If you find that your wrists often hurt during planks and pushups, there are alternative exercises you can try to reap similar benefits without experiencing wrist pain.
Let's take a closer look at these exercises:
Finger Stretch: Extend your arm with fingers pointing down, gently pull each finger back one at a time for a few seconds.
Wrist Circles: Rotate your wrists clockwise and then counterclockwise, making gentle circles to improve flexibility.
Wrist Rotations: Hold a light object (like a small dumbbell or water bottle) in your hand and rotate your wrist slowly in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.
Forearm Plank: Instead of a regular plank, try a forearm plank where you rest on your forearms instead of your hands, reducing strain on your wrists.
Pushup on Fist: Perform pushups with your hands in a fist instead of flat on the ground, which can help alleviate pressure on your wrists.
Yoga Cat-Cow Stretch: Start on your hands and knees, arch your back up like a cat while pressing through your palms, then drop your belly down while lifting your head and tailbone up like a cow.
These exercises can help improve wrist flexibility, strength, and reduce discomfort during planks and pushups.