Woman demonstrating the three steps of a Wall Push-Up Plus exercise against a wall to support shoulder blade control and shoulder stability.

Wall Push-Up Plus

Wall Push-Up Plus is a shoulder strengthening exercise that supports shoulder blade control, shoulder stability, and coordinated upper-body movement. It places particular emphasis on the serratus anterior, a muscle that helps control movement of the shoulder blade.

What May This Exercise Support?

This exercise may be included as part of an individualized exercise or home-care program for concerns such as:

  • Reduced shoulder blade control

  • Shoulder weakness

  • Shoulder instability

  • Limited shoulder movement

  • Postural concerns

  • Activities that require reaching or overhead movement

Potential Benefits

  • Supports serratus anterior strength

  • Supports shoulder blade stability

  • Encourages controlled shoulder movement

  • Supports upper-body strength

  • Encourages coordinated shoulder mechanics

Equipment Needed

  • Wall

Starting Position

  • Stand facing a wall.

  • Place your hands on the wall at shoulder height and shoulder-width apart.

  • Keep your body in a straight line.

  • Relax your shoulders.

Step 1

Perform a gentle wall push-up by bending your elbows and allowing your body to move toward the wall.

Step 2

Push through your hands to return to the starting position while keeping your body straight.

Step 3

Once your elbows are straight, gently press through your hands a little further so your shoulder blades move slightly forward into the “plus” position.

Hold briefly, then relax.

Recommended Repetitions

  • 10–15 repetitions

  • 1–3 sets

  • Perform once daily or as recommended by your healthcare provider

Tips

  • Move slowly and with control.

  • Keep your body in a straight line.

  • Avoid shrugging your shoulders.

  • Keep your hands at approximately shoulder height.

  • Breathe normally throughout the exercise.

Common Mistakes

  • Letting the hips sag

  • Shrugging the shoulders

  • Moving too quickly

  • Bending at the waist

  • Losing control during the “plus” portion of the movement

Stop the Exercise If

Stop and consult your healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Sharp pain

  • Increasing or worsening symptoms

  • Numbness or tingling

  • Advice from your healthcare provider to stop

Related Conditions & Concerns

This exercise may be included as part of an individualized home-care plan for concerns such as:

  • Shoulder weakness

  • Shoulder instability

  • Reduced shoulder blade control

  • Limited shoulder movement

  • Postural concerns

Related Services

Need More Help?

If shoulder discomfort, weakness, or limited movement is affecting your daily activities, a healthcare provider can assess your individual needs and determine whether exercises such as Wall Push-Up Plus may be appropriate as part of your care plan.

Pelham Massage Therapy & Osteopathy Clinic Inc.

https://www.pelhammassage.ca

Disclaimer

The exercises provided in our Exercise Library are intended for general educational purposes only and may not be appropriate for everyone. Stop immediately if you experience increased pain, dizziness, numbness, or other concerning symptoms. Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new exercise program or if you are recovering from an injury or surgery.

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Serratus Punch

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Isometric Shoulder Extension