chestbeginnerReviewed by Dr. Ananya Iyer, DPT

Standard Push-Up

The ultimate foundational bodyweight push exercise for upper body endurance and stability.

Recommended Sets3–4 Sets
Rep Range15–20 Reps
Rest Period60s Rest
Equipmentbodyweight

3D Visual Form & Technique Demonstration

Biomechanically verified form execution and joint angle cues.

Official Video Tutorial · 3D Biomechanics & Form DemonstrationWatch on YouTube
How to Execute the Standard Push-Up

Begin in high plank position with hands slightly wider than shoulders and fingers spread. Squeeze glutes and brace core so body forms a straight line from heels to crown.

  • Primary Muscle: CHEST
  • Secondary Synergists: TRICEPS, FRONT-DELTS, ABS
  • Rest Interval: 60 seconds between sets

Standard Push-Up Anatomy Activation

Primary motor unit recruitment for chest with secondary synergist stabilizers.

Primary (chest)
Secondary Synergists
Anterior (Front View)
Anterior Muscle Recruitment: chestFront anatomical silhouette highlighting chest in orange as active agonist.
● Primary Target View
Posterior (Back View)
Posterior Muscle Recruitment: chestBack anatomical silhouette highlighting chest in orange as active agonist.
Secondary / Stabilizer View
Anatomical PlaneTransverse Plane
Primary KinesiologyHorizontal Adduction
Biomechanical VectorMedial converging force towards the sternum
Active Anatomy:Primary: chestSynergist: tricepsSynergist: front-deltsSynergist: abs
Figure: Biomechanical muscle recruitment model for chest. Highlighted in orange is the primary agonist motor unit; highlighted in blue are synergistic stabilizing groups (triceps, front-delts, abs).

Step-by-Step Execution Guide

1

Begin in high plank position with hands slightly wider than shoulders and fingers spread.

2

Squeeze glutes and brace core so body forms a straight line from heels to crown.

3

Lower body until chest comes within 2 inches of the floor, keeping elbows at 45 degrees.

4

Push the ground away to return to top plank, locking out triceps.

Common Mistakes & Form Fixes

Sagging lower back due to inactive core.

Poking neck forward toward floor.

Biomechanical Safety & Injury Warning

Maintain rigid core bracing throughout all reps.

Alternative Exercises & Swaps

If the equipment is occupied or you need a joint-friendly variation, substitute with these approved movements:

Rohan Varma, CSCS
Authored By
Rohan Varma, CSCSHead Strength Coach & Biomechanics Lead
Dr. Ananya Iyer, DPT
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Ananya Iyer, DPTChief Medical & Biomechanics Reviewer
Last Reviewed & Verified: 2026-03-29
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