Incline Push-Up
An incline push-up is a push-up with your hands raised on a bench, table or wall, which makes it easier while still working your chest, shoulders and triceps.
How it moves
Hands on a sturdy surface, body straightChest and triceps working. A simplified figure, not a full form check.
- Main muscle
- Chest
- Equipment
- No equipment
- Level
- Beginner
- Where to start
- 2 to 3 sets of 8 to 15 reps
Written by WellPath FusionLast updated · Published
- Find a stable surface. Use a sturdy bench, kitchen counter or wall. The higher the surface, the easier the exercise.
- Set your hands. Place your hands on the edge slightly wider than your shoulders.
- Walk your feet back. Step back until your body is in a straight line from head to heels.
- Lower your chest. Bend your elbows to bring your chest towards the edge, elbows at about 45 degrees.
- Push away. Press through your hands to straighten your arms, keeping your body in one line.
What are the most common mistakes?
- Using a surface that slides. Make sure the bench or table cannot move, or push against a wall.
- Leading with the head. Keep your neck in line with your body rather than reaching your chin forward.
- Bending at the hips. Brace your stomach so your body moves as one piece.
How can you make it easier or harder?
Make it easier
Stand closer to a wall and push against it.
Make it harder
Use a lower surface each week until you can do push-ups on the floor.
Try next: Push-UpStop if you feel sharp pain, dizziness or chest discomfort. If you have a heart condition, are pregnant, have had recent surgery or have an injury, check with a doctor or physiotherapist before starting a new exercise.
Editorial content for general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read more about how we source and review our content.
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