Appears in642 Workouts*

Weight-Plate Push-Up

Push-ups with a weight plate for added intensity. Great for building upper body strength!

The Weight-Plate Push-Up is a compound exercise that mainly works the chest and triceps, with help from the core and back. You'll need: weight plates.

Mr. Grey
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@JustGains_XY

Required Equipment

Weight Plates
Weight Plates

Weight-Plate Push-Up Muscles Worked

Primary

Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head); Triceps (triceps brachii)

Secondary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior)

How to do the Weight-Plate Push-Up

  1. Starting Position:

    • Begin by placing a weight plate on your upper back. Ensure it’s secure and will not slide off during the exercise.

    • Get into a push-up position with your palms placed slightly wider than shoulder-width apart on the ground. Your body should form a straight line from your head to your heels.

  2. Body Positioning:

    • Keep your feet close together or slightly apart for stability.

    • Engage your core muscles to maintain a straight back and prevent sagging or arching of the spine.

  3. Lowering Phase:

    • Bend your elbows and slowly lower your chest towards the ground. Your elbows should track at about a 45-degree angle from your body.

    • Lower your body until your chest is a few inches above the ground, or as low as you can go while maintaining good form.

  4. Pushing Phase:

    • Press through your palms as you push your body back up to the starting position.

    • Focus on squeezing your chest and triceps as you rise.

  5. Repetitions:

    • Aim to perform 8-12 repetitions for a set. Rest briefly between sets before repeating.

  6. Tips:

    • Keep your head in a neutral position, looking slightly ahead rather than down.

    • If you are new to this exercise, consider starting without weight to build strength and proper form.

    • Gradually increase the weight as you become more comfortable and strong.

  7. Safety:

    • Ensure the weight is manageable before performing the exercise.

    • If you experience pain beyond normal muscle exertion, stop the exercise immediately.

Weight-Plate Push-Up FAQs

What muscles does the Weight-Plate Push-Up work?

The Weight-Plate Push-Up mainly works the chest and triceps, with help from the core and back. The main muscles are the pectoralis major and triceps brachii.

What equipment do you need for the Weight-Plate Push-Up?

Weight plates.

Is the Weight-Plate Push-Up 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 Weight-Plate Push-Up go on?

It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Weight-Plate Push-Up variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Weighted Push-Up, Weight-Plate Clean & Press, Weight-Plate Pinch-Grip Farmer Carry and Weight-Plate Push.

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