Do This Push-Up With a Twist to Work Core, Back, and Arm Muscles

By Dominique Michelle Astorino

Push-ups are one of the most simple, effective, and challenging exercises you can do. When done properly, they work your core, arm, and back muscles in a way that many other moves just don't. And let's be real, yeah, they're tough, but you can totally do a push-up. It's not like we're learning new dance choreography. We've done them since middle school PE!

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To make the classic push-up a little more challenging and get more into the back and arm muscles (and work those obliques!) try this external rotation with a head-tapping "salute." This bodyweight exercise is going to rock your core, create strength, and give your back that definition you've been working toward.

Push-up With Head Tap

  • Begin in plank position with your feet wider than hip width to create more stability.
  • Bend your elbows, lowering into a push-up.
  • Straighten your arms and bring your right hand to the back of your head in an open "salute" position.
  • Externally rotate your core slightly and feel your right shoulder blade slide toward your spine.
  • Return to plank, placing your right palm on the floor.
  • Repeat on the left side, and lower back into another push-up. This completes one rep.
  • Do three sets of 10 reps.