or storage.
• Potential for Wrist Strain: Similar to push-up boards, handles can put extra strain on your wrists if proper form is not maintained.

Push Up Board vs Handles: Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between push-up boards and handles ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose Push Up Boards if:

• You’re looking for a more affordable and portable option.
• You want to target specific muscle groups through different hand positions.
• You prefer a wider base for enhanced stability.

Choose Push Up Handles if:

• You’re looking for a more versatile tool that can be used for a wider range of exercises.
• You prefer a more traditional push-up motion with a stable base.
• You’re willing to invest in a more expensive piece of equipment.

Tips for Using Push Up Boards and Handles

Regardless of which tool you choose, it’s essential to use proper form to maximize benefits and prevent injuries. Here are some tips:

• Start Slowly: Begin with a few sets of push-ups and gradually increase the number of sets and repetitions as you get stronger.
• Maintain Proper Form: Keep your back straight, core engaged, and elbows close to your body.
• Listen to Your Body: Stop if you feel any pain or discomfort.
• Vary Your Grip: Experiment with different hand positions to target different muscle groups.

Push Up Variations for Advanced Users

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can explore more advanced push-up variations to challenge yourself further. These variations can be performed with both push-up boards and handles:

• Decline Push-Ups: Elevate your feet on a bench or platform to increase the difficulty.
• Incline Push-Ups: Place your hands on a bench or platform to decrease the difficulty.
• Diamond Push-Ups: Place your hands close together, forming a diamond shape, to target your triceps.
• Clap Push-Ups: Explosively push yourself off the ground and clap your hands together before landing back down.
• Archer Push-Ups: Extend one arm straight out in front of you while performing the push-up.

Beyond the Basics: Push-Up Boards and Handles for Rehabilitation

Push-up boards and handles can also be beneficial for rehabilitation purposes. They can help individuals with injuries or limitations improve their strength, range of motion, and stability.

• Rehabilitation from Shoulder Injuries: Push-ups with modified hand positions can help strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, promoting recovery and preventing future injuries.
• Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: Push-up boards and handles can be used to gradually increase strength and range of motion after surgery, such as a rotator cuff repair.
• Improved Core Stability: Push-ups engage the core muscles, which are essential for overall stability and balance.

The Final Push: Choosing the Right Tool for You

The push up board vs handles debate ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, exercise goals, and desired level of versatility when making your decision. Both tools offer unique advantages and can help you take your push-ups to the next level. Remember to prioritize proper form and listen to your body, and you’ll be on your way to a stronger, healthier you.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Are push-up boards or handles better for beginners?
A: Both push-up boards and handles can be used by beginners, but push-up boards may offer a more stable base for those who are new to push-ups.
Q: Can I use push-up boards or handles for other exercises?
A: Push-up handles are more versatile and can be used for a wider range of exercises, including dips, rows, and pull-ups. Push-up boards are primarily designed for push-ups.
Q: How often should I use push-up boards or handles?
A: Aim for 2-3 sessions per week, allowing for rest days to allow your muscles to recover.
Q: What are some good alternatives to push-up boards and handles?
A: You can also use resistance bands, dumbbells, or your own body weight to perform push-up variations.