For the first time, a woman takes on the Man VS Men’s Health fitness challenge… and nails it
Cape Town personal trainer and boxer Sanchia du Preez faced up to the ultimate Men’s Health challenge, and showed it flames. It’s the same challenge we put to Olympic triathlete Henri Schoeman… but we reckon Sanchia gave him a proper run for his money.
Related: Watch Henri Schoeman take on the Man VS Men’s Health Challenge
The Rules
The 5 tests must be performed for 1 minute each with a 15 second change-over, equalling 6 minutes in total.
The order of the tests performed is completely up to the challenger. This is where strategy comes in.
The goal is to do as many ‘good’ reps as possible in the given time.
The final score is the total number of reps performed for all exercises added together.
The Test
The test can be done anywhere and does not rely on any equipment. It is broken down into 5 tests that test all facets of fitness from upper body strength and explosiveness, leg strength and explosiveness, endurance, core, balance and flexibility. The tests are…
1. Pushups – our pushup of choice for the test is the hand-release pushup so that form and execution can be strictly monitored
2. Burpees – burpees are brutal and our version includes dropping to the floor, performing a push-up, springing back to feet and finally a jumping overhead clap.
3. Jumping Lunges – drop into a lunge/split squat with the trailing knee almost touching the ground, jump up and switch legs. Repeat.
4. Toe Touches – feet/legs can be placed flush against a wall or freestanding. Reach up using core and touch your toes. Shoulders must touch the ground at the bottom position.
5. Head Taps – difficult for many, this one is the game breaker and will most likely determine who sits atop the leaderboard. The handstand may be performed facing the wall or away. The tapping of the head must be performed in an alternating pattern.