Close-grip push-up — Form
form
Body Workouts

Upper body

Close-grip push-up

Suggested start: 2–3 sets · 6–10 reps · rest 45–60 sec between sets

Repetitions
Lowered positionBodyweight
Three-quarter view of a lowered close-grip push-up with hands close beneath the chest, elbows beside the ribs, and triceps, chest and front shoulders highlighted red.
Triceps, chest & front shoulders

A narrower press that puts more emphasis on your triceps. Keep your elbows close and move your shoulders and hips together.

How to do it

  1. Narrow your hand position

    Place your palms just inside shoulder-width beneath your chest. Spread your fingers; your hands do not need to touch.

  2. Make a steady plank

    Extend your legs onto your toes and brace your middle. Keep your head, hips, and heels aligned.

  3. Lower close to your ribs

    Bend your elbows backward beside your torso. Bring your chest toward your hands without letting your hips sag.

  4. Press away

    Push through both palms to raise your chest and hips together. Lower your knees if you need a lighter version.

Find your form

Keep in mind

  • Keep your forearms close to upright at the bottom.
  • Use a comfortable hand spacing and a controlled pace.

Watch out for

  • Flaring your elbows outward as you lower.
  • Letting your lower back arch or forcing your hands into an uncomfortable diamond.

Movement references

NASM · Push-up mechanics (opens in a new tab)NASM · Narrow-grip push-up and triceps (opens in a new tab)