How to do a perfect push up

A push up is a moving plank. Get the body line right and the rest follows: elbows tucked to about 45 degrees, chest to just above the floor, and a full lockout at the top.

Body line first

Squeeze your glutes and brace your core so your body is one straight line. No sagging hips, no piking up.

Depth and elbow path

Lower until your chest is about a fist off the floor with elbows at roughly 45 degrees from your torso, then press all the way back to a locked top.

FAQ

My hips sag, what do I do?

Brace harder and squeeze your glutes. If you still sag, drop to an incline push up until you can hold the line.

How many should I be able to do?

It varies widely. Focus on clean full range reps before chasing a number.

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