Planfit Logo
  • Exercises
  • Community
  • Blog
  • Sign in
Planfit Logo

Copyright ⓒ 2026 Planfit Inc.

InstagramReddit
Exercise Guide
AI Workout Generator
Free Workout Plans
Privacy policy
Terms of Use
Blog
Planfit Logo
  • Exercises
  • Community
  • Blog
  • Sign in

Knuckle Push Up

Knuckle Push Up gif
Targets: Middle chest

About

Knuckle push-ups are done with your fists. They reduce wrist strain and help strengthen your forearms and grip.

How to Knuckle Push Up

Starting Position

1. Take a push-up position on the floor, but instead of using your palms, make fists with your hands and keep the backs of your hands facing the floor.

2. Position your fists about shoulder-width apart, with the two knuckle joints touching the ground.

3. Keep your body in a straight line from your head to your toes.

Proper Form

1. Bend your elbows and slowly lower your body until your chest is close to the floor.

2. Maintain tension in your chest and arms, then push the floor with your fists to raise your body back to the starting position.

3. Engage your core and glutes to keep your body in a straight line throughout the movement.

4. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Breathing Technique

Inhale when lowering your body, and exhale when pushing your body up.

Precautions

1. If the floor is too hard, use a mat or pad to protect your fists.

2. If you have pain in your wrists or finger joints, lower the difficulty or substitute with regular push-ups.

3. Keep the distance between both fists consistent to avoid twisting your body.

From the Community

Share your experience, ask questions, and get tips from other athletes.

Knuckle Push Up Community

Join the Community →

Knuckle Push Up Related Reading

  • Magnesium won't stop your muscle cramps — unless you're deficient, per a 2020 Cochrane review
    Myths Busted

    Magnesium won't stop your muscle cramps — unless you're deficient, per a 2020 Cochrane review

    Magnesium supplements are the go-to for muscle cramps — but a 2020 Cochrane meta-analysis found no reliable benefit for most people. Here's what actually matters.

  • Rep range almost doesn't matter for muscle growth — what 4 RCTs actually say
    Numbers Don't Lie

    Rep range almost doesn't matter for muscle growth — what 4 RCTs actually say

    5 reps or 30 reps — it barely matters for hypertrophy. Here's what the evidence from 4 recent RCTs actually says about rep ranges and muscle growth.

  • 10 sets per muscle group per week is probably enough — here's the number that actually matters.
    Numbers Don't Lie

    10 sets per muscle group per week is probably enough — here's the number that actually matters.

    Most lifters chase 20+ sets per muscle group. The research says you can grow on far less — and more isn't always better, according to a 2024 Sports Med meta-analysis.

  • RPE vs RIR: the number that tells you exactly how hard to push — backed by 4 RCTs
    Numbers Don't Lie

    RPE vs RIR: the number that tells you exactly how hard to push — backed by 4 RCTs

    RPE and RIR are two ways to measure effort in real time. Here's what 4 RCTs say about which one works, when, and for whom.

  • 3–5 sets of deadlifts per session is enough — what a 2022 RCT on 2 vs 5 sets found
    Numbers Don't Lie

    3–5 sets of deadlifts per session is enough — what a 2022 RCT on 2 vs 5 sets found

    Wondering how many sets of deadlifts to do? 3–5 working sets is the evidence-based sweet spot — according to a Sports Med meta-analysis and a 2022 RCT.

  • Mind-Muscle Connection Matters — But Only Below 60% of Your 1RM
    What Actually Matters

    Mind-Muscle Connection Matters — But Only Below 60% of Your 1RM

    Focusing on the target muscle really does boost hypertrophy and EMG activation — but the effect vanishes at heavy loads, according to 4 controlled studies.

Curious about a Chest workout plan that includes the Knuckle Push Up

Knuckle Push Up Alternatives

Bench Press

Bench Press

Dumbbell Pullover

Dumbbell Pullover

More

Knuckle Push Up vs

  • Knuckle Push Up vs Bosu Ball Push Up

Get Personalized Plans
and More detailed guidance with Planfit

Banner Image
Planfit Logo

Copyright ⓒ 2026 Planfit Inc.

InstagramReddit
Exercise Guide
AI Workout Generator
Free Workout Plans
Privacy policy
Terms of Use
Blog