Close-Grip Push-up
Expert Advice
Keep your elbows close to your body to maximize triceps engagement and reduce the risk of shoulder injury.
How-to-do Steps
- Start in a plank position with your hands placed directly under your chest, fingers pointing forward.
- Lower your body towards the floor, keeping your elbows close to your sides.
- Push back up to the starting position, fully extending your arms.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions while maintaining proper form.
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Muscles Worked
Close-Grip Push-up primarily targets the Triceps, with Strength mechanics using Body Weight. Understanding muscle activation patterns helps you focus on proper engagement and maximize training effectiveness.
Primary
Triceps50%
Secondary
Shoulders25%
Chest25%
Equipment
Body Weight
Exercise Type
Strength
Sets & Reps Guidance
Beginner3 x 10-12
Intermediate4 x 8-10
Advanced4 x 6-8
Frequently Asked Questions
What muscles does Close-Grip Push-up work?
Close-Grip Push-up primarily targets the Triceps. Secondary muscles involved include Shoulders, Chest. It is classified as a Strength exercise performed with Body Weight.
How many sets and reps should I do for Close-Grip Push-up?
For beginners, start with 3 sets of 10-12. Intermediate lifters can do 4 sets of 8-10. Advanced athletes can push to 4 sets of 6-8. Adjust based on your goals and recovery capacity.
Is Close-Grip Push-up suitable for beginners?
Close-Grip Push-up is rated as intermediate difficulty. Beginners may want to start with lighter loads or simpler variations and progress to this exercise as their strength and coordination improve.
