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Plyo Push-Up

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Plyo Push-Up.

HardMiddle chest

About this exercise

The Plyometric Push-Up is an explosive bodyweight exercise that trains chest power and fast-twitch muscle fibers. By driving the hands off the floor at the top of each rep, it develops upper-body reactive strength and neuromuscular coordination.

How to Perform

  • Begin in a standard push-up position with hands shoulder-width apart and body in a straight line
  • Lower your chest toward the floor under control
  • Explosively push through your palms so your hands leave the floor
  • Land with soft elbows to absorb the impact and immediately transition into the next rep
  • Keep your core braced and hips level throughout every repetition
  • Control your breathing: inhale on the way down, exhale forcefully on the push

Muscle Activation

Primary
Middle chest
Secondary
BicepsTricepsFront shouldersInner forearmUpper chest

About the Plyo Push-Up

The Plyo Push-Up is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.