We always get a chuckle when we see trainers put a client on the bench press when they’re not yet able to bust out 15 solid push-ups from their toes. And don’t even get us started about stability ball presses! Performed properly, this humble closed-chain movement develops the muscles of the shoulder girdle and the core. It is also completely scalable, allowing athletes of all levels to benefit. Whether you’re going from your toes, your knees, or with your hands on an elevated surface, keep your core straight and rigid (hips neither raised or sagging) and use a full range of motion.
