In this edition of “Exercise of the Week,” we’re going to feature a new(ish) version of an old exercise.

The chain resisted push-up is great for several reasons:

1 – Push-ups are great because they increase serratus and rotator cuff activation levels.  The chain resisted version only further increases the intensity of the exercise.

2 – The chains decrease loading in the bottom, and increase the loading as you presss upwards.  This is accommodating resistance at its finest.

3 – Anything that includes chains make you look like a total bad ass.  ‘Nuff said.

Key technical points here include:

–  Tuck your elbows. Flared elbows are never a good idea, unless by “good idea” you mean shoulder rehab.

–  Emphasize “pulling” the shoulder blades together on the way down, and emphasize pushing away hard at the top.