Push Up (Parallette)

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
parallettes
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A push-up variation using parallettes that allows for greater range of motion and less wrist strain than standard push-ups.

Instructions

  1. Place two parallettes on the ground positioned slightly wider than shoulder-width.
  2. Assume a push-up position with your hands on the parallettes and your body in a straight line from head to heels.
  3. Your feet can be together or shoulder-width apart, whichever is most comfortable.
  4. Lower your body by bending your elbows, descending until your chest approaches the parallettes.
  5. Your elbows should track at approximately 45 degrees away from your body.
  6. Press through your hands to extend your elbows and drive your body back up to the starting position.
  7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips

  • The elevated handles of parallettes allow you to descend deeper than a standard push-up.
  • This increased range of motion provides greater chest activation and development.
  • Keep your body rigid from head to heels throughout the movement - do not let your hips sag.
  • Parallettes are easier on the wrists than standard push-ups, making them ideal for wrist health.
  • This variation can be progressed to pike push-ups for shoulder development.

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

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

intermediate calisthenics
expert calisthenics
beginner calisthenics
beginner calisthenics
intermediate calisthenics