Push-ups: That old-school exercise that gives us unwanted flashbacks to middle school phys ed. But there’s a reason this classic move has stuck around—it works for all fitness levels. (Yes, even yours.) Push-ups work your arms, back, shoulders, core, and legs. You can do them anywhere, and you’re guaranteed a great workout. To get the maximum benefit, master proper alignment and learn the variations and modifications to help you get started and keep you going.
Here, certified personal trainer Frankie Romeo talks you through correct form and demos three push-up circuits—with beginner, intermediate, and advanced variations.
Beginner
Proper technique + standard, wide, and incline options
Intermediate
Try diamond, declines, and staggered variations
Advanced
Take it up a notch with clap, T, and tempo push-ups
