Stubborn Carpenter

Workshop gym, no. 15

Workbench press-up

A step up from the wall press-up, using your workbench or a sturdy worktop. Builds the push for lifting, carrying and getting up off the floor.

Press start when you’re ready

Pin it up in the shed: the moves, the beat and a tally board for your week, on one A4 page.

Download the A4 sheet (PDF)

How to do it

  1. Stand a big step back from a solid workbench or worktop.
  2. Hands on the edge, a bit wider than your shoulders.
  3. Body straight from heels to head, tummy tight.
  4. Bend your elbows and lower your chest for a count of three.
  5. Push away until your arms are straight. Breathe out as you push.

Easier

Go back to the wall press-up, or stand a little closer to the bench.

Harder

Step your feet further back, or pause for two seconds at the bottom.

Safety

Check the bench can’t slide or tip first. Any shoulder or wrist pain, stop.

This is what worked for me, not medical advice. If you have a heart condition, have had surgery, or feel dizzy, chest pain or breathlessness, stop and check with your GP before carrying on.