Exercise guide · intermediate

Pike Push-Up

Pike Push-Up uses bodyweight in a vertical push movement that primarily trains shoulders and triceps. Use it to build overhead pressing strength and shoulder control.

shoulderstriceps
FRONTBACK
PrimaryAlso worksOther anatomy
Equipment
bodyweight
Typical range
5–15 reps
Also works
chest, core

01 · Set up

1

Bring the resistance to shoulder height with a stable grip for Pike Push-Up.

2

Brace the torso with the ribs stacked over the pelvis before pressing.

02 · Perform

1

Press upward while keeping the forearms close to vertical.

2

Finish with the resistance balanced over the shoulders without leaning back.

3

Lower to shoulder height under control and reset the brace.

Coaching tips

  • Keep ribs stacked.
  • Press up, not forward.
  • Finish over your base.

Common mistakes

  • Leaning backward to move the load.
  • Letting the wrists fold back.
  • Lowering beyond a controllable range.

What it should feel like

Expect controlled effort through the shoulders, triceps, not sharp or joint-focused pain.

Stop or modify when

Stop or shorten the range for sharp, sudden, worsening, or joint-focused pain; choose a reviewed alternative when needed.

Reviewed alternatives

Other ways to train the same primary muscles

Resistance-Band Overhead PressHalf-Kneeling Single-Arm Band Overhead PressSingle-Arm Dumbbell Z PressTall-Kneeling Band Overhead Press