After 2 years cannot do push or pull up - is it more than a strength issue?
31 yo F, 5'9", 67kg. Been working out about 3/4 yrs. Previously was 'skinny fat' - no core strength, fitness or even sports ever.
About two years ago, after a year+ of weights, I wanted to start working on my bodyweight strength. I could not hang or plank at all. Over the 2 yeas working on it my planks have improved, but I have been unable to get past hanging or knee pushups (4-5 tops). I also struggle with some yoga (plank lower to cobra - completely impossible).
Ive read the articles. I work the same muscles. I can deadlift 45kg, row 40, Lat pull down 35, etc, etc. I try to do negatives, but can barely manage to hold before I drop. Asked gym peeps for advice to no avail. Recently began wrist exercises.
Question is.. could it be another issue? My elbows click and grind when I try to do pushups. And, I get electric shocks down my forearms when I do shoulder press over 15kg.
Any advice would be great.. cant afford doc visit.
Thanks!
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What you should be doing is increasing the strength of the muscle groups you use during a pull-up or push-up.
For instance, do lat pull-downs or inverted rows to work your back muscles to the point that you're back becomes strong enough to do a full pull up. Assisted pull ups are also a great way, for more details see my answer on another question about pull ups.
For push-ups, you can start doing things like bench pressing, using both dumbells and barbells. This way you can steadily increase the weight, improving your strength as you go. You can also do push ups on your knees instead of your feet, this will make it a but easier. You can also do chest flies with either dumbells or on a cable machine.
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