Workout Type:
Push
Difficulty Level:
Beginner
Equipment needed:
Wall

How To Do Incline Pike Push Ups

Incline pike push-ups are a variation of the traditional push-up that targets the shoulders and upper chest. This exercise is performed with your feet on the ground and your hands on an elevated surface, allowing for a greater range of motion and increased difficulty.

Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Execute Incline Pike Push Ups

Starting Position

Begin by placing your hands on an elevated surface, such as a bench or a sturdy box, shoulder-width apart. Your feet should be on the ground, and your body should form an inverted V shape. Keep your legs straight and your core engaged to maintain stability.

Lowering Phase

Bend your elbows and lower your head towards the elevated surface. Keep your elbows tucked in close to your body as you descend. Focus on lowering your head in a controlled manner, ensuring that your back remains straight and your hips do not sag.

Pushing Phase

Once your head is close to the elevated surface, push through your hands to return to the starting position. Engage your shoulders and chest as you lift your body back up. Ensure that your body remains in a straight line from your head to your heels throughout the movement.

Finishing Position

At the top of the movement, pause briefly to ensure you have fully extended your arms. Maintain your body alignment and engage your core before preparing for the next repetition. Focus on breathing steadily throughout the exercise.

Incline Pike Push Ups Workout Plan for All Levels

  • Beginner: 3 sets of 5-8 reps, 60 seconds rest, 2-3 times per week.
  • Intermediate: 4 sets of 8-12 reps, 45 seconds rest, 3-4 times per week.
  • Advanced: 5 sets of 12-15 reps, 30 seconds rest, 4-5 times per week.

What Are The Benefits Of Incline Pike Push Ups

  • Strengthens the shoulders and upper chest.
  • Improves overall upper body strength and stability.
  • Enhances core engagement and balance.
  • Builds a foundation for the pike push ups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Letting your hips sag: Keep your body in a straight line to avoid strain on your lower back.
  • Flaring elbows out: Keep your elbows close to your body to protect your shoulders.
  • Rushing through the movement: Perform each rep slowly and with control to maximize effectiveness.
  • Neglecting core engagement: Always engage your core to maintain stability and proper form.

Follow these steps and tips to master Incline Pike Push Ups with proper form and efficiency.

FAQ About Incline Pike Push Ups

How many incline pike push ups should I do per set?

6-10 reps, 3-4 sets. Keep your hips high and lower your head toward the elevated surface. If you can do 10 easily, increase the height of the surface. The higher your feet, the more shoulder load and the closer it gets to a handstand push-up.

What's the difference between incline pike push ups and regular pike push ups?

Foot elevation. Incline pike push-ups have your feet on a raised surface, which increases the angle and puts more load on the shoulders. Regular pike push-ups are done with feet on the floor. The incline version is harder and closer to vertical pressing.

Are incline pike push ups good for building toward handstand push ups?

One of the best progressions. They gradually increase the vertical pressing angle without requiring full balance. I progress athletes from floor pike push-ups to low box, then high box, then wall-assisted handstand push-ups. Each step adds about 10-15 degrees.

Why do my shoulders hurt during incline pike push ups?

Your hand position is probably wrong. Place your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width with fingers pointing forward. If you're too narrow, the shoulders get impinged. Also make sure you're pressing your head forward past your hands at the bottom, not straight down.

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