Pike Push-Up Parallette
Elevate your push-up game. Build serious shoulder strength and stability with the Pike Push-Up Parallette.
The Pike Push-Up Parallette is a compound exercise that mainly works the shoulders and triceps, with help from the back and traps. You'll need: push up bars.
Required Equipment

Pike Push-Up Parallette Muscles Worked
Primary
Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid); Triceps (triceps brachii)
Secondary
Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior); Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers)
Pike Push-Up Parallette Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Pike Push-Up Parallette
Pike Push-Up with Parallettes
Setup:
Place the parallettes shoulder-width apart on the floor. Ensure they are stable and won’t move during the exercise.
Starting Position:
Begin in a downward dog position. Set your feet shoulder-width apart.
Your hands should be on the parallettes, with your arms straight and shoulders directly over your wrists.
Keep your head between your arms, looking towards your feet.
Body Positioning:
Your body should form an inverted "V" shape. Your hips should be lifted towards the ceiling, with your heels pressing towards the ground.
Engage your core and make sure your back is straight.
Movement:
Bend your elbows to lower your head towards the ground between the parallettes. Aim to touch the ground gently or go as low as you can while maintaining good form.
Keep your elbows pointing backward, not flaring out to the sides.
Return to Start:
Push through your palms to straighten your arms and return to the starting position.
Ensure your body stays in a straight line as you press back up, and keep your hips elevated.
Repetitions:
Perform 8-12 repetitions, rest for a moment, and repeat for 2-3 sets as you build strength.
Tips:
If this is too challenging, you can perform the exercise from your knees instead of your toes.
Focus on controlled movements rather than speed for better strength development.
As you progress, you can increase the difficulty by elevating your feet on a step or platform.
Pike Push-Up Parallette FAQs
What muscles does the Pike Push-Up Parallette work?
The Pike Push-Up Parallette mainly works the shoulders and triceps, with help from the back and traps. The main muscles are the anterior deltoid and triceps brachii.
What equipment do you need for the Pike Push-Up Parallette?
Push up bars.
Is the Pike Push-Up Parallette a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What workout day should the Pike Push-Up Parallette go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Pike Push-Up Parallette variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Decline Diamond Pike Push-Up, Elevated Pike Push-Up from Deficit Parallette, Exercise Ball Pike Pushup and Kneeling Pike Push-Up.
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