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Dumbbell Plank Pass-Through Push-Up

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Plank Pass-Through Push-Up.

HardAbsCore

About this exercise

A challenging compound movement performed in a push-up plank with two dumbbells as handles. It combines a full push-up with a lateral dumbbell pass-through underneath the torso, training the chest, core stability, and anti-rotation strength together.

How to Perform

  • Start in a high plank with each hand gripping a dumbbell on the floor, shoulder-width apart
  • Lower your chest toward the floor in a controlled push-up, then press back up
  • At the top, shift your weight to one hand and reach the other hand under your torso
  • Slide the dumbbell laterally through the gap from one side to the other
  • Return the passing hand back to grip its dumbbell and reset your plank
  • Repeat the push-up and alternate the direction of the pass with each rep

Muscle Activation

Primary
AbsCoreMiddle chest
Secondary
TricepsFront shoulders

About the Dumbbell Plank Pass-Through Push-Up

The Dumbbell Plank Pass-Through 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.