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Single-Arm Push-Up

Chest Shoulders Triceps Intermediate Strength Body Only
Single-Arm Push-Up Single-Arm Push-Up
Equipment
Body Only
Level
Intermediate
Force
Push
Mechanic
Compound
Instructions
  1. Begin laying prone on the ground. Move yourself into a position supporting your weight on your toes and one arm. Your working arm should be placed directly under the shoulder, fully extended. Your legs should be extended, and for this movement you may need a wider base, placing your feet further apart than in a normal push-up.
  2. Maintain good posture, and place your free hand behind your back. This will be your starting position.
  3. Lower yourself by allowing the elbow to flex until you touch the ground.
  4. Descend slowly, and reverse direction be extending the arm to return to the starting position.
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Single-Arm Push-Up work?

Single-Arm Push-Up primarily targets the Chest. It also engages the Shoulders, Triceps as secondary muscles. This makes it an effective strength exercise for building chest development.

Do I need equipment for the Single-Arm Push-Up?

No. The Single-Arm Push-Up is a bodyweight exercise that requires no equipment. It can be performed anywhere with enough space.

Is the Single-Arm Push-Up suitable for beginners?

The Single-Arm Push-Up is an intermediate exercise. You should have a solid foundation of basic strength movements before attempting it. If you're new to training, start with simpler variations and progress to this exercise as your form and strength improve.

Is the Single-Arm Push-Up a compound or isolation exercise?

The Single-Arm Push-Up is a compound exercise, meaning it works multiple joints and muscle groups simultaneously. Compound movements are efficient for building overall strength and are typically performed earlier in a workout when you have the most energy.

How many sets and reps should I do for the Single-Arm Push-Up?

For strength, aim for 3-5 sets of 5-8 reps with heavier weight. For muscle building (hypertrophy), try 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps at a moderate weight. For endurance, use lighter weight and perform 2-3 sets of 15-20 reps.

What are good alternatives to the Single-Arm Push-Up?

Good alternatives include the Alternating Floor Press, Around The Worlds, Barbell Bench Press - Medium Grip. These exercises target similar muscle groups (Chest) and can be substituted based on available equipment or training preference.

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