FormAtlas

Exercise reference

Incline Push-Up.

Incline Push-Up is a beginner exercise for chest. It uses bench. Press away from the torso while keeping the ribs and shoulders controlled.

Incline Push-Up single-position exercise illustration
Single-position reference. This AI-assisted illustration may show only one phase of the exercise. Use the equipment setup and written sequence for the full movement; any color emphasis is illustrative, not an activation measurement.
Muscles worked Primary: ChestAlso: TricepsAlso: Shoulders
Required equipment
Bench
Movement
Horizontal push
Level
Beginner

Before you start

Equipment and setup

A stable bench, box, or raised surface that will not slide, tip, or collapse.

General movement guidance

This page currently uses general horizontal push guidance. Check the exact setup and use qualified coaching when the movement is unfamiliar or complex.

Movement sequence

  1. Set the shoulder blades gently back and down before the first rep.
  2. Lower under control until the elbows are slightly behind the torso or the chosen range is reached.
  3. Press back to the start while keeping the ribs down and wrists stacked.

Form cues

  • Keep wrists stacked
  • Move the body as one piece
  • Finish with quiet shoulders

Common mistakes

  • Letting the shoulders roll forward
  • Flaring the ribs to finish the press

Scale it

Easier: Use an incline setup or reduce the range of motion.

Harder: Add load, lower the incline, or slow the tempo.

Editorial context

Last editorial pass: August 19, 2026. Public-health guidance informs the activity context, and a professional exercise library helps cross-check common naming and equipment categories. The movement instructions remain general education, not individualized coaching.

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