Short answer: A press-up and a push-up generally mean the same movement. “Press-up” is common in British English, while “push-up” is more common in American English. Specific tests may still define their own form rules.
Same movement, different term
Both names describe lowering and pressing the body from a plank using the chest, triceps and shoulders. Training articles and apps may choose one label based on audience.
Why demonstrations look different
Hand width, depth, tempo and elbow angle vary between coaches and tests. Those differences come from the selected variation or standard, not from using the word press-up.
Which term should you use?
Use the term your audience understands. For search and instruction, “push-up” is widely recognized, while UK readers commonly use “press-up.”
A reliable form baseline
- Place hands near or slightly outside shoulder width.
- Brace so shoulders, hips and heels move together.
- Lower through a pain-free range with controlled elbows.
- Press to the stated top position without losing alignment.
Use the full push-up form checklist for setup and common mistakes.
Press-up and push-up terminology by region
| Term | Where it is commonly heard | Exercise meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Press-up | Especially common in British English | Body held straight while the arms lower and press it from the floor |
| Push-up | Especially common in American English and international fitness content | The same basic bodyweight pressing exercise |
Hyphenation also varies: “push-up,” “push up” and “pushup” usually refer to the same movement. A formal test can require a particular depth, cadence, hand position, lockout or hand release. Review the push-up standards guide and military versus regular push-ups rather than assuming one worldwide rule.
Press-up or push-up, every clean rep can attack
RepSaga turns the movement into RPG progress regardless of which regional name you use.
Frequently asked
Are press-ups easier than push-ups?
No. They are usually different names for the same exercise.
Is press-up the British term?
Yes, it is commonly used in British English.