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Wall Push-Up (Hand Focus)

BeginnerStrengthTier T2

Push-ups against a wall to introduce upper body weight bearing through hands. Easier than floor push-ups.

Targets: Hand/Fingers
Muscles: Pectoralis Major, Triceps

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home
  • Works at the gym

Home Options

  • wall

No equipment? Try: Counter for harder version

Dosage

3

Sets

10

Reps / Time

60 sec

Rest

2 sec down / 2 sec up

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Stand arm's length from wall
  • Palms flat on wall at shoulder height
  • Feet together or slightly apart
  1. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 1 of 5

    Bend elbows to lower chest toward wall

  2. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 2 of 5

    Keep body straight (don't bend at hips)

  3. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 3 of 5

    Touch or nearly touch wall with chest

  4. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 4 of 5

    Push through palms to return to start

  5. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 5 of 5

    Repeat

Breathing

  • Inhale as you lower
  • Exhale as you push back

Form Cues

  • Keep wrists neutral if possible
  • Spread fingers for stability
  • Body stays straight like a plank
  • Control the movement both ways

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Bending at hips
  • Wrists hyperextending
  • Not going deep enough
  • Shoulders shrugging up

Safety Information

Avoid with acute wrist injury. Use fist position if wrist extension is painful.

Progressions

Counter, then incline, then floor push-ups

Counter-Top Push-UpIntermediate

Regressions

Stand closer to wall (less angle)