Arms, chest & shoulders

Incline press-up

A press-up with your hands raised on a sturdy surface — the bridge between wall and floor press-ups.

Beginner Low impact Step or bottom stair
Movement diagram for Incline press-up: incline plank, hands on a step to incline press-up (lowered)
Original diagram — start and finish positions.

How to do it

  1. Place your hands slightly wider than your shoulders on a sturdy raised surface — a step, bench or kitchen worktop.
  2. Walk your feet back until your body is in a straight line.
  3. Bend your elbows to lower your chest towards the edge, elbows angled back about 45 degrees.
  4. Push back up, keeping your body straight.

Form tips

  • The higher the surface, the easier it is.
  • Squeeze your glutes to stop your hips sagging.

Common mistakes

  • Hips sagging.
  • Head poking forward.

Easier and harder

Make it easier

Use a higher surface.

Make it harder

Use a lower surface, then progress to kneeling or full press-ups.

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