charlesatlas.com

Hi All,
Got a problem. I've been so lazy for so long that I can't even do 1 corect push up and definately not a Charles Atlas dipping exercise. Does any of you have any suggestions of the steps I can take to enable me to do the dipping exercise?
Does anyone take the supplements that Charles Atlas sells? I try to eat right but I think that taking the supplements would be a good insurance policy. What do you think?
Please reply. I'm desperate!

Pegasus, I know sometimes we get off track and want to be back on were we left right away. I would advise for you to take it easy.

If you cannot perform push-ups on the floor, I would advise to do the following easier push-ups variations first. Work on one type of push-p and when you can perform the volume recommended, switch to a more difficult variation:

1) Perform push-ups with the hands placed on an elevated surface, such as the border of a table or bench. Work up to 2 sets of 20 repetitions.

2) Perform push-ups on the floor, but resting the weight on the knees & hands instead of the toes & hands as in a classic push-up. Work up to 2 sets of 20 repetitions

3) Perform classic push-ups. Work up to 2 sets of 20 repetitions

4) Once you reach the performance of classic push-ups, switch to Atlas Dips

Hope this helps!!!!

I too have problems doing dips,but for a different reason. I have dislocating shoulders from sports injuries. I use a kitchen counter and do 30 twice a day. At work I use the restroom sink counter to lean against for my " dips ". No matter how many you do just do not strain and keep working towards your goal. The Atlas system is the best out there. Just make sure you do something everyday. I do the perpetuals on off days if I can not do lesson 1-12. Good luck.................TAS

I agree with emfermi.
Especially the number 2, doing pushups on your knees is a very good way to build yourself up to full pushups.
At first you can have your feet down and then you can elevate them, supporting your weight only on
your knees and hands.
I'm glad you are back on training. Don't rush yourself to many repetitions. Just concentrate on good
style and the reps will build up themselves.

When I've been injured, or on days when I'm feeling tired or weak (more a low mood than actual fatigue) I begin with "wall push-aways". I stand about 2 feet out from a wall and do "vertical pushups" or push-aways from the wall. It's super low resistance, and I find it's a good way to warm up or to get just a little chest work done without the real effort required doing chair dips. I should add that if I'm just plain tired I take a day off because it's my body saying it needs to rest. Good luck!
Jim

You can also do the dips with two chairs whilst on your knees.

Mate the first step is all ways the hardest which you have succeeded !
To make a start if you can only do one a day for a week thats 7 that you have previously not done good work your on your way!
Read the quotes to inspire your self such as train don't strain etc.
Exersice is never easy , but will become enjoyable it in time , their is never any quick fix just detication but I assure you your head is pointing in the right direaction now and the body will follow.
Step by step and the job is done , one step at a time!
Try walking every day i found that walking helped remove that tired lazy feeling and gave me energy inproved my breathing etc i felt stronger from just wallking the more i walk the better i feel.
I remenber how hard my first push up was i done in years when i deceiced to get fit
And i left myself go for years and one day i looked at myself and thought what mess and i was almost 50
I now can do forty easy with out loseing breath in a row .
Pegasus your on the right track keep going take note of the good people here and find
What works best for you congradulations mate on deciding to make a start .
Health and strenght all John (jabbers).