Incline Push-up

The incline push-up is a versatile and effective exercise that targets the muscles in your chest, shoulders, and triceps. It is a variation of the traditional push-up that allows you to adjust the intensity and difficulty level based on your fitness level and goals. This exercise requires an elevated surface such as a bench or step, making it suitable for both home and gym workouts. By performing incline push-ups, you can build upper body strength and stability. The inclined position reduces the load on your arms and shoulders compared to traditional push-ups, making it a great option for beginners or those recovering from injuries. As you progress, you can gradually decrease the incline by using lower surfaces, increasing the challenge and engaging your muscles even more. Incline push-ups can also help improve your posture, as they require stabilizing the core and keeping a straight line from your head to your heels. Additionally, this exercise indirectly engages the muscles of the core, back, and legs to maintain stability throughout the movement. To maximize the benefits, it's essential to maintain proper form and control throughout the exercise. Remember to include the incline push-up in your upper body workout routine, combining it with other exercises that target different muscle groups for a well-rounded workout. Always listen to your body, adjust the incline and repetitions accordingly, and gradually increase the difficulty to challenge yourself and continue making progress. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, the incline push-up is a valuable addition to your exercise regimen.

Instructions

• Position yourself facing a sturdy elevated surface, such as a bench or step, with your hands placed slightly wider than shoulder-width apart on the surface.
• Extend your legs behind you and position your body at an incline, with your hands and feet supporting your body weight.
• Engage your core and maintain a straight line from your head to your heels.
• Lower your chest towards the elevated surface by bending your elbows, keeping them close to your sides.
• Pause briefly at the bottom, then push through your hands to extend your arms and return to the starting position.
• Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips & Tricks

• Engage your core muscles throughout the movement for added stability and strength.
• Start with a manageable incline angle and gradually increase the angle as you progress.
• Focus on keeping your body in a straight line from head to toe.
• Make sure to lower your chest down towards the incline, aiming for a full range of motion.
• Control the movement and avoid using momentum to push up.
• Experiment with different hand positions to target different areas of your chest and arms.
• If you feel any discomfort in your wrists, try placing your hands on dumbbells or push-up bars.
• Breathe out as you push yourself up and breathe in as you lower yourself down.
• Don't forget to warm up your upper body and stretch your chest and shoulders before performing incline push-ups.
• Listen to your body and progress at your own pace, pushing yourself but always maintaining proper form.