Close-Grip Push-Up
Trains the Triceps.
- Equipment
- Bodyweight
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Level
- Intermediate
How to do it
- Set up on the floor with your hands directly under your shoulders or slightly closer, fingers pointing forward.
- Extend your legs behind you so the body forms a straight line from head to heels, and brace the stomach.
- Lower the chest towards the floor, keeping the elbows tucked in and brushing the ribs.
- Stop when the chest is just above the floor.
- Press back up until the arms are straight, elbows still close to the body.
- Repeat, keeping the body in one line throughout.
Common mistakes
- Letting the elbows flare. Tucked elbows are what put the work on the triceps; the moment they drift out this is an ordinary push-up.
- Placing the hands too close. Hands under the shoulders is the position; touching thumbs makes the wrists take an awkward angle without adding anything to the triceps.
- Sagging through the hips. A close hand position is harder, and the back drops to make it easier; the body stays straight even when the arms are tired.
- Piking the hips up. Lifting the hips shortens the range and shifts the work off the arms; the hips stay in line with the shoulders and heels.