Exercise 1273 · REF wigSg76

Clap Push Up exercise animation

Clap Push Up

Category
Chest
Equipment
Body Weight
Target
Pectorals

The clap push-up turns a standard push-up into an explosive, plyometric exercise, requiring enough force off the ground to briefly leave the floor and clap before catching yourself again. It trains upper-body power rather than just strength, similar to what a jump squat does for the legs versus a standard squat. Landing with slightly bent elbows to absorb the impact is what keeps this exercise from beating up the joints over time.

How to Do the Clap Push Up

  1. Start in a high plank position with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  2. Lower your body towards the ground by bending your elbows, keeping your core engaged.
  3. Push through your palms explosively to propel your body off the ground.
  4. While in mid-air, clap your hands together before landing back in the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

The Clap Push Up primarily targets the Pectorals, with Triceps as the primary synergist muscle group, along with the Shoulders.

More Chest Exercises

More Pectorals Exercises

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have body weight? These target the same pectorals with different equipment.

FAQ

What muscles does the Clap Push Up work?
The Clap Push Up primarily targets the pectorals, with the triceps and shoulders assisting.
What equipment do I need for the Clap Push Up?
The Clap Push Up is done with no equipment — just body weight.
What's a good alternative to the Clap Push Up?
If you don't have access to the space or setup it needs, the Assisted Chest Dip (kneeling) targets the same pectorals using leverage machine instead.