What is the best description of the beginning hand position for performing a drop push-up?

The best description of the beginning hand position for performing a drop push-up is slightly wider than shoulder width. This position allows for proper alignment and stability during the exercise, ensuring that the shoulders are engaged correctly while also allowing for a greater range of motion compared to a narrower hand position.

Placing the hands slightly wider than shoulder width helps distribute the load effectively across the chest, shoulders, and triceps, which are the primary muscle groups targeted during the push-up. Additionally, this wider grip can enhance upper body strength and stability needed for explosive movements, which is essential in tactical training environments.

Positions that are exactly shoulder width or slightly less can limit the engagement of the chest muscles and may not provide the same benefits in terms of strength development and performance enhancement. A much wider hand position could lead to unnecessary strain on the shoulder joints and would alter the mechanics of the push-up, moving away from its intended benefits.