The serratus anterior push-up is an excellent exercise for strengthening the serratus anterior muscle, which plays an important role in shoulder stability and movement. Follow these steps to perform the exercise correctly:
Step 1: Get Into Position
- Find a Comfortable Surface: Start by finding a flat, stable surface where you can perform the exercise, such as a yoga mat or exercise mat.
- Assume the Forearm Plank Position:
- Kneel down and place your forearms on the floor, shoulder-width apart.
- Your elbows should be directly beneath your shoulders.
- Extend your legs back, balancing on your toes, keeping your body in a straight line from your head to your heels.
Step 2: Engage Your Core
- Activate Your Core Muscles: Tighten your abdominal muscles to help maintain proper alignment throughout your body. This will ensure that your hips don’t sag or rise too high during the exercise.
Step 3: Position Your Neck
- Keep Your Neck Neutral: Keep your neck aligned with your spine.
Step 4: Perform the Push-Up
- Lower Your Body: Gradually lower your chest towards the floor by relaxing your shoulders.
- Drive Through Your Forearms: Press into your forearms as you push your body back up to the starting position. Focus on activating your serratus anterior by pushing your shoulder blades away from each other.
Step 5: Control Your Movement
- Maintain Steady Breathing: Inhale as you lower your body and exhale as you push back up. Maintain a steady rhythm throughout the movement.
- Keep Your Body Straight: Avoid any sagging of your hips or lifting your hips too high. Your body should remain in a straight line throughout the exercise.
Step 6: Repetitions and Sets
- Perform Repetitions: Aim for 12-15 repetitions, depending on your fitness level.
- Rest and Repeat: Allow yourself a 30-60 second rest between sets or cycle the sets with another exercise. Perform 3 sets of forearm push-ups.
Additional Tips
- Modify If Necessary: If you find this exercise challenging, you can modify it by performing the plank with your knees on the ground.
- Focus on Form: Quality over quantity—ensure that you maintain proper form throughout the exercise to avoid injury and maximize effectiveness.
- Incorporate Variations: As you become more comfortable with the standard version, consider integrating variations such as shoulder taps or using a stability ball for added challenge.

By following these steps, you can effectively perform serratus anterior push-ups and enhance your upper body strength and stability.

