Archive · 21 Aug 2026
The Great Khali’s Knuckle Push-Ups Show Strength Benefits at 53
The Great Khali showed himself doing push-ups while balancing on his fists.
This is called a knuckle or fist push-up.
It can make the upper body, wrists and forearms stronger.
It also tests balance, control and endurance.
The fists give the body a smaller base to rest on than open hands.
This can put more pressure on the knuckles and forearms.
Doing this exercise does not prove someone is strong in every way.
Beginners should start with regular or easier push-ups first.
People with wrist, hand, finger or shoulder problems should be especially careful.
Former professional wrestler Dalip Singh, known as The Great Khali, shared a video of himself doing knuckle push-ups at age 53.
An orthopaedic expert said fist push-ups can build upper-body strength and improve wrist, forearm and grip endurance.
Using closed fists creates a smaller support base and increases demands on the knuckles, wrists, shoulders, core and balance.
The exercise demonstrates strength, coordination and body control but does not measure overall strength by itself.
Beginners should first develop technique with regular or modified push-ups and introduce knuckle push-ups gradually.
- Who
- Former professional wrestler Dalip Singh, known as The Great Khali, and Dr Mrinal Prakash, consultant orthopaedics at KIMS Hospitals Thane.
- What
- The Great Khali performed knuckle push-ups, prompting an explanation of their possible strength and fitness benefits.
- When
- Recently, when The Great Khali was 53.
- Where
- The performance was shared on Instagram; the article identifies the expert as being at KIMS Hospitals Thane.
- Why
- The exercise was discussed to explain its effects, risks and suitability for beginners.
- Person featured
- Dalip Singh, also known as The Great Khali
- Age
- 53
- Reported height
- 7 feet 1 inch
- Exercise
- Knuckle or fist push-ups
- Potential benefits
- Upper-body strength, wrist and forearm stability, grip and muscular endurance
- Main caution
- Beginners should build strength with regular or modified push-ups first
- Medical advice
- People with wrist, hand, finger or shoulder problems should take particular care and consult a health practitioner