High Incline Push-ups
High incline push-ups are performed with hands on an elevated surface (countertop, table, or high chair). Elevating the hands reduces total load versus the floor but demands more than wall push-ups, emphasizing the lower chest, triceps, and front deltoid.
Execution
Place hands on the edge of the surface, slightly wider than the shoulders. Body forms a straight diagonal from heels to head. Lower with control until the chest grazes the surface. Push up until elbows are almost locked. Greater incline = easier; lower surface = harder.
Difficulty progression
Start at hip height and gradually lower the support (chair height → step → floor). Each drop increases difficulty noticeably.
Errors
Breaking the body line by arching the lower back; looking up and straining the neck; not reaching full range.
Goal
3×15 before moving to low incline push-ups.