Fingertip Push-Up

Body region

• Chest
• Arms

Muscles

Main

• Pectoralis Major
• Triceps

Helps

• Deltoid
• Flexor Digitorum Superficialis
• Flexor Digitorum Profundus

Holds

• Serratus Anterior
• Rectus Abdominis
• Thenar Muscles
• Interossei of Hand

Technique

1. Start in a push-up position, then raise your palms so you are supported on spread fingertips and thumbs.
2. Keep the fingers firm and slightly bent, with heels, hips and shoulders lined up.
3. Lower your chest toward the floor by bending the elbows.
4. Push back up to straight arms while staying on the fingertips.

Cues

• Build up from the knees or against a wall before doing full reps on the toes.
• Spread the fingers wide so all five share the load.
• Stop if the fingers start to buckle or a joint hurts.

Common mistakes

• Letting the fingers collapse flat under the load.
• Supporting yourself on only a few fingers.
• Letting the hips sag.

Alternatives

• Push-Up
• Diamond Push-Up