Push-up — Form
Body Workouts

Upper body

Push-up

Suggested start: 2–3 sets · 8–12 reps · rest 30–45 sec between sets

Repetitions
Lowered positionBodyweight
Side view of a push-up with elbows bent, body aligned, and chest, triceps and front shoulders highlighted red.
Chest, triceps & front shoulders

A foundational press for your upper body. Move your chest and hips together while your core keeps you steady.

How to do it

  1. Set your position

    Place your hands just wider than your shoulders. Extend your legs and balance on your toes.

  2. Brace your body

    Keep your neck long and your body aligned from head to heels.

  3. Lower with control

    Bend your elbows back at roughly 45° to your torso. Bring your chest toward the floor while keeping your alignment.

  4. Press up

    Push the floor away, raising your shoulders and hips together to return to the start.

Find your form

Keep in mind

  • Look at the floor just ahead of your hands.
  • Move as one unit, with a steady, controlled pace.

Watch out for

  • Letting your hips drop or lifting them first.
  • Spreading your elbows straight out to the sides.

Movement references

NASM · Push-up (opens in a new tab)