How can I make Body-Ups easier if I cannot do a full rep?

You can perform the movement with your knees on the ground to reduce the amount of body weight you are lifting. This allows you to build the necessary tricep strength while maintaining proper form.

Are Body-Ups better than close-grip push-ups?

Body-Ups provide a unique isolation effect for the triceps because the movement mimics a skull crusher. While both are effective, Body-Ups place more direct emphasis on elbow extension without as much chest involvement.

Where should I feel this exercise most?

You should feel a strong contraction in the back of your arms. If you feel excessive strain in your wrists or lower back, check your hand placement and core engagement.

Body-Ups Guide: Build Tricep Strength with Bodyweight

Master the Body-Up with our expert guide. Learn the correct form, common mistakes, and how to isolate your triceps using only your body weight.

How to Perform

Begin in a standard forearm plank position with your elbows directly under your shoulders and your body in a straight line.
Place your palms flat on the floor directly beneath your shoulders while maintaining the plank posture.
Press through your palms to extend your arms fully, lifting your elbows off the ground until your arms are straight.
Lower yourself back down slowly and under control until your forearms are resting on the floor again.
Keep your core tight and your hips level throughout the entire range of motion to prevent lower back strain.
Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions, ensuring your elbows stay tucked toward your ribs.

Common Mistakes

Allowing the hips to sag or hike upward
Flaring the elbows out to the sides during the press
Using momentum or rocking to complete the lift
Holding your breath during the concentric phase

Muscles Worked

Primary movers

Triceps

Stabilizers

Core
Shoulders
Forearms

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Triceps · Strength