Which muscles does the pike push up work?

The pike push up mainly works your shoulders. It also involves your triceps.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.

How do I track the pike push up in SweatByte?

Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.

Pike Push Up: how to do it and muscles worked

The pike push up mainly works your shoulders, with help from your triceps. You need bodyweight (no equipment).

Muscles worked

Main

Shoulders

Helping

Triceps

How to do the pike push up

1
Start in a push-up position, then walk your feet toward your hands and lift your hips so your body forms an upside-down V. Place hands slightly wider than your shoulders.
2
Bend your elbows and lower the top of your head toward the floor between your hands. Press back up until your arms are straight.
3
Keep your hips high and your elbows at about 45 degrees from your body throughout. Breathe in as you lower and out as you press.

Form tip: Move your feet closer to your hands to make it harder; do not let your hips drop, which turns it into a regular push-up.

Common questions

Which muscles does the pike push up work?: The pike push up mainly works your shoulders. It also involves your triceps.
What equipment do I need for the pike push up?: You need bodyweight (no equipment).
How many sets and reps should I do?: A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
How do I track the pike push up in SweatByte?: Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.

More shoulders exercises

General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.