The 22 Push-Up Challenge is the internet’s latest flavour of the month

The 22 Push-Up Challenge is the internet’s latest flavour of the month

It’s been two years since the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, the viral sensation that had social media users – and eventually, athletes and celebrities – posting videos of themselves being doused in water for charity.

Now, there’s another similar trend that’s growing. But this one could have you feeling fitter when all’s said and done, rather than wet and shivering.

The 22 Push-Up Challenge started in the military, and has since swept across popular social media hubs like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Social media users are uploading videos daily, taking on the challenge: 22 push ups for 22 days. Each upload grants the user one nominee to tag (#22pushups) and challenge, in hopes of them starting their own 22-day regimen.

Perhaps David Beckham can fill in the details more clearly:


The military-inspired initiative began to raise both money and awareness for post-traumatic stress disorder. In the U.S. alone, an estimated 22 ex-servicemen and women commit suicide everyday as a result of PTSD, spurred by their service in the military. Combat Stress, a veteran’s mental health charity, says the number of people that’ve come to them for help with PTSD, depression, or anxiety has climbed 13% since just last year.

Countless soldiers and veterans have already participated in the challenge, and now the trend is spreading to celebrities, politicians, and organizations, a trajectory similar to the ALS challenge.

And while the challenge is an excellent cause to show support and solidarity with those who serve in the army, it’s a good way to get fit, too. The time couldn’t be more convenient, with body-resistance workouts at the peak of their popularity currently.

To ensure you’re doing your pushups the correct way, personal trainer Scott Laidler’s elements to a perfect pushup will improve your form:

  1. Your hands and feet should be just wider apart than should length, with your weight evenly distributed between your wrists, and the balls of your feet. Keep your back as straight as possible.
  2. It’s both better for you and easier to lower yourself down slowly whilst inhaling, then explode upwards on the exhale.
  3. Keep your form at top of mind; always keep your elbows tucked in, and don’t let your hips sag or rise.
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