How to do a Diamond Push-Up
- In a plank, bring your hands under your sternum and touch thumbs and index fingers into a diamond.
- Set your body in a rigid straight line with glutes and abs engaged.
- Bend your elbows, keeping them tucked near 45 degrees, and lower your chest to your hands.
- Press through your palms to fully straighten your arms.
- Do not let your elbows splay wide, which shifts work off the triceps.
Keep in mind
- Make a triangle with your index fingers and thumbs, right under your chest.
- Keep the elbows brushing past your ribs.
- Lower until your chest touches your hands.
- Keep the hips in line — this variation tempts you to pike.
Common mistakes
- Hands placed under the face instead of the chest — slide them down.
- Elbows flaring out, which quietly turns it back into a normal push-up.
- Pushing through wrist pain — do the same reps from your knees before you shorten the range.
Breathing
Breathe in as you lower, out as you press up.
Take care
This is a demanding wrist position — use push-up handles, or do a close-grip version on your fists, if wrists are sensitive.
Easier and harder
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