Push Beginner

Incline Push-ups

A push-up on an elevated surface — the ideal stepping stone to floor push-ups.

ChestShouldersTriceps
Incline Push-ups — Starting position Starting position
Incline Push-ups — End position End position

Parameters

3 Sets
10-12 Reps
60s Rest

01 Steps

  1. 1 Place your hands on a stable surface (table, bench, step) at shoulder width.
  2. 2 Walk your feet back until your body forms a straight line from head to heels.
  3. 3 Engage your core and squeeze your glutes to lock your posture.
  4. 4 Lower by bending your elbows until your chest touches the surface.
  5. 5 Push back to the starting position while exhaling.

02 Tips

  • The lower the surface, the harder the exercise. Start with a table, then a chair, then a step.
  • Keep your wrists aligned under your shoulders to avoid wrist pain.
  • Squeeze your glutes to prevent your hips from sagging.

03 Common mistakes

  • Hips sagging: imagine a rigid plank from your head to your feet.
  • Hands too wide: keep them at shoulder width.
  • Not going low enough: aim for chest contact with the surface.

04 If you struggle

  • Use a higher surface (kitchen counter for example).
  • Go back to wall push-ups and gradually increase the distance from the wall.
Beginner Incline Push-ups

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