Muscle map Push-ups
Muscles worked in push-ups
Push-ups train the same pressing muscles as the bench press, chest first, then front delts and triceps, while your abs and obliques hold a rigid plank.
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Push-ups: primary and secondary muscles
Primary muscles
- Chest: pectoralis major and minor, which press and bring the arms together
Secondary muscles
- Shoulders: deltoids, which raise and rotate the arm
- Triceps: back of the upper arm, which straightens the elbow
- Abs: rectus abdominis, the "six-pack" that braces your trunk
- Obliques: side abs that resist twisting and side bending
Form cues & reel idea
Form cues
- Hands just outside shoulders
- Body in one straight line
- Elbows about 45° from the body
Film it for Reels
Side-on at floor level shows full range. Add a rep counter and the chest map for a quick tutorial reel.
Try the muscle map stickerGeneral fitness information, not medical advice. If something hurts, stop and ask a qualified coach or physio.
Push-ups: FAQ
What muscles does the push-ups work?
Push-ups mainly works the chest. The shoulders, triceps, abs and obliques assist and stabilise.
How do I show the muscles worked in my push-ups video?
In ZapZoop, add a Muscle Map sticker, tap the chest in one colour and the helpers in another, then place it on your clip. Side-on at floor level shows full range. Add a rep counter and the chest map for a quick tutorial reel.
Map your push-ups on video
Highlight the muscles you trained and post it in up to 4K.