Buzz
Although wide-grip push-ups are a valid exercise, many people place their hands too far apart for incorrect reasons, leading to a less productive workout.
Outside Online highlights this as one of the most frequent push-up errors, which can cause shoulder shrugging and potentially result in long-term shoulder discomfort. Here’s how to correct it:
For a standard push-up, align the base of your thumbs with your shoulders. As you descend, keep your elbows close to your sides. [Strength coach Adam] Scott emphasizes, 'We monitor for shoulder shrugging and encourage athletes to maintain maximum space between their ears and shoulders. While this alignment might reduce the number of push-ups initially, it significantly enhances strength transfer over time.'
Reserve wide-grip push-ups for intentional muscle targeting (they engage the chest more and the triceps less)—and ensure you’re maintaining correct form during these variations as well.
Image courtesy of the US Army.
