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Suspension Trainer Scapular Push-Up

Intermediate
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A suspension trainer exercise isolating scapular protraction and retraction to target the serratus anterior and rhomboids for improved shoulder stability and posture.

About Exercise

Equipment

Suspension Trainer

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Shoulders, Traps

Secondary Muscles

Triceps

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Stability
Strength
Mobility

Training Style

Calisthenics
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Shoulders

9/10

Anterior Delts

Traps

8/10

Mid Traps, Lower Traps

Abs

7/10

Transverse Abdominis

Obliques

6/10

External Obliques

Triceps

3/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Adjust straps to mid-calf height. Place feet in the cradles and assume a high plank position with hands under shoulders and arms fully locked out.

  1. Brace core and glutes to maintain a rigid plank.
  2. Keep elbows locked straight throughout the entire movement.
  3. Squeeze shoulder blades together to lower your chest slightly toward the floor.
  4. Push through your palms to spread shoulder blades apart and round the upper back.
  5. Pause briefly at the top of the protraction.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Arms locked
  • Squeeze blades
  • Push floor away
  • Ribs down
  • Straight body line

Breathing

Inhale as you retract shoulder blades; exhale as you push away and protract.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Movement occurs solely at the shoulder blades; go from full pinch (retraction) to full spread (protraction).

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Ensure suspension anchor is secure.
  • Stop if you feel sharp shoulder pain.
  • Maintain neutral neck position.

Spotting

No spotting required; perform on knees if full plank is too difficult.

Common Mistakes

  • Bending elbows
  • Sagging hips
  • Head jutting forward
  • Shrugging shoulders

When to Avoid

  • Acute shoulder impingement
  • Recent rotator cuff injury

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate shoulder flexion and stability
  • Ability to hold plank position

Build Up First

  • Proficient in basic plank hold
  • Familiarity with TRX setup

Also known as

TRX Scap Push-Up, Suspension Scapular Push-Up, TRX Scapular Protraction, Suspension Plus Push-Up

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