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Exercise guide
Close Grip Push Ups
A push-up variation with hands placed close together to emphasize the triceps.
What this exercise works
- Muscles
- pectoralis major · triceps brachii · anterior deltoid · serratus anterior
- Goals
- hypertrophy · strength
- Equipment
- No equipment
- Category
- Strength
- Difficulty
- intermediate
Demonstration
Step 1
Step 2
How to perform the movement
- Assume a push-up position with hands directly under your shoulders.
- Keep your elbows tucked close to your ribs.
- Lower your chest toward the floor.
- Press back up to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of reps.
Technique cues and common mistakes
- Keep your elbows tracking backward, not flared out.
- Maintain a rigid plank position throughout.
- Slow the descent for greater triceps activation.