The straddle planche is T5 in the Masters series — the intermediate step between the tuck planche and the full planche. By straddling the legs wide, the effective lever arm is reduced compared to legs together: the center of mass is closer to the hands. This makes the straddle planche significantly more accessible than the full planche, while remaining significantly harder than the tuck.
The Lever Principle
In the tuck planche, both legs are folded close to the body — minimum lever arm, maximum feasibility. As legs extend outward (straddle), the lever increases. When legs come fully together (full planche), the lever is at maximum. The straddle planche occupies the middle range: significant lever arm, but with the legs spread wide enough to keep the load manageable for developing athletes.
Building It
From a solid tuck planche hold, begin extending one or both legs slightly outward. The first progression is a “wide tuck” — knees still bent but spread apart. Then a “half straddle” — knees beginning to straighten outward. Then a full straddle — legs fully extended and spread wide.
Straddle Planche Push-Up
The dynamic version — lower to a straddle planche push-up and press back to planche in straddle position. The pressing component of the full planche push-up trained from the straddle first. Full planche push-ups follow after consistent straddle versions.
Move. Groove. Repeat. Smooth.
← Freestanding HSPU | Next: Full Front Lever →
Move. Groove. Repeat. Smooth.
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