Plyo Push-Up

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Category
plyometrics
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
Plyo Push-UpPlyo Push-Up

An explosive plyometric variation of the push-up where you propel your body upward off the ground.

Instructions

  1. Move into a prone position on the floor, supporting your weight on your hands and toes.
  2. Your arms should be fully extended with the hands around shoulder width. Keep your body straight throughout the movement. This will be your starting position.
  3. Descend by flexing at the elbow, lowering your chest towards the ground.
  4. At the bottom, reverse the motion by pushing yourself up through elbow extension as quickly as possible. Attempt to push your upper body up until your hands leave the ground.
  5. Return to the starting position and repeat the exercise.
  6. For added difficulty, add claps into the movement while you are air borne.

Tips

  • Land softly with your hands to absorb impact.
  • Build up to clapping variations once you master the basic movement.
  • Maintain a rigid body position throughout the movement.

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps
Gain strength 3 7 reps
Build muscle 3 10 reps
Build endurance 3 14 reps