Just having the prefix ‘bodyweight’ doesn’t necessarily mean an exercise is simple.

(Related: The best bodyweight exercises)

In fact, moves that engage multiple muscle groups are very easy to get wrong.

(Related: The genius way to do press-ups)

Despite its association with bedroom floors and rudimentary bootcamps, the press-up is a fairly complex move. “If your shoulders hurt, it’s probably due to your elbow and hand positions,” says Ben Bruno, personal trainer and the strength coach’s strength coach.

“Flaring your elbows or having them tucked in too close to your body stresses the joint.”

(Related: How to master the press-up)

this image is not availablepinterest
Bear Grylls//Digital Spy

So keep those elbows at a 30- to 45-degree angle, then flare your hands out – your index fingers at one and 11 o’clock – to reduce torque on your shoulder joint.

If you’re still face-planting come rep 10, you’d best go to see a physio.