GymProgress
arrow_backAll exercises

Plank Triceps Press-Up (Body-Up)

PushIsolationBodyweightIntermediate
Plank Triceps Press-Up (Body-Up) — Starting positionPlank Triceps Press-Up (Body-Up) — End position

Muscles worked

Front
Back
TricepsAbdominalsForearms

Instructions

  1. 1Assume a plank position on the ground. You should be supporting your bodyweight on your toes and forearms, keeping your torso straight. Your forearms should be shoulder-width apart. This will be your starting position.
  2. 2Pressing your palms firmly into the ground, extend through the elbows to raise your body from the ground. Keep your torso rigid as you perform the movement.
  3. 3Slowly lower your forearms back to the ground by allowing the elbows to flex.
  4. 4Repeat.

table_chartRecommended sets and reps

These ranges vary depending on your training goal — adjust the load accordingly.

GoalSetsRepsRest
boltStrength3–46–82–3 min
fitness_centerHypertrophy3–410–1560 s
timerEndurance2–315–2030–45 s

About Plank Triceps Press-Up (Body-Up)

The Body-Up, or plank triceps press-up, starts from a standard forearm plank and pushes the entire body up to a straight-arm position, essentially a reverse push-up that begins at the bottom. This movement combines triceps work with intense core bracing throughout the transition, demanding strict control to keep the body perfectly rigid. It's a great bridge exercise between standard planking and close-grip push-ups.

check_circleBenefits

  • check_circleCombines triceps work with intense core bracing
  • check_circleRequires no equipment, bodyweight only
  • check_circleA good stepping stone before close-grip push-ups
  • check_circleBuilds core control and rigidity through movement

lightbulbExecution tips

  • lightbulbKeep the hips aligned, not piked up or sagging
  • lightbulbPush up one arm at a time for more stability if needed
  • lightbulbBrace the core before starting each rep
  • lightbulbControl the descent instead of dropping down

warningCommon mistakes

  • warningHips sagging during the push
  • warningPushing up too fast without core control
  • warningForearms too wide or too narrow apart
  • warningHead dropping toward the floor instead of staying aligned

helpFrequently asked questions

Should I push both arms at the same time?expand_more

Ideally yes for symmetry, though pushing one arm at a time is fine when starting out.

Does this replace regular push-ups?expand_more

It complements standard push-ups rather than replacing them, with more emphasis on triceps and core bracing.

Track your progress

Log your sets, your weights and beat your records — free, on mobile and desktop.

arrow_forwardCreate a free account