Push-ups look simple. A few small details change how well they work.
Starting with your hands on a bench makes them easier to learn. The same cues apply on the floor.
Hand position
Place your hands a few inches outside your shoulders on each side.
Starting position
Arms straight. Aim for about a 90-degree angle at your shoulder, underneath your armpit.
Straight line
Your body should be completely straight from head to heels.
Lowering
Keep that straight plank aas you lower. Think of a pencil tipping down, not one that bends and breaks at the hips. Your hips and butt come down with your shoulders and head.
Elbows
At the bottom, your elbows should be at about 45 degrees from your body, stacked directly on top of your wrists. That’s why your hands start slightly wider than your shoulders.
Common mistake
A lot of people set their hands too close together. Then their elbows flare out past their hands.
Next time you do push-ups, check two things. Is your body one straight line? Are your elbows over your hands at the bottom?