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Renegade Row Push-Up

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

MediumRear shouldersUpper chest

About this exercise

The push-up row combines a standard push-up with an alternating dumbbell row, training the chest, back, and core in one compound movement. Performed in a plank position on dumbbells, it demands significant core stability to prevent rotation during each row.

How to Perform

  • Place two dumbbells on the floor parallel to each other at shoulder width and assume a plank position, gripping one dumbbell in each hand
  • Brace your core and keep your body in a straight line from head to heels
  • Perform a push-up by lowering your chest to the dumbbells, then press back up to the starting plank position
  • Keeping your hips square, row one dumbbell up toward your hip by driving your elbow toward the ceiling
  • Lower the dumbbell back to the floor with control
  • Perform the push-up again, then row with the opposite arm
  • Continue alternating rows after each push-up for the desired number of reps

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shouldersUpper chestMiddle chestTrapeziusMiddle back
Secondary
BicepsTricepsFront shouldersSide shouldersOuter forearm

About the Renegade Row Push-Up

The Renegade Row 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.