Quick Answer
Diamond Push-Up is a intermediate strength exercise that targets your chest and triceps. It uses only your bodyweight. Start in a high plank position.
Video Tutorial
How to Perform the Diamond Push-Up
- 1
Start in a high plank position.
- 2
Place hands close together directly under your chest, forming a diamond shape with thumbs and index fingers.
- 3
Keep body straight from head to heels, core engaged.
- 4
Lower your chest towards your hands by bending elbows, keeping elbows tucked close to your body.
- 5
Descend until chest is close to hands.
- 6
Push back up to the starting position, extending elbows fully.
- 7
Repeat for desired repetitions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- !Rushing reps instead of controlling the lowering (eccentric) phase — aim for 2–3 seconds down.
- !Letting form break down as reps add up. Stop the set when technique slips, not when you physically can't do another rep.
- !Flaring elbows to 90° from the torso. Keep elbows at 30–45° to protect the shoulder joint.
Tips for Better Form
- ✓Breathe out during the effort (concentric) and breathe in on the return (eccentric).
- ✓Use a mirror or film yourself on your first session — your perceived form and actual form often differ.
- ✓Brace your core as if someone were about to punch you in the stomach. This stabilizes your spine in every rep.
- ✓Start each set with 1–2 warm-up reps at a lighter load to groove the movement.
Alternative Exercises
If the Diamond Push-Up isn't right for your body, equipment, or goal, try these similar exercises that hit the same muscle groups:
Frequently Asked Questions
What muscles does the Diamond Push-Up work?
The Diamond Push-Up primarily works your chest and triceps. Secondary muscles include the shoulders and abdominals.
What equipment do I need for the Diamond Push-Up?
The Diamond Push-Up needs no equipment — just your bodyweight. You can perform it at home or at the gym as long as you have what's listed.
Is the Diamond Push-Up suitable for beginners?
The Diamond Push-Up is an intermediate exercise. Beginners can try it with a lighter load or an easier variation before progressing to the full movement.
How many sets and reps of Diamond Push-Up should I do?
For strength: 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps with longer rest (2–3 min). For hypertrophy (muscle growth): 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with moderate rest (60–90 sec). For endurance: 2–3 sets of 15+ reps with short rest (30–45 sec). Adjust based on your program and goal.
Can I do the Diamond Push-Up every day?
No. Muscles need 48 hours to recover between heavy training sessions. If you want to train chest and triceps more frequently, alternate harder and easier variations and keep overall weekly volume moderate.